Abstract: A data processing system comprises a local probe storage array having a plurality of sensors for reading data from a storage surface. A plurality of data processing elements are mounted on the storage array. Each data processing element is connected to different sensor of the array for processing data read by the connected sensor. The data processing elements may be logic gates for performing simple comparisons with input data. Alternatively, each data processing element may comprise more complex logic circuitry for performing more complex functions based on data read by the storage array. Such function may involve a combination of data read by the storage array and data input to the data processing system from an another source. Each data processing element may comprise a complete microprocessor system responsive to data read from the storage array.

Abstract: Described is a method for erasing data recorded in a data storage device in which a data bit is written onto a surface by applying a first combination of energy and force to the surface via a tip to form a pit in the surface representative of the data bit by local deformation of the surface. The method comprises applying a second combination of energy and force via the tip to prerecorded deformations of the surface to be erased to substantially level the surface.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for moving a first object relative to a second object is provided. One of the first and second objects is moved and thereby guided by a tracking device. The tracking device uses a pattern on the first object and/or second object and a releasable clamping device for holding the first and second object in contact. The first and second object can then be releasably clamped such that the patterns match and the clamping device holds the first and second object in a position defined by the pattern. This invention is particularly well suited for nanomechanical or micromechanical applications.

Abstract: A data processing system comprises a local probe storage array having a plurality of sensors for reading data from a storage surface. A plurality of data processing elements are mounted on the storage array. Each data processing element is connected to different sensor of the array for processing data read by the connected sensor. The data processing elements may be logic gates for performing simple comparisons with input data. Alternatively, each data processing element may comprise more complex logic circuitry for performing more complex functions based on data read by the storage array. Such function may involve a combination of data read by the storage array and data input to the data processing system from an another source. Each data processing element may comprise a complete microprocessor system responsive to data read from the storage array.

Abstract: The present invention provides a microprobe capable of simplifying constitution, capable of promoting measurement accuracy of sample face and capable of dispensing with alignment adjustment at each measurement and a scanning type probe apparatus using thereof. The present invention includes a low resolution cantilever portion supported by a support portion and integrally formed with heater laminating portions, heater portions formed at the heater laminating portions, piezoresistive elements provided at bending portions and a movable portion having a low resolution stylus and a high resolution cantilever portion supported by the support portion and integrally formed with piezoresistive elements provided at the bending portions and a movable portion having a high resolution stylus.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for moving a first object relative to a second object is provided. One of the first and second objects is moved and thereby guided by a tracking device. The tracking device uses a pattern on the first object and/or second object and a releasable clamping device for holding the first and second object in contact. The first and second object can then be releasably clamped such that the patterns match and the clamping device holds the first and second object in a position defined by the pattern. This invention is particularly well suited for nanomechanical or micromechanical applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a microprobe capable of simplifying constitution, capable of promoting measurement accuracy of sample face and capable of dispensing with alignment adjustment at each measurement and a scanning type probe apparatus using thereof.

Abstract: A micromechanical signal processing system includes an oscillating member designed to oscillate at a first frequency, a micromechanical pump oscillator being driven so as to oscillate at a second frequency, with the second frequency being greater than the first frequency, and a non-linear coupling element to couple the micromechanical pump oscillator to the oscillating member. These elements are arranged such that energy from the micromechanical pump oscillator is transferred via said non-linear coupling element into the oscillating member to compensate for its losses if the oscillating member oscillates at the first frequency.

Abstract: The present application concerns an apparatus for data acquisition and control to be used in connection with a scanning probe system. This apparatus comprises positioning means (3), used to provide for a relative, lateral scan movement of a sample to be scanned and a probe of said scanning probe system, and interface means (1) for processing analog signals (z1, z2) generated by the probe, and for conversion of these analog signals into digital data signals (d1, d2). The apparatus further comprises a converter (4) for conversion of said digital data signals (d1, d2) into composite video signals, and a process controller (2) connected to the positioning means (3), interface means (1) and converter (4) for the control and management of the operation of the scanning probe system.

Abstract: A puppet theater with a playback device (7) for sounds provided during a theatrical performance has an electrically actuatable display (13, 14, 15) for each puppet to be used. Control signals are recorded on the sound medium (7') of the playback device (7), and include display controls to trigger the displays to cue the puppeteer during the performance as to which puppet is to be used at a given time in the script. The control signals of the playback device can also include automatic commands for unwinding a backdrop (5), and signals for controlling the illumination of colored lamps (16, 17, 18) which light the stage. The theater may be portably arranged via dividing joint (23) and hinges (24, 25) which allow for folding of the walls (1, 3, 4).

Abstract: The screwed shank (2) of a screw (1) is divided into two halves (4, 5) by a slot (3) running centrally in longitudinal direction and two chamfers (7) running vertically to the slot (3) are provided on both long sides of the screwed shank (2). The screwed shank (2) can be inserted into the tapped hole without being obstructed by the thread parts on the two long sides of the slot (3) and the two halves of the screwed shank (2) move at first to the middle of the shank and then engage their external thread with the internal thread of the tapped hole.

Abstract: A toilet provided with a flushing device for flushing the toilet bowl, which is equipped with a spraying device at the bottom side of the toilet lid for spray-flushing the toilet bowl after the bowl has been flushed by its normal flushing device. The spraying device has its outlets in a rotatable section preferably rotatable by recoil action exerted by the spray water. A valve is associated with the supply of spray water for turning off the supply of spray water in response to the toilet lid being lifted off the toilet seat. The spraying device has associated therewith a timed valve system which limits each spraying cycle to a set time.