A media device for storing and playing media such as audio, video or images, includes a memory device configured to store a plurality of media items in a digital format. The media device also includes a display configured to present a group of media items from the plurality of stored media items and to present a visual indicator that is capable of scrolling through the displayed group of media items in order to designate a specific media item from the group of media items. The media device further includes a touch pad configured to receive input from a sliding motion or a tapping motion of a finger. The sliding motion of the finger controls the movement of the visual indicator through the group of media items. The tapping motion of the finger selects the specific media item that is designated by the visual indicator.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/806,957, filed Jun. 5, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/386,238, filed Mar. 21, 2006, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/188,182, filed Jul. 1, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,046,340, which claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/359,551, filed Feb. 25, 2002, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
This application is related to U.S. Patent Application No. 60/346,237, filed on Oct. 22, 2001, and which is incorporated herein by reference.
This application is also related to U.S. Design Pat. Application No. 29,153,169, filed Oct. 22, 2001, and which is incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention relates generally to a media player having a touch pad. More particularly, the present invention relates to touch pads having scrolling features.
There exist today many styles of input devices for performing operations in a consumer electronic device. The operations generally correspond to moving a cursor and making selections on a display screen. By way of example, the input devices may include buttons, switches, keyboards, mice, trackballs, touch pads, joy sticks, touch screens and the like. Each of these devices has advantages and disadvantages that are taken into account when designing the consumer electronic device. In handheld computing devices, the input devices are generally selected from buttons and switches. Buttons and switches are generally mechanical in nature and provide limited control with regards to the movement of a cursor (or other selector) and making selections. For example, they are generally dedicated to moving the cursor in a specific direction (e.g., arrow keys) or to making specific selections (e.g., enter, delete, number, etc.). In the case of hand-held personal digital assistants (PDA), the input devices tend to utilize touch-sensitive display screens. When using a touch screen, a user makes a selection on the display screen by pointing directly to objects on the screen using a stylus or finger.
In portable computing devices such as laptop computers, the input devices are commonly touch pads. With a touch pad, the movement of an input pointer (i.e., cursor) corresponds to the relative movements of the user's finger (or stylus) as the finger is moved along a surface of the touch pad. Touch pads can also make a selection on the display screen when one or more taps are detected on the surface of the touch pad. In some cases, any portion of the touch pad may be tapped, and in other cases a dedicated portion of the touch pad may be tapped. In stationary devices such as desktop computers, the input devices are generally selected from mice and trackballs. With a mouse, the movement of the input pointer corresponds to the relative movements of the mouse as the user moves the mouse along a surface. With a trackball, the movement of the input pointer corresponds to the relative movements of a ball as the user rotates the ball within a housing. Both mice and trackballs generally include one or more buttons for making selections on the display screen.
In addition to allowing input pointer movements and selections with respect to a GUI presented on a display screen, the input devices may also allow a user to scroll across the display screen in the horizontal or vertical directions. For example, mice may include a scroll wheel that allows a user to simply roll the scroll wheel forward or backward to perform a scroll action. In addition, touch pads may provide dedicated active areas that implement scrolling when the user passes his or her finger linearly across the active area in the x and y directions. Both devices may also implement scrolling via horizontal and vertical scroll bars as part of the GUI. Using this technique, scrolling is implemented by positioning the input pointer over the desired scroll bar, selecting the desired scroll bar, and moving the scroll bar by moving the mouse or finger in the y direction (forwards and backwards) for vertical scrolling or in the x direction (left and right) for horizontal scrolling.
With regards to touch pads, mice and track balls, a Cartesian coordinate system is used to monitor the position of the finger, mouse and ball, respectively, as they are moved. The Cartesian coordinate system is generally defined as a two dimensional coordinate system (x, y) in which the coordinates of a point (e.g., position of finger, mouse or ball) are its distances from two intersecting, often perpendicular straight lines, the distance from each being measured along a straight line parallel to each other. For example, the x, y positions of the mouse, ball and finger may be monitored. The x, y positions are then used to correspondingly locate and move the input pointer on the display screen.
To elaborate further, touch pads generally include one or more sensors for detecting the proximity of the finger thereto. By way of example, the sensors may be based on resistive sensing, surface acoustic wave sensing, pressure sensing (e.g., strain gauge), optical sensing, capacitive sensing and the like. The sensors are generally dispersed about the touch pad with each sensor representing an x, y position. In most cases, the sensors are arranged in a grid of columns and rows. Distinct x and y position signals, which control the x, y movement of a pointer device on the display screen, are thus generated when a finger is moved across the grid of sensors within the touch pad. For brevity sake, the remaining discussion will be held to the discussion of capacitive sensing technologies. It should be noted, however, that the other technologies have similar features.
Capacitive sensing touch pads generally contain several layers of material. For example, the touch pad may include a protective shield, one or more electrode layers and a circuit board. The protective shield typically covers the electrode layer(s), and the electrode layer(s) is generally disposed on a front side of the circuit board. As is generally well known, the protective shield is the part of the touch pad that is touched by the user to implement cursor movements on a display screen. The electrode layer(s), on the other hand, is used to interpret the x, y position of the user's finger when the user's finger is resting or moving on the protective shield. The electrode layer (s) typically consists of a plurality of electrodes that are positioned in columns and rows so as to form a grid array. The columns and rows are generally based on the Cartesian coordinate system and thus the rows and columns correspond to the x and y directions.
The touch pad may also include sensing electronics for detecting signals associated with the electrodes. For example, the sensing electronics may be adapted to detect the change in capacitance at each of the electrodes as the finger passes over the grid. The sensing electronics are generally located on the backside of the circuit board. By way of example, the sensing electronics may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that is configured to measure the amount of capacitance in each of the electrodes and to compute the position of finger movement based on the capacitance in each of the electrodes. The ASIC may also be configured to report this information to the computing device.
Referring to FIG. 1, a touch pad 10 will be described in greater detail. The touch pad is generally a small rectangular area that includes a protective shield 12 and a plurality of electrodes 14 disposed underneath the protective shield layer 12. For ease of discussion, a portion of the protective shield layer 12 has been removed to show the electrodes 14. Each of the electrodes 14 represents a different x, y position. In one configuration, as a finger 16 approaches the electrode grid 14, a tiny capacitance forms between the finger 16 and the electrodes 14 proximate the finger 16. The circuit board/sensing electronics measures capacitance and produces an x, y input signal 18 corresponding to the active electrodes 14 is sent to a host device 20 having a display screen 22. The x, y input signal 18 is used to control the movement of a cursor 24 on a display screen 22. As shown, the input pointer moves in a similar x, y direction as the detected x, y finger motion.
In view of the foregoing, it would be desirable to provide a media player with a touch pad. It would also be desirable to provide a hand held device with a touch pad. It would additionally be desirable to provide a touch pad that can sense and resolve angular and/or radial positions of a moving object (e.g., finger) as it is moved in a rotating and/or radial manner across the touch pad. That is, a touch pad that is based on polar coordinates rather than Cartesian coordinates. It would be further desirable to transform the angular or radial movements into translational movements in the GUI of the display screen for scrolling and other related linear actions.
The invention relates, in one embodiment, to a media player for storing and playing media such as audio, video or images. The media player includes a housing that encloses internally various electrical components that provide computing operations for the media player. The media player also includes a touch pad supported by the housing and configured to provide one or more control functions for controlling various applications associated with the media player.
The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a pocket sized handheld computing device. The computing device includes computing hardware for providing at least one application. The computing device also includes a display screen configured to display text and graphics associated with the at least one application. The computing device additionally includes a touch pad configured to provide one or more control functions for allowing a user of the computing device to provide inputs to the at least one application.
The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a touch pad assembly for use in a computing device. The touch pad assembly has a touch sensitive surface for accepting contact with an object. The touch pad assembly is configured to provide polar coordinate information of the object relative to the touch sensitive surface when the object is moved about the touch sensitive surface.
The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a user input system having a touch pad, a display and a controller. The system is configured to convert angular or radial data associated with the touch pad into control inputs associated with the display. By way of example, the control inputs may correspond to translational movements associated with scrolling or other related linear actions.
The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a handheld electronic device for storing and playing media such as audio, video or images. The handheld electronic device includes a memory device configured to store a plurality of media items in a digital format. The handheld electronic device also includes a display configured to present a group of media items from the plurality of stored media items and to present a visual indicator that is capable of scrolling through the displayed group of media items in order to designate a specific media item from the group of media items. The handheld electronic device further includes a touch pad configured to receive input from a sliding motion or a tapping motion of a finger. The sliding motion of the finger controls the movement of the visual indicator through the group of media items. The tapping motion of the finger selects the specific media item that is designated by the visual indicator.
