Showing papers by "General Electric published in 1990"

Object-Oriented Modeling and Design

Abstract: 1. Introduction. I. MODELING CONCEPTS. 2. Modeling as a Design Technique. 3. Object Modeling. 4. Advanced Object Modeling. 5. Dynamic Modeling. 6. Functional Modeling. II. DESIGN METHODOLOGY. 7. Methodology Preview. 8. Analysis. 9. System Design. 10. Object Design. 11. Methodology Summary. 12. Comparison of Methodologies. III. IMPLEMENTATION. 13. From Design to Implementation. 14. Programming Style. 15. Object-Oriented Languages. 16. Non-Object-Oriented Languages. 17. Databases. 18. Object Diagram Compiler. 19. Computer Animation. 20. Electrical Distribution Design System. 21. Future of Object-Oriented Technology. Appendix A: OMT Graphical Notation. Appendix B: Glossary. Index.

The NMR phased array.

Abstract: We describe methods for simultaneously acquiring and subsequently combining data from a multitude of closely positioned NMR receiving coils. The approach is conceptually similar to phased array radar and ultrasound and hence we call our techniques the “NMR phased array.” The NMR phased array offers the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and resolution of a small surface coil over fields-of-view (FOV) normally associated with body imaging with no increase in imaging time. The NMR phased array can be applied to both imaging and spectroscopy for all pulse sequences. The problematic interactions among nearby surface coils is eliminated (a) by overlapping adjacent coils to give zero mutual inductance, hence zero interaction, and (b) by attaching low input impedance preamplifiers to all coils, thus eliminating interference among next nearest and more distant neighbors. We derive an algorithm for combining the data from the phased array elements to yield an image with optimum SNR. Other techniques which are easier to implement at the cost of lower SNR are explored. Phased array imaging is demonstrated with high resolution (512 × 512, 48-cm FOV, and 32-cm FOV) spin-echo images of the thoracic and lumbar spine. Data were acquired from four-element linear spine arrays, the first made of 12-cm square coils and the second made of 8-cm square coils. When compared with images from a single 15 × 30-cm rectangular coil and identical imaging parameters, the phased array yields a 2X and 3X higher SNR at the depth of the spine ( ∼ 7 cm). © 1990 Academic Press, Inc.

Performance characterization of a high-power dual active bridge DC-to-DC converter

Abstract: The performance of a high-power, high-power-density DC-to-DC converter based on the single-phase dual active bridge (DAB) topology is described. The dual active bridge converter has been shown to have very attractive features in terms of low device and component stresses, small filter components, low switching losses, high power density and high efficiency, bidirectional power flow, buck-boost operation, and low sensitivity to system parasitics. For high output voltages, on the order of kilovolts, a cascaded output structure is considered. The effects of snubber capacitance and magnetizing inductance on the soft switching region of control are discussed. Various control schemes are outlined. Coaxial transformer design techniques have been utilized to carefully control leakage inductance. The layout and experimental performance of a prototype 50 kW 50 kHz unit operating with an input voltage of 200 V DC and an output voltage of 1600 V DC are presented. >

The auxiliary resonant commutated pole converter

Abstract: The auxiliary resonant commutated pole (ARCP), a new power converter topology that fully achieves soft switching without increasing primary device voltage or current ratings, is discussed. The ARCP converter is capable of true pulse-width modulation (PWM) control of each phase. The power circuit relies on the addition of an auxiliary triggered resonant commutation circuit or snubber to commutate the inductive load current from a main diode to an active device, allowing a zero voltage turn-off of the main devices. The auxiliary devices operate in a zero current soft switching mode, thereby requiring minimal current turn-off capability. The operation and control of the ARCP converter are discussed. Its performance is analyzed, and a simulation is presented. It is shown that the ARCP converter is capable of operation at elevated switching frequencies (10-30 kHz), high power levels (200-1000 kW), and high conversion efficiencies. the auxiliary devices will typically account for a 20% increase in the total silicon area of a three-phase power converter. >

Thermal seal for a gas turbine spacer disc

Abstract: The present invention provides for the removable attachment of sealing segments about the entire circumferential periphery of the rotor spacer discs. To this end, the conventional annular grooves provided in the peripheral surface of each spacer disc (as part of the high/low sealing surface configuration) are reconfigured as dovetail grooves which are designed to receive complimentary or mating portions of the sealing segments. In other words, each adjacent annular groove receives a plurality of sealing segments, the totality of which substantially prevent or at least minimize the impingement of hot gases directly on the peripheral surface of the spacer disc.

