Abstract: An invention is provided for a platen for use in a CMP system. The platen includes an inner set of pressure sub regions capable of providing pressure to a polishing pad disposed above the platen. Each of the inner pressure sub regions is disposed below a wafer and within a circumference of the wafer. In addition, the platen includes an outer set of pressure sub regions capable of providing pressure to a polishing pad. Each of the outer set of pressure sub regions is disposed below the wafer and outside the circumference of the wafer. In this manner, the outer set of pressure sub regions is capable of shaping the polishing pad to achieve a particular removal rate.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lapping apparatus and a lapping method that may effect further machining in response to each element on a ceramic bar to the ceramic bar that is largely locally lapped and may reduce a cost needed for machining without any jig for holding the ceramic bar. The ceramic bar is held by a surface of an elastic member made of rubber or the like. A plurality of actuators are arranged on a back surface of this elastic member. When the ceramic bar is depressed against the lapping surface, a specific portion of the ceramic bar is deformed or strongly deformed through the elastic member by these actuators to thereby make it possible to perform the lapping in response to each element.

Abstract: For use with a chemical mechanical polishing apparatus for polishing a semiconductor wafer having a platen, a polishing pad and a wafer carrier, an optical closed-loop control system. In one embodiment, the system includes a plurality of optical probes impacting a corresponding probe window and rigidly mountable through the platen. The system also includes a flash lamp configured to provide light to each of the plurality of optical probes and minimize an exposure time of the light onto the semiconductor wafer, a spectrograph configured to spatially image light received by each of the plurality of optical probes to a common charge-coupled device and produce real-time spectral reflectometry data therefrom. The system further includes a control subsystem configured to analyze the real-time spectral reflectometry data and determine at least one wafer state parameter therefrom, and cause the polishing to be adjusted based upon the at least one wafer state parameter.

Abstract: A ultra fine particle film forming apparatus is provided which is capable of forming a ultra fine particle film which has ultra fine particles sufficiently bonded together, sufficient density, flat surface and uniform density. A planarized ultra fine particle film forming method for forming a planarized ultra fine particle film from a deposited film of ultra fine particles formed by supplying the ultra fine particles to a substrate, the method comprising one or more of a planarizing step of planarizing a surface of the deposited film of the ultra fine particles supplied to the substrate.

Abstract: A plurality of portions of a substrate are monitored during polishing at a first polishing station with an in-situ monitoring system. A plurality of thicknesses are determined based on measurements by the in-situ monitoring system, and the plurality of pressures to apply to the plurality of regions of the substrate are calculated in a closed-loop control system. However, if a representative thickness of the layer is less than a threshold thickness, calculation of the plurality of pressures by the closed-loop control system is halted and a plurality of predetermined pressures are applied to the plurality of regions of the substrate.

Abstract: A polishing article for chemical mechanical polishing. The polishing article includes a generally elongated polishing sheet with a polishing surface. The polishing article is formed from a material that is substantially opaque, and has a discrete region extending substantially the length of the polishing sheet that is at least semi-transparent.

Abstract: A grinding system for grinding feedstock includes a transport apparatus, a grinding apparatus, and a controller. The transport apparatus continuously transports feedstock of an arbitrarily long length at a desired feed rate, and the grinding apparatus grinds the feedstock transported by the transport apparatus. The controller controls a grinding position of the grinding apparatus and a longitudinal position of the feedstock during grinding to be coordinated with each other.

Abstract: A computer controlled grinding machine grinds a cylindrical region and an annular shoulder of a rotatable workpiece. Relative movement is effected between the workpiece and a grinding wheel along a line of action which subtends an angle of approach of less than 90 degrees to the Z axis of rotation of the workpiece. Such an angle of approach enables the wheel to grind the annular shoulder of the workpiece simultaneously with grinding the cylindrical portion.

Abstract: The abrasive machine of the present invention is capable of changing pressure applied to a work piece and easily defining optimum abrading conditions. The abrasive machine comprises: a pressure vessel capable of increasing and reducing inner pressure; an abrasive plate provided in the pressure vessel; a pressing plate provided on the abrasive plate, the pressing plate pressing the work piece onto the abrasive plate; a driving unit relatively moving the abrasive plate with respect to the pressing plate so as to abrade the work piece; and a pressure source connected to the pressure vessel, the pressure source increasing or reducing the inner pressure of the pressure vessel.

