Abstract: Methods, system and program product for determining network resource availability in order to avoid time delays caused by querying unavailable resources are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention queries the network resource to determine network resource availability and response time, and indicates the network resource is available only if the network resource is determined to be available within a specified response time.

Abstract: A system and method for optimizing metrology sampling rates in an advanced process control (APC) application. A method is provided for processing a run of workpieces, the method comprising the steps of: providing a database comprising subgroups of data representing characteristics from previously processed workpieces; selecting a first subgroup of data having characteristics that satisfy a predetermined criteria; determining processing conditions for a processing tool corresponding to said first subgroup of data; processing the run of workpieces with the process tool using the determined processing conditions; and measuring the run of workpieces according to a sampling rate determined from the first subgroup of data.

Abstract: The invention relates to fitting a curve to a plurality of data points. A “seed curve” is determined from a first set of data points selected from the plurality of data points. From the remaining data points, data points are individually selected and a determination is made for each selected data point as to whether the data point is acceptable to be included with the first set of data points. When a data point is determined to be acceptable, the data point is included with the first set of data points to form another set of data points. After each of the other data points are evaluated for inclusion with the first set of data points, a best fit curve is determined from a final set of data points.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device for limiting the bending radius of a flexible duct comprising at least a bend stiffener arranged around one length of the flexible duct and fixed by a rear part on a fixed end support, characterized in that it further comprises an element for maintaining the bend stiffener arranged between the flexible duct and the bend stiffener and comprising at least a portion capable of flexural bending extending over one length of the flexible duct located at least between the rear part and the end of the bend stiffener.