ADAPTING MASKING THRESHOLDS FOR ENCODING AUDIO DATA

According to one embodiment, an improved audio coding technique encodes audio having a low frequency transient signal, using a long block, but with a set of adapted masking thresholds. Upon identifying an audio window that contains a low frequency transient signal, masking thresholds for the long block may be calculated as usual. A set of masking thresholds calculated for the 8 short blocks corresponding to the long block are calculated. The masking thresholds for low frequency critical bands are adapted based on the thresholds calculated for the short blocks, and the resulting adapted masking thresholds are used to encode the long block of audio data. The result is encoded audio with rich harmonic content and negligible coder noise resulting from the low frequency transient signal. 1. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing one or more sequences of instructions which , when executed by one or more processors , cause the one or more processors to perform the method comprising:computing a group of masking thresholds for short blocks corresponding to a window of audio data;selecting one or more particular masking thresholds, from the group of masking thresholds, for use in encoding a portion of a long block of audio data that corresponds to the window of audio data.2. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 1 , the method further comprising:encoding, based on the one or more particular masking thresholds, the portion of the long block of audio data.3. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 1 , the method further comprising:computing masking thresholds for the long block that corresponds to the window of audio data;encoding the portion of the long block of audio data using a quantization step that is based on a masking threshold between the one or more particular masking thresholds and the masking threshold for the portion of the long block.4. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the portion of the long ...

Apparatus for displaying information

The invention relates to an apparatus for displaying information by way of at least one fluid. For this purpose, the apparatus comprises at least one display element having two volumes, wherein the first volume is disposed between a transparent cover layer and a non-transparent intermediate layer and the second volume is disposed between the intermediate layer and a final layer such that only the content of the upper volume is visible. The display according to the invention further comprises at least one fluidic transition, by way of which the fluid can be transported between the two volumes. The apparatus according to the invention has an optimized space requirement, solves the problem of uneven saturation over the surface of a display element, and is additionally not sensitive to mechanical interference.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING OPTICAL CHARACTER RECOGNITION TO EVALUATE STUDENT WORKSHEETS

A system and method for evaluating worksheets are provided. The method includes accessing by a processor a digitally stored image of a worksheet that was administered to a student, wherein the worksheet includes the presentation of at least one problem for the student to respond to and each problem presentation includes an answer region that the student manually, mechanically, or electronically marked with an answer to the problem using a variety of alphanumeric characters. The method further includes generating expected answer data that provides an expected answer for each answer region; locating each answer region in the image; extracting from each located answer region the student's marks; processing the student's marks extracted from each answer region with character recognition processing; and storing the processed marks as student answer data. The student answer data is evaluated by comparing the student answer data with the expected answer data and generating corresponding evaluation data. 1. A worksheet evaluator system for evaluating worksheets administered to at least one student , the system comprising:at least one tangible processor; and accessing a digitally stored image of a worksheet that was administered to a student of the at least one student, wherein the worksheet includes the presentation of at least one problem for the student to respond to and each problem presentation includes an answer region that the student manually, mechanically, or electronically marked an answer to the problem in the answer region using a variety of alphanumeric characters;', 'generating expected answer data that provides an expected answer for each answer region;', 'locating each answer region in the image of the administered worksheet;', "extracting from each located answer region the student's marks that are marked in the answer region;", "processing the student's marks extracted from each answer region with character recognition processing (CRP) and storing the ...

Cleaning System for a Beverage Machine, Preferably a Coffee Machine

The invention relates to a cleaning system for coffee machines, comprising a cleaning device for periodically cleaning the coffee- and/or milk-carrying components using a cleaning liquid, which contains cleaning agent in the form of balls or tablets dissolved therein, wherein the cleaning device is provided with a time- and/or product-cycle-dependent controller and a metering apparatus () for the cleaning agent () that interacts with the controller. Thus, it is possible to program the cleaning process in a customized manner according to the mode of operation and to carry out the cleaning process fully automatically according to the program. The metering of the cleaning agent () according to the program ensures an always optimal cleaning effect together with sparing use of cleaning agents. Simple and safe handling is achieved by using ball- or tablet-shaped cleaning agents. 11. A cleaning system for a beverage machine , preferably a coffee machine , for producing coffee and drinks containing coffee , milk , milk froth or the like , comprising a cleaning device for periodically cleaning the components coming into contact with the drinks with a cleaning liquid which contains cleaning agent dissolved therein , characterised in that the cleaning device is provided with a time- and/or product-cycle-dependent controller and a metering apparatus () for the cleaning agent that interacts with the controller.2101610. The cleaning system according to claim 1 , characterised in that the cleaning agents () are in the form of balls or tablets claim 1 , and the metering apparatus () is provided with a preferably electronically monitored metering cabinet () which releases the cleaning balls or tablets () by interacting with the time- and/or product-cycle-dependent controller.36818b. The cleaning system according to claim 2 , characterised in that the metering cabinet () is monitored by a light barrier ( claim 2 , ) or a micro-switch.4125799105a,b. The cleaning system according to ...

Oral dosage form containing theobromine-free cocoa

Disclosed are stable dosage forms for oral administration of active pharmaceutical ingredients in which any unpleasant taste sensation, caused by release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and/or of the excipients in the oral and pharyngeal cavity of the patient, is masked by the use of theobromine-free cocoa.

CONTROLLERS OF A VACUUM PUMPING AND/OR ABATEMENT SYSTEM

A method of assigning an identifier to a controller of a modular vacuum pumping and/or abatement system, the method including: determining, by a first controller of the modular vacuum pumping and/or abatement system, that a first identifier is to be assigned to a second controller of the modular vacuum pumping and/or abatement system, wherein the second controller is located at a module of the modular vacuum pumping and/or abatement system; transmitting, by the first controller, a first signal indicative of the first identifier to the second controller; receiving, by a user input device coupled to the module, a user input; and adopting, by the second controller, the first identifier as its identifier in response to the user input. 1. A method of assigning an identifier to a controller of at least one of a modular vacuum pumping or a modular abatement system , the method comprising:determining, by a first controller of the at least one of the modular vacuum pumping or the abatement system, that a first identifier is to be assigned to a second controller of the at least one of the modular vacuum pumping or the modular abatement system, wherein the second controller is located at a module of the at least one of the modular vacuum pumping or the modular abatement system;transmitting, by the first controller, a first signal indicative of the first identifier to the second controller;receiving, by a user input device coupled to the module, a user input; andadopting, by the second controller, the first identifier as an identifier of the second controller in response to the user input.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:in response to determining that the first identifier is to be assigned to the second controller, displaying, by the user interface, an indication that the second controller is to be assigned the first identifier.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:transmitting, by the second controller to the first controller, an acknowledgement that the ...

Material Sampler

An apparatus () arranged to store and display a plurality of material samples (), the apparatus () comprising a plurality of sample supports () arranged to hold the material samples (), the sample supports () being moveable to allow a user to access a selected material sample (); a controller () configured to receive a selection identifying a material sample () to be displayed; and a display mechanism configured to move the selected sample () from a first position, in which the selected sample () is not visible, to an extended position in which the selected sample () is visible and/or touchable by a user. 142-. (canceled)43. An apparatus arranged to store and display a plurality of material samples , the apparatus comprising:a plurality of sample supports arranged to hold the material samples, the sample supports being moveable to allow a user to access a selected material sample;a housing having an aperture;a controller configured to receive a selection identifying a material sample to be displayed; anda display mechanism configured to move the selected sample from a first position within the housing, to an extended position in which at least a portion of the selected sample is projected through the aperture, such that it is visible and/or touchable by a user.44. An apparatus as claimed in claim 43 , further comprising:a retention mechanism configured to prevent removal of the selected sample from the apparatus.45. An apparatus as claimed in claim 43 , wherein the display mechanism is configured to withdraw the selected sample from the extended position to the first position.46. An apparatus as claimed in claim 43 , wherein the samples are moveable with respect to the aperture claim 43 , and wherein the display mechanism is configured to cause the samples to move in order to align the selected sample with the aperture in the housing claim 43 , prior to moving the selected sample from the first position to the extended position.47. An apparatus as claimed in claim ...

ENCODED AUDIO EXTENDED METADATA-BASED DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

An audio encoder encodes a digital audio recording having a number of audio channels or audio objects. A Dynamic Range Control (DRC) processor produces a sequence of encoder DRC gain values, by applying a selected one of a number of DRC characteristics to a group of one or more of the audio channels or audio objects. The encoder DRC gain values are to be applied to adjust the group of audio channels or audio objects, upon decoding them from the encoded digital audio recording. A bitstream multiplexer combines a) the encoded digital audio recording with b) the sequence of encoder DRC gain values, an indication of the selected DRC characteristic, and an indication of an alternate DRC characteristic, the latter as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording. Other embodiments are also described including a system for decoding the encoded audio recording and performing DRC adjustment upon it. 1. A system for producing an encoded digital audio recording having a plurality of audio channels or audio objects , comprising:an audio encoder to encode a digital audio recording having a plurality of audio channels or audio objects;a Dynamic Range Control (DRC) processor to produce a sequence of encoder DRC gain values by applying a selected one of a plurality of DRC characteristics to a group of one or more of the plurality of audio channels or audio objects, wherein the encoder DRC gain values are to be applied to adjust the group of audio channels or audio objects upon decoding them from the encoded digital audio recording; andmeans for providing as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording i) the sequence of encoder DRC gain values, ii) an indication of the selected DRC characteristic, and iii) an indication of an alternate DRC characteristic selected from the plurality of DRC characteristics.2. The system of wherein the metadata specifies a scenario or condition in which a decoding system is to apply DRC in accordance with the alternate ...

ENCODED AUDIO METADATA-BASED EQUALIZATION

A system for producing an encoded digital audio recording has an audio encoder that encodes a digital audio recording having a number of audio channels or audio objects. An equalization (EQ) value generator produces a sequence of EQ values which define EQ filtering that is to be applied when decoding the encoded digital audio recording, wherein the EQ filtering is to be applied to a group of one or more of the audio channels or audio objects of the recording independent of any downmix. A bitstream multiplexer combines the encoded digital audio recording with the sequence of EQ values, the latter as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording. Other embodiments are also described including a system for decoding the encoded audio recording. 1. A system for producing an encoded digital audio recording having a plurality of audio channels or audio objects , comprising:an encoder to encode a digital audio recording having an original plurality of audio channels or audio objects, to produce an encoded digital audio recording;an equalization (EQ) value generator to produce a sequence of EQ values which define EQ filtering that is to be applied to a specified EQ group of one or more of the original audio channels or audio objects, independent of downmix and upon decoding the encoded digital audio recording; anda bitstream multiplexer to combine a) the encoded digital audio recording with b) the sequence of EQ values including an indication of said EQ group, the latter as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording.2. The system of wherein the sequence of EQ values defines the EQ filtering that is to be applied upon decoding of the EQ group claim 1 , as reducing gain below 500 Hz whether or not downmix is applied to the decoded EQ group.3. The system of wherein the sequence of EQ values defines the EQ filtering that is to be applied upon decoding of the EQ group claim 1 , as a late night mode that can be enabled during playback claim 1 , of ...