Abstract: The circumferential edges of glass or ceramic disks used in disk drive data storage devices are preferably finished by ductile grinding to produce an essentially fracture-free surface, which is not chemically strengthened. Preferably, the material is glass, and both the inner and outer edges of the disk are finished. Edge finishing is preferably achieved in a two-stage process, involving a coarse grind and a ductile grind, using air bearing spindles rotated at high speed for grinding wheels and workpiece. Preferably, the grinding wheels are shaped to provide a radius at the juncture of the circumferential edges and flat disk surfaces.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a practical gear and gear train which can be used in an actual gear drive system. Another object of the present invention is to provide a non-circular and asymmetrical gear which is practically used in view of durability, a gear train using that gear, and a barrel finishing machine using that gear. Non-circular and asymmetrical gear 10 has a plurality of tooth profiles 20, each of which comprises a substantially semicircular top curve line 16 and a substantially semicircular bottom curved line 18. A center point 22 of the top curved line 16 is on a pitch line 24, and a center point 26 of the bottom curved line 18 lies inside the pitch line 24.

Abstract: A coolant nozzle is used on a machine tool having a rotating bit of convoluted longitudinal profile for cutting a number of slots in a disk. The nozzle includes at least one coolant inlet and at least one coolant outlet. The coolant outlet has a convoluted section and is positioned to direct a coolant stream tangentially at the bit in a direction of rotation of the bit. Internal surface portions of the nozzle define one or more passageways between the inlet and the outlet(s).

Abstract: Apparatus and method for reconditioning the protective coating of a digital disc. The damaged digital disc is automatically moved between workstations by a suction member which grasps the disc at the first workstation and releases the disc at the second workstation. Each of the workstations is defined by worktools which operate on the digital disc. A feed cartridge member stores the damaged discs prior to movement of the discs into the first workstation and a receiving cartridge member stores the reconditioned discs following the final reconditioning operations at the last workstation.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for the surface machining of, among other things, plastic spectacle lenses, which has a work spindle, by means of which the spectacle lens can be driven with a controlled angle of rotation about an axis of work rotation, and a tool spindle, by means of which a tool can be driven to rotate about an axis of tool rotation, work and tool spindle being movable relative to one another with their positions controlled in two axes running at right angles. For rotational machining of the surface of the spectacle lens to be machined, the tool can also be swiveled by means of the tool spindle with a controlled angle of rotation about the axis of tool rotation, so that a rotational cutting edge provided on the tool can be brought into a defined rotational machining engagement with the surface of the spectacle lens to be machined as a function of the angle of rotation of the spectacle lens.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention generally provide a method and apparatus for polishing a substrate using electrochemical deposition techniques. In one aspect, an apparatus for polishing a substrate comprises a counter-electrode and a pad positioned between a substrate and the counter-electrode and a pad positioned between a substrate and the counter-electrode. A dielectric insert is positioned between the counter-electrode and the substrate. The dielectric insert has a plurality of zones, each zone permitting a separate current density between the counter-electrode and the substrate. In another embodiment, an apparatus for polishing a substrate that include a conductive layer comprises a counter-electrode to the material layer. The counter-electrode comprises a plurality of electrically isolated conductive elements. An electrical connector is separately coupled to each of the conductive elements.

Abstract: This tool applies treatments to surfaces by rubbing. It employs a mildly abrasive body of compacted non-woven fibres to carry and release fluids onto a surface as it cleans and massages the surface. It comprises a spill proof rubbing applicator capable of dispensing chemical substances ranging from low viscosity liquids to fine dry particulate and includes slumes and gels. The tool is provided with means of removing dirty used fibres from its treatment face.

