Patents Issued in July 19, 2001
  • Publication number: 20010008177
    Abstract: The release of malodorous TRS-containing gases from a comminuted cellulosic fibrous material feed system for a digester is minimized utilizing a particular arrangement associated with a pressure isolation device. Material is fed through the pressure isolation device and the pressure of the material increases from the inlet to the outlet, and the material is discharged from the pressure isolation device into a treatment vessel, such as a horizontal steaming vessel. Malodorous gases from the pressure isolation device are discharged substantially independently of the material discharged from the isolation device, and at least some of the malodorous gases discharged from the pressure isolation device are pressurized (e.g. in an eductor or thermocompressor) and reintroduced into the flow of cellulosic material downstream of the pressure isolation device (for example into the horizontal steaming vessel or a vessel downstream of it).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: ANDRITZ-AHLSTROM INC.
    Inventors: David J. Lebel, Todd S. Grace
  • Publication number: 20010008178
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for producing a base paper for fine papers, the base paper being produced from a mixture of a mechanical pulp and a chemical pulp. The chemical pulp used comprises a chemical softwood pulp having a elastic modulus close to that of the mechanical pulp and a great bonding strength. It is preferred to use a chemical softwood pulp which produces a sheet having a elastic modulus of less than 6000 N/mm2 when the bonding strength is 400 J/m2. A pulp of this kind has a good ScottBond strength at the same light scattering. The base paper produced by the method can therefore be used in double-coated fine papers which require a large bonding strength of the base paper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 1998
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: MARKKU LESKELA, KAARLO JOHANNES NISKANEN, STINA NYGARD, MAIJA PITKANEN
  • Publication number: 20010008179
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of applying a chemical treating agent to a cellulose web. The invention is further a means of increasing the bulk, absorbency and pattern definition in an embossed cellulose web without losing softness in the web. Finally, the invention includes products produced by the foregoing processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: T. PHILIPS ORIARIAN, GALYN A. SCHULZ, DALE T. GRACYALNY, MICHAEL E. HENNES, THOMAS N. KERSHAW, ANTHONY O. AWOFESO
  • Publication number: 20010008180
    Abstract: An improved cloth-like base web is disclosed. In particular, the base web of the present invention has a cloth-like look and feel and has improved absorbency. The base web is made by first hydroneedling a web containing pulp and/or staple fibers. A bonding material is then applied to at least one side of the web and the web is creped on at least one side. By combining a hydroneedling operation with a creping operation, a base web is produced that is strong, stretchable, very soft and absorbent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 1997
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: RALPH L ANDERSON, FRITZ RADWANSKI, HENRY SKOOG, DONALD E WALDROUP
  • Publication number: 20010008181
    Abstract: The specification discloses embodiments of a process and related apparatus for conditioning a fibrous web in order to improve the efficiency of drying and calendering thereof. In the process, a moving fibrous web is conditioned after the drier unit of a papermaking machine by applying a flow of moistened gas through one or more arrays of radial jet reattachment nozzles placed in close proximity to the web surface prior to a calendering unit or prior to a steaming unit placed between the nozzles and the calender unit to cool the web and/or increase its moisture content. Webs treated according to the invention exhibit improved properties including less moisture streaking, enhanced smoothness and avoidance of optical property loss.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Dennis W. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20010008182
    Abstract: A controlling member (a controlling pin 10) is inserted through an insertion hole 7 of a mold 1 and projected into a cavity 6. After a pipe P as an insert member is arranged at a predetermined position in the cavity 6, the pipe P is held in the cavity 6 by inserting a tip of the controlling pin 10 into a hole h of the pipe P at the end p1, or by inserting the end p1 of the pipe P into a cave 21 of the controlling member. A molten aluminum alloy is then poured through a gate 5 into the cavity 6 under such the condition, to enclose the pipe P with the aluminum alloy. Dislocation of the pipe P caused by kinetic and thermal energies of the poured aluminum alloy is suppressed by the controlling pin 10 or block 20 at the end p1. Since the enclosed pipe P has its end p1 opened at a predetermined position, a cast product obtained in this way can be used as a brake caliper or the like having an inner hydraulic circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: NIPPON LIGHT METAL CO., LTD. and SUMITOMO (SEI) BRAKE SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Kaoru Sugita, Yoshihiro Tajima, Masayuki Yasuda, Tetsuo Ishikawa, Masahide Hamada, Yoshiki Matsuzaki