Variable valve drive of an internal combustion engine

A variable valve drive of an internal combustion engine is provided that includes at least one gas exchange valve, the valve stroke of said gas exchange valve predefined by cams of a camshaft, and by at least one switchable rocker arm. The switchable rocker arm, having a first lever and a second lever, selectively transmits cam lift to the gas exchange valve. The second lever is selectively coupled to the first lever by a coupling. The coupling is activatable by an elongated activation arm on which one leaf spring is disposed for the coupling of the switchable rocker arm. The elongated activation arm is longitudinally displaceable from a locking position to an unlocking position by a linear actuator. A damper mass is disposed or configured to be capable of oscillating on the elongated activation arm and/or on the leaf spring of the elongated activation arm.

Actuating apparatus for controlling a locking system of a motor vehicle and method for releasing a manually operated emergency unlocking device and motor vehicle

An actuating apparatus for controlling a locking system of a motor vehicle, including a circuit arrangement having a first input for receiving an operating signal and an output for providing a control signal to the locking system, the control signal being generated in dependence on the operating signal. The actuating apparatus further comprises a manually operated emergency unlocking device, and the circuit arrangement comprises a second input for receiving an event signal, wherein upon receipt of the event signal the manually operated emergency unlocking device is enabled for manual operation.

BLOWER SPRAY DEVICE

A blower spray device is provided having a housing which comprises an electrically driven blower and a spray nozzle, and having a liquid supply line opening into the spray nozzle. The housing has a funnel-shaped intake channel and a tubular blow-out channel, and an electrical valve is provided in the liquid supply line to activate and deactivate the liquid supply to the spray nozzle. An electronic controller having a regulating unit for the electric blower is further provided to adjust the air flow velocity. 1. A blower spray device , comprising:a housing which accommodates an electrically driven blower having a blade wheel and a spray nozzle; anda liquid supply line opening into the spray nozzle,wherein the housing comprises a funnel-shaped intake channel and a tubular blow-out channel,wherein guide vanes are provided in the tubular blow-out channel in a direction of flow downstream of the blade wheel, which guide vanes are designed and arranged in such a way that turbulences produced by the blade wheel merge into a uniform, swirl-free or approximately swirl-free air flow in an axial direction,wherein the spray nozzle is arranged along a longitudinal axis in the blow-out channel in such a way that the swirl-free air flow receives spray mist emerging from the spray nozzle,wherein an electrically actuated valve is provided in the liquid supply line in order to activate and deactivate a liquid supply to the spray nozzle, andwherein an electronic controller with a regulating unit for the electric blower is provided in order to adjust the air flow velocity in accordance with a respective application.2. The blower spray device according to claim 1 , wherein the electric blower is arranged in an elongated claim 1 , tubular housing which simultaneously serves for the mechanical fastening of the spray nozzle.3. The blower spray device according to claim 1 , wherein the blower is mounted in a floating manner in the housing.4. The blower spray device according to claim 1 , ...

BATTERY MODULE FOR ELECTRICALLY-DRIVEN AIRCRAFT

A battery module can include multiple cell tubes, a first conductive plate, and multiple first spacers. The multiple cell tubes can accommodate multiple battery cells within the multiple cell tubes so that individual of the multiple battery cells are positioned within individual of the multiple cell tubes. The first conductive plate can include multiple first holes and electrically connect first terminals of the multiple cells. The multiple first spacers can be mounted in the multiple first holes and support the multiple tubes and the multiple cells with respect to the first conductive plate, the multiple first spacers being configured to provide thermal and electrical isolation between the multiple battery cells and the first conductive plate. 1. A battery module comprising:a plurality of cell tubes configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells within the plurality of cell tubes so that individual of the plurality of battery cells are positioned within individual of the plurality of cell tubes;a first conductive plate comprising a plurality of first holes and configured to electrically connect first terminals of the plurality of battery cells; anda plurality of first spacers mounted in the plurality of first holes and configured to support the plurality of cell tubes and the plurality of battery cells with respect to the first conductive plate, the plurality of first spacers being configured to provide thermal and electrical isolation between the plurality of battery cells and the first conductive plate.2. The battery module of claim 1 , further comprising:a second conductive plate comprising a plurality of second holes and configured to electrically connect second terminals of the plurality of battery cells opposite the first terminals; anda plurality of second spacers mounted in the plurality of second holes and configured to support the plurality of cell tubes and the plurality of battery cells with respect to the second conductive plate, the plurality ...

Backscatter Reduction in Thin Electron Detectors

In a direct electron detector, backscattering of electrons into the detector volume from below the sensor is prevented. In some embodiments, an empty space is maintained below the sensor. In other embodiments, a structure below the sensor includes geometry, such as multiple high aspects ratio channels, either extending to or from the sensor to trap electrons, or a structure of angled surfaces to deflect the electrons that pass through the sensor.

A SOLAR MODULE AND A METHOD OF MAKING A SOLAR MODULE

A method of making a solar module comprising forming an arcuate frame and adhesively bonding a solar cell formed of a flexible sheet of a thin film organic photovoltaic solar material to the frame or to a flexible backing attachable to the frame to at least partially cover an upwardly facing part of the frame. The invention also extends to the module. The module may be deployable into a deployed configuration. It may be used over a poly-tunnel, or on a roof, or in other applications. 1. A method of making a solar module comprising:forming an arcuate frame; andadhesively bonding a solar cell formed of a flexible sheet of a thin film organic photovoltaic solar material to the frame or to a flexible backing attachable to the frame to at least partially cover an upwardly facing part of the frame.2. A method according to claim 1 , further comprising providing the thin film organic photovoltaic material on a roll and cutting the sheet from the roll prior to bonding it to the frame.3. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the frame comprises a plurality of arcuate subassemblies.4. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the frame is deployable between a stored and a deployed configuration.5. A method according to claim 4 , wherein the sheet is attached to the frame prior to being deployed to the deployed configuration.6. A method according to claim 4 , wherein the sheet is attached to the frame after it is deployed to the deployed configuration.7. A method according to claim 4 , wherein the frame is an inflatable structure which is deployable into the deployed configuration by inflation.8. A method according to claim 4 , wherein the frame is formed of a bi-stable material in which the stored configuration comprises a flat roll of material claim 4 , and the deployed configuration is an unrolled configuration in which the bi-stable material biases the material from the flat roll into an arcuate configuration.9. A method according to claim 4 , wherein the frame has a rigid ...

Spray nozzle for an inhalation device

The invention relates to the field of inhalation devices for liquids. In particular, the invention relates to a nebulizing nozzle to be used in such an inhalation device, as well as a method for fabrication of such a nozzle. A nozzle for an inhalation device for nebulizing a liquid into a respirable aerosol has a nozzle body ( 1 ) which has a front end ( 1 B) and which comprises at least two ejection channels ( 2, 2′ ), each channel ( 2, 2′ ) having an channel exit ( 2 A, 2 A′), wherein the ejection channels ( 2, 2′ ) are arranged such as to eject liquid along respective ejection trajectories which intersect with one another at a collision point. The nozzle is characterized in that at least one recess ( 3 ) is provided at the front end ( 1 B) in which the channel exits ( 2 A, 2 A′) are positioned. Disclosed is also a method for the fabrication of a nozzle body as defined above, use of such a nozzle in an inhalation device for nebulizing a liquid, and an inhalation device for nebulizing a liquid into a respirable aerosol, comprising such a nozzle.

Transdermal delivery system

The invention relates to transdermal therapeutic system for the transdermal administration of buprenorphine, comprising a buprenorphine-containing self-adhesive layer structure comprising A) a buprenorphine-impermeable backing layer, and B) a buprenorphine-containing pressure-sensitive adhesive layer on said buprenorphine-impermeable backing layer, the adhesive layer comprising a) at least one polymer-based pressure-sensitive adhesive, b) an analgesically effective amount of buprenorphine base or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, c) a viscosity-increasing substance in an amount of about 0.1% to about 8% of said buprenorphine-containing pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and d) a carboxylic acid selected from the group consisting of oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, levulinic acid and mixtures thereof, in an amount sufficient so that said analgesically effective amount of buprenorphine is solubilized therein to form a mixture including said viscositiy-increasing substance, and wherein the carboxylic acid-, buprenorphine- and viscosity-increasing substance-containing mixture forms dispersed deposits in the said pressure-sensitive adhesive, and wherein said buprenorphine-containing pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is the skin contact layer.

Superhydrophilic amphiphilic copolymers and processes for making the same

A superhydrophilic amphiphilic copolymer and process for making the superhydrophilic amphiphilic copolymer includes a low molecular weight polysaccharide modified with a hydrophobic reagent, such as substituted succinic anhydride. The superhydrophilic amphiphilic copolymer system generates stable foam for use in applications, such as healthcare formulations, with low irritation of the eyes and skin.

Encoded Audio Metadata-Based Loudness Equalization and Dynamic Equalization During DRC

Dynamic loudness equalization of received audio content in a playback system, using metadata that includes instantaneous loudness values for the audio content. A playback level is derived from a user volume setting of the playback system, and is compared with a mixing level that is assigned to the audio content. Parameters are computed, that define an equalization filter that is filtering the audio content before driving a speaker with the filtered audio content, based on the instantaneous loudness values and the comparing of the playback level with the assigned mixing level. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. 1. A method for loudness equalization in a playback system , comprising:receiving audio content, and metadata for the audio content, wherein the metadata includes a plurality of instantaneous loudness values for the audio content;deriving a playback level from a user volume setting of the playback system;comparing the playback level with an assigned mixing level that is assigned to the audio content; andcomputing a plurality of parameters that define an equalization filter that is filtering the audio content, before driving a speaker with the filtered audio content, wherein the parameters are computed based on 1) the plurality of instantaneous loudness values and 2) the comparing of the playback level with the assigned mixing level.2. The method of wherein deriving the playback level further comprises using a value that represents sensitivity of the playback system.3. The method of wherein the assigned mixing level was received as part of the metadata and is a mixing level that was used when the audio content was being produced or played back in a production system.4. The method of wherein the assigned mixing level is an average mixing level.5. The method of wherein the assigned mixing level is as defined in any Advanced Television Systems Committee ATSC Standard.6. The method of further comprisingupdating the parameters that define the ...