SCISOR: extracting information from on-line news

Abstract: The future of natural language text processing is examined in the SCISOR prototype. Drawing on artificial intelligence techniques, and applying them to financial news items, this powerful tool illustrates some of the future benefits of natural language analysis through a combination of bottom-up and top-down processing.

Three-dimensional segmentation of MR images of the head using probability and connectivity.

Abstract: We describe a three-dimensional (3D) segmentation method that comprises (a) user interactive identification of tissue classes; (b) calculation of a probability distribution for each tissue; (c) creation of a feature map of the most probable tissues; (d) 3D segmentation of the magnetic resonance (MR) data; (e) smoothing of the segmented data; (f) extraction of surfaces of interest with connectivity; (g) generation of surfaces; and (h) rendering of multiple surfaces to plan surgery. Patients with normal head anatomy and with abnormalities such as multiple sclerosis lesions and brain tumors were scanned with a 1.5 T MR system using a two echo contiguous (interleaved), multislice pulse sequence that provides both proton density and T2-weighted contrast. After the user identified the tissues, the 3D data were automatically segmented into background, facial tissue, brain matter, CSF, and lesions. Surfaces of the face, brain, lateral ventricles, tumors, and multiple sclerosis lesions are displayed using color coding and gradient shading. Color improves the visualization of segmented tissues, while gradient shading enhances the perception of depth. Manipulation of the 3D model on a workstation aids surgical planning. Sulci and gyri stand out, thus aiding functional mapping of the brain surface.

Thermal diffusivity of isotopically enriched 12C diamond

Abstract: Type-IIA diamond single crystals containing approximately 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1% $^{13}\mathrm{C}$ were synthesized and their thermal diffusivities were measured at room temperature by the thermal-wave-mirage technique. The measured value (18.5 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/s) of the 0.1% $^{13}\mathrm{C}$ crystal was 50% higher than the 1% $^{13}\mathrm{C}$ (natural isotope abundance). This is the highest room-temperature thermal diffusivity of any solid naturally occurring or previously synthesized. The laser damage threshold at 193 nm for the isotopically enriched crystal is more than an order of magnitude higher than that of natural diamond.

Analysis of T2 limitations and off-resonance effects on spatial resolution and artifacts in echo-planar imaging

Abstract: Several aspects of blipped echo-planar imaging (EPI) are treated mathematically. An expression relating the necessary readout gradient strength and sampling time to the spatial resolution and readout duration is derived. It is shown how the net spatial resolution may be limited by the object's T2 characteristics and Bo field homogeneity, irrespective of the number of sampled points. Additionally, off-resonance effects result in a loss of spatial resolution and image distortion to a considerably greater degree than in conventional two-dimensional Fourier transform imaging. The extent of these effects is directly related to the time required to acquire the data matrix, and is therefore amplified when EPI is implemented on a standard commercial whole-body system which because of limited gradient performance uses necessarily longer sampling durations. Specific hardware modifications to a standard commercial imager are considered to allow successful EPI implementation. EPI image characteristics are compared quantitatively with those of conventional methods. © 1990 Academic Press, Inc.

Regional Myocardial Metabolism of High-Energy Phosphates during Isometric Exercise in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract: Background. The maintenance of cellular levels of high-energy phosphates is required for myocardial function and preservation. In animals, severe myocardial ischemia is characterized by the rapid loss of phosphocreatine and a decrease in the ratio of phosphocreatine to ATP. Methods. To determine whether ischemic metabolic changes are detectable in humans, we recorded spatially localized phosphorus-31 nuclear-magnetic-resonance (31P NMR) spectra from the anterior myocardium before, during, and after isometric hand-grip exercise. Results. The mean (±SD) ratio of phosphocreatine to ATP in the left ventricular wall when subjects were at rest was 1.72±0.15 in normal subjects (n = 11) and 1.59±0.31 in patients with nonischemic heart disease (n = 9), and the ratio did not change during hand-grip exercise in either group. However, in patients with coronary heart disease and ischemia due to severe stenosis (≥70 percent) of the left anterior descending or left main coronary arteries (n = 16), the ratio dec...