  • Publication number: 20010008183
    Abstract: The present invention provides anchor tabs at opposite ends of a film member that are anchored to side faces of a door plate of a sliding door. Draft deflectors prevent the inflow of air to between the anchor tabs and the side faces of the door plate. Thus, inflow of air to between the anchor tabs of the film member and the side faces of the door plate is prevented. Also, fluctuations in pressure difference between the inner and outer sides of the anchor tabs are suppressed, and the production of extraneous noise caused by self-excited vibration of the anchor tabs at the ends of the film member is suppressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Koichi Ito, Haruki Ikuta
  • Publication number: 20010008184
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pipe mat used for air-conditioning which is capable of preventing disadvantages associated with a rectangle-shaped main pipe and solving a variety of conventional problems produced in a main pipe of circular section. In the present invention, the above challenges are resolved. A pipe mat used for air-conditioning for cooling or heating air through thermal radiation from cooling or heating fluid, includes a pair of main pipes MP made of a synthetic resin and having a larger sectional area, and a plurality of heat-exchange pipes HP made of a synthetic resin and having a smaller sectional area, both ends of each heat-exchange pipe HP being heat-welded between the pair of main pipes MP, the fluid flowing from one of the main pipes MP through the heat-exchange pipes HP to the other main pipe MP for the thermal radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Masashi Miyamura
  • Publication number: 20010008185
    Abstract: A frame for a tillage implement includes a pair of opposing frame sections pivotally connected to a central kingpost for a folding movement between a transversely extending working position and a longitudinally extending transport position. The frame sections have mounted thereto a number of tool sub-frames carrying ground engaging working tools. The tool sub-frames are pivotally movable relative to a rockshaft carried by the frame sections so as to be rotatable between a lowered operative position and a generally vertical raised non-working position. Depth control for the ground engaging tools is accomplished through the rotation of the rockshaft about its pivot lug. The frame sections are connected at the inner end to the kingpost so that the main frame members abut when placed in the working position. Each frame member is supported by a pair of wheel assemblies at the inner and distal ends respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Terrance A. Friggstad
  • Publication number: 20010008186
    Abstract: A hand held power tool formed as a hammer drill has a strikingly drivable tool holder having a base body, at least one locking body with which the base body is form-lockingly connectable and through which the base body is fixable in a rotary direction in at least two positions, the locking body being formed as a ring-shaped component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Karl Frauhammer, Manfred Hellbach, Gerhard Meixner, Heinz Schnerring, Andreas Strasser
  • Publication number: 20010008187
    Abstract: This patent application relates to a coaxial cable as well as to the manufacture of such a cable. Said cable comprises a central conductor and an outer conductor which are separated from each other by an electrically insulating layer, said outer conductor being provided, if necessary, with at least a protective coating. In accordance with the invention, the outer conductor of the cable comprises an electroconductive lacquer layer. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, a metal layer is applied to said lacquer layer. The cables in accordance with the invention can be manufactured much more rapidly than the known cables which comprise a stranded outer conductor or an outer conductor of metal foil. This advantage occurs in particular in the manufacture of very thin coaxial cables. In addition, the cables in accordance with the invention exhibit a satisfactory electromagnetic shielding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Hans Hanssen, Hans de Boer, Jos van Oorschot
  • Publication number: 20010008188
    Abstract: An EMI attenuation device comprising at least two substrates such that the spacing between these substrates is selected to maximize shielding performance at a particular frequency. The device further comprises additional substrates arranged at predetermined distances from the first two substrates to optimize shielding performance. A method also is provided for a multi-step, attenuation of impinging EMI, wherein the method also enables see-through and/or hear-through monitoring. Salient features of the method include relatively positioning a plurality of electrically conductive substrates, each of a particular topology, so as to maximize attenuation of the EMI at particular frequencies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: William E. Curran, Michael T. Egan, Joseph C. Weibler
  • Publication number: 20010008189