Abstract: Embodiments of a polishing article for processing a substrate are provided. In one embodiment, a polishing article for processing a substrate comprises a fabric layer having a conductive layer disposed thereover. The conductive layer has an exposed surface adapted to polish a substrate. The fabric layer may be woven or non-woven. The conductive layer may be comprised of a soft metal and, in one embodiment, the exposed surface may be planar.

Abstract: An embodiment of a hand manipulated tool includes an elongate handle and a tool support. The tool support has a center, rotationally fixed to the elongate handle. The tool support has a periphery with at least five points equidistant from the center.

Abstract: A coin sorting apparatus has a passage member provided with an ejecting hole and a guide member extended on a passage surface of the passage member. A conveyor belt holds coins together with the passage surface to convey coins along the guide member. A support roller is disposed under an ejecting hole opposite to the conveyor belt. The ejecting hole is contiguous with the guide member and has a guiding slide wall that extends obliquely away from the guide member toward a downstream side of the passage member. The support roller can be turned between a coin-passing position where its upper end is at a level not lower than that of the upper edge of the guiding side wall and a coin ejecting position where the upper end is at a level lower than that of the upper edge of the guiding side wall.

Abstract: An air intake for a vehicle that facilitates air transfer from an ambient environment outside the vehicle to a vehicle space is provided. The air intake inhibits liquid transfer from the ambient environment to the vehicle space. The air intake includes a housing having an inlet for receiving air from the ambient environment, and an outlet in communication with the inlet. The outlet is disposed in an upper portion of the housing. A blocking member is disposed within the housing adjacent the inlet for preventing upward fluid flow from the inlet directly to the outlet, thereby inhibiting liquid flow through the outlet and into the vehicle space. A portion of the air intake housing is configured for attachment to a vehicle window, and the inlet is configured to be disposed along one edge of the window.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for passenger vehicles, including light and heavy truck, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, particularly HVAC systems, using oxidants to reduce contaminants and increase passenger comfort levels in such vehicles.

Abstract: A flow direction control mechanism is provided, which includes at least a rotatable means provided in a passage of an electronic system or apparatus. The rotatable means moves to an open position by means of a force generated from fluids flowing through the passage and returns to a close position in the absence of the force. Further, a restrictor is disposed adjacent to the rotatable means for restricting movement of the rotatable means between the open position and the close position.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a vent which comprises a body member and an adjustment member. The body member comprises a vent passageway that extends from an inward side to an outward side of the body member. The body member also comprises a collar having a collar passageway that extends from an inward side to an outward side of the collar. The collar passageway is in fluid communication with the vent passageway. The adjustment member comprises a head disposed to adjustably restrict a flow of air through the vent passageway and an inwardly projecting stem having one or more stem portions. The one or more stem portions comprise one or more contact portions which engage an interior surface of the collar and which adjustably couple the adjustment member to the body member. The one or more stem portions, alone or in combination with the interior surface of the collar, define one or more collar openings that extend through the collar passageway.

Abstract: Ridge vents and methods of their use are provided. The preferred ridge vent includes an elongated flexible member having a central panel portion, a pair of lateral edges and a pair of transverse ends. A pair of vent openings are disposed proximate to said lateral edges. The central panel portion includes a plurality of support ribs for supporting the central panel portion above the roof. A pair of baffles is disposed laterally from the vent openings and the lateral edges. Each of the baffles is oriented in a first direction relative to the central panel portion for at least a period of time prior to installation and is oriented in a second direction relative to the central panel portion after the installation.

Abstract: A fire damper in an air duct (2) is formed by a flap (12) which in its closed position bears on a flange (6) which extends inward from the duct wall, to form a seal. The flap (12) is biased to the closed position and held open by a cable (24) which is gripped by a releasable mechanism, such as a ball clutch. The release is triggered by a fusible cartridge (34) which extends into the duct (2).

Abstract: A deflector for a discharge outlet of a tailings conveyor of a harvesting machine for providing tailings dispersal over a sieve of a cleaning system or other location on the harvesting machine, without significantly interfering with crop material flow from a threshing system of the combine and while also preventing entry of crop material from the threshing system into the conveyor outlet.