Apparatus and method for reading data from an image detector

Abstract: A image detector includes an array of photodetectors arranged in n rows and m columns with at least a portion of the photodetectors in each column being selectively connected to a common column output signal line by a selector means. The image information is read out of the photodetectors by sequentially selecting groups of rows starting with a row near the middle of the array and then sequentially selecting other groups of rows on alternate sides of the array middle. As image data is read out of the photodetectors in the selected row group, groups of column outlet lines are coupled together to provide a combined output signal. This readout technique provides a reduction in the image data and reduces the likelihood of signal degradation for the central portion of the image.

Low-complexity method for improving the performance of autocorrelation-based pitch detectors

Abstract: A method of operating an autocorrelation pitch detector for use in a vocoder overcomes the pitch doubling and tripling problem using a heuristic rather than an analytic approach. The process tracks the times of occurrence of a highest and a second-highest autocorrelation peak. The amplitudes of the highest and the second-highest autocorrelation peaks are compared and, when these peaks are within a predetermined percentage difference in amplitude, the ratio of the time position (IPITCH2) of the second-highest peak to the time position (IPITCH) of the highest peak is checked to determine if that ratio is 1/3, 1/2 or 2/3, within a predetermined error limit e. If so and if the ratio is either 1/2 or 1/3, then IPITCH is set equal to IPITCH2 as reepresentative of the pitch period while, if the ratio is 2/3, then IPITCH is divided by three in order to represent the pitch period.

Volatility Diagrams for Silica, Silicon Nitride, and Silicon Carbide and Their Application to High‐Temperature Decomposition and Oxidation

Abstract: Volatility diagrams—isothermal plots showing the partial pressures of two gaseous species in equilibrium with the several condensed phases possible in a system—are discussed for the Si-O and Si-N systems, and extended to the Si-N-O and Si-C-O systems, in which the important ceramic constituents SiO2, Si3N4, Si2N2O, and SiC appear as stable phases. Their use in understanding the passiveactive oxidation transitions for Si, Si3N4, and SiC are demonstrated.

The synthesis, characterization, and photoinitiated cationic polymerization of silicon-containing epoxy resins

Abstract: The preparation of a variety of silicon-containing epoxy monomers and oligomers is described and their reactivity in photoinitiated cationic polymerization examined. Monomers and oligomers having terminal cycloaliphatic epoxy groups were found to be especially reactive in cationic polymerization. These materials are attractive candidates for use in coatings, adhesives, and elastomers.

Influence of chroline substitution pattern on the degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls by eight bacterial strains.

Abstract: We compared the metabolism of eight di- and trichlorobiphenyls by eight bacterial strains chosen to represent a broad range of degradative activity against polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The PCB congeners used were 2,3-, 2,3′-, 2,4′-, 3,3′-, 2,3,3′-, 2,4,4′-, 2,5,3′-, and 3,4,2′-chlorobiphenyl. The bacterial strains used wereCorynebacterium sp. MB1,Alcaligenes strainsA. eutrophus H850 andA. faecalis Pi434, andPseudomonas strains LB400 and H1130,P. testosteroni H430 and H336, andP. cepacia H201. The results indicated that both the relative rates of primary degradation of PCBs and the choice of the ring attacked were dependent on the bacterial strain used. The bacterial strains exhibited considerable differences in their relative reactivity preferences for attack on mono- and dichlorophenyl groups and in the degree to which the attack was affected by the chlorine substitution pattern on the nonreacting ring. For MB1 the reactivity pattern was 3-≥4-≫2-chlorophenyl with no attack on 2,4- or 2,5-chlorophenyl groups. This strain was relatively insensitive to the chlorine substitution pattern on the nonreacting ring. Strains H1130, H430, H201, and Pi434 exhibited the same reactivity preferences as MB1, but for these strains (and for all others tested) the chlorination pattern on the nonreacting ring had a strong effect. For strain H336 the reactivity preference was 4-≥2->2,4-≥3-chlorophenyl, with no evidence of attack on 2,5-chlorophenyl rings. For strains H850 and LB400 the relative reactivity was 2->2,5->3-≫2,4->4-chlorophenyl. On this basis we propose that the eight bacterial strains represent four distinct classes of biphenyl/PCB-dioxygenase activity.