REVERSIBLE CONNECTING OF MACHINE COMPONENTS

Workpieces that generate pressure by an extrusion media () and are deformed in this way for the secure connection of components (). In particular, an extrusion billet which comprises an extrudable material or material mixture in the interior thereof, which can be reversibly compressed by a compression die () penetrating into the material, such that billet can expand in diameter by increasing the internal pressure in the billet, which leads to a very secure, but reversible press fitting of the different types of components to be connected, in particular of shaft-hub connections for mechanical engineering. 130-. (canceled)31. A workpiece , which can be reversibly deformed by pressure for a secure reversible connection of machine components , comprising:{'b': 8', '9', '7, '(i) an essentially cylindrical basic body () which has, on its periphery, a contact surface () to a surface of the machine component () to be connected,'}{'b': 22', '23', '6', '6, 'i': 'a', '(ii) at least one displacement space (, ) in an interior of the basic body, which is completely or partly filled with a displacement medium (, ) which is liquid or flowable and/or solid in powder form or granulated form,'}{'b': 1', '2', '3', '5', '14', '20, '(iii) pressure and tensioning means (, , , , -), and'}{'b': 4', '4', '9, '(iv) at least one pressure ram () which is designed, in shape and size, in such a way that the at least one pressure ram () can be pushed completely or partly into the displacement space by the pressure and tensioning means in order to compress the displacement medium located therein thereby resulting in an increase in a circumference of the basic body over the contact surface () and thus formation of a very secure reversible connection to the machine component to be connected,'}{'b': '8', 'wherein the displacement medium employed, in one or more displacement spaces, has a modulus of elasticity acting overall of at most 20% of a modulus of elasticity of the material of the basic body ...

AUDIO BUFFERING FOR PROCESSING WITH VARIABLE LOOKAHEAD

An audio processing system has a buffer, a first digital signal processing module that uses a first lookahead, a second digital signal processing module that uses a second, greater lookahead, and a cross-fader. The cross-fader fades between the output of the first digital signal processing module to the output of the second digital signal processing module, based on lookahead depth of data of the audio signal in the buffer. Other aspects are also described and claimed. 1. An audio playback system , comprising:a buffer, to receive an audio signal;a first digital signal processing module to process the audio signal from the buffer using a first lookahead;a second digital signal processing module, to process the audio signal from the buffer using a second lookahead that is greater than the first lookahead; anda cross-fader to output a processed audio signal one at a time based on output of the first digital signal processing module or output of the second digital signal processing module, and fade the processed audio signal, from the output of the first digital signal processing module to the output of the second digital signal processing module or from the output of the second digital signal processing module to the output of the first digital signal processing module, based on data of the audio signal in the buffer.2. The audio playback system of claim 1 , further comprising:the cross-fader being configured to have hysteresis in the fade, to decrease frequency of cross-fading when depth of the data of the audio signal in the buffer drops below the second lookahead.3. The audio playback system of claim 1 , further comprising:the cross-fader being configured to fade the processed audio signal from the output of the first digital signal processing module to the output of the second digital signal processing module based on a determination that the depth of the data of the audio signal in the buffer exceeds a threshold amount.4. The audio playback system of claim 1 , ...

LAYERED CODING OF AUDIO WITH DISCRETE OBJECTS

A first layer of data having a first set of Ambisonic audio components can be decoded where the first set of Ambisonic audio components is generated based on ambience and one or more object-based audio signals. A second layer of data is decoded having at least one of the one or more object-based audio signals. One of the object-based audio signals is subtracted from the first set of Ambisonic audio components. The resulting Ambisonic audio components are rendered to generate a first set of audio channels. The one or more object-based audio signals are spatially rendered to generate a second set of audio channels. Other aspects are described and claimed. 1. A method for decoding layered audio , comprising:decoding from a bit stream generated by an upstream device, a first layer of data having a first set of Ambisonic audio components, the first set of Ambisonic audio components generated based on ambience and one or more object-based audio signals;decoding from the bit stream, a second layer of data having at least one of the one or more object-based audio signals;subtracting, from the first set of Ambisonic audio components, the at least one of the one or more object-based audio signals, and rendering resulting first set of Ambisonic audio components to generate a first set of audio channels;spatially rendering the one or more object-based audio signals to generate a second set of audio channels;combining the first set of audio channels and the second set of audio channels, the combined audio channels used to drive a plurality of speakers of a playback device.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising communicating a request to the upstream device claim 1 , to include the second layer of data in the bit stream claim 1 , based on bandwidth.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second layer of data includes a second set of Ambisonic audio components claim 1 , not mixed with the at least one of the one or more object-based audio signals of the second layer claim 1 ...

DEFERRED LOUDNESS ADJUSTMENT FOR DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

A bitstream is obtained by a decoder side, that contains an encoded version of an audio signal and an instantaneous loudness sequence of the audio signal. The instantaneous loudness sequence has not been loudness normalized. A dynamic range control, DRC, gain sequence is produced by applying the instantaneous loudness sequence to a DRC characteristic, with loudness normalization. The DRC gain sequence is applied to the decoded audio signal. Other aspects are also described and claimed. 1. An audio decoder apparatus comprising:a processor; and an encoded version of an audio signal,', 'a first dynamic range control, DRC, gain sequence, that was determined by an encoder side process applying the audio signal to a first DRC characteristic,', 'a loudness normalization gain that was applied by the encoder side when determining the first DRC gain sequence,', 'an index of the first DRC characteristic, wherein the index identifies or points to the first DRC characteristic, and', 'a plurality of instances over time of integrated loudness update., 'memory having stored therein instructions that configure the processor to obtain a bitstream, the bitstream comprising2. The audio decoder apparatus of wherein in response to the index having a first value the processor performs loudness normalization when applying DRC to the audio signal.3. The audio decoder apparatus ofwherein the memory has stored therein instructions that configure the processor to perform loudness normalization after applying an inverse DRC characteristic to the DRC gain sequence, by using the loudness normalization gain in the bitstream to compensate for or undo a loudness normalization gain that was applied by the encoder side when determining the DRC gain sequence.4. The audio decoder apparatus of wherein the memory has stored therein instructions that configure the processor to recover a loudness sequence by applying the first DRC gain sequence to an inverse of the first DRC characteristic claim 1 ,perform ...

Sprayable sunscreen composition

The present invention provides an anhydrous, sprayable sunscreen composition comprising one or more oil soluble UV filters and a combination of film formers comprising at least one copolymer of trimethylolpropane, adipic acid, neopentyl glycol and hexanediol and at least one acrylates/octylacrylamide copolymer having a molecular weight of at least 50 kDA measured using Dynamic Light Scattering.

Transparent sunscreen composition

The present invention provides a sunscreen composition comprising one or more oil soluble UV filters, at least about 20 weight percent ethanol, about 13.5 weight percent or less of a low viscosity silicone having a viscosity of at least 20 centistokes, and at least about 23 weight percent of a super low viscosity silicone having a viscosity up to about 15 centistokes, wherein the composition is anhydrous and transparent.

Mobile computing device for blind or low-vision users

Mobile computing device including a physical feature which defines the centre-line of the device across the short and/or long axes of the device.

Monitoring systems

We describe a medical device, in embodiments a battlefield triage device, configured to be attached to and carried by a person. The device comprises a sensor module to attach to a person's face. The module having a respiratory sensing region comprising an air temperature sensor and a humidity sensor arranged such that, when the module is attached, airflow in and out of the person's lungs flows over said respiratory sensing region. The device also includes a signal processing system, coupled to the sensor module, to process and combine signals from the temperature sensor and from the humidity sensor to determine a respiration rate for the person and a system to output data indicating the respiration rate. The sensor is arranged to attach to/over the person's nose and/or mouth such that airflow in and out of the person's lungs, in particular, via the nostrils flows over the respiratory sensing region.

Seal for an inhalation device

The invention relates to the field of inhalation devices for liquids. In particular, the invention relates to an improved seal construction for an inhalation device having a nebulizing nozzle and a piston which moves relative to a pumping chamber in order to generate pumping pressure and to an inhalation device comprising such seal. An inhalation device for medically active liquids (F) for generation of an aerosol comprises a housing ( 1 ), an impingement-type nozzle ( 6 ) for generating the nebulised aerosol by collision of at least two liquid jets, the nozzle ( 6 ) being firmly affixed to the user-facing side of the housing ( 1 ) such as to be immobile relative to the housing ( 1 ), inside the housing ( 1 ) the inhalation device comprises a reservoir ( 2 ) for storing a liquid (F), a pumping device with a pumping chamber ( 3 ) for generation of a pressure inside said pumping chamber ( 3 ), wherein the pumping chamber ( 3 ) is fluidically connected with the reservoir ( 2 ), a riser pipe ( 5 ) which can be received with at least one reservoir-facing, interior end ( 5 A) in said pumping chamber ( 3 ), and said nozzle ( 6 ) which is connected liquid-tight to an exterior end ( 5 B) of the riser pipe ( 5 ), wherein the interior volume of the pumping chamber ( 3 ) is changeable by means of relative motion of the pumping chamber to the riser pipe ( 5 ) or vice versa. A gap ( 10 ) can be present between an outside of said riser pipe ( 5 ) and an inside of said pumping chamber ( 3 ), and a seal ( 9 ) bridging said gap ( 10 ) in order to minimize pressure loss when a pressure is generated inside said pumping chamber ( 3 ). Said seal ( 9 ) can be fixed to said outside of said riser pipe ( 5 ), and be moveable with respect to said inside of said pumping chamber ( 3 ).

METADATA FOR LOUDNESS AND DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

An audio normalization gain value is applied to an audio signal to produce a normalized signal. The normalized signal is processed to compute dynamic range control (DRC) gain values in accordance with a selected one of several pre-defined DRC characteristics. The audio signal is encoded, and the DRC gain values are provided as metadata associated with the encoded audio signal. Several other embodiments are also described and claimed. 1. A method for decoding audio during playback processing , comprising:receiving an encoded audio signal;receiving metadata associated with the encoded audio signal, the metadata including a plurality of dynamic range control (DRC) gain values and an index of a previously selected DRC characteristic in accordance with which the DRC gain values were computed when the encoded audio signal was being generated;decoding the encoded audio signal to produce a decoded audio signal;selecting a current DRC characteristic from amongst a plurality of available DRC characteristics, wherein the selected current DRC characteristic is associated with the index;applying the plurality of DRC gain values from the metadata to the current DRC characteristic to obtain a plurality of input levels; andapplying the plurality of input levels to produce an adjusted audio signal during playback processing.2. The method of wherein the received metadata further includes a plurality of values selected from the group consisting of: program loudness claim 1 , true peak claim 1 , loudness range claim 1 , maximum momentary loudness claim 1 , and short-term loudness values.3. The method of wherein applying the plurality of input levels to produce the adjusted audios signal during playback processing is based on a playback condition being late night claim 1 , noisy environment claim 1 , inside a moving car claim 1 , walking claim 1 , running claim 1 , or speaker dynamic range.4. The method of wherein applying the plurality of input levels to produce an adjusted audio ...

