Abstract: Data reduction for testing results obtained from the diagnostic testing of signal integrity at node points along a PC board using a Rank-of-Ranks data analysis methodology. The Rank-of-Ranks methodology including a reduction of node points along the PC board by the application of a node point reduction algorithm. Calculating a ratio of the Standard Deviation by the Mean for each node point and for each testing parameter to arrive at a Coefficient of Variation. Each node point is sorted and ranked based on the Coefficient of Variation for each tested parameter at a time. At each node point, Rank values of all the parameters are summed and then sorted on the basis of the Rank values. The node points are Re-ranked based on the sorted Rank values. The Re-ranked node points are entered into an ordered list or matrix where critical node points are chosen from the top of the Re-ranked node points for study, re-design and/or further testing of the PC board.

Abstract: A distance learning implementation is effected as a client/server solution with a centralized server facility and a remote client facility. The centralized server facility includes a first network with at least one host processor system and associated operating software. Each of the at least one host processor system(s) is configured in the network with at least one specialized apparatus, such as an Integrated Cache Disk Array, which represents an operating environment for purposes of training remote trainees. A gateway, in the form of a router, provides access to the centralized server facility network, and the at least one host processor system is selectably accessible through a switch in the server facility network. A remote training facility network is configured as a client with a minimal amount of hardware to access the centralized server facility network over a standard digital communications network, such as an integrated services digital network (ISDN) line.

Abstract: An interface architecture includes a plurality of pipelines each controlled by a respective line processor. An onboard ESCON protocol conversion device distinguishes customer data to be stored on a disk or read from disk versus header information. Transmit and receive frame dual port rams store transmitted frame and received frame information, stripping frame/header information from user data. Data to be stored in Global Memory is stored temporarily in FIFOs. An assembler/disassembler in each pipeline receives data from FIFOs (on a write), and transfers data to FIFOs (on a read). A buffer dual port ram (DPR) is configured to receive data for buffering read operations from and write operations to the GM. Data transfers between the assembler/disassembler and the buffer DPR pass through Error Detection And Correction circuitry (EDAC). A plurality of state machines arranged as an Upper Machine, Middle Machine and Lower Machine facilitate movement of user data between DPR and Global Memory (GM).

Abstract: Method and devices for performing chromatographic pattern analysis determine chromatographic variability due to a plurality of sources without requiring identification or characterization of peaks or other chromatographic features, receives data indicative of a standard chromatogram and a first sample chromatogram generated from a first mixture by a High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) device and data indicative of a plurality of additional sample chromatograms generated by the HPLC device from a plurality of different mixtures. The method and devices generate from the standard chromatogram, a plurality of sets of chromatographic variability data, each set being indicative of a different effect of the chromatographic variability of the HPLC. The standard chromatogram is modified as a function of the variability data, and a residual value, indicative of a difference between the modified standard chromatograms and the first sample chromatogram is generated.

Abstract: A protectively reflected binary image is provided comprising a thermally imaged transparency on which is superposed a thin reflective protective overcoat, the imaged transparency comprising a binary image supported on a transparent substrate. The reflective protective overcoat is interfacially bonded to the thermally imaged transparency preferably such that the binary image is interposed between the transparent substrate and the reflective protective overcoat. A method for transferring a reflective protective overcoat onto an imaged transparency is also provided, whereby an image surface of the imaged transparency is protected and made viewable as a reflected image, the method utilizing a laminar transfer sheet comprising a carrier web and a reflective protective overcoat, the laminar transfer sheet being laminated onto the image surface with the carrier web subsequently removed to thereby release the reflective protective overcoat, the overcoat remaining bonded to the image surface.

Abstract: Local color correction to color values which result from processing of images within a Color Management System (CMS) is implemented by adjusting existing fields and tags within a color profile. A source image is rendered on a source digital imaging device, and the same or a different image is manipulated by the CMS then rendered on a destination digital imaging device. The CMS uses predetermined color profiles associated with the source and destination devices. The technique is useful when the manipulated image rendered on the destination device has a number of color regions which the user determines are unacceptably different in appearance from the source rendered image. Depending upon the embodiment being practiced, either spectrophotometric or colorimetric measurements or onscreen identifications are made of the respective error regions within the two rendered images and the user is enabled to indicate preferred color matching results.