Abstract: A gaming device having a poker game including at least one card in addition to a conventional fifty-two card deck which has a negative impact on the hand held by the player. In one embodiment, the negative impact card is not considered when determining if a winning combination exists. Additional embodiments include an inability to discard the negative impact card requiring the player to play for a winning combination among four, rather than five, cards. In an alternative embodiment, the player must decide whether to discard a card without knowing if it is a positive or negative impact card. Whether the card is a positive or negative impact card is not revealed to the player until after the first draw. The negative impact card can be used in all poker games and other card games where the player has a limited number of cards from which to determine a win.

Abstract: A graphic adventure gaming machine and method of conducting a game of chance on the gaming machine are disclosed. The machine portrays an adventure scene including a plurality of selectable objects. The machine receives a selection from a player of at least one of the selectable objects and receives a wager associated with the selection. The machine awards any outcome associated with the selected object. The outcome may, for example, include a payoff, bonus game, animated event, video clip, sound clip, transition to new adventure scene or location within the adventure scene, adding an item associated with the selected object to a persistent inventory, unlocking or revealing new selectable objects within the adventure scene, zooming into the selected object, and progressing a story of which the adventure scene is a part.

Abstract: A method for supplying playing cards (12) in which indicia carried by the cards (12) is derived or selected randomly and applied to the cards (12) prior to dealing. The indicia carried by the cards (12) is removed after the game is played thereby allowing the cards (12) to be reused and have further randomly derived indicia to be applied. The apparatus (10) for use in the method includes a card delivery chute (26), an indicia removing device (25), a card storage device (11) in which cards (12) are stacked, and an image applying device for applying indicia to the cards (12) for delivery to a card feeding device (24) for playing a game. The method and apparatus may be applied to other game playing pieces and the cards and pieces may be in many different configurations and include an electronic display for displaying indicia.

Abstract: A lottery ticket distribution system according to the invention includes a ticket distribution center (9) that is in electronic communication with a number of player terminals (10) at locations remote to the ticket distribution center. The ticket distribution center (9) includes an electronic ticket storage device (11, 20) for storing a game set (29) of electronic tickets (31) and distributing the electronic tickets to the player terminals (10). A ticket record manufacturing device (14, 15) operatively connected to the ticket distribution center (9) provides either a nonvolatile data record for each ticket or a hard copy ticket, or both. The nonvolatile data records or set of hard copy tickets for a given game set are not distributed to the players, but are held for verification and dispute resolution purposes either at the ticket distribution center (9) or some other secure location.

Abstract: To output music other than original music, which is suitable to keep a player excited, in the place of a part of the original music, such as a beginning or ending thereof, which is unsuitable to serve as game music. When main part end timing TE arrives while outputting original music MO1, connection music MI2, correlated with original music MO2, which is next game music, begins playing.

Abstract: A gaming terminal is operable to conduct a wagering game. The terminal includes a processor, a display, and memory. In response to a wager amount, the processor randomly selects one of a plurality of outcomes and causes the selected outcome to be represented on the display. The memory stores multiple data sets related to the game's audio elements. The processor selects which data set to employ for the conducted game based on a time signal monitored by the processor.

Abstract: A primary wager is placed by a primary player regarding an outcome of a gaming event, and a secondary wager is placed by a secondary player regarding an outcome of the primary wager. Tertiary wagers may also be placed regarding an outcome of the secondary wager. The outcome of the gaming event is determined. The outcome of the primary wager is determined based on the determined outcome of the gaming event. The outcome of the secondary wager is determined based on the determined outcome of the primary wager. The outcome of the tertiary wager is determined based on the outcome of the secondary wager. Winnings and losses are paid and collected, respectively. Wagering can be local or remote. Statistics and/or odds can be generated and displayed.

Abstract: A bearing assembly for a bearing journal (13), especially of a cross member of a universal joint, has a bearing journal (13) with a cylindrical outer face (14), an end face (16) and a journal axis (15). A bearing element (8) has a cylindrical bearing bore (9) with a bottom face (11) and a running face (10) which is arranged at a radial distance from the outer face (14) of the bearing journal (13). Rolling-contact members (17), at their respective ends, include at least partially planar first end face (18) and second end face (19). The faces (18) and (19) are arranged between the running face (10) and the outer face (14). A stop face (20) includes an annular contact face (21) for the first end face (18) of the rolling-contact members (17). A pressure disk (22) is included with a disk portion (23) arranged between the end face (16) of the bearing journal (13) and the bottom face (11). A supporting portion (24) radially follows the disk portion (23) with reference to the journal axis (15).