COMPRESSING SPATIAL ACOUSTIC TRANSFER FUNCTIONS

Transfer functions can describe responses of microphones or ears to sounds at different locations on a sphere. The transfer functions can be compressed by determining, based on transfer functions, a) one or more basis transfer functions, and b) spherical harmonics coefficients that describe variations of the transfer functions with respect to spherical coordinates. Other aspects are described and claimed. 1. A method for compressing transfer functions , comprising:determining original transfer functions of microphones of a system, wherein each of the original transfer functions is associated with a response of one of the microphones to a sound at a location on a sphere; a) one or more basis transfer functions, and', 'b) spherical harmonics coefficients that describe variations of the original transfer functions with respect to spherical coordinates., 'determining, based on the original transfer functions,'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the one or more basis transfer functions includes a) for each microphone, a set of time shifts that includes a time shift for each location on the sphere, the set of time shifts representing temporal differences between the original transfer functions, and', 'b) for each microphone, a set of spatial weights that includes a spatial weight for each location on the sphere., 'applying a shifted component analysis to the original transfer functions to generate'}3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the spherical harmonics coefficients include time shift coefficients and spatial weight coefficients that are compressed representations of the sets of time shifts and the sets of spatial weights.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein determining the spherical harmonics coefficients includes performing spherical harmonics analysis on the sets of time shifts to generate the time shift coefficients that model variation of the time shifts relative to coordinates on the sphere.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein determining the spherical ...

Cleansing bars comprising superhydrophilic amphiphilic copolymers and methods of use thereof

Provided are low-irritation, high foaming personal care compositions comprising superhydrophilic amphiphilic copolymers. Also provided are methods of making and using such compositions.

Inhalation device with a pumping unit

The invention relates to the field of inhalation devices for liquids. In particular, the invention relates to an inhalation device for delivering a nebulised medically active aerosol for inhalation therapy comprising a pumping unit, said pumping unit comprising a riser pipe (2), a hollow cylindrical part (3) having an interior space configured to receive an upstream end portion (21) of said riser pipe (2), said cylindrical part (3) being moveable on the riser pipe (2), wherein the cylindrical part and the riser pipe form a pumping chamber having a variable volume, wherein a gap (4) is present between a lateral outside surface (22) of the upstream end portion (21) of said riser pipe (2) and a lateral internal surface (31) of said cylindrical part (3), wherein a seal (1) is present between the outside surface (22) of said riser pipe (2) and the internal surface (31) of said cylindrical part (3), thus physically bridging said gap (4), and wherein the seal (1) has a cap-like shape configured to fit around the upstream end portion (21) of the riser pipe (2), having at least one opening (11) for providing a fluid connection between an interior space of said riser pipe (2) and said pumping chamber, and wherein at an interior surface (14) of the seal (1), at least one interior protrusion (16) is present which is configured to be received by at least one respective recess (23) of the riser pipe (2).

METADATA FOR LOUDNESS AND DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

An audio normalization gain value is applied to an audio signal to produce a normalized signal. The normalized signal is processed to compute dynamic range control (DRC) gain values in accordance with a selected one of several pre-defined DRC characteristics. The audio signal is encoded, and the DRC gain values are provided as metadata associated with the encoded audio signal. Several other embodiments are also described and claimed. 1. A method for encoding audio signal , comprising:applying an audio normalization gain value to an audio signal to produce a normalized signal; and thenprocessing the normalized signal to compute a plurality of dynamic range control (DRC) gain values for the normalized signal, wherein the DRC gain values are computed in accordance with a selected one of a plurality of pre-defined DRC characteristics;encoding the audio signal; andproviding the DRC gain values as metadata associated with the encoded audio signal.2. The method of further comprising:providing an index of the selected DRC characteristic as metadata of the encoded audio signal.3. The method of wherein the audio normalization gain value is a program loudness normalization gain value.4. The method of wherein providing the DRC gain values as metadata comprises:embedding the DRC gain values with the encoded audio signal into a primary data channel; andproviding the index of the selected DRC characteristic together with other metadata in an auxiliary data channel associated with the primary data channel.5. The method of wherein said other metadata comprises a program loudness value claim 4 , and a True Peak value.6. The method of further comprising:applying the DRC gain values to a signal derived from one of the audio signal or the normalized signal, to produce a dynamic range adjusted signal; andperforming audio measurement based on the dynamic range adjusted signal to compute a program loudness value; andcomputing the audio normalization gain value using the program loudness ...

METADATA FOR LOUDNESS AND DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

An audio normalization gain value is applied to an audio signal to produce a normalized signal. The normalized signal is processed to compute dynamic range control (DRC) gain values in accordance with a selected one of several pre-defined DRC characteristics. The audio signal is encoded, and the DRC gain values are provided as metadata associated with the encoded audio signal. Several other embodiments are also described and claimed. 1. A method for encoding audio signal , comprising:applying an audio normalization gain value to an audio signal to produce a normalized signal; and thenprocessing the normalized signal to compute a plurality of dynamic range control (DRC) gain values for the normalized signal, wherein the DRC gain values are computed in accordance with a selected one of a plurality of pre-defined DRC characteristics;encoding the audio signal; andproviding the DRC gain values as metadata associated with the encoded audio signal.2. The method of further comprising:providing an index of the selected DRC characteristic as metadata of the encoded audio signal.3. The method of wherein the audio normalization gain value is a program loudness normalization gain value.4. The method of wherein providing the DRC gain values as metadata comprises:embedding the DRC gain values with the encoded audio signal into a primary data channel; andproviding the index of the selected DRC characteristic together with other metadata in an auxiliary data channel associated with the primary data channel.5. The method of wherein said other metadata comprises a program loudness value claim 4 , and a True Peak value.6. The method of further comprising:applying the DRC gain values to a signal derived from one of the audio signal or the normalized signal, to produce a dynamic range adjusted signal; andperforming audio measurement based on the dynamic range adjusted signal to compute a program loudness value; andcomputing the audio normalization gain value using the program loudness ...

Downhole apparatus with removable plugs

A downhole tool includes a casing string with a fluid barrier connected therein defining a lower end of a buoyancy chamber. A plug assembly connected in the casing string defines an upper end of the buoyancy chamber. The plug assembly has an outer case with a rupture disc positioned therein configured to block flow and to burst at a predetermined pressure. The rupture disk is removable from a flow path through the outer case upon the flow of fluid therethrough.

SYSTEM FOR PREPARING MILK AND/OR MILK FOAM IN DRINKS MACHINES, AND A HEATER UNIT

The invention relates to a system for preparing milk and milk foam in drinks machines, such as coffee machines and similar pieces of equipment, which are provided with a heater unit for heating the milk and/or the milk foam with steam. The system contains, according to the invention, a feed for the milk and/or the milk foam and a separate feed for the steam, which is fed directly, as a heat-transfer medium, into the milk and/or the milk foam in the heater unit, which operates as an injector. The system allows a high heating capacity along with simultaneously good regulating capability and minimized thermal inertia. Since the foaming operation and the heating operation are separated from one another, the quality of the milk foam remains unimpaired by the heating operation. 1. A system for preparing milk and milk foam in drinks machines , such as coffee machines and similar devices , which are provided with a heater unit for heating the milk and/or the milk foam with steam , wherein the system is composed of a feed for the milk and/or the milk foam and a feed for the hot steam , the latter being fed as a heat transfer medium into the milk and/or the milk foam in the heater unit which operates as an injector.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the steam is fed into the milk and/or the milk foam either in a continuous or in a discontinuous process.3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the feed for the milk and the milk foam is provided with a delivery pump for conveying the milk and/or the milk foam through the heater unit and on to the machine outlet.4. The system according to claim 3 , wherein a connectable air feed for preparing the milk foam is provided on the intake side of the delivery pump.5. The system according to claim 4 , wherein an additional hydraulic resistor claim 4 , preferably in the form of a throttle or a static mixer claim 4 , is fitted between the delivery pump and the heater unit and/or between the latter and the machine outlet.6. ...

ENCODED AUDIO EXTENDED METADATA-BASED DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

An audio encoder encodes a digital audio recording having a number of audio channels or audio objects. A Dynamic Range Control (DRC) processor produces a sequence of encoder DRC gain values, by applying a selected one of a number of DRC characteristics to a group of one or more of the audio channels or audio objects. The encoder DRC gain values are to be applied to adjust the group of audio channels or audio objects, upon decoding them from the encoded digital audio recording. A bitstream multiplexer combines a) the encoded digital audio recording with b) the sequence of encoder DRC gain values, an indication of the selected DRC characteristic, and an indication of an alternate DRC characteristic, the latter as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording. Other embodiments are also described including a system for decoding the encoded audio recording and performing DRC adjustment upon it. 1. A system for producing an encoded digital audio recording having a plurality of audio channels or audio objects , comprising:an audio encoder to encode a digital audio recording having a plurality of audio channels or audio objects;a Dynamic Range Control (DRC) processor to produce a sequence of encoder DRC gain values by applying a selected one of a plurality of DRC characteristics to a group of one or more of the plurality of audio channels or audio objects, wherein the encoder DRC gain values are to be applied to adjust the group of audio channels or audio objects upon decoding them from the encoded digital audio recording; andmeans for providing as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording i) the sequence of encoder DRC gain values, ii) an indication of the selected DRC characteristic, and iii) an indication of an alternate DRC characteristic selected from the plurality of DRC characteristics.221.-. (canceled) This application claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/199,819, filed Jul. 31 ...

ENCODED AUDIO METADATA-BASED EQUALIZATION

A system for producing an encoded digital audio recording has an audio encoder that encodes a digital audio recording having a number of audio channels or audio objects. An equalization (EQ) value generator produces a sequence of EQ values which define EQ filtering that is to be applied when decoding the encoded digital audio recording, wherein the EQ filtering is to be applied to a group of one or more of the audio channels or audio objects of the recording independent of any downmix. A bitstream multiplexer combines the encoded digital audio recording with the sequence of EQ values, the latter as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording. Other embodiments are also described including a system for decoding the encoded audio recording. 1an encoder to encode a digital audio recording having an original plurality of audio channels or audio objects, to produce an encoded digital audio recording;an equalization (EQ) value generator to produce a sequence of EQ values which define EQ filtering that is to be applied to a specified EQ group of one or more of the original audio channels or audio objects, independent of downmix and upon decoding the encoded digital audio recording; anda bitstream multiplexer to combine a) the encoded digital audio recording with b) the sequence of EQ values including an indication of said EQ group, the latter as metadata associated with the encoded digital audio recording.. A system for producing an encoded digital audio recording having a plurality of audio channels or audio objects, comprising: This application is a continuation of a co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 15/060,392, filed Mar. 3, 2016 which claims the benefit of provisional U.S. Application No. 62/199,634 filed Jul. 31, 2015.An embodiment of the invention pertains generally to the encoding and decoding of an audio signal, and the use of metadata, associated with the encoded signal, during playback of the decoded signal, to improve quality of playback in ...