A combined octree/delaunay method for fully automatic 3‐D mesh generation

Abstract: Fully automatic three-dimensional mesh generation is a fundamental requirement for automating the numerical solution of partial differential equations. Two techniques in particular—the octree and Delaunay approaches—have been used towards this end. A method that combines both approaches to fully automatic mesh generation is presented here. The resulting algorithm provides the linear growth rate and divide-and-conquer approach of the octree method with the simplicity and optimal properties of the Delaunay triangulation.

Multicellular FET having a Schottky diode merged therewith

Abstract: A semiconductor power switching device comprises a multicellular FET structure with a Schottky barrier diode structure interspersed therewith with at least some of the FET cells being free of Schottky barrier portions. The ratio of Schottky barrier contact area to FET cell area in the overall device may be adjusted to tailor the device for operation at specific current densities.

Noise correlations in data simultaneously acquired from multiple surface coil arrays.

Abstract: Multiple images acquired simultaneously from an array of surface coils can be combined to give a composite image with an improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and a large field of view. The composite images' SNR can be optimized by taking advantage of noise correlations between coils and phase shifts induced by surface coil reception. Methods are derived for making optimal composite images with uniform noise or with uniform sensitivity. A simplified model is used to provide an intuitive understanding of the interaction of noise correlation and phase shift phenomena. © 1990 Academic Press, Inc.

Semi-conducting layer for insulated electrical conductors

Abstract: A semi-conducting pyrolyzed glass fiber layer equalizes the electrical potential on the exterior surface of an insulated conductor when the layer covers the surface. The layer prohibits the development of a corona discharge and bleeds off any electrical charge developed thereon when the layer is electrically coupled to a body having a known potential. The insulated conductor may be windings in a dynamoelectric machine.

Low emissions combustor

Abstract: A combustor effective for reducing exhaust emissions is disclosed. The combustor includes first and second liners defining a primary combustion zone, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced carburetors. Each of the carburetors includes a fuel injector providing fuel into an air swirler for mixing the air and fuel and providing a fuel/air mixture into the combustor primary zone. The combustor also includes means for obtaining a fuel distribution from each of the carburetors extending radially from a first liner upstream end through a center region of the combustor to a second liner upstream end with values of the fuel distribution at the center region being generally no greater than about values of the fuel distribution adjacent to at least one of the first and second liners. The first and second liners have upstream portions characterized by the absence of film cooling thereof.

Precooling heat exchange arrangement integral with mounting structure fairing of gas turbine engine

Abstract: A precooling heat exchange arrangement includes a hollow fairing mounted on a forward side of an engine mounting structure extending radially across an annular fan duct of a gas turbine engine. The fairing has an aerodynamically-shaped external wall disposed in the main air flow through the fan duct, spaced upper and lower internal plenums and a middle internal plenum disposed therebetween and sealed therefrom. A conduit routes hot bleed air flow from the engine to and from the lower and upper plenums of the fairing and at least one heat exchanger is mounted in the fairing. The heat exchanger includes a heat transfer structure having an interior in communication with the upper and lower plenums and having an exterior in communication with the fan duct air flow and the middle plenum of the fairing such that a fractional portion of fan duct air flow can divert from the fan duct and pass across the exterior of the heat exchanger in heat transfer relationship with the hot bleed air passing through the interior of the heat exchanger for cooling the hot bleed air. An air flow control mechanism is provided in communication with the middle plenum of the fairing for routing cool fan duct air flow to the core engine compartment after passing over the exterior of the heat transfer structure.

Radio telemetry systems with channel selection

Abstract: A radio telemetry system for collecting the readings of consumer's electricity consumption meters includes a master station (1) carried by a vehicle (1) and a plurality of transponders (3), each of which holds an electrical quantity indicative of an amount of electrical power consumed as measured by the meter associated with that transponder (3). The transponders (3) and the master station (1) communicate such that the transponders (3) transmit to the master station (1) signals containing information as to the values of the aforesaid electrical quantities held by them. Such communication takes place on a relatively quiet channel, of a number of channels, as determined by the master station (1) such that the system is capable of operating satisfactorily when the master station (1) and the transponders (3) utilise relatively low power transmitters (7, 19).

Thermal barrier coating system with intermetallic overlay bond coat

Abstract: A thermal barrier coating system for high temperature superalloys includes an intermetallic bond coating on the substrate and a ceramic topcoat having a columnar grain structure with the columnar axis perpendicular to the surface of the coating. The intermetallic coating is preferably a nickel aluminide or a platinum aluminide, whose upper surface is oxidized during processing to form a thin layer of predominantly aluminum oxide. The ceramic topcoat is preferably zirconium oxide having from about 6 to 20 percent yttrium oxide.