Abstract: A universal joint shaft for driving a roll of a rolling mill includes a connecting shaft, a first universal joint that is attached to a first end of the connecting shaft, a second universal joint that is attached to a second end of the connecting shaft, a coupling sleeve that includes a longitudinal axis that is connected to the first universal joint, which comprises a receiving bore with an opening for receiving a journal of a roll, wherein the receiving bore forms torque transmitting transmission faces, and which includes a first conical face that is arranged concentrically relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first conical face is provided for contacting a correspondingly designed first counter face at the journal of the roll, as well as a structure means by which the first conical face is loaded along the longitudinal axis towards the roll.

Abstract: A roof bolt comprises a shaft for insertion in a hole drilled in a mine roof and a head whereby the bolt may be rotated, the head being offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shaft so that when the bolt is rotated by means of its head the shaft is caused to describe a circle of greater diameter than its own diameter, and where the offset is at least 08 inch and not more than 0.25 inch. Preferably the offset is from 0.10 to 0.16 inch. The invention includes a method for the production of roof bolts which comprise a shaft for insertion in a hole drilled in a mine roof and a head whereby the bolt may be rotated, the method being characterised by being controlled so that at least 90% of the bolts produced have their head central axis offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shaft by an amount of at least about 0.08 inch and not more than about 0.25 inch.

Abstract: An elevated wood and concrete racetrack includes a wooden support surface having a plurality of floor boards laid flat to form at least one straightaway, and at least one banked curve, each floor board of the plurality having two lengthwise, substantially parallel, spaced apart sides. A concrete racetrack surface is overlayed on the wooden support surface, and a racetrack support frame has a plurality of vertical support posts anchored on suitable land and a plurality of support members connected thereto for supporting the wooden support surface above ground.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a support member, a moveable member supported by the support member, a user support mechanically associated with the moveable member, and a sound producing mechanism that produces sound as a result of movement of the moveable member between a first position and a second position caused by the user's application of force to the urge the moveable member between the first position and second position. The applications include a play apparatus, wherein the user interacts with the moveable member with the result that the moveable member changes position and a selected sound is thereby produced.

Abstract: A climbing steps rail set includes a first molded plastic rail having a lower end configured to rest on a lower support surface, an upper end configured to be coupled to an elevated support structure, and a first plurality of apertures formed in the rail and configured to receive respective first ends of steps to be supported by the rail set. The rail set further includes a second molded plastic rail having a lower end configured to rest on the lower support surface, an upper end configured to be coupled to the elevated support structure, and a second plurality of apertures formed in the rail and configured to receive respective second ends of the steps to be supported by the rail set.

Abstract: A ball bat includes an aluminum, or other metal, tubular sleeve co-molded or post-mold bonded onto a predominantly cylindrical composite, or other non-metal, ball bat handle. An aluminum, or other metal, knob is attached to the metal tubular sleeve, via welding or another suitable attachment method. A barrel end closure, e.g. a barrel cap, may be attached to the end of the bat barrel in a similar manner. In such a case, a metal insert is co-molded, or post-mold bonded, onto the barrel end of the bat. A metal barrel cap is then welded to the metal insert to close the end of the ball bat. Alternatively, a cap retention device may be co-molded, or post-mold bonded, onto the barrel end of the bat. A plastic, or other suitable material, cap is then attached to the cap retention device.

Abstract: An overswing alerting mechanism/swing monitoring device that a user can wear, for example on the wrist, hand or arm, that can determine swing formation, and that can display and/or store the determined swing information. As an option, the device includes a visual and/or audible indicator for alerting the user to an improper swinging motion.