The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a battery powered handheld music player. The battery powered music player includes a housing that supports various electrical components that provide computing operations for the music player. The battery powered music player also includes a memory device disposed inside the housing and configured to store a plurality of songs in a digital format. The battery powered music player further includes a display screen provided at a first portion of a front surface of the housing and configured to present a list of songs from the plurality of stored songs and to present a visual indicator that is capable of linearly traversing through the list of songs in order to designate a specific song from the list of songs. The battery powered music player additionally includes a single integrated input arrangement provided at a second portion of the front surface of the housing. The single integrated input arrangement includes a plurality of input regions that are adjacent one another and that provide control functions for operating the music player. At least one of the input regions being implemented with a touch pad. Moreover, the battery powered music player includes audio output components for outputting music associated with a selected specific song from the list of songs.
The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a battery powered handheld device capable of playing media. The battery powered handheld device includes a housing that supports various electrical components that provide computing operations for the battery powered handheld device. The battery powered handheld device also includes a memory device disposed inside the housing and configured to store a plurality of menu items. The battery powered handheld device further includes a display screen provided at a first portion of a front surface of the housing, and configured to present a list of menu items and to present a visual indicator that is capable of linearly traversing through the list of menu items in order to designate a specific menu item from the list of menu items. The battery powered handheld device additionally includes an input arrangement provided at a second portion of the front surface of the housing. The input arrangement includes an inner input region and one or more outer input regions that provide control functions for operating the battery powered handheld device. The outer input regions are disposed outside the inner input region. The inner input region includes at least a touch pad.
FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a touch pad and display.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a media player, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is top view of a media player in use, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is z simplified block diagram of a touchpad/display system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a top view of a sensor arrangement of a touch pad, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a top view of a sensor arrangement of a touch pad, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a top view of a sensor arrangement of a touch pad, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a partially broken away perspective view of an annular capacitive touch pad, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of touch pad-display processing, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
The present invention relates to touch pads. According to one aspect of the invention, a touch pad is provided on a media player to facilitate user interaction therewith. In one embodiment, the media player is a handheld device. According to another aspect of the invention, a touch pad is provided that can sense and resolve angular and/or radial positions of a moving object (e.g., finger) as it is moved in a largely rotational and/or radial manner across the touch pad. In one embodiment, the touch pad that is based on polar coordinates rather than Cartesian coordinates. Other aspects of the invention will become apparent below. In any case, the aspects are not limiting and the various aspects of the invention can be used separately or in combination.
The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to a few preferred embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective diagram of a media player 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The term "media player" generally refers to computing devices that are dedicated to processing media such as audio, video or other images, as for example, music players, game players, video players, video recorders, cameras and the like. These devices are generally portable so as to allow a user to listen to music, play games or video, record video or take pictures wherever the user travels. In one embodiment, the media player is a handheld device that is sized for placement into a pocket of the user. By being pocket sized, the user does not have to directly carry the device and therefore the device can be taken almost anywhere the user travels (e.g., the user is not limited by carrying a large, bulky and often heavy device, as in a portable computer). For example, in the case of a music player, a user may use the device while working out at the gym. In case of a camera, a user may use the device while mountain climbing. Furthermore, the device may be operated by the users hands, no reference surface such as a desktop is needed (this is shown in greater detail in FIG. 3).
Media players generally have connection capabilities that allow a user to upload and download data to and from a host device such as a general purpose computer (e.g., desktop computer, portable computer). For example, in the case of a camera, photo in images may be downloaded to the general purpose computer for further processing (e.g., printing). With regards to music players, songs and play lists stored on the general purpose computer may be downloaded into the music player. In the illustrated embodiment, the media player 100 is a pocket sized hand held MP3 music player that allows a user to store a large collection of music. By way of example, the MP3 music player may store up to 1,000 CD-quality songs.
As shown in FIG. 2, the media player 100 includes a housing 102 that encloses internally various electrical components (including integrated circuit chips and other circuitry) to provide computing operations for the media player 100. The integrated circuit chips and other circuitry may include a microprocessor, memory (e.g., ROM, RAM), a power supply (e.g., battery), a circuit board, a hard drive, and various input/output (I/O) support circuitry. In the case of music players, the electrical components may include components for outputting music such as an amplifier and a digital signal processor (DSP). In the case of video recorders or cameras the electrical components may include components for capturing images such as image sensors (e.g., charge coupled device (CCD) or complimentary oxide semiconductor (CMOS)) or optics (e.g., lenses, splitters, filters). In addition to the above, the housing may also define the shape or form of the media player. That is, the contour of the housing 102 may embody the outward physical appearance of the media player 100.
The media player 100 also includes a display screen 104. The display screen 104 is used to display a graphical user interface as well as other information to the user (e.g., text, objects, graphics). By way of example, the display screen 104 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD). In one particular embodiment, the display screen corresponds to a 160-by-128-pixel high-resolution display, with a white LED backlight to give clear visibility in daylight as well as low-light conditions. As shown, the display screen 104 is visible to a user of the media player 100 through an opening 105 in the housing 102, and through a transparent wall 106 that is disposed in front of the opening 105. Although transparent, the transparent wall 106 may be considered part of the housing 102 since it helps to define the shape or form of the media player 100.
The media player 100 also includes a touch pad 110. The touch pad 110 is configured to provide one or more control functions for controlling various applications associated with the media player 100. For example, the touch initiated control function may be used to move an object or perform an action on the display screen 104 or to make selections or issue commands associated with operating the media player 100. In most cases, the touch pad 110 is arranged to receive input from a finger moving across the surface of the touch pad 110 in order to implement the touch initiated control function. The touch pad may be widely varied. For example, the touch pad be a conventional touch pad based on the Cartesian coordinate system, or the touch pad may be a touch pad based on a polar coordinate system (the later will be described in greater detail below).
The manner in which the touch pad 110 receives input may be widely varied. In one embodiment, the touch pad 110 is configured receive input from a linear finger motion. In another embodiment, the touch pad 110 is configured receive input from a rotary or swirling finger motion. In yet another embodiment, the touch pad 110 is configured receive input from a radial finger motion. Additionally or alternatively, the touch pad 110 may be arranged to receive input from a finger tapping on the touch pad 100. By way of example, the tapping finger may initiate a control function for playing a song, opening a menu and the like.
In one embodiment, the control function corresponds to a scrolling feature. For example, in the case of an MP3 player, the moving finger may initiate a control function for scrolling through a song menu displayed on the display screen 104. The term "scrolling" as used herein generally pertains to moving displayed data or images (e.g., text or graphics) across a viewing area on a display screen 104 so that a new set of data (e.g., line of text or graphics) is brought into view in the viewing area. In most cases, once the viewing area is full, each new set of data appears at the edge of the viewing area and all other sets of data move over one position. That is, the new set of data appears for each set of data that moves out of the viewing area. In essence, the scrolling function allows a user to view consecutive sets of data currently outside of the viewing area. The viewing area may be the entire viewing area of the display screen 104 or it may only be a portion of the display screen 104 (e.g., a window frame).
To elaborate, the display screen 104, during operation, may display a list of media items (e.g. songs). A user of the media player 100 is able to linearly scroll through the list of media items by moving his or her finger across the touch pad 110. As the finger moves around the touch pad 110, the displayed items from the list of media items are varied such that the user is able to effectively scroll through the list of media items. However, since the list of media items can be rather lengthy, the invention provides the ability for the user to rapidly traverse (or scroll) through the list of media items. In effect, the user is able to accelerate their traversal of the list of media items by moving his or her finger at greater speeds.
The touch pad generally consists of a touchable outer surface 111 for receiving a finger for manipulation on the touch pad 110. Although not shown in FIG. 2, beneath the touchable outer surface 111 is a sensor arrangement. The sensor arrangement includes a plurality of sensors that are configured to activate as the finger passes over them. In the simplest case, an electrical signal is produced each time the finger passes a sensor. The number of signals in a given time frame may indicate location, direction, speed and acceleration of the finger on the touch pad, i.e., the more signals, the more the user moved his or her finger. In most cases, the signals are monitored by an electronic interface that converts the number, combination and frequency of the signals into location, direction, speed and acceleration information. This information may then be used by the media player 100 to perform the desired control function on the display screen 104.
The position of the touch pad 110 relative to the housing 102 may be widely varied. For example, the touch pad 110 may be placed at any external surface (e.g., top, side, front, or back) of the housing 102 that is accessible to a user during manipulation of the media player 100. In most cases, the touch sensitive surface 111 of the touch pad 110 is completely exposed to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad 110 is located in a lower, front area of the housing 102. Furthermore, the touch pad 110 may be recessed below, level with, or extend above the surface of the housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the touch sensitive surface 111 of the touch pad 110 is substantially flush with the external surface of the housing 102.
The shape of the touch pad 110 may also be widely varied. For example, the touch pad 110 may be circular, rectangular, triangular, and the like. In general, the outer perimeter of the shaped touch pad defines the working boundary of the touch pad. In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad 110 is circular. Circular touch pads allow a user to continuously swirl a finger in a free manner, i.e., the finger can be rotated through 360 degrees of rotation without stopping. Furthermore, the user can rotate his or her finger tangentially from all sides thus giving it more range of finger positions. For example, when the media player is being held, a left handed user may choose to use one portion of the touch pad 110 while a right handed user may choose to use another portion of the touch pad 110. More particularly, the touch pad is annular, i.e., shaped like or forming a ring. When annular, the inner and outer perimeter of the shaped touch pad defines the working boundary of the touch pad.
