Abstract:
Mechanical architecture for providing maximum viewing area on key button tops of keys for a user input device. The viewing area is for the display of information on the key buttons, and also includes tactile feedback similar to standard laptop keyboards, all using low cost manufacturing methods such as injection molding. The architecture optimizes an aperture through the core of the key switch assembly in order to project an image through the aperture and onto the display area of the key button. The architecture relocates in at least one embodiment the tactile feedback mechanism (e.g., dome assembly) out from underneath the key button to the perimeter or side of the key switch assembly. The architecture finds particular application to input devices such as keyboards, game pods, data entry device, etc., that operate in combination with an optical surface (e.g., wedge lens).
Abstract:
All solid photonic bandgap optical fiber comprising a core region and a cladding region is disclosed. The cladding region surrounding the core region includes a background optical material having a first refractive index and elements arranged in a two-dimensional periodic structure. In one embodiment, each of the elements comprises a center part and peripheral part having a higher refractive than the central part. In other embodiments, each element comprises a plurality of rods having a higher refractive index higher than the fist, the rods of each element arranged in a circle or polygon. Light transmission apparatus and methods of using the fiber are also disclosed.
Abstract:
A system and method of the present invention allows a user to monitor the production of a factory in real-time. The user inputs desired values for various performance metrics. Then an embodiment of the present invention analyzes manufacturing plans by directly accessing manufacturing planning software. Projections are calculated for each metric and the projections are compared to the desired values. A document is then created summarizing the desired values and the projections. The document may contain hyperlinks that enable a user to view details about any of the performance metrics. The document may also contain formatting that highlights various metrics for a variety of reasons, including the failure to meet a performance metric. The document also allows users to embed comments that are then forwarded to other users, as a means to allow collaboration from a plurality of users.
Abstract:
A method of manufacturing a microstructured fibre, comprises: providing a preform comprising a plurality of elongate holes; mating at least one, but not all, of the holes with a connector to connect the hole(s) to an external pressure-controller; drawing the preform into the fibre whilst controlling gas pressure in the hole(s) connected to the pressure-controller. The connector is also claimed.
Abstract:
A tape measure is disclosed which has a spooled measuring blade mounted via a rotatable connection within a casing (100). The tape measure has impact-protection components. These components may be resilient means (46, 60, 62, 82, 108) arranged between the spooled blade and the case, such as at the rotatable connection. Further impact-protection components are resilient pads (112, 114) which are moulded into impact-vulnerable locations on the outer surface of the case.
Abstract:
The invention provides advances in the arts with useful and novel driver methods. The invention provides circuit driver and control methods for relatively high-current drivers, usable with relatively low-voltage battery power sources. Preferred embodiments include one or more high series resistance capacitors electrically connected with a power source. A low resistance driver circuit regulates power supplied from the capacitors to the load.
Abstract:
The invention provides integrated power supplies, circuit drivers, and control methods for relatively high-current drivers, usable with common battery power sources. Preferred embodiments include one or more high series resistance super-capacitors electrically connected with a power. A low resistance driver circuit regulates power supplied from the super-capacitors to the load.
Abstract:
The invention provides advances in the arts with useful and novel battery charger circuits and methods providing improved energy conservation, harvesting, and utilization efficiencies.
Abstract:
Mechanical architecture for providing maximum viewing area on key button tops of keys for a user input device. The viewing area is for the display of information on the key buttons, and also includes tactile feedback similar to standard laptop keyboards, all using low cost manufacturing methods such as injection molding. The architecture optimizes an aperture through the core of the key switch assembly in order to project an image through the aperture and onto the display area of the key button. The architecture relocates in at least one embodiment the tactile feedback mechanism (e.g., dome assembly) out from underneath the key button to the perimeter or side of the key switch assembly. The architecture finds particular application to input devices such as keyboards, game pods, data entry device, etc., that operate in combination with an optical surface (e.g., wedge lens).