Decision feedback equalization for digital cellular radio

Abstract: The authors study an adaptive decision feedback equalizer (DFE) for application in the USA digital cellular radio telephone system. A synchronous DFE and a fractionally spaced DFE are adaptive and use a fast recursive least squares algorithm to track rapid channel variations. Simulation results indicating the performance sensitivity to time delay spread, Doppler shift, and timing jitter are presented. A DFE using a complex fast-Kalman adaptation algorithm is presented, and its bit error rate performance evaluated. The fast Kalman equalizer is found to possess good tracking ability and can track channel variations at vehicle speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h). Sensitivity to sample timing jitter can be reduced by using a DFE with fractionally spaced feedforward taps. >

Digit-serial processing techniques

Abstract: An architecture is presented for hard-wired data-flow algorithms which is based on the transmission of arithmetic data one digit at a time serially, and performance of operations digit-serially on that data. It is shown that digit-serial computation gives rise to particularly efficient chip designs, and that choice of digit-size allows the user to match throughput requirements to specifications. Details of the implementation of the individual operators as a cell-library of silicon CMOS circuits are given and mention is made of the software environment (silicon compiler) which allows the rapid translation of algorithms to integrated circuits. >

Multiple lamination high density interconnect process and structure employing a variable crosslinking adhesive

Abstract: A high density interconnect structure incorporating a plurality of laminated dielectric layers is fabricated using a SPI/epoxy crosslinking copolymer blend adhesive in order to maintain the stability of the already fabricated structure during the addition of the later laminations while also maintaining the repairability of the high density interconnect structure.

Radio frequency receiver for a NMR instrument

Abstract: A receiver processes an NMR signal to produce a baseband image information signal from which two quadrature component signals are derived. An intermediate frequency section mixes the received NMR signal with two reference signals to shift the image information into a frequency band having a bandwidth BW and centered at a frequency that is 1.5 times the bandwidth BW. The resultant signal is filtered to remove extraneous signals outside the image information band. An analog to digital converter samples the filtered signal at a rate that is twice the bandwidth BW and digitizes the samples into a digital signal. A quadrature detector derives I and Q output signals from the digital signal by alternately selecting digital samples and negating every other sample selected for each of the I and Q output signals. The quadature detector also digitally filters the I and Q signals which are then used to construct an NMR image.

Electronic watthour meter

Abstract: An electronic watthour meter is digitally configurable to operate as several different types of watthour meters for metering electrical energy from a variety of different electric utility services. Automatic scaling of line input currents is provided to scale the voltage input to an analog to digital converter over selected ranges such that low level and high level input signals are measured in an optimum range. A digital signal processor is employed to calculate values for metered electrical energy and output pulses, each proportional to a quantum of energy flowing in the circuit being metered. The processor calculates the value of DC offset errors inherent in the various analog circuits of the meter and uses that value in the calculation of metered electrical energy to compensate for such offset errors. The meter employs automatic and manually initiated test functions for testing the operation of the processor and other critical circuits in the meter.

Interface circuits including driver circuits with switching noise reduction

Abstract: An interface circuit includes a generator for driving an interface signal to a receiver which produces an output signal in response thereto. The generator (or driver) includes a pair of relatively larger complementary conductivity field effect transistors and a pair of relatively smaller complementary conductivity field effect transistors (FETs), each pair in series circuit between the supply rails. The interface signal is produced at a connection of the center points of both pairs of FETs. A control device renders like ones of the FETs in each pair alternately conductive responsive to the input signal, however, the control device generates control signals for the FETs such that the relatively smaller FET of a given conductivity becomes conductive before the larger FET of that same conductivity. The receiver includes a voltage divider to attenuating and coupling the received interface signal to a high-gain amplifier which produces the output signal. Preferably, the signals have amplitudes sufficiently large to cause the interface circuit to operate as a digital interface. Further, it is preferred that two generators of opposite signal sense be employed to produce a differential interface signal, in which case the receiver includes a differential amplifier having opposite signal sense inputs to which the differential signals are applied through a differential voltage divider. In the preferred differential amplifier, opposite signal sense outputs are fed back in the regenerative sense to the two inputs to introduce hysteresis.