In addition to above, the media player 100 may also include one or more buttons 112. The buttons 112 are configured to provide one or more dedicated control functions for making selections or issuing commands associated with operating the media player 100. By way of example, in the case of an MP3 music player, the button functions may be associated with opening a menu, playing a song, fast forwarding a song, seeking through a menu and the like. In most cases, the button functions are implemented via a mechanical clicking action. The position of the buttons 112 relative to the touch pad 110 may be widely varied. For example, they may be adjacent one another or spaced apart. In the illustrated embodiment, the buttons 112 are configured to surround the inner and outer perimeter of the touch pad 110. In this manner, the buttons 112 may provide tangible surfaces that define the outer boundaries of the touch pad 110. As shown, there are four buttons 112A that surround the outer perimeter and one button 112B disposed in the center or middle of the touch pad 110. By way of example, the plurality of buttons 112 may consist of a menu button, play/stop button, forward seek button and a reverse seek button, and the like.
Moreover, the media player 100 may also include a power switch 114, a headphone jack 116 and a data port 118. The power switch 114 is configured to turn the media device 100 on and off. The headphone jack 116 is capable of receiving a headphone connector associated with headphones configured for listening to sound being outputted by the media device 100. The data port 118 is capable of receiving a data connector/cable assembly configured for transmitting and receiving data to and from a host device such as a general purpose computer. By way of example, the data port 118 may be used to upload or down load songs to and from the media device 100. The data port 118 may be widely varied. For example, the data port may be a PS/2 port, a serial port, a parallel port, a USB port, a Firewire port and the like. In some cases, the data port 118 may be a radio frequency (RF) link or optical infrared (IR) link to eliminate the need for a cable. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the media player 100 may also include a power port that receives a power connector/cable assembly configured for delivering powering to the media player 100. In some cases, the data port 118 may serve as both a data and power port.
FIGS. 3A-3C show the media player 100 of FIG. 2 being used by a user 120, in accordance with different embodiments of the invention. In all of these embodiments, the user 120 is linearly scrolling 104 (as shown by arrow 124) through a list of songs 122 displayed on the display screen via a slider bar 123. As shown, the media device 100 is comfortably held by one hand 126 while being comfortably addressed by the other hand 128. This configuration generally allows the user 120 to easily actuate the touch pad 110 with one or more fingers. For example, the thumb 130 and rightmost fingers 131 (or leftmost fingers if left handed) of the first hand 126 are used to grip the sides of the media player 100 while a finger 132 of the opposite hand 128 is used to actuate the touch pad 110. As shown, the entire top surface of the touch pad 110 is accessible to the user's finger 130.
Referring to FIG. 3A, and in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the touch pad 110 can be continuously actuated by a simple swirling motion of the finger 132 as shown by arrow 134. By swirling, it is meant that the finger moves in an arcuate or circular manner. For example, the finger may rotate relative to an imaginary axis. In particular, the finger can be rotated through 360 degrees of rotation without stopping. This form of motion may produce continuous or incremental scrolling on the display screen 104.
Referring to FIG. 3B, and in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the user 120 can slide his or her finger 132 radially between the inner and outer perimeter of the touch pad 110. For example, the touch pad 110 may be actuated radially as shown by arrow 140.
Referring to FIG. 3C, and in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the user 120 can slide his or her finger 132 substantially tangentially from all sides of the touch pad 110. For example, the touch pad 110 may be actuated forwards and backwards as shown by arrows 136 and side to side by arrows 138.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a touchpad/display system 200, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. By way of example, the touchpad/display system 200 may be used in the media player shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The touchpad/display system 200 utilizes a touch pad 202 and a display screen 204. The touchpad/display system 200 via the touch pad 202 is configured to transform a swirling or whirling motion 206 of an object such as a finger (as shown in FIG. 3A) into translational or linear motion 208 on the display screen 204. In one embodiment, the touch pad 202 is arranged to continuously determine the angular position of an object relative to the planar surface 209 of the touch pad 202. This allows a user to linearly scroll through a media list 211 on the display screen 204 by swirling the object at least partially around the touch pad 202. For example, by moving the object between any angular positions (e.g., 0-360) on the touch pad 202.
As shown, the touch pad 202 is divided into several independent and spatially distinct zones 210 that are positioned around the periphery of the touch pad 202. Any number of zones may be used. In one embodiment, each of the zones 210 represents a polar angle that specifies the angular position of the zone in the plane of the touch pad 202. By way of ex ample, the zones 210 may be positioned at 2 degree increments all the way around the touch pad 202. Each of the zones 210 has an associated sensor disposed therein for detecting the presence of an object such as a finger. The sensors may be widely varied. For example, the sensors may be based on resistive sensing, surface acoustic wave sensing, pressure sensing (e.g., strain gauge, pressure plates, piezoelectric transducers or the like), optical sensing, capacitive sensing and the like. In general, when an object approaches a zone 210, and more particularly a sensor, a position signal is generated that informs the media system 200 that the object is at a specific angular position on the touch pad 202. When an object is moved between zones 210 or over multiple zones 210, multiple position signals are generated. These multiple position signals may be used to determine the angular location, direction, speed and acceleration of the object as its moved around the touch pad 202.
The system 200 also includes a control assembly 212 that is coupled to the touch pad 202. The control assembly 212 is configured to acquire the position signals from the sensors and to supply the acquired signals to a processor 214 of the system. By way of example, the control assembly 212 may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that is configured to monitor the signals from the sensors, to compute the angular location, direction, speed and acceleration of the monitored signals and to report this information to the processor 214.
The processor 214 is coupled between the control assembly 212 and the display screen 204. The processor 214 is configured to control motion inputs to the display screen 204. In one sequence, the processor 214 receives angular motion information from the control assembly 212 and then determines the next items of the media list 211 that are to be presented on the display screen 204. In making this determination, the processor 214 can take into consideration the length of the media list 211. Typically, the processor 214 will determine the rate of movement of the finger such that the transitioning to different items in the media list 211 can be performed faster when the finger is moved at greater speeds. In effect, to the user, the more rapid swirling of the finger enables effective acceleration of the transitioning of the list of media items 211. Alternatively, the control assembly 212 and processor 214 may be combined in some embodiments.
Although not shown, the processor 214 can also control a buzzer to provide audio feedback to a user. The audio feedback can, for example, be a clicking sound produced by the buzzer. In one embodiment, the buzzer 216 is a piezo-electric buzzer. As the rate of transitioning through the list of media items increases, the frequency of the clicking sounds increases. Alternatively, when the rate that the finger is moved slows, the rate of transitioning through the list of media items decreases, and thus the frequency of the clicking sounds correspondingly slows. Hence, the clicking sounds provide audio feedback to the user as to the rate in which the media items within the list of media items are being traversed.
Additionally or alternatively, the system via the touch pad may be configured to transform radial motion an object such as a finger (as shown in FIG. 3B) into translational or linear motion on the display screen. By radial, it is meant that the object moves in a substantially radial direction from the center of the touch pad to an outer perimeter of the touch pad. In one embodiment, the touch pad is arranged to continuously determine the radial position of a finger relative to the planar surface of the touch pad. This allows a user to linearly scroll through a media list on the display screen by moving the object at least partially between the center and outer perimeter of the touch pad. For example, by moving the object between a small and large radius (e.g., 0-3 cm) on the touch pad. This may also allow a user to vary a characteristic of the media player. For example, by moving radially, the user may be able to change the volume of sound being played on the media player (i.e., acts like a potentiometer).
Referring to FIG. 5, a radial touch pad 218 will be discussed in accordance with one embodiment. By way of example, the touch pad 218 may replace the touch pad shown in FIG. 4. The touch pad 218 may be divided into several independent and spatially distinct ones 220 that are positioned radially from the center 222 of the touch pad 218 to the perimeter 224 of the touch pad 218. Any number of radial zones may be used. In one embodiment, each of the radial zones 220 represents a radial position in the plane of the touch pad 218. By way of example, the zones 220 may be spaced at 5 mm increments. Like above, each of the zones 220 has an associated sensor disposed therein for detecting the presence of an object such as a finger. In general, when an object approaches a zone 220, and more particularly a sensor, a position signal is generated that informs the system 200 that the object is at a specific radial position on the touch pad 218. When an object is moved between zones 220 or over multiple zones 220, multiple position signals are generated. These multiple position signals may be used to determine radial location, direction, speed and acceleration of the object as its moved radially across the touch pad 218.