A SOLAR ELECTRICAL GENERATOR

A solar electrical generator comprising an outer wall () arranged to partially surround a cavity. A hub () is provided within the cavity wherein the outer face () of the wall is provided with solar cells (). At least one of the hub () and the inner face () of the wall are provided with solar cells (). 1. A solar electrical generator comprising:an outer wall arranged to partially surround a cavity, anda hub within the cavity wherein the outer face of the wall is provided with solar cells and wherein the hub has an upper face which is provided with solar cells.2. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the inner face of the wall is provided with solar cells.3. A generator according claim 1 , wherein at least one of the hub and inner face of the outer wall are provided with a reflector.4. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the outer wall is formed of a curved frame to which a flexible solar fabric is attached.5. A generator according to claim 1 , further comprising a power storage device within the hub.6. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the outer wall is connected to the hub via one or more spokes.7. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the outer wall subtends an angle of greater than 250° at the centre of the hub.8. A generator according to claim 7 , wherein the outer wall subtends an angle of greater than 280° at the centre of the hub.9. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the outer wall subtends an angle of less than 320° at the centre of the hub.10. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the outer wall is provided by a first panel and a second panel claim 1 , each panel having a concave inner face and a convex outer face claim 1 , the panels being horizontally spaced so that the concave faces face one another thereby defining the central cavity.11. A generator according to claim 1 , wherein the maximum width of the hub is less than half of the maximum width of the cavity.12. A generator according to claim 11 , wherein the ...

Composition comprising silver nanowires and dispersed polymer beads for the preparation of electroconductive transparent layers

Described is a composition suitable for the preparation of an electroconductive transparent layer, said composition comprising silver nanowires and dispersed polymer beads.

OPTIMIZED BIOPROCESSING METHOD

Disclosed is method of leaching at least one desired element from feed material containing feed material fines, which includes combining such a feed material with a pulping solution comprising a liquid and a solution-hydrated or a solution-soluble polymer to form a treated slurry, with the polymer configured to predominantly capture at least part of the feed material fines prior to their settling out of the liquid slurry matrix, and with the polymer being added to the feed material in a predetermined ratio of polymer to feed material. The treated slurry is deposited in a deposition cell for leaching and further treatment. Also disclosed is a composition of a treated slurry, and treating any one or more of the feed material, the treated slurry or the deposited treated slurry with sulphide consuming bacteria. 115-. (canceled)16. A method of leaching at least one desired element from feed material containing feed material fines , the method comprising:combining a feed material that contains feed material fines with a pulping solution including a liquid and a solution-hydrated or a solution-soluble polymer to form a treated slurry, with the polymer configured to predominantly capture at least part of the feed material fines prior to the at least part of the feed material fines settling out of the liquid slurry matrix and with the polymer being added to the feed material in a predetermined ratio of polymer to feed material;depositing the treated slurry into a deposition cell to less than a predetermined maximum deposition height;allowing the majority of the liquid in the treated slurry to naturally dewater from the fines solids in the cell;applying a suitable lixiviant to the cell for a predetermined feed-solids-specific optimized time, with the lixiviant configured to leach the desired element from the cell;allowing the lixiviant to drain from the cell as a pregnant leach solution;flushing the cell with a suitable wash solution to displace entrained dissolved desired ...

METADATA FOR LOUDNESS AND DYNAMIC RANGE CONTROL

An audio normalization gain value is applied to an audio signal to produce a normalized signal. The normalized signal is processed to compute dynamic range control (DRC) gain values in accordance with a selected one of several pre-defined DRC characteristics. The audio signal is encoded, and the DRC gain values are provided as metadata associated with the encoded audio signal. Several other embodiments are also described and claimed. 117-. (canceled)18. A method for decoding audio , comprising:receiving an encoded, multi-channel audio signal and metadata associated with the multi-channel audio signal, wherein the metadata includes a) one or more loudness parameters that describes loudness profile of a downmix of the multi-channel audio signal, or b) one or more loudness parameters that describes loudness profile of a base channel layout of the multi-channel audio signal;decoding the encoded, multi-channel audio signal into a decoded, multi-channel audio signal; andprocessing the decoded, multi-channel audio signal to produce a downmix in accordance with the one or more loudness parameters included in the metadata.19. The method of wherein the one or more loudness parameters is selected from the group consisting of: program loudness being an audio measurement that is an average loudness estimate of the entire content of a digital audio file claim 18 , true peak claim 18 , loudness range claim 18 , maximum momentary loudness claim 18 , and short-term loudness values.20. The method of wherein the metadata further includes a plurality of dynamic range control claim 18 , DRC claim 18 , parameters claim 18 , the method further comprisingperforming dynamic range adjustments upon the decoded, multi-channel audio signal or upon the downmix, in accordance with the DRC parameters.21. The method of wherein the one or more loudness parameters is selected from the group consisting of: program loudness claim 20 , true peak claim 20 , loudness range claim 20 , maximum momentary ...

APPARATUS FOR DELIVERING FROZEN CONFECTION COMPRISING PARTICULATE MATERIAL

An apparatus () for dispensing frozen confectionery comprising particulate material, the apparatus comprising: a frozen confectionery dispenser, a particulate material dispenser, and a handle means (); wherein the handle means () is adapted to provide a first actuation action for activation of the frozen confectionery dispenser and a second actuation action for activation of the particulate material dispenser, wherein the first and second actuation actions are independent of each other. 2. An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first actuation action comprises translation of the handle means.3. An apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the translation of the handle means is from an upper to a lower position.4. An apparatus according to wherein the second actuation action comprises pressing a switch or button.5. An apparatus according to wherein the handle means comprises a region which is grippable by a single human hand so that the single human hand is capable of carrying out both the first and second actuations actions independently of each other.6. An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first and or the second actuation action is gradual claim 1 , wherein the greater the extent of the action is carried out the greater the rate of dispensing of frozen confectionery material and/or particulate material.7. An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the particulate material dispenser comprises a chamber having an open exit claim 1 , wherein the chamber is adapted to be rotatable in use such that the open exit follows a pathway having both an upper region and a lower region claim 1 , and arranged to pass through the lower region at a non-zero speed a plurality of times during a single serving;the open exit being sized to allow a portion of stored particulate material to fall out of the chamber via the open exit under gravity each time the open exit passes through the lower region of the pathway.8. An apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the ...

Method for producing highly reactive cements

The invention relates to a method for producing cements by hydrothermally treating a starting material containing sources of CaO and SiO2 in an autoclave at a temperature of 100 to 300° C., and tempering the obtained intermediate product at 350 to 700° C., wherein water formed during tempering is dissipated by grinding the intermediate product and/or tempering taking place under a continuous gas stream. The invention also relates to cements obtained in this manner, hydraulic binders therefrom, and building materials which contain said binders.

Activator having a low ph value for supplementary cementitious material

Activators for supplementary cementitious material, comprising reactive belite, obtainable by hydrothermal treatment of a starting material, which contains sources for CaO and SiO2 in an autoclave at a temperature of 100 to 300° C. and tempering the obtained intermediate product at 350 to 495° C., hydraulic binders based on the supplementary cementitious material above, and by a method for activating the supplementary cementitious material by adding reactive belite obtainable by hydrothermal treatment of a starting material which contains sources for CaO and SiO2 in an autoclave at a temperature of 100 to 300° C. and tempering the obtained intermediate product at 350 to 495° C. and the use of the reactive belite containing material as activator.

Encoded Audio Metadata-Based Loudness Equalization and Dynamic Equalization During DRC

Dynamic loudness equalization of received audio content in a playback system, using metadata that includes instantaneous loudness values for the audio content. A playback level is derived from a user volume setting of the playback system, and is compared with a mixing level that is assigned to the audio content. Parameters are computed, that define an equalization filter that is filtering the audio content before driving a speaker with the filtered audio content, based on the instantaneous loudness values and the comparing of the playback level with the assigned mixing level. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. 1. (canceled)2. A method for audio equalization in a playback system that is applying dynamic range control , comprising:a) receiving audio content, and metadata for the audio content, wherein the metadata includes a plurality of dynamic range control (DRC) gain values that have been computed for the audio content;b) computing a plurality of parameters that define an equalization filter, wherein the parameters are computed based on the plurality of DRC gain values received in the metadata;c) filtering the audio content by the equalization filter; andd) adjusting dynamic range of the audio content by applying the plurality of DRC gain values to the audio content, ande) providing the audio content as filtered in c) and as dynamic range adjusted in d), to drive a speaker in the playback system.3. The method of wherein the parameters that define the equalization filter are computed directly based on the DRC gain values received in the metadata.4. The method of further comprising processing the plurality of DRC gain values received in the metadata to compute a plurality of DRC gain adjustment values claim 3 , wherein applying the plurality of DRC gain values to the audio content comprises applying the DRC gain adjustment values to the audio content.5. The method of wherein the metadata includes static filter configuration data that specifies one or ...

Nanoparticle Compositions and Methods for Synthesis Thereof

The present invention relates to improved therapeutically active nanocomposite microstructure compositions, including nanoparticle compositions and nanoparticle preparations. Preferred embodiments include nanoparticle compositions comprising nanoparticles of a therapeutically active agent dispersed in a carrier matrix. The invention also relates to a method for preparing said compositions and preparations using solid-state mechanochemical synthesis. Further, it relates to therapeutic products produced using said compositions and to methods of treatment using the compositions.

SPATIAL AUDIO FILE FORMAT FOR STORING CAPTURE METADATA

A device with microphones can generate microphone signals during an audio recording. The device can store, in an electronic audio data file, the microphone signals, and metadata that includes impulse responses of the microphones. Other aspects are described and claimed. 1. A method for processing audio comprising:receiving a plurality of microphone signals from a plurality of microphones of a capture device; and the microphone signals, and', 'metadata, the metadata including one or more impulse responses of the microphones of the capture device, wherein the one or more impulse responses define responses of the microphones to acoustic impulses., 'storing, in an electronic audio data file,'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more impulse responses of the metadata are formed as digital filters.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metadata includes one or more sound location identifiers that associates one of the impulse responses to a location or position relative to the capture device.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metadata includes microphone identifiers of each microphone of the capture device claim 1 , and each impulse response is associated with a microphone identifier.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metadata includes a location of each of the acoustic impulses relative to the capture device.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metadata includes a geometrical model of the capture device and positions of the microphones arranged on the capture device.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the one or more impulse responses is a near-field impulse response.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the one or more impulse responses is a far-field impulse response.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metadata includes a time-varying orientation of the capture device claim 1 , the time-varying orientation being synchronized in time with the microphone signals.10. The method of claim 1 , further comprisinggenerating ...

