Abstract: A fixing unit or device that can be used in an image forming apparatus includes a first heater element that is formed of a material that increases in electrical resistance with increases in temperature. A controller of the fixing unit is configured to vary a duty ratio of electric power applied to the first heater element during a start-up operation in which the temperature of the first heater element is raised to a target operating temperature. By varying the duty ratio during the start-up operation, changes in the resistance of the first heater element with the heating can be compensated. For example, the duty ratio can be increased during the course of the start-up to achieve the target operating temperature faster.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a container and product information management system for the inventory, identification, and distribution of containers filled with compressed and/or liquified gas. The inventive system is effected through a distributed system of processors, displays, input devices, output devices, and communication devices whereby gas product and customer information is maintained at a central location and is distributed to and is available by a plurality of remote locations, each remote location preferably located proximate to a storage facility for gas-filled containers. Upon the filling of each container with a compressed gas, a product label is affixed to the container identifying, at a minimum, the gas and the container. The filled containers are routed to one or more warehouses to await ultimate shipment to an end user or customer. Upon receiving a customer order for gas at a warehouse, the containers satisfying the customer order are identified through the inventive system.

Abstract: In an air distillation apparatus having a main heat exchanger 7 for cooling down feed air, a rectification column 9S comprising a rectifying portion 13 for separating the thus-cooled feed air to an oxygen-enriched component and a nitrogen component and a condenser 35S for partially condensing the latter, and a liquid nitrogen storage tank 31S for supplying liquid nitrogen by way of a supply valve V3, anda transport route 18 for transporting an oxygen-enriched liquid flowing down from said rectifying portion 13 to the bottom into said condenser 35S, the said oxygen-enriched liquid is not reserved at the bottom of the column.