Referring to FIG. 6, a combination angular/radial touch pad 228 will be discussed in accordance with one embodiment. By way of example, the touch pad 228 may replace the touch pad shown in FIG. 4. The touch pad 228 may be divided into several independent and spatially distinct zones 230 that are positioned both angularly and radially about the periphery of the touch pad 228 and from the center of the touch pad 202 to the perimeter of the touch pad 228. Any number of combination zones may be used. In one embodiment, each of the combination zones 230 represents both an angular End radial position in the plane of the touch pad 228. By way of example, the zones may be positioned at both 2 degrees and 5 mm increments. Like above, each of the combination zones 230 has an associated sensor disposed therein for detecting the presence of an object such as a finger. In general, when an object approaches a combination zone 230, and more particularly a sensor, a position signal is generated that informs the system 200 that the object is at a specific angular and radial position on the touch pad 228. When an object is moved between combination zones 230 or over multiple combinations zones 230, multiple position signals are generated. These multiple position signals may be used to determine location, direction, speed and acceleration of the object as its angularly and radially moved across the touch pad 228. The angular and radial zones may be initiated at the same time or they may be initiated at different times. For example, the angular zones may be initiated for scrolling through a media player and the radial zones may be initiated for varying the volume of a media player.
It should be noted that although the touch pads of FIGS. 4-6 are all shown as circular that they may take on other forms such as other curvilinear shapes (e.g., oval, annular and the like), rectilinear shapes (e.g., hexagon, pentagon, octagon, rectangle, square, and the like) or a combination of curvilinear and rectilinear (e.g., dome).
Furthermore, in order to provide higher resolution, a more complex arrangement of zones may be used. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the touch pad 238 may include angular and radial zones 240 that are broken up such that consecutive zones do not coincide exactly. In this embodiment, the touch pad 202 has an annular shape and the zones 240 follow a spiral path around the touch pad 202 from the center to the outer perimeter of the touch pad 202.
FIG. 8 is a partially broken away perspective view of an annular capacitive touch pad 250, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. By way of example, the annular capacitive touch pad 250 may correspond to the touch pad of FIG. 2. The annular capacitive touch pad 250 is arranged to detect changes in capacitance as the user swirls an object such as a finger around the touch pad 250. The annular capacitive touch pad 250 is also arranged to detect changes in capacitance as the user moves their finger radially across the touch pad 250. The annular capacitive touch pad 250 is formed from various layers including at least a label layer 252, an electrode layer 254 and a circuit board 256. The label layer 252 is disposed over the electrode layer 254 and the electrode layer 254 is disposed over the circuit board 256. At least the label 252 and electrode layer 254 are annular such that they are defined by concentric circles, i.e., they have an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter. The circuit board 256 is generally a circular piece having an outer perimeter that coincides with the outer perimeter of the label 252 and electrode layer 254. It should be noted, however, that in some cases the circuit board 256 may be annular or the label 252 and electrode layer 254 may be circular.
The label layer 252 serves to protect the underlayers and to provide a surface for allowing a finger to slide thereon. The surface is generally smooth so that the finger does not stick to it when moved. The label layer 252 also provides an insulating layer between the finger and the electrode layer 254. The electrode layer 254 includes a plurality of spatially distinct electrodes 258 that have positions based on the polar coordinate system. For instance, the electrodes 258 are positioned both angularly and radially on the circuit board 256 such that each of the electrodes 258 defines a distinct angular and radial position thereon. Any suitable number of electrodes 258 may be used. In most cases, it would be desirable to increase the number of electrodes 258 so as to provide higher resolution, i.e., more information can be used for things such as acceleration.
When configured together, the touch pad 250 provides a touch sensitive surface that works according to the principals of capacitance. As should be appreciated, whenever two electrically conductive members come close to one another without actually touching, their electric fields interact to form capacitance. In this configuration, the first electrically conductive member is one or more of the electrodes 258 and the second electrically conductive member is the finger of the user. Accordingly, as the finger approaches the touch pad 250, a tiny capacitance forms between the finger and the electrodes 258 in close proximity to the finger. The capacitance in each of the electrodes 258 is measured by control circuitry 260 located on the backside of the circuit board 256. By detecting changes in capacitance at each of the electrodes 258, the control circuitry 260 can determine the angular location, direction, speed and acceleration of the finger as it is moved across the touch pad 250. The control circuitry 260 can also report this information in a form that can be used by a computing device. By way of example, the control circuitry may include an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit).
FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of touch pad-display processing 300, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The touch pad-display processing 300 allows a user to interact with a graphical user interface of a computing device. The touch pad-display processing 300 generally begins at block 302 where at least one control object is displayed on the graphical user interface. By way of example, the control object may be a slider bar that highlights information from a list in a menu displayed on a graphical user interface on a display screen. The displayed control object is generally controlled by the processor 214 illustrated in FIG. 3. Following block 302, the touch pad-display processing proceeds to block 304 where a user input is received. The user input may be received by the processor 214 illustrated in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the user input is an angular referenced input, as for example, a user input produced by a rotational user action such as a finger swirling across the touch pad. By way of example, the touch pad may correspond to the touch pad illustrated in FIG. 3. In another embodiment, the user input is a radial referenced input, as for example, a user input produced by a radial user action such as a finger radially moving across the touch pad. By way of example, the touch pad may correspond to the touch pad illustrated in FIG. 4.
Following block 304, the touch pad-display processing proceeds to block 306 where the angular or radial referenced user input is converted into a linear referenced input. The conversion may be implemented by the processor 212 illustrated in FIG. 3. Following block 306, the touch pad-display processing proceeds to block 308 where control object is modified in accordance with the linear referenced input. For example, the control object such as a slider bar may be linearly moved from a first item to a second item on a list or it may be moved through multiple items on a list (e.g., scrolling). The modification is generally implemented when the processor 214 illustrated in FIG. 3 supplies the linear referenced input to the graphical user interface on the display screen.
The various aspects of the invention described above can be used alone or in various combinations. The invention is preferably implemented by a combination of hardware and software, but can also be implemented in hardware or software. The invention can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, DVDs, magnetic tape, optical data storage devices, and carrier waves. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over a network coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.
Furthermore, although a scrolling feature is described, it should be noted that a scrolling feature is not a limitation and that the touch pad may be used to manipulate other features. For example, the touch pad may be used to adjust a volume control in an audio application. In addition, the touch pad may be used to advance through frames in a movie in video editing applications. The touch pad may also be used in video game applications.
The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments or implementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. It should be noted that this is not an exhaustive list and there may be other advantages which are not described herein. One advantage of the invention is that a user is able to easily and rapidly traverse at lengthy list of media items. Another advantage of the invention is that a substantial portion of the touch pad is accessible to the user, i.e., the touch pad provides a large surface area for manipulation thereof. Another advantage of the invention is that the touch pad can be continuously actuated by a simple swirling motion of a finger, i.e., the finger can be rotated through 360 degrees of rotation without stopping. Another advantage of the invention is that the touch pad provides more range of finger positions. For example, a left handed user may choose to use one portion of the touch pad while a right handed user may choose to use another portion of the touch pad. In essence, the touch pad is more ergonomic. Another advantage of the invention is that the touch pad makes the media player more aesthetically pleasing. Another advantage of the invention is that the touch pad allows an intuitive way to scroll on a display screen. For example, the user can manipulate the his or her finger side to side for horizontal scrolling and the user can manipulate his or her finger backwards and forwards for vertical scrolling.
While this invention has been described in terms of several preferred embodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents, which fall within the scope of this invention. For example, although the invention has been described in terms of an MP3 music player, it should be appreciated that certain features of the invention may also be applied to other types of media players such as video recorders, cameras, and the like. Furthermore, the MP3 music player described herein is not limited to the MP3 music format. Other audio formats such as MP3 VBR (variable bit rate), AIFF and WAV formats may be used. Moreover, certain aspects of the invention are not limited to handheld devices. For example, the touch pad may also be used in other computing devices such as a portable computer, personal digital assistants (PDA), cellular phones, and the like. The touch pad may also be used a stand alone input device that connects to a desktop or portable computer. It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing the methods and apparatuses of the present invention. For example, although the touch pad has been described in terms of being actuated by a finger, it should be noted that other objects may be used to actuate it in some cases. For example, a stylus or other object may be used in some configurations of the touch pad. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims be interpreted as including all such alterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.
a touch pad configured to receive input from a sliding motion or a tapping motion of a finger, the sliding motion of the finger controlling the movement of the visual indicator through the group of media items, the tapping motion of the finger selecting the specific media item that is designated by the visual indicator.
a plurality of buttons configured to receive input from a finger pressing thereon, the button Functions controlling various aspects of the handheld electronic device, the functions of the buttons being distinct from the functions of the touch pad.
3. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 1 wherein the buttons are disposed about the touch pad.
4. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 3 wherein the buttons are adjacent one another and the touch pad.
5. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 4 wherein tangible surfaces are provided between the buttons and touch pad so as to physically define their boundaries.
6. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 2 wherein there are at least four buttons.
7. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 6 wherein the buttons include at least a menu button, play/stop button, forward seek button and a reverse seek button.
8. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 1 wherein the touch pad is recessed below a surface of a housing of the handheld electronic device.
9. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 1 wherein the touch pad is circular.
10. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 9 wherein the circular touch pad is annular and wherein the width of the annularly circular touch pad is capable of receiving tangential and swirling sliding motions.
11. The handheld electronic device as recited in claim 1 wherein the sliding motion of the finger also controls the volume of audio being outputted by the media device.
audio out put components for outputting music associated with a selected specific song from the list of songs.
13. The music player as recited in claim 12 wherein the control functions include moving the visual indicator through the list of songs and making selections of songs that are designated by the visual indicator, adjusting the volume of the music being outputted by the music player, and initiating commands associated with the music player.
14. The music player as recited in claim 12 wherein at least one of the input regions provides control functions for moving the visual indicator through the list of songs, and selecting a song to be played from the list of songs.
15. The music player as recited in claim 14 wherein the at least one of the input regions is also configured to provide control functions for adjusting the volume of the music being outputted by the music player.
16. The music player as recited in claim 14 wherein the remaining input regions are configured to provide control functions for adjusting the volume of the music being outputted by the music player initiating menu, play/pause, previous, and next commands.
17. The music player as recited in claim 12 wherein the input arrangement is circular.
18. The music player as recited in claim 12 wherein the input arrangement is rectangular.
19. The music player as recited in claim 12 wherein tangible surfaces are provided at the boundaries of the input regions so as to physically define their position within the input arrangement.
an input arrangement provided at a second portion of the front surface of the housing, the input arrangement including an inner input region and one or more outer input regions that provide control functions for operating the battery powered handheld device, the outer input regions being disposed outside the inner input region, the inner input region including at least a touch pad.
21. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the inner input region provides control functions for at least controlling the visual indicator and selecting a menu item from the list of menu items.
22. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 21 wherein the outer input regions provide control functions for initiating commands in the battery powered handheld device.
23. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the inner input region further includes a button integrated within the touch surface of the touch pad.
24. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the input arrangement is circular.
25. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the touch pad is recessed below the outer surface of the housing.
26. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the outer input regions are configured to surround the perimeter of the inner input region.
27. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein tangible surfaces are provided at the boundaries of the inner and outer input regions so as to physically define their position within the input arrangement.
28. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 further comprising an audio feedback device disposed inside the housing, and configured to provide audio feedback in conjunction with movement of the visual indicator as it traverses through the menu list.
29. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the input arrangement includes at least four outer input regions.
30. The battery powered handheld device as recited in claim 20 wherein the outer input regions include at least a first input region associated with a menu command, a second input region associated with play and stop command, a third input region associated with a forward seek command and a fourth input region associated with a reverse seek command.
US1067578A (en) 1908-12-21 1913-07-15 Nat Malleable Castings Co Car-coupling.
FR2704671B1 (en) * 1993-04-30 1995-07-28 Decaux Jean Claude Improvements in portable boxes for the information of bus users.
MXPA01008191A (en) * 1999-12-15 2002-04-24 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc Portable information terminal, recording medium, and program.


I caught a ride from South Lake Tahoe from a lady that went out her way to take me to the trail. It only took 10 minutes or so to get the ride. I've been very lucky with hitchhiking. I think it helps to have a sign.
I started hiking around 1:30 pm at Echo Lake. There were lots of day hikers and a few hikers that did overnight camping along the trail. It was a cold and windy day with clear skies. The trail was so rocky and hard on my feet, I decided to call it the "Trail of Tears". I don't know if I'll ever get used to rocky trails, but I think it is less painful to my feet now than in the past, but still agonizing.
I only hiked about 7 miles, as that brought me to a tent site and the next one was too far away. First days back are always harder then the days that follow.
I saw several cabins similar to this one along Echo Lake.


text:
Alan Gebbie
May 14, 2022 May 14, 2022 / cairterscorner1877
Alan Gebbie was born in 1901 in Kilmarnock, and although officially 'Alexander', he was known as Alan throughout his life. Gebbie escaped the coal mines of Ayrshire as his father Robert was a lace weaver, and in 1919 the young half back signed for Muirkirk Athletic before catching the eye of Saints and John Cochrane who signed him for Saints just prior to Christmas 1924, another part of the intricate jigsaw which brought so much success to the club during this period.
The transition from amateur to professional football for Gebbie was seamless, and he scored in only his second match for the club, against his hometown team when Saints defeated the Ayrshire side 3-0 on the 5th January 1925. This is one of four goals Gebbie managed this debut season, including the winner against Celtic on the last day of the season to secure sixth position in the table for Saints.
The next season of course was a historic one for Saints as they finished fourth and won the Scottish Cup, and Gebbie played a massive part in this as a 6-1 defeat at Parkhead on the 9th of March 1926 was followed by Saints winning seven out of the last eight matches including the semi-final cup win over Rangers and the final over Celtic.
Gebbie scored six times in the three matches directly after this 6-1 defeat, with a double in each match as Saints beat Raith Rovers, Rangers and Cowdenbeath, hauling the club from rock bottom morale back to the one of the best sides in the country which they undoubtedly were. The Ayrshire man finished second top scorer at the club that season with nine goals, including one in the cup, the crucial clincher against Airdrie in the quarter final, who were arguably the best side in the country at the time.
The following season Gebbie scored six times, including another winner against Rangers, and remained a virtual ever present in the side over the next decade, with his best individual contribution coming in the 1928/29 season when he scored an impressive thirteen times, including a fine hat-trick in a 5-0 victory over Falkirk on the 16th March 1929.
An all action player blessed with wonderful stamina, Gebbie was a regular scorer for Saints for several seasons after this, but as he got older played a more disciplined role in the team, scoring just three goals in his last four seasons at the club and the team suffering the indignity of being relegated in the 1934/35 season, as the long serving player surpassed a decade at the club.
Gebbie scored his final goal for Saints on the opening day of the 1935/36 season during Saints first ever match in the lower tier, a 6-1 win at Bayview. At the end of the campaign as Saints won promotion, Gebbie was released and joined Aldershot as player/coach, but surprisingly was not given a benefits match despite twelve years at the club and over 300 appearances.
Almost a hundred years after Gebbie made his debut for Saints he remains the fifteen highest ever appearance maker for Saints, as well as the twenty fourth highest goal scorer in the history of the club despite not playing in a forward position. Alan Gebbie is an unsung hero of the glorious 1920's for Saints, and another who should be considered an all-time great.
Former St Mirren Players, Scottish Football, St Mirren
Alan Gebbie, Club Legend, Forgotten Hero, Former St Mirren Players, St Mirren, St Mirren Players
← John Cochrane
Jimmy Howieson →

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The Superfarm will go beyond what vertical farms typically produce.
The project is being developed at Brunel University London.
If you haven't looked seriously at "passive house" design and construction, you should.
Developed by Mark Goodman & Associates, 310 N. Sangamon will be the largest Passive House office building in the U.S. The building will be located around the corner from Google's new Midwest headquarters in Chicago's West Loop.
Solomon Cordwell Buenz is designing the building.
The multi-tenant commercial office building is currently under construction.
The project joins 16 other Living Buildings certified to date.
The wings have a surface area of over 1,100 sm.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a 1.9 million square foot professional sports stadium in Atlanta, achieved LEED Platinum.
The Spheres provide the most unique aspect of Amazon's downtown Seattle headquarters.


One of the things I enjoyed most about this book is how quickly the author gets to a point based on well researched and concise data. No time is wasted while putting economic data to the test of Austrian Business Cycle Theory, and making conclusions that are very precise.
One thing I would have liked to read more about was the international incorrect coverage of the Icelandic crisis. Nevertheless, this is certainly a recommendable book on a very present business cycle crisis.


text:
HOME >> PREMIER >> NEWS
Premier urges fresh financial backing to firms
Updated: Jun 18,2020 06:20 PM english.www.gov.cn
Financial institutions should be guided to further support businesses with favorable policies to help stabilize the fundamentals of the Chinese economy, Premier Li Keqiang said at the State Council executive meeting on June 17.
To cope with any economic shocks from the COVID-19 epidemic, the financial system has adopted a raft of measures this year, such as cutting the reserve requirement ratio (RRR), increasing re-lending and re-discount quotas, and pushing down real interest rates, the Premier said.
They paid off, with the amount of yuan loans between January and May rising from the same period last year and overall financing costs for enterprises seeing declines, data show.
Given the epidemic's impact, the mix of policies should give consideration to both short-term and long-term development, Premier Li said.
Alongside proactive fiscal policies, especially those meant to tackle difficulties at enterprises and energize the market, ensuring six priorities and stability in six fronts also requires stronger monetary and financial policies to shore up the real economy.
It will help enterprises, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in particular, get through this hard time, in pursuit of shared survival and prosperity between financial institutions and enterprises, Premier Li said.
Interdependent financial institutions and enterprises
Financial institutions and their corporate clients rely on each other to survive and thrive, the Premier said, adding that banks would struggle to pay interest on deposits and make a profit if the pandemic-affected companies in manufacturing and services cannot stay afloat.