Lifting device e.g. elevator, for building, has drive unit for vertical lifting of load attachment and/or counterweight of load attachment, and sensor device for detecting disturbance, where sensor device is separated from chain

The device has a drive unit for partial vertical lifting of a load attachment and/or a counterweight of the load attachment, where the drive unit has a drive component for driving a chain (1) arranged between the drive unit as well as the load attachment and/or the counterweight. A sensor device is provided for detection of disturbance e.g. failure of the chain, where the sensor device is separated from the chain. The sensor device has an adjusting path that is formed as an angle adjusting path adjustable around a rotation angle.

Method and device for flavoring smokeless tobacco

An encapsulated flavorant or artificial sweetener for use with smokeless tobacco and related products. The encapsulated flavorant or artificial sweetener comprises a core encapsulated with a lipid-based coating that provides stability when in contact with tobacco, yet releases flavor over time when the product is used. The core comprises a carrier, such as silica, tobacco, beet fiber, citrus fiber, artificial sweetener, or the like, coated or loaded with a flavorant. Flavor loading may be in the range of approximately 10% to 60%, by weight. Flavorants include, but are not limited to, methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen), cinnamon (e.g., cinnamon oil), peppermint (e.g., peppermint oil), and spearmint (oil of spearmint).

Chiral compound used as polymerizable, high-twisting-power dopant for the production of cholesteric networks

The compound is based on chiral tetrahydrofuran or hexahydrofuro(3,2-b)furan substituted by at least two mesogenic groups. A compound of formula (Z-Y-(A)m-Y-M-Y)n-X (I) is new. A = spacer; M = mesogenic group containing two phenylene radicals which are optionally substituted by 1-4C alkyl, methoxy, ethoxy, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, 1-20C alkoxycarbonyl, 1-20C alkylcarbonyl and are linked via O, CO, OCO, OCOO or COO; Y = a direct bond, O, S, COO, OCO, OCOO, CON(R) or N(R)CO; Z = a polymerizable group; m = 0 or 1; n = 2-6; X = a chiral radical from those of formulae (a)-(e); and R = 1-4C alkyl or H. Independent claims are also included for: (A) a liquid crystalline mixture comprising at least one compound as above; and (B) a solid composition comprising a compound as above in copolymerized form.

Electronics housing

An electronics housing for placement on a support rail includes a base part and an upper part. The base part and the upper part can be detachably connected to one another, and the base part can be snapped to the support rail. Two housing side walls having fasteners are disposed opposite to each other and are disposed parallel to each other. The housing side walls are also disposed perpendicular to the support rail. A circuit board is disposed parallel to the support rail using the fasteners. At least two connection terminals or plug-in connectors are provided for connecting the electrical conductors. The connection terminals are electrically connectable to the circuit board.

Atomising nozzle and filter and spray generating device

The present invention provides a simple form of nozzle assembly for use in generating sprays from a fluid, which comprises a first member (11) having one or more nozzle outlets (14), one or more fluid inlets (16) and one or more channels (15) connecting them formed by electrical or chemical etching or other processes which selectively remove material from one face of the said member (11); and a second member (12) cooperating with the said first member to provide a wall of said outlets, inlets or channels to form the fluid flow paths for the nozzle assembly.

Polymers of isoprene from renewable resources

It has been found that certain cells in culture can convert carbon available in the cell culture medium into isoprene These cells have a heterologous nucleic acid which is operably linked to a promoter and encodes an isoprene synthase polypeptide The isoprene produced in such a cultured medium can then be recovered and polymenzed into synthetic rubbers and other useful polymeπc matenals The synthetic isoprene containing polymers of this invention offer the benefit of being verifiable as to being denved from non- petrochemical based resources They can also be analytically distinguished from rubbers that come from natural sources The present invention more specifically discloses a polyisoprene polymer which is comprised of repeat units that are denved from isoprene monomer, wherein the polyisoprene polymer has delta 13C value of greater than -22%o This type of polyisoprene can be a αs-1 A- polyisoprene homopolymer rubber.

Compositions and methods for producing isoprene

The invention features methods for producing isoprene from cultured cells. The invention also provides compositions that include these cultured cells.

Ventiltrieb mit Ventilhubumschaltung für die Gaswechselventiele eines 4-Takt-Verbrennungsmotors

Die Erfindung betrifft einen Ventiltrieb mit Ventilhubumschaltung für die Gaswechselventile (5) eines 4-Takt-Verbrennungsmotors mit folgenden Merkmalen: DOLLAR A - eine Zahnwelle (1, 1') mit axialer Außenverzahnung (7, 7') und zumindest einem Nockenstück (2, 2') pro Zylinder (22, 22'), das eine dazu passende Innenverzahnung aufweist und das verdrehfest und axial verschiebbar mit der Zahnwelle (1, 1') verbunden ist; DOLLAR A - das Nockenstück (2, 2') weist pro Gaswechselventil (5) zumindest zwei nebeneinander liegende Nocken (8, 9, 8', 9') mit unterschiedlichem Hub und gleichem Grundkreisdurchmesser sowie mit zwei am Umfang des Nockenstücks (2, 2') angeordneten, vorzugsweise spiegelsymmetrisch ausgebildeten Verschiebenuten (12, 13, 12', 13') auf, deren vier Endstücke (14, 15) am Umfang des Nockenstücks (2, 2') auslaufen; DOLLAR A - gehäusefeste, radial zu dem Nockenstück (2, 2') hin bewegbare Aktuatorstifte (3, 3'), durch deren Zusammenwirken mit den Verschiebenuten (12, 13, 12', 13') das Nockenstück (2, 2') axial verschiebbar ist. DOLLAR A Der Platzbedarf der Verschiebenuten (12, 13, 12', 13') und ihrer Aktuatorstifte (3, 3') wird dadurch verringert, daß die Verschiebenuten (12, 13, 12', 13') aufgrund ihres geringen axialen Abstands sich kreuzen und einen einzigen Aktuatorstift (3, 3') für beide Verschieberichtungen aufweisen.

Verfahren und Steuergerät zur Steuerung eines Automatisierungssystems

Um die Handhabung und Benutzung von Automatisierungssystemen, insbesondere von speicherprogrammierbaren Steuerungen (SPS), zu verbessern und zu vereinfachen, sieht die Erfindung ein Verfahren zum Zugreifen auf ein in einem Steuergerät (400) zur Steuerung eines Automatisierungssystems ausführbares Steuermodul (410) vor, wobei das Steuermodul (410) dazu ausgebildet ist, eine Funktion (600) auf dem Steuergerät (400) auszuführen, wobei das Verfahren vorsieht, dass in dem Steuergerät (400) das Steuermodul (410) sowie ein erstes (420) und ein zweites (310) Schnittstellenmodul bereitgestellt, das Steuergerät (400) mit einem Bediengerät (300) über ein Netzwerk (500) verbunden, das zweite Schnittstellenmodul (310) von dem Steuergerät (400) zu dem Bediengerät (300) übertragen, das zweite Schnittstellenmodul (310) durch das Bediengerät (300) ausgeführt und Daten zwischen dem ersten (420) und dem zweiten (310) Schnittstellenmodul übertragen werden. Ferner sieht die Erfindung ein zur Ausführung des Verfahrens ausgebildetes Steuergerät vor.

Fabrication of multilayer-coated particles and hollow shells via electrostatic self-assembly of nanocomposite multilayers on decomposable colloidal templates

A method of making a defined recess in a damascene structure using a CMP process and a damascene structure

Die vorliegende Erfindung stellt eine Technik bereit, die das Bilden einer tieferliegenden oberen Oberfläche einer Verbindungsleitung ermöglicht, um eine eingelegte Barrierendeckschicht auf einer Verbindungsleitung zu bilden, sodass die Leitung verbesserte Eigenschaften in Bezug auf Elektromigration, elektrische Leitfähigkeit, Bauteilzuverlässigkeit und Bauteilleistungsfähigkeit aufweist. Die tieferliegende obere Oberfläche der Verbindungsleitung wird mittels eines entsprechend angepassten CMP-Prozesses geformt, der das Entfernen des Metalls eines oberen Bereiches der Verbindungsleitung ermöglicht, während benachbarte erhabene Barrierenschichtgebiete im Wesentlichen nicht beeinträchtigt werden. The The present invention provides a technique that makes the formation a deeper upper surface of a connecting line allows to an inserted barrier cover layer on a connecting line to form, so that the line improved properties in terms on electromigration, electrical conductivity, component reliability and component performance having. The deeper upper surface of the connecting pipe is formed by means of a suitably adapted CMP process, the removal of the metal of an upper portion of the connecting line allows while adjacent raised barrier layer areas substantially not impaired become.

A method of electroplating copper over a patterned dielectric layer to improve process uniformity of a subsequent CMP process

Verfahren zum Abscheiden eines Metalls über einem Substrat mit einer dielektrischen Schicht, die ein darin gebildetes strukturiertes Gebiet und ein im Wesentlichen nicht strukturiertes Gebiet aufweist, wobei das Verfahren umfasst: Einwirken eines Elektrolytbads auf das Substrat, um Metall von unten nach oben in dem strukturierten Gebiet in nicht konformer Weise abzuscheiden; Bilden einer Überschussmetallschicht über dem strukturierten Gebiet und dem im Wesentlichen nicht strukturierten Gebiet; Steuern mindestens eines Prozessparameters während der Bildung der Überschussmetallschicht, um eine Oberflächenrauhigkeit der Überschussmetallschicht zu erhöhen; und Entfernen der Überschussmetallschicht durch chemisch-mechanisches Polieren, wobei die erhöhte Oberflächenrauhigkeit das Entfernen der Überschussmetallschicht fördert. A method of depositing a metal over a substrate having a dielectric layer having a patterned area formed therein and a substantially unstructured area, the method comprising: Exposing the substrate to an electrolyte bath to non-conformably deposit metal from bottom to top in the patterned area; Forming an excess metal layer over the patterned area and the substantially unstructured area; Controlling at least one process parameter during formation of the excess metal layer to increase a surface roughness of the excess metal layer; and Removing the excess metal layer by chemical mechanical polishing, wherein the increased surface roughness promotes removal of the excess metal layer.