Abstract: A system and method for increasing efficiency in a mass storage system such as a RAID (redundant array of inexpensive disks) array with a cache memory. Multi-host mass storage systems employ a data structure called a write tree. The write tree is stored in cache memory, and is used to mark addressable data elements stored in the cache memory which must be written back to disk (referred to as “destaging”, or “write-backs”). Disks and disk controllers must scan and traverse the write tree to search for pending write operations. By storing a write tree cache apart from the write tree, the system efficiency is greatly increased. The write tree cache consists of a cylinder address as found in the write tree, and a bit mask indicating pending write operations at a specific level of the write tree. The specific disks and disk controllers can then avoid accessing the write tree in cache memory when searching for pending write operations.

Abstract: A three-dimensional (3-D) machine-vision safety-solution involving a method and apparatus for performing high-integrity, high efficiency machine vision. The machine vision safety solution converts two-dimensional video pixel data into 3-D point data that is used for characterization of specific 3-D objects, their orientation, and other object characteristics for any object, to provide a video safety “curtain.” A (3-D) machine-vision safety-solution apparatus includes an image acquisition device arranged to view a target scene stereoscopically and pass the resulting multiple video output signals to a computer for further processing. The multiple video output signals are connected to the input of a video processor adapted to accept the video signals. Video images from each camera are then synchronously sampled, captured, and stored in a memory associated with a general purpose processor.

Abstract: A plurality of state machines arranged into three functional units, an Upper Machine, Middle Machine and a Lower Machine facilitate movement of user data between a buffer memory and a Global Memory (GM) in a data transfer interface. The Middle Machine controls all data movement to and from the GM. Although not directly in the data path, it is responsible for coordinating control between elements that comprise data transfer channels. The Middle Machine is interconnected to and provides control and coordination between the Upper and Lower sides of the buffer memory. The Lower Machine connects to a data assembly mechanism of each pipe. The Upper Machine connects to the backplane, which in turn connects to Global Memory. The actual data transfers between the buffer memory and GM are controlled by the Upper Machine, and transfers between the buffer memory and the data assembly mechanism are controlled by the Lower Machine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus implementing dynamic thresholding techniques in processes that use image subtraction. The subtracted image is separated into a positive difference image using a positive image map and a negative difference image using a negative image map. A positive threshold map and a negative threshold map process a Gaussian filtered first image to generate respective positive and negative dynamic threshold images. The positive and negative threshold map mask out irrelevant areas and implement adaptive gain in pixel thresholds proportional to a difference or contrast between foreground or feature of interest and local background. Dynamic thresholding is a subtraction providing a subtracted positive image and a subtracted negative image. The subtracted positive and subtracted negative images are combined to provide a merged image which is binarized. Edge or Interface detection involves edge detection and true peak detection to find the edge peaks in a pre-image and post image.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of routing traffic through a network with a plurality of nodes which comprises classifying network traffic into a plurality of classes, including interior, interior-to-exterior, exterior-to-interior, and transitory. At each node of the network, a packet, designated as belonging to a traffic class and including a source node address and a destination node address, is received. The packet is indexed into the node's packet switch matrix using the traffic class designation, source node address, and destination node address to obtain a node link number for forwarding the packet. Then, the packet is forwarded upon a link indicated by the node link number.

Abstract: A vibration dampening mechanism which considerably reduces the probability of disk drive failure and ensures vibration damped engagement between a drive carrier and a rack structure. The vibration dampening mechanism includes a torsion spring connected to two movable ramps located on either side of the carrier. The dampener is designed so that the ramps are moved along the sides of the drive carrier as a function of the tolerance between the drive carrier and the rack structure. If the tolerance between the drive carrier and the rack is slight (i.e., the carrier fits tightly in the rack), the ramp is actuated in a first direction to a great extent as it is displaced by the rack's structure. On the other hand, if the tolerance between the drive carrier and the rack is higher (i.e., the carrier fits loosely in the rack), the ramp is actuated in the first direction to a lesser extent so that the ramp effectively decreases the tolerance between the carrier and the rack.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing 3D captured image data of scanned surfaces to locate object of interest, such as solder balls. A 3D model is created of an object of interest, the 3D model including weighted “don't care” areas where a match is not required. The 3D models which are used include geometric shapes, including a frustum, and models created from actual 3D image data of real objects. The 3D captured image data is processed to locate objects matching the 3D models, including processing by normalized correlation. Once the objects are located, the system selects data points within the 3D captured image data that are a predetermined distance away from the located objects. These data points are analyzed to determine a surface plane which fits the selected data points, thereby locating the surface in the 3D capture image data.