Financial institutions should recognize such interdependence and the importance of offering a hand to enterprises hard-hit by the epidemic, which also concerns the development of the financial sector, he said.
This year, financial benefits to all types of companies are expected to total 1.5 trillion yuan (about $212 billion), according to the meeting. To this end, it demanded efforts to reduce the lending and bond rates, issue concessional-rate loans, defer payment of principal and interest on loans for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, and support the issuance of no-collateral loans to micro and small firms, and lower fees charged by banks — all echoing the Government Work Report.
As the virus outbreak has brought unprecedented shocks and challenges to China and around the world, the country should, with a keen awareness of the severity of the current situation, put itself on solid footing by securing market entities, especially the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that provide massive jobs in a wide range of areas.
Offering appropriate financial benefits holds the key to protecting them and steadying economic fundamentals, he added.
Reasonable profit relinquishment to keep capital flows on right track
Premier Li said financial institutions should be guided to reasonably give up some profits for enterprises.
Abiding by market rules, the government should improve policy tools and related mechanisms that support direct capital flows toward enterprises in a timely manner.
With sound protection and control measures taken, newly added financial funds will flow into the manufacturing sector, general service sectors, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, in an effort to bring out timely assistance into full play.
A slew of integrated tools, including deposit reserve ratio reduction and relending, should be used to keep the market running smoothly, ease fund burdens on enterprises, and increase the added amount of renminbi loans and social funding scale year-on-year.
In the meantime, pre-research and post-judgment should be enhanced during policy implementation. The government should keep track of the flow of newly added funds, the Premier said.
He said that reasonable profit relinquishment by financial institutions should neither change hands among banks nor off-track flows. And financial risks should be prevented.
Pragmatic financing cost reductions to support enterprises
Profits at enterprises of all sizes are dropping. The financial sector should further increase support in this field to help enterprises by reducing financing costs in a pragmatic way, the Premier said.
He said that related mechanism should be further improved to step up the power and impetus of financial services for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
It was decided at the meeting that capital base of small and medium-sized banks will see reasonable supplements.
And banks will be urged to improve internal assessment and promote the significance of all-inclusive finance.
Efforts will be made to rigorously write off non-performing loans. And loans will be issued with no strings attached.
The effect of financial bailout policies comes down to the reduction of comprehensive financing costs to enterprises and ease of difficulty in loans for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
The Premier said that not only the financial system, but also third parties, especially the market entities, are entitled to have their voices heard.
China strengthens financial support to enterprises
China to accelerate non-performing loans settlement
More funding sources beckon smaller firms


It's never been a better time for IT hosting companies to increase their revenues and margins. However, storage is relatively cheap and data centers have many challenges in gaining market share profitably under fierce competition with cheap storage and limited IT budgets putting pressure on prices.
To efficiently manage increasingly large quantities of backup data, data centers frequently rely on IBM's Spectrum Protect (formely known as TSM).
IBM Spectrum Protect continues to be a very successful and excellent storage management software solution, ideal for automating data backup and restore functions for very large installations and so it is no surprise that it is prevalent in data hosting companies.
This is why the Wizards Storage Portal® has proven so popular with many hosting companies and MSP's. WSP is a cloud-based solution that eliminates routine and resource demanding Storage Resource Management tasks in IBM Spectrum Protect (TSM) and offers a whole range of unique and simple to use features that help hosting companies manage their clients backup and storage more effectively.
WSP presents information into easily selectable analytical reports and charts, updating the information every 10 minutes, which can then be accessed instantly via multiple platforms - including an iPhone or iPad.
The customisable dashboard provides an overview of the backup status and performance in real time 24/7. It is simply and quickly set up by choosing the relevant widget from more than 200 preconfigured charts and reports.
Whenever the reports show a performance outside of expectations, the user can then drill down simply by clicking through as far as node level and then back up again to an overview if necessary.
Several WSP features are particularly useful for hosting companies. The Remote Backup Center (RBC) module in WSP, allows a hosting provider or MSP to create a contract with end users, set the price per gigabyte, and then track and invoice customers for the amount of backup storage used. The data center can then track the occupancy and other performance information, and set alerts when performance thresholds are breached, or problems arise to ensure backup is working as expected, The Remote Backup Center feature in WSP also provides the customer with access to review at a high level their backup status and performance at any given time.
In summary, Wizards Storage Portal® with the RBC module is an ideal tool for hosting companies to not only reduce the cost of managing their clients backup and storage by eliminating repetitive and resource demanding tasks, but as the IBM Spectrum Protect (TSM) installation is continuously monitored and analyzed in real-time with active alerts sent immediately, the service levels provided will be raised significantly.
– quickly identify specific system activity and error information amongst thousands of log files or locate the nodes generating the most errors. See the Activity log browser being used in this video here.
– set policies that send an alert automatically by SMS or email 24/7 if performance levels are breached, or scheduled events fail so that issues can be dealt with immediately.
- draws a historic occupancy graph for whatever domain, file space-type, storage pool or timeframe is specified to ensure the system is either being optimized or not heading to capacity issues.
- will list the highest occupancy growth with specific data.
– save valuable time by scheduling relevant reports to be sent directly to an email box at the intervals specified so they can be reviewed without having to log on to the Wizards Storage Portal.
– see which schedule events have not be completed and launch and investigation immediately.


text:
Oystering
A look at Bluff's past
Scenic/Historic Tour of Bluff
Southern scenic route
We Ain't Bluffing
Bluff history – an overview
Grasmere moored Bluff 1850s
Bluff was not a settlement until the arrival of Europeans but the area surrounding served a variety of functions for the Maori before European settlement. The main Maori settlement in the area which became known as Southland, was Ruapuke Island, which with its seven pas was the base of the paramount chief of the South Island, Tuhawaiki, otherwise known as 'King of the Bluff' or 'Bloody Jack'. Smaller Maori settlements were scattered along the Southland coast, including villages at Ocean Beach, Omaui and Oue on what is now known as the New River Estuary. This short video highlights some or the history of Maori in the area from pre-european times to the present day.
The European arrived in Bluff sooner than in many other parts of New Zealand. The first record of a boat entering Bluff Harbour was in 1813 when a Sydney expedition, on board the 'Perseverance', was sent to report on the possibilities of trading in flax.
The first European to settle at Bluff was James Spencer, a veteran of Waterloo. He arrived in 1823, aboard the 'St Micheal'. He left to return the following year and established a permanent home. Spencers settlement was one of the earliest in New Zealand – the first to survive to become a town. Bluff therefore has a longer history than any other town in New Zealand.
In 1856 the town was surveyed by JT Thomson, who called it Bluff Town and named the streets after rivers in Ireland. That did not meet instant approval for he was ordered by the Superintendent of the Province, Captain Cargill, to change the name of the towns main street from Shannon to Gore street, to honour Governor Gore Brown, and to rename the town Campbelltown to honour the Governors wife who was a Campbell. The Governors word was law and the town was officially known as Campbelltown until march 1917 when the name of Bluff was officially adopted.
Bluff township has a lot of notable historical sites to be seen, Whalers point on the Foveaux walk, remains of the Ship wreck 'Konini' also on the Foveaux walk, the old cemetery at the end of Lagan St, to name a few.
Bluff Heritage Trail
The Bluff History Group's Heritage Trail is another fantastic new attraction for the area. Featuring seventeen sites, the trail begins at the Greenhills Church and takes you to a variety of sites including the Greenpoint Walkway, the Monica, several buildings and homes of historic interest, the old Bluff Cemetery and Stirling Point to name just a few.
A good place to find further information and directions on Bluff's landmarks is here or at the Bluff Maritime Museum, who are one of many stockists of the Heritage Trail brochure.
Where the journey begins . . .
PlaygroupPlaygroup
Te Rourou Playgroup Sessions – Nau mai haere mai, 10.15am – 12.00pm Every Tuesday All are welcome to come along, relax with a cuppa and enjoy a secure and safe environment for your little ones. We provide separate indoor and outdoor space for your Pepi/Tamaiti or you can interact with our wonderful team and Tamariki. For further information please call – 212 8866. at 10:15 am
Bluff Oyster Season
Bluff 2024 Rejuvenation Trust AGM
Bluff Promotions AGM
Bluff Maritime Museum Open Day
Let's go to Chateau Foveaux – Bluff Drama Club Production this week!


text:
Learning in Nature
Linley Boniface1 year ago
Hong Kong student Wing Ki Lam says she'll never forget joining her classmates to lie on the grass and gaze up at the southern sky at night.
Wing Ki visited Mt John Observatory as part of a three-day trip for international students at Dunedin's Bayfield High School. The observatory is within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world to go stargazing.
"I've never seen so many stars before, and they were so pretty. I could never have done this back home because of the light pollution," says Wing Ki.
"In Hong Kong everything happens in the classroom. It's good that in New Zealand we can learn in nature."
Wing Ki is now planning to go skydiving to celebrate her 18th birthday.
Bayfield runs three annual trips that give international students the chance to try skiing, ice skating, jet boating and bungy jumping, and to explore environments as diverse as glaciers and glow worm caves.