Method for forming copper interconnects

A method for forming a semiconductor having improved copper interconnects is provided. The method comprises forming a first dielectric layer above a first structure layer. Thereafter, a first opening is formed in the first dielectric layer, and a first copper layer is formed above the first dielectric layer and in the first opening. A portion of the first copper layer outside of the opening is removed. A surface portion of the first copper layer is also removed from within the opening, and a second layer of copper is formed above the first layer of copper, replacing the removed surface portion.

Method for forming a defined recess in a damascene structure using a CMP process and a damascene structure

The present invention provides a technique that enables the formation of a recessed upper surface of an interconnect line to form an inlaid barrier cap layer on top of an inter-connect line to exhibit improved characteristics with respect to electromigration, electrical conductivity, device reliability and performance. The recessed upper surface of the inter-connect line is formed by an accordingly adapted CMP process that allows removing the metal of an upper portion of the interconnect line, while neighboring elevated barrier layer regions are substantially not affected.

Method for producing a Belite cement with high reactivity and low calcium/silicate ratio

Producing a binding agent, comprises (a) providing a starting material made of calcium and silicon, with molar calcium/silicon ratio of 1.5-2.5, and disregarding the components, which are inert during the hydrothermal treatment in autoclaves, (b) mixing the raw materials, (c) hydrothermally treating the starting material mixture produced in the step (b) in the autoclave at a temperature of 100-300[deg] C and residence time of 0.1-24 hours, and (d) annealing the intermediate product obtained in step (c) at 350-495[deg] C. The molar ratio of calcium and silicon is 1.5-2.5. Producing a binding agent, comprises (a) providing a starting material made of calcium and silicon, with molar calcium/silicon ratio of 1.5-2.5, and disregarding the components, which are inert during the hydrothermal treatment in autoclaves, (b) mixing the raw materials, (c) hydrothermally treating the starting material mixture produced in the step (b) in the autoclave at a temperature of 100-300[deg] C and residence time of 0.1-24 hours, and (d) annealing the intermediate product obtained in step (c) at 350-495[deg] C. The molar ratio of calcium and silicon is 1.5-2.5. The water/solids ratio is 0.1-100. The heating rate is 10-6000[deg] C/minute and the residence time is 0.01-600 minute. 0.1-30 wt.% Additional elements and/or oxides are added during the step (b) and/or in the following steps. An independent claim is also included for the binding agent, produced by the above mentioned method.

Method of making a drill

Verfahren zum Herstellen eines Bohrers mit folgenden Verfahrensschritten:1.1 es wird ein Drahtstück (1) mit einer der Länge des herzustellenden Bohrers entsprechenden Länge vorbereitet,1.2 in das Drahtstück (1) werden zwischen einer Stelle mit Abstand von dem einen Ende des Drahtstücks (1) und dem anderen Ende des Drahtstücks (1) Spannuten (5) längs einer Schraubenlinie eingewalzt,1.3 an letzteres Ende des Drahtstücks (1) wird eine Bohrspitze (12) angeformt,1.4 der beim Anformen der Bohrspitze (12) gebildete Butzen (9) wird abgeschert,1.5 das Drahtstück (1) wird gehärtet. Method for producing a drill with the following method steps: 1.1 a piece of wire (1) is prepared with a length corresponding to the length of the drill to be produced, 1.2 the piece of wire (1) is inserted between a point at a distance from one end of the piece of wire (1) and chip grooves (5) are rolled into the other end of the piece of wire (1) along a helix,1.3 a drill point (12) is formed onto the latter end of the piece of wire (1),1.4 the slug (9) formed when the drill point (12) is formed becomes sheared off, 1.5 the piece of wire (1) is hardened.

micro-blower

Die Erfindung betrifft eine miniaturisierte Pumpe für kompressible Fluide. Insbesondere betrifft die Erfindung ein Mikrogebläse für Gase oder Gasgemische wie insbesondere Luft. Die erfindungsgemäße Mikropumpe umfasst eine Schwungeinheit (10) mit einem Piezoaktuator (11), welcher an einer Schwingmembran (12) angeordnet ist, sowie eine der Schwingmembran (12) gegenüber liegend angeordnete Schwingplatte (15) mit einer Gebläseöffnung (16), sowie eine zwischen Schwingmembran (12) und Schwingplatte (15) angeordnete, umlaufende Wandung, so dass eine Gebläsekammer (13) gebildet ist, sowie ein Gehäuse (20), im welchem die Schwungeinheit (10) schwingend gelagert ist, und welches eine Ansaugöffnung (24) aufweist, sowie eine Ausgangsöffnung (25), die der Gebläseöffnung (16) gegenüberliegt. Das Gehäuse (20) bildet einen geschlossen, auch den Piezoaktuator (11) abdeckenden und ihn so vor Umgebungseinflüssen schützenden Raum (H), und weist mindestens eine radial, oder an einer der Schwungeinheit (10) gegenüberliegenden Unterseite angeordnete Ansaugöffnung (24) mit einem Ansaugkanal auf, der in eine zwischen Schwingplatte (15) und Gehäuseinnenseite liegende Pumpkammer (26) führt. Die Erfindung umfasst auch die Verwendung der erfindungsgemäßen Mikropumpe. The invention relates to a miniaturized pump for compressible fluids. In particular, the invention relates to a microblower for gases or gas mixtures, in particular air. The micropump according to the invention comprises a flywheel unit (10) with a piezoactuator (11), which is arranged on a vibration membrane (12), as well as a vibration plate (15) arranged opposite the vibration diaphragm (12) with a blower opening (16) and between Vibrating diaphragm (12) and vibrating plate (15) arranged, circumferential wall, so that a blower chamber (13) is formed, and a housing (20) in which the flywheel unit (10) is swingably mounted, and which has a suction port (24) , and an outlet opening (25) opposite to the fan opening (16). The housing ...

Optical switch and modular switch system consisting of optical switching elements

The invention concerns an optical component consisting of channels (541, 542) wherein are arranged liquids having an appropriate refractive index. By displacing the liquids inside the channels using suitable actuators, light is selectively guided through the liquid. By selecting an appropriate refractive index, the light beams are deviated according to a particular angle. By means of such a miniaturised component, the light beams can be directed at high frequency. In a base light conducting body (5), suitable void spaces (54) are connected to channels, and in the channels is placed a liquid whereof the refractive index corresponds substantially to that of the base body. The liquid is displaced in the channels by means of piezoelectric actuators arranged in the void spaces. Thus, the light passing through the base body is selectively deviated in two different directions and an optical switch is obtained.

Optical switch and modular switching system comprising of optical switching elements

An optical component comprises channels in which liquids of suitable refractive index are arranged. By displacing the liquids within the channels by means of suitable actuators, the light is optionally led through the liquid. By selecting a suitable refractive index, light beams may be deflected at any desired angles. In a miniaturized embodiment, light beams can be controlled at high frequencies. In a light-conducting basic body, suitable cavities are connected to channels, and arranged in the channels is a liquid with a refractive index which essentially corresponds to the refractive index of the basic body. By means of piezoelectric actuators, which are arranged on the cavities, the liquid is displaced into the channels. As a result, light which leads through the basic body is deflected in optionally two different directions, and an optical switch is provided.

Mobile telephone

A hand held mobile telephone is disclosed comprising a front face having a longitudinal extension greater than a lateral extension and having a plurality of openings therein, and a multiplicity of keys each having an upper surface bounded by side walls. Each key protrudes from one of the plurality of openings to provide its upper surface for tactile actuation by a user and a plurality of said multiplicity of keys are arranged along a common first axis, in the longitudinal direction. Further, at least one of said plurality of keys has a vertex, in the boundary of its upper surface, aligned on said first axis.

METHOD FOR HYDROFORMILATION OF UNSATURATED COMPOUNDS

La presente se refiere a un método para la hidroformilación de compuestos insaturados tales como olefinas y alquinos con mezclas de gas de síntesis (CO/H2), en donde o bien los compuestos insaturados y un catalizador son calentados a una temperatura de reacción de 60 a 200ºC y luego se agrega el gas de síntesis, o los compuestos insaturados y el catalizador se ponen en contacto en un paso de preformado con CO puro a temperatura normal, luego se calientan a temperatura de reacción y al alcanzar la temperatura de reacción el CO es reemplazado por el gas de síntesis. La presión es de 1 a 200 bar, la relación CO:H2 en el gas de síntesis se encuentra en el rango de de 1:1 a 50:1. El catalizador de iridio utilizado comprende un ligando que contiene fósforo con la relación iridio:ligando en el rango de 1:1, a 1:100. Con altas actividades de catalizador y reducida cantidad de catalizador se obtienen frecuencias de conversión muy altas. This refers to a method for the hydroformylation of unsaturated compounds such as olefins and alkynes with mixtures of synthesis gas (CO / H2), wherein either the unsaturated compounds and a catalyst are heated at a reaction temperature of 60 to 200 ° C and then the synthesis gas is added, or the unsaturated compounds and the catalyst are contacted in a preformed step with pure CO at normal temperature, then heated to reaction temperature and upon reaching the reaction temperature the CO is replaced by synthesis gas. The pressure is 1 to 200 bar, the CO: H2 ratio in the synthesis gas is in the range of 1: 1 to 50: 1. The iridium catalyst used comprises a phosphorus-containing ligand with the ratio iridium: ligand in the range of 1: 1, to 1: 100. With high catalyst activities and reduced amount of catalyst very high conversion frequencies are obtained.

Laser-weldable thermoplastic molding compounds

The invention relates to darkened thermoplastic molding materials and to shaped parts produced therefrom which, in the wavelength range of 700 to 1200 nm, are laser-transmitting at least in the spectral partial ranges, and which can be welded to laser-absorbing shaped parts by means of laser beam welding.

Laser absorbing soot molding compounds

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft naturfarbene und eingefärbte thermoplastische Formmassen und daraus gefertigte Formteile, die im Wellenlängenbereich von 700 bis 1200 nm zumindest in spektralen Teilbereichen laserabsorbierend sind und durch Laserdurchstrahlschweißen mit Formteilen, die für Laserlicht transparent bzw. transluzent sind, verschweißt werden können. The present invention relates to natural-colored and colored thermoplastic molding compositions and moldings produced therefrom which are laser-absorbent in the wavelength range from 700 to 1200 nm at least in spectral sub-regions and can be welded by laser transmission welding to moldings which are transparent or translucent to laser light.

Purification of isoprene from renewable resources

Methods and apparatus for the purification of isoprene, such as the purification of a bioisoprene composition from fermentor off-gas. The apparatus includes two columns that process the fermentor off-gas, which includes isoprene and various impurities. A solvent is added to the off-gas in the first column, and the isoprene is stripped from the solvent in the second column. Also provided is a downstream further purification process. Also provided are the resulting purified isoprene compositions.