Abstract: A ball grid array inspection and location method and apparatus includes a raw feature finding processor which uses a feature finding algorithm to find ball features (irrespective of number) and generate a list of raw features as an X and Y location for each feature located. An angle estimation processor receives the list of raw features, a user estimated orientation angle, and ball-to-ball pitch information and determines an estimated grid angle. An on-grid check processor receives the estimated grid angle, the list of raw features and the ball-to-ball pitch information and produces a set or list of on-grid features in the form of a list X and Y translation parameters for each feature/ball found on-grid.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus and system for lifting cylindrical rolls such as paper rolls is includes a horizontal beam with a gripping component at one end. A pivoting component is pivotally attached to the beam at another point. An engaging component is attached to the beam between the gripping component and the pivoting component and is located proximate the pivoting component. The pivoting component also includes an extension arm for connecting to a lifting mechanism such as a pulley or crane. The lifting apparatus is positioned over a horizontal roll so that the gripping component engages the roll in the center hole or hub. The engaging component grips the edge of the roll, and is securely held in place by the force of the pivoting component when lifting force is applied to the extension arm of the pivoting component. The lifting apparatus also allows easy maneuvering of a roll including mounting the roll in a horizontal or vertical position once the roll has been transported to the proper position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus implementing dynamic thresholding techniques in processes that use image subtraction. The subtracted image is separated into a positive difference image using a positive image map and a negative difference image using a negative image map. A positive threshold map and a negative threshold map process a Gaussian filtered first image to generate respective positive and negative dynamic threshold images. The positive and negative threshold map mask out irrelevant areas and implement adaptive gain in pixel thresholds proportional to a difference or contrast between foreground or feature of interest and local background. Dynamic thresholding is a subtraction providing a subtracted positive image and a subtracted negative image. The subtracted positive and subtracted negative images are combined to provide a merged image which is binarized. Edge or Interface detection involves edge detection and true peak detection to find the edge peaks in a pre-image and post image.

Abstract: An optimized memory refresh scheme controls and reduces instantaneous power consumption and power-related noise during DRAM refresh. In the optimized refresh implementation the DRAM is refreshed using a selectable overlap Column Address Select (CAS) before Row Address Select (RAS) refresh mode. A refresh interface between a host port and the memory system is over two bussed signals comprised of a Refresh Enable signal (Refresh.sub.-- Enable) and a Refresh Strobe pulse train (Refresh.sub.-- Strobe). Refresh.sub.-- Enable is issued by the host port to define a refresh operation. Refresh.sub.-- Strobe is a pulse train generated by the host port which is used as a clock for a sequential refresh sequencer. A refresh sequencer issues selectably timed column address refresh and row address refresh signals according to which the memory banks can all be selectably refreshed substantially in parallel, or with a predetermined selected level of overlap.

Abstract: A durable electrospray needle uses a capillary having a substantially large outside diameter. Provision of a porous bead at the spray tip advantageously allows a fine electrospray to be formed without the need for finely machining a needle tip and orifice, which allows for economical construction. Further, because the bead itself may serve as the anode in an electrospray field circuit, costs associated with electrode placement are eliminated.

Abstract: Method and devices for performing chromatographic pattern analysis determine chromatographic variability due to a plurality of sources without requiring identification or characterization of peaks or other chromatographic features, receives data indicative of a standard chromatogram and a first sample chromatogram generated from a first mixture by a High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) device and data indicative of a plurality of additional sample chromatograms generated by the HPLC device from a plurality of different mixtures. The method and devices generate from the standard chromatogram, a plurality of sets of chromatographic variability data, each set being indicative of a different effect of the chromatographic variability of the HPLC. The standard chromatogram is modified as a function of the variability data, and a residual value, indicative of a difference between the modified standard chromatograms and the first sample chromatogram is generated.

Abstract: A serial, dual piston high pressure fluid pumping system that overcomes the difficulties of gas in the fluid stream without the need for added mechanical valves or fluid paths. A bubble detection and recovery mechanism monitors compression and decompression volumes of the serially configured dual pump head pump, and the overall system delivery pressure. Bubble detection is effected by sensing a ratio of compression to decompression volume and determining if the ratio exceeds an empirical threshold that suggests the ratio of gas-to-liquid content of eluent or fluid in the system is beyond the pump's ability to accurately meter a solvent mixture. The magnitude of the ratio of compression to decompression volume indicates that either the intake stroke has a bubble or that the eluent has a higher-than-normal gas content.