Ewen Cameron, Bayfield's Director of International students, says the school makes it a priority to encourage students to have new experiences in the outdoors.
"We don't want our students to only learn in the classroom environment," he says.
Ewen says many of Bayfield's international students developed an interest in astronomy after the Mt John Observatory visit, especially after witnessing a shower of shooting stars.
The South Island is the ideal location for students who want to take their stargazing to the next level — the University of Canterbury offers the study of astronomy at all levels, and has a field station in Antarctica.
By Linley Boniface
Linley Boniface is a contract writer for Education New Zealand. She is based in Wellington, her favourite city in New Zealand. A former journalist, Linley spent a year in Montreal, Canada, as a secondary school student.
New Zealand Schools
New Zealand's K12 education system consistently ranks amongst the best in the world.
Choose Otago and you'll gain a world-class education in a staggeringly beautiful landscape.
PhD Research Tracks New Zealand's Glaciers
For US student Lauren Vargo, field work takes her out of the lab and onto a spectacular ancient river of ice.
Diving Into Kiwi Culture as a Medical Student
Sook Yee Yong didn't know anyone in New Zealand when she arrived here to study for her medical degree, but it didn't take long to feel at home.


text:
North America, Organizations in the News
United Potato Growers of Canada hires new General Manager
More in North America:
Canada: Upgraded Manitoba facility will allow for innovative potato storage research January 26, 2023
HZPC Americas: 'Greater appreciation for potatoes start with Gen Z' January 26, 2023
United Potato Growers of Canada has hired a new General Manager – Victoria Stamper of Mascouche, Quebec, a community just north of Montreal. Victoria will join United in this senior role effective Monday, April 25th. She replaces outgoing General Manager, Kevin MacIsaac, who announced his retirement from the organization earlier in the year.
Victoria brings a commodities distribution background to the organization, with the principles of supply, demand, and profitability being very familiar to members of the potato industry.
She grew up in London, Ontario, and attended the University of Guelph, obtaining a Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Marketing. She moved to Montreal and studied at McGill University in the Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Program. She is fluent in English and French. Her professional development also includes training in the Six Sigma Program at the yellow belt level. An active volunteer, she has given her time to organizations including, Pinewood Elementary, Scouts Canada, and the MS and Cancer Society.
Victoria's work experience over the years has created a strong background in sales, purchasing, marketing, administration, and human resources. Her decision to change careers and focus her talents on the potato industry can best be described by Victoria's statement: "It is product that has to be marketed, no matter if the commodity is steel or potatoes. World events are factors of influence, and a have a large affect on the membership needs of an organization like the United Potato Growers of Canada. I'm looking forward to working with potato growers all across the country by first of all learning about their needs and then by bringing value to their businesses."
United Potato Growers of Canada Chairman, Ray Keenan says: "Our executive has conducted an extensive search for a candidate to fulfill the needs of our organization and to strengthen it going forward. Victoria's commodity distribution background brings a new dynamic to our organization, and when coupled with her fluent presentation skill sets, make her an excellent fit to promote the principles of Supply and Demand for UPGC. We look forward to working with her."
Chairman Keenan also notes, "We would like to thank our former General Manager, Kevin MacIsaac, for his years of service in a leadership role with the organization since 2011. We wish him well in his future endeavors and appreciate his efforts during this transition period."
The United Potato Growers of Canada was formed in 2006, with membership from the east coast of Prince Edward Island to the west coast of British Columbia. Its mission is to create a more balanced supply of potatoes by providing accurate production and marketing information for Canadian Potato Growers.
Victoria can be reached at victoria@unitedpotatocanada.com
Source: United Potato Growers of Canada
Info@unitedpotatocanada.com


text:
METABOLISM OF 26,26,26,27,27,27-F6-1α,23S,25-TRIHYDROXYVITAMIN D3 BY HUMAN UDP-GLUCURONOSYLTRANSFERASE 1A3*
Noriyuki Kasai, Toshiyuki Sakaki, Raku Shinkyo, Shin-ichi Ikushiro, Takashi Iyanagi, Miho Ohta and Kuniyo Inouye
Drug Metabolism and Disposition January 2005, 33 (1) 102-107; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1124/dmd.104.002303
Noriyuki Kasai
Toshiyuki Sakaki
Raku Shinkyo
Shin-ichi Ikushiro
Takashi Iyanagi
Miho Ohta
Kuniyo Inouye
26,26,26,27,27,27-Hexafluoro-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [F6-1α, 25(OH)2D3], which is now clinically used as a drug for secondary hyperparathyroidism, is a hexafluorinated analog of the active form of vitamin D3. Our previous studies demonstrated that CYP24A1 is responsible for the metabolism of F6-1α,25(OH)2D3 in the target tissues and that F6-1α,25(OH)2D3 was successively converted to F6-1α,23S,25(OH)3D3 and F6-23-oxo-1α,25(OH)2D3. In this study, we examined the metabolism of F6-1α,25(OH)2D3,F6-1α,23S,25(OH)3D3, and F6-23-oxo-1α,25(OH)2D3 by human UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs). Of these compounds, F6-1α,23S,25(OH)3D3 was remarkably glucuronidated both in human liver microsomes and in the recombinant system expressing human UGT. No significant interindividual differences were observed among 10 human liver samples. The recombinant system for 12 species of human UGTs revealed that F6-1α,23S,25(OH)3D3 glucuronidation was specifically catalyzed by UGT1A3. The information obtained in this study seems very useful to predict the metabolism and efficacy of vitamin D analogs in human bodies before clinical trials. In addition, note that for the first time a possible probe substrate for UGT1A3 has been found.
This work was partly supported by Health Science research grants from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan, and a grant-in-aid for scientific research from the Ministry of Education, Science, Sports and Culture of Japan.
doi:10.1124/dmd.104.002303.
ABBREVIATIONS: F6-1α,25(OH)2D3, 26,26,26,27,27,27,-hexafluoro-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3; UGT, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase; HPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography; LC-MS, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Received September 14, 2004.
Accepted October 20, 2004.
You are going to email the following METABOLISM OF 26,26,26,27,27,27-F6-1α,23S,25-TRIHYDROXYVITAMIN D3 BY HUMAN UDP-GLUCURONOSYLTRANSFERASE 1A3*
Drug Metabolism and Disposition January 1, 2005, 33 (1) 102-107; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1124/dmd.104.002303


text:
> Headline News > NCFE apprenticeships help employers succeed
NCFE apprenticeships help employers succeed
11 Apr 13 | Author Rebecca Horsley | Headline News
Offering 50 apprenticeships across a range of sectors
The Government has committed to investing in apprenticeships following statistics that estimated apprentices could bring GBP3.4bn a year to the economy. Additionally, with youth unemployment remaining high at around the one million mark, apprenticeships are seen as a good way to combat this figure.
NCFE, a National Awarding Organisation offers nearly fifty full apprenticeships at Intermediate and Advanced Levels across a range of sectors, including business administration, law, commercial enterprise and public services.
NCFE also delivers pre-apprenticeship qualifications to help young people gain the transferable skills needed for the workplace. This prepares them for their chosen apprenticeship so that they can get the most out of their study. NCFE works closely with employers to develop a unique Progression to Apprenticeship package which allows them to support their learners in the best way possible.
To find out more about NCFE apprenticeships call 0191 239 8000 or visit the website where you can search the apprenticeships on offer, explore the NCFE Apprenticeship Directory, and discover more about NCFEs supporting resources.


My relationship with The Sims has always been a 'complicated' one. We far desire The Sims four's version to earlier CAS instruments, but it will probably take some getting used to. You'll discover it's all very easy and slick in terms of transitions too. The Sims 4 is a straightforward sport to play, however Sims could do an motion resembling woohoo" or attempt for baby", making it a bit inappropriate regardless that action is to not be seen.
You can start the sport with your Sim at any stage of their life, from toddler to elder, and you assign them a bunch of personality traits – neat, artistic, evil, no matter – that can dictate what makes them tick. Bugs make it unplayable at instances, and may cause loss of progress if you haven't saved the sport.
This pack also provides a brand new skill (Herbalism); a brand new collectable (bugs); and several new Sims traits, achievements, aspirations, outfits, objects, and recreation interactions associated to outdoor activities. After getting created your first Sim family, it is time to transfer them in. You may select from three locations – or 4 if in case you have the DLC – and from a few pre-built homes or empty plots of land.
Life in The Sims 4 can be routine and repetitive, a gradual if snug accumulation of capital and possessions that act as a form of consumerist compensation for the labour your Sim devotes to the unseen gods of employment, all leading to a slightly greater house, a slightly shinier kitchen, a slightly higher revenue.
Total, The Sims 4 expertise on console is nearly exactly the same as the COMPUTER model. After all, they did launch The Sims four on Xbox One and PlayStation four , in addition to PC. Nevertheless, The Sims three got here out on several platforms, too. With each iteration of The Sims, gamers have been capable of share such content in additional artistic ways.