Abstract: A training device (10) for strengthening the swing muscle groups of a golfer while enhancing proper muscle memory wherein, the device (10) includes a ball (21) having a meridian line (22) that divides the ball (21) into two visually distinct hemispheres (23) (24) and further including a hand engaging member (40) including a pair of anchor elements (41) (42) and a resilient strap element (50) connected to the ball (21) and bisected by the meridian line (22) passively engage the golfer's hands against the ball (21) during repetitive swing movements.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus is disclosed. The invention includes a bifurcated training apparatus having two operative elements, including an upper grip portion and a lower slide portion, the portions configured to be cooperatively engaged both with a golf club and each other in a defined cooperative manner. When assembled in the preferred truncated frustoconical structure, the lower slide portion is axially slidable along a length of golf club handle to assist the golfer to learn a desired swing position.

Abstract: A golf putter head design comprising a front face (10) and a back weight (20) sandwiching multiple longitudinal rods (14, 16) and with a center shaft mounting rod (18) attached to the back weight (20) to form a frame design where the vertical gaps in the putter head are spaced the width of the golf ball to facilitate alignment at setup and the shaft mounting rod (18) is spaced back from the face (10) to form an additional alignment and stroke aiding sight area.

Abstract: A system and method for assisting an individual to perform a correct and accurate golf swing indicating to the individual if he has improperly rotated about his center line axis, the device being located on the top of or the crown of the individual's head so that it may be substantially aligned with the center line axis of the individual.

Abstract: A tool mounted to the end of a golf club or other handle serves as means for retrieving a golf ball, for repairing a golf ball or club mark on the playing surface and for preventing the club grip from contacting the ground when the club is laid horizontally. The tool comprises a head detachably connected to the grip end of a golf club. In a preferred embodiment, the head includes a tang which fits into a slotted plug in the end of the club shaft under the grip. In an alternate embodiment, the head includes a yoke that cups over the outer radius of the golf club grip and is held in place by an external strap. The head has three flat surfaces serving as a shelf for lifting the golf ball and two walls forming a corner for the ball to rest against and for keeping the ball captive during the retrieval process. Two prongs protrude from the shelf for repairing ball marks. These two prongs or the body of the tool also serve to hold the grip off the ground when the club is laid horizontally.

Abstract: A club head for a golf club comprises a strike face and an outer shell. The strike face and the outer shell define a head volume of the club head. The club head has a first axis that extends generally horizontally and parallel to the strike face, a first moment of inertia about the first axis, a second axis that lies generally vertically and perpendicular to the first horizontal axis, a second moment of inertia about the second axis, and a center of gravity lying below a horizontal centerline of the club head. The first moment of inertia in units of kg-mm2 is greater than or equal to approximately 77 plus 0.46 times the head volume in units of cm3.

Abstract: A golf club head comprises a face plate having a back face and a front face forming a club face for hitting a ball; a clubhead main body to which the face plate is attached, the clubhead main body comprising a sole portion and a backside wall portion, the backside wall portion extending upward from the sole portion, leaving a space from said back face; and an insert made of an elastic material and interposed between the back face of the face plate and the backside wall portion.

Abstract: A golf club head includes a hollow body with a heel, a toe, a top, a bottom, a strike plate and a rear portion. A recess is defined at the bottom of the body and extends to the rear portion of the body. A strip is integrated with the body covering the recess. A tab is formed at the rear portion of the body, and has an inlet defined through the tab and in communication with the recess. Vibration-absorbing material is injected into the recess through the inlet. A sealing element is engaged in the inlet to enclose the recess.

Abstract: A golf ball is provided having a controlled variable moment of inertia. The golf ball includes a core defining at least one hollow channel. At least one movable weight is located within each hollow channel. The end of the hollow channel at the outer edge of the core is enclosed with a plug. The movable weight and plug may each further include a magnet or the hollow channel may include a placement member such as a spring to control the movement of the weight. When the present golf ball is struck, the spin rate forces the weights to move from the interior of the core outwardly towards the outer edge of the core, thereby varying the moment of inertia of the golf ball. A method of manufacturing the present golf ball is also provided. The golf ball also significantly reduces hooks and slices due to the gyroscopic effect of the moving weight(s) to the outer edge of the core.