Cationic polyglyceryl compositions and compounds

Provided are polyglyceryl compositions comprising one or more polyglyceryl compounds having: (a) a node structure comprising at least three contiguous glyceryl remnant units; (b) one or more cationic groups each linked to the node structure by an independently selected linking group; and (c) one or more hydrophobic moieties each independently (i) linked to the node structure by a linking group, or (ii) constituting a portion of one of the one or more cationic groups, wherein the composition has an average degree of polymerization determined by hydroxyl value testing (DP OH ) of from about 3 to about 20. Also provided are polyglyceryl compounds which may compose such compositions, and uses of the polyglyceryl compositions and compounds.

Methods and compositions for inhibiting enveloped viruses using low molecular weight hydrophobically modified polymers

This invention relates to methods and compositions for inhibiting the transmission of enveloped viruses, which entails applying a composition containing a low molecular weight hydrophobically-modified polymer to an infectable or ingestible surface that may contain viruses and wherein said composition is substantially free of surfactant having an HLB greater than about 12.

Methods of inhibiting enveloped viruses using low molecular weight hydrophobically modified polymers

This invention relates to methods and compositions for inhibiting the transmission of enveloped viruses, which entails applying a composition containing a low molecular weight hydrophobically-modified polymer to an infectable or ingestible surface that may contain viruses, wherein said compositions further comprise less than about 9% by weight of surfactant having an HLB of greater than 12.

Method of functionalizing polycyclic silicones and the resulting compounds

A synthetic process for the selective preparation of reactive polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) as well as polyhedral oligomeric silicate (POS) (spherosilicate) is provided. The method claimed herein employs metal catalyzed metathesis reactions for the selective reaction of α-olefin containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes or silicates with olefinic reagents bearing functionalities useful for grafting reactions, polymerization chemistry and sol-gel processes. The use of metal catalyzed metathesis chemistry to form both linear or network polyhedral silsesquioxane polymers directly from α-olefin-containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes is also described.

Compositions and methods for producing isoprene

The invention features methods for producing isoprene from cultured cells. The invention also provides compositions that include these cultured cells.

Cementing apparatus for reverse cementing

Provided, in one aspect, is a cementing apparatus. The cementing apparatus, in one embodiment comprising a housing; a fixed member coupled with the housing, the fixed member having at least one fixed member fluid opening therein; and a moving member positioned downhole of the fixed member and movable between a circulating position and a cemented position, the moving member having at least one moving member fluid opening therein, the at least one moving member fluid opening linearly offset from the at least one fixed member fluid opening.

Purification of isoprene from renewable resources

Methods and apparatus for the purification of isoprene, such as the purification of a bioisoprene composition from fermentor off-gas. The apparatus includes two columns that process the fermentor off-gas, which includes isoprene and various impurities. A solvent is added to the off-gas in the first column, and the isoprene is stripped from the solvent in the second column. Also provided is a downstream further purification process. Also provided are the resulting purified isoprene compositions.

Purification of Isoprene From Renewable Resources

Methods and apparatus for the purification of isoprene, such as the purification of a bioisoprene composition from fermentor off-gas. The apparatus includes two columns that process the fermentor off-gas, which includes isoprene and various impurities. A solvent is added to the off-gas in the first column, and the isoprene is stripped from the solvent in the second column. Also provided is a downstream further purification process. Also provided are the resulting purified isoprene compositions.

Purification of isoprene from renewable resources

Methods and apparatus for the purification of isoprene, such as the purification of a bioisoprene composition from fermentor off-gas. The apparatus includes two columns that process the fermentor off-gas, which includes isoprene and various impurities. A solvent is added to the off-gas in the first column, and the isoprene is stripped from the solvent in the second column. Also provided is a downstream further purification process. Also provided are the resulting purified isoprene compositions.

Purification of isoprene from renewable resources

Methods and apparatus for the purification of isoprene, such as the purification of a bioisoprene composition from fermentor off-gas. The apparatus includes two columns that process the fermentor off-gas, which includes isoprene and various impurities. A solvent is added to the off-gas in the first column, and the isoprene is stripped from the solvent in the second column. Also provided is a downstream further purification process. Also provided are the resulting purified isoprene compositions.

Electrosurgical system

An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical instrument and a user alert means ( 78 ). The electrosurgical instrument includes an elongate body ( 1 ) having a proximal end ( 2 ) and a distal end ( 3 ), and a pair of jaws ( 12 ) carried by the elongate body and disposed at the distal end. An actuator mechanism ( 5 ) at the proximal end of the elongate body ( 1 ) is movable by the user of the instrument to open and close the jaws ( 12 ). The instrument includes first and second electrodes ( 13 ), ( 14 ) carried by the jaws ( 12 ), and at least one strain gauge ( 75 ) adapted to provide a signal representative of the closure force applied by the jaws ( 12 ). The strain gauge ( 75 ) sends signals to the user alert means ( 78 ), the user alert means supplying the user of the instrument with an indication ( 82 ) of the closure force being applied by the instrument.

Plaster containing estradiol

A plaster containing active agent for the controlled release of estradiol or its pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives alone or combined with gestagens. This plaster is composed of a backing layer, a reservoir containing active agent secured thereto, which is produced using adhesives, and a removable protective layer. It is characterized in that the adhesive contains ethyl cellulose, esters of anhydrous and/or hydrated colophony and lauric acid.

Transdermal therapeutic system in plaster form with reduced tendency for drug crystallization and its use

Transdermales therapeutisches System in Pflasterform zur kontrollierten Abgabe von Wirkstoffen an die menschliche oder tierische Haut, wobei das System eine Rückschicht, ein damit verbundenes wirkstoffhaltiges Reservoir und eine wiederablösbare Schutzschicht aufweist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das wirkstoffhaltige Reservoir als Hauptbestandteile mindestens einen Filmbildner sowie mindestens ein Ethylen-Vinylacetat-Vinylpyrrolidon-Copolymer als ein die Kristallisation des/der Wirkstoffe(s) verhinderndes oder unterdrückendes Polymer enthält. Transdermal patch-based therapeutic system for the controlled delivery of active substances to human or animal skin, the system comprising a backing layer, an associated drug-containing reservoir and a removable protective layer, characterized in that the active substance-containing reservoir contains as main constituents at least one film former and at least one ethylene Vinyl acetate-vinylpyrrolidone copolymer as a crystallization of the active ingredient (s) preventing or suppressing polymer.

Methods and compositions for whole genome amplification and genotyping

This invention provides methods of amplifying genomic DNA to obtain an amplified representative population of genome fragments. Methods are further provided for obtaining amplified genomic DNA representations of a desired complexity. The invention further provides methods for simultaneously detecting large numbers of typable loci for an amplified representative population of genome fragments. Accordingly the methods can be used to genotype individuals on a genome-wide scale.

Methods and compositions for whole genome amplification and genotyping

Methods and compositions for whole genome amplification and genotyping

This invention provides methods of amplifying genomic DNA to obtain an amplified representative population of genome fragments. Methods are further provided for obtaining amplified genomic DNA representations of a desired complexity. The invention further provides methods for simultaneously detecting large numbers of typable loci for an amplified representative population of genome fragments. Accordingly the methods can be used to genotype individuals on a genome-wide scale.

Vehicle yaw rate control method

The method involves detecting the input parameters, comparing an actual direction of motion (BR) derived from the steering angle (LW) with a desired direction of motion, increasing the yaw damping of the coupling between front and rear axles if the two values differ by a defined reference value (RW) or increasing the locking torque of the transverse lock if there is a regulated main axle transverse lock or simultaneously initiating both measures.

Templating of solid particles by polymer multilayers

The invention is directed to (i) the encapsulation of uncharged organic substances in polymeric capsules by using a multi-step strategy that involves charging the surface of the microcrystals with an amphiphilic substance, followed by consecutively depositing polyelectrolytes of opposite charge to assemble a multilayered shell of polymeric material around the microcrystal template, and (ii) the formation of polymer multilayer cages derived from the coated crystals by facile removal of the crystalline template.

Electroluminescent arrangement

An electroluminescent arrangement comprising one or more organic layers, at least one of which is obtained by thermal or radiation induced cross-linking and each of which has at least one charge-transporting compound which may bear cross-linkable groups, in which one of the layer consists completely or partially of a cross-linkable fluorescing compound emitting fluorescent light in the wavelength range from 400 to 800 nm.

Movable mixing apparatus

Lithographic projection apparatus and reflector assembly for use in said apparatus

The invention relates to a lithographic projection apparatus. In this lithographic projection apparatus a grazing incidence collector (50) is present. The grazing incidence collector is made up of several reflectors (42,43,46). In order to reduce the amount of heat on the collector, the reflectors are coated. The reflector at the exterior of the collector has an infrared radiating layer (62) on the outside. The inner reflectors are coated with an EUV reflective layer (54) on the outside.

Lithographic projection apparatus and reflector assembly for use in said apparatus

The invention relates to a lithographic projection apparatus. In this lithographic projection apparatus a grazing incidence collector is present. The grazing incidence collector is made up of several reflectors. In order to reduce the amount of heat on the collector, the reflectors are coated. The reflector at the exterior of the collector has an infrared radiating layer on the outside. The inner reflectors are coated with an EUV reflective layer on the outside.

Lithographic projection apparatus and reflector asembly for use in said apparatus

Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method

A lithographic apparatus has a source (SO), an illumination system with a mirror, a support structure for patterning means, a substrate table and a projection system. The source (SO) is arranged to provide radiation of a desired wavelength, e.g., EUV. It generates a stream of undesired metal particles that are deposited to form smaller and larger nuclei on the mirror. The lithographic apparatus further has a heat source (38) to heat the mirror. Consequently, the surface mobility of the metal particles on the mirror is increased.

Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method

A lithographic apparatus includes a radiation source configured to emit radiation to form a radiation beam, the radiation being of a type which can create plasma in a low pressure environment in the apparatus, and an optical component configured to condition the radiation beam, impart the conditioned radiation beam with a pattern in its cross-section to form a patterned radiation beam, project the patterned radiation beam onto a target portion of a substrate, and/or to detect radiation. The optical component is provided with a plasma quenching structure, the plasma quenching structure being configured to provide electron-ion recombination in, on and/or near the optical component.

Lithographic projection apparatus comprising a secondary electron removal unit

Lithographic projection apparatus and reflector assembly for use in said apparatus

Methods and compositions for whole genome amplification and genotyping

This invention provides methods of amplifying genomic DNA to obtain an amplified representative population of genome fragments. Methods are further provided for obtaining amplified genomic DNA representations of a desired complexity. The invention further provides methods for simultaneously detecting large numbers of typable loci for an amplified representative population of genome fragments. Accordingly the methods can be used to genotype individuals on a genome-wide scale.