One of my all-time favorite gaming recollections is taking part in Sims 2 for hours on GameCube with the lady who'd eventually develop into my spouse. It does not supply any free content material apart from the Completely happy Holidays bundle , but this can be complemented with the perfect of the catalog of packs and expansions from the day the game goes on sale.
The construct instruments also took a pleasant improve over the Sims 3. One characteristic you will be grateful for on the PS4 version of the Sim 4 is the pre-built rooms. Now, this can be troublesome for those that have already experienced the game with the 21 packs of extra content material.
Group tons are always filled with NPC Sims but there isn't that much to truly do on them, except you add in a few of your own content material. In The Sims sequence, being a writer typically meant incomes cash from the hours your Sim spent typing at their computer.
Happily, enjoying the Sims four doesn't require the disc to be in, permitting me to safely store my recreation disc inside my Sims collection. But in the end, some individuals do solely need the home life simulation, and the game is excellent at offering that. Create-a-Model, which felt like the correct solution to method interior design in The Sims, is gone.
I really feel this sport pack is simply the beginning of Sims 4 and that we've an extended road ahead of us before the following Sims recreation is even announced. Not having a gaming LAPTOP, I do not get to play Sims video games until they come to console.
That said, the truth that this is on PS4 is a giant plus, however I discover it form of annoying how EA is performing like they're doing console owners an enormous favor by lastly giving us the same version COMPUTER owners have had and charging a premium to boot.
On this game, we managed to pack some dialog time in while the Sim was pumping up his fitness on the treadmill. The element is phenomenal, the content material is nice, and the programs have lastly reached COMPUTER-normal on a console system; something Sims followers have been ready on for a lot of, many years.
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To reside
Housing and urban planning
Sanitation – Drinking water – Watercourses
animal pound
Reception areas for Travelers
Urban and suburban transport
Work and train
Economic policy and areas of activity
Higher education and training
People's University Sarreguemines Confluences
local task
Develop and preserve
Structuring projects
Work integration
Energetic transition
Very high speed
Eurodistrict Saarmoselle
Media library and network
Sarralbe swimming pool
Sarreguemines Confluences nautical center
Community gyms
Sport and environment
The Bliespark, future sports complex in the Emile Gentil district
The sports part
The will of the Community of Agglomeration is to consolidate the local infrastructures allowing to maintain an associative and sporting activity on the basin of Sarreguemines as well as to guarantee the accessibility of the users to the equipment.
The construction program is based on a community sports complex meeting the expectations of both Fulrad college and other high schools. Primary schools, including those in the Blies Valley, will be able to access it. Different sports will be practiced there and regional, inter-regional and even national competitions can be hosted. It will above all be a question of creating a place of sports competitions, a place of meeting and life which will be a driving force of attractiveness for the territory. It will be fully accessible to people with reduced mobility.
3 sports halls
A training ground that can be used by schoolchildren but also as a warm-up room during competitions.
A large multifunctional room, considered the center of honor of the cluster, with 1 places for school practice or for hosting sports competitions.
A 14-pitch fencing hall with bleachers that can be converted into a multi-purpose sports hall.
And other key spaces:
storage rooms for sports and educational equipment
an educational space/modular meeting room
a clubhouse type convivial space (bar, snack) during competitions
offices dedicated to PE teachers and associations
Work phase
The project management was entrusted to the architect Atelier Ferret Architectures de Bordeaux and its 5 co-contractors following an anonymous competition procedure in accordance with the regulations.
The total cost of the operation is estimated at approximately 18 million euros.
The schedule may change depending on the current situation linked to the pandemic:
January – February 2022
February – April 2022
Earthmoving and VRD
Respect for the aims of sustainable development
First of all, the project will promote the use of soft modes of transport with a junction with the cycle path, the use of public transport with the construction of a pedestrian link at the Lembach bus stop on line 2 but also the use of clean vehicles with the presence of a parking and charging area for electric vehicles.
Particular attention is paid to energy management by promoting airtightness of the building, the installation of LED lighting, the use of double flow ventilation with high efficiency recovery also promoting olfactory comfort, all connected to the district heating network. A centralized technical management (GTC) will allow the monitoring of the consumption of the installations, the control of the performance of the systems and the conditions of comfort supported by technical rooms designed for the interventions of maintenance, maintenance and replacement. Summer comfort will be ensured by sunscreens while making sure to provide enough natural light. Water management will be optimized through low-consumption sanitary appliances.
Then, in order to preserve biodiversity, environments and resources, the outdoor spaces outside the forecourt, courtyards, roads, paths and parking lots will be planted with respect for the Sarreguemin biodiversity. The species planted will be complementary to each other, non-invasive, adapted, so as to limit watering, maintenance and fertilizers.
In addition, the outdoor spaces, such as the fitness trail, are designed as crossing gardens inviting people from the neighborhood to walk and allowing future bio-diversifying projects.
In addition, the Agglomeration Community will also integrate a sorting process for construction-related waste.
Construction of the new Nursing Training Institute (IFSI) in Sarreguemines
The construction of the new IFSI building has now entered its construction phase.
The operation consists in constructing a new building for the IFSI on the site of the Hospitals of Sarreguemines to replace the current IFSI, still located on the site of the former Hospital and which is isolated and cut off from the hospital bases.
This real estate project is part of a voluntary approach to strengthen the match between the resources, means and activity of health establishments, by integrating it into the existing logistics environment (linen, heating, supplies, repairs and technical maintenance, kitchen, reprography, general administration, etc.) and, this, without generating travel between the Institute and the Hospitals of Sarreguemines.
The planned premises are grouped into several zones:
the administrative area includes, among other things, the offices of the management and the trainers.
the documentation area includes the library and the computer room.
the theoretical teaching area with plenary rooms and a relaxation room for students.
the clinical teaching area includes a simulation laboratory, practical work rooms, storage rooms and a room for dirty linen and waste.
The IFSI will therefore be perfectly adapted to accommodate students, trainers and administrative staff and thus ensure quality training in this field.
A cross-border crèche
The Agglomeration Community is committed to the project to create a cross-border crèche in the Brebach district of Saarbrücken, in partnership with the City of Saarbrücken, which is the contracting authority.
This establishment, which is aimed at children from 0 to 3 years old, will have a capacity of 33 places, 11 of which will be reserved for children coming from France. The cross-border nature lies in the development of a bicultural and bilingual educational project, carried out by a team of early childhood professionals of French and German mother tongue.
The total amount of the project for all the partners amounts to
€5. The Agglo's share amounts to 325 euros, including 670 euros in subsidies from the European program INTERREG.
Work began at the end of 2021 for an opening scheduled for fall 2023.
The European Territorial Cooperation Group "Eurodistrict SaarMoselle", initiator of the operation, ensures the management of the project, the implementation of the legal and financial conditions necessary for the realization of the project. It coordinates consultation on issues related to the construction of equipment for a cross-border childcare structure, the creation of the technical conditions necessary for the operation of the structure and communication, according to INTERREG requirements. He was also appointed as coordinator and interlocutor with the INTERREG Joint Secretariat.
A few words about the Eurodistrict
The Community of Agglo is committed to cross-border institutional cooperation by joining the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation EGTC "Eurodistrict SaarMoselle", created by prefectural decree dated April 20, 2010 and officially created on May 6, 2010. Its purpose is to guarantee the sustainable development of the cross-border territory by supporting, promoting and coordinating cross-border cooperation between municipalities and inter-municipalities. The seat of the Eurodistrict is located in Sarreguemines and its administrative services in Sarrebruck. The metropolitan cooperation project, supported by the French State through the DIACT and by the Land of Saarland, facilitates the implementation of projects which improve the integration of the SaarMoselle space and especially its influence at the level national and European.
Contact details of the Cooperation Office
www.saarmoselle.org
Eurodistrict SaarMoselle | Talstrasse 16 | D-66119 Saarbrücken
Phone: 0049 (0)681/506-8010 | Fax: 0049 (0)681/506-8020 | info@saarmoselle.org.
Public reception
from 8:15 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 13:30 p.m. to 17 p.m.
from 8:15 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 13:30 p.m. to 16:30 p.m.
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I'm female, age 39, Type 1 diabetes for 25 years. I have just recently started using Humalog. Can I mix Humalog and NPH insulin in the same shot?
Yes, if you're mixing lispro insulin [Humalog®] with Lilly's brand of NPH (Humulin N). There's some information that the duration of action of the Humalog will be a bit longer if mixed with the NPH, than when it's used alone.
Maybe, but it's not advised, if you're mixing Humalog with Novo's brand of NPH (Novolin N).


Gaming, Anime and Technology in one place.
IGN just posted a trailer for the latest game in the Fatal Frame series. The game is coming out in September 27 in japan. The latest games on the series came out in the original Wii but did not come over to America. Lets see if this one does.
Previous Previous post: Nintendo Wii U Update 5.0.0 is out.
The Nintendo Switch is revealed!
Zelda Twilight Princess HD is headed to the Wii U.


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