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting the coupling reactances between twisted pairs contained within a data communications cable is disclosed. An isolation element is used to isolate one or more twisted pairs of wires from the other twisted pairs of wires contained within the data communications cable. The isolation element may be constructed of dielectric, conductive, or ferromagnetic materials or a combination thereof. It may also include various shapes, patterns, and/or windows for creating a specified level of crosstalk among the twisted pairs contained within the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Ivan Reede
  • Publication number: 20010008190
    Abstract: An insert for a rolling cone earth-boring bit has a cylindrical base that interferingly presses into a mating hole formed in a cone of the bit. The insert has a convex end that extends from the base. A polycrystalline diamond cap is bonded to the convex end. The body is formed of at least two layers of carbide material having different mechanical properties, particularly a different modulus of elasticity. The first layer may have a metallic binder with a lesser percentage than the binder of the second layer to reduces the stress at the interface between the first layer and the diamond cap. The layers may have different average carbide average grain sizes, with finer average grain sizes adjoining the diamond cap. Further, the layers may have different binders, with cobalt being the binder in the layer adjoining the diamond cap and either nickel or a nickel-cobalt alloy in another layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Danny E. Scott, Marcus R. Skeem
  • Publication number: 20010008191
    Abstract: An electrical power generating system is described for generating electrical energy for an electric vehicle, via the motion of the non-drive wheels, which converts kinetic energy to electrical energy to replenish the batteries of said vehicle. The preferred version places one or more alternator/generator(s) at the non-driven wheels of the vehicle. Each alternator/generator is unitarily formed with respect to a mounting plate unitarily formed with respect to said mounting plate and said vehicle's suspension, and each alternator/generator includes a rotating field means integrated with the rotating mounting plate attached to the wheel and a stationary stator means stationarily attached to the frame through the suspension. Conventional electrical contact means attached to between said rotating field means and said stationary stator means for generating electrical current for said vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Vincent A. Smith, Larry J. Kinchen, Susan V. Smith
  • Publication number: 20010008192
    Abstract: A control system of a vehicle including a fuel cell and an electric motor that drives drive wheels of the vehicle with electric energy generated by the fuel cell is provided wherein a traction controller controls the output of the drive wheels so as to secure tractive force of the vehicle when a certain traction control start condition is satisfied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kunio Morisawa
  • Publication number: 20010008193
    Abstract: A cladding element having sound-absorbent properties is provided for screening an engine and/or exhaust system of a motor vehicle, for example as an underbody cover panel for same, in the form of a substantially plate-shaped, self-supporting stiff component of thermoplastic material formed at least in part as a hollow body, which at least partially accommodates a sound-absorbent filling of foamed thermoplastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jurgen Moitzheim, Jorg Bantel
  • Publication number: 20010008194
    Abstract: A fluid supply system is constructed to have an oil container 21, a transmission device 13 subjected to the supply of lubricating oil from the oil container, a lubricating oil supply tube 22 introducing lubricating oil from the oil container 21 to the transmission device 13, first and second axial holes 16a, 16b and lubricating holes 17. In the fluid supply system, a filtering member F having a permanent magnet and formed into a cylindrical shape is disposed in the first axial hole 16a formed so as to extend axially in a transmission input shaft 15, whereby at least a part of a lubricating oil supply passage is constituted by the first and second axial holes 16a, 16b and the lubricating holes 17 in the transmission input shaft 15, and the internal cylindrical space of the filtering member F.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Tokyo, Japan
    Inventor: Takeshi Hori
  • Publication number: 20010008195
    Abstract: To reduce a total power amount required to drive an elevator by a commercial power supply during a peak power-consumption time period, for instance, afternoon in summer time, a control apparatus for this elevator is arranged by employing: a converter for rectifying AC electric power to be converted into DC electric power; and inverter for inverting the DC electric power into AC electric power having a variable voltage and a variable frequency; a motor driven by said AC electric power having the variable voltage and the variable frequency so as to operate an elevator; a power storage apparatus for charging thereinto electric power; and a power controller for using both the power storage apparatus and the commercial power supply so as to supply the electric power to the inverter, and for controlling at least any one of the power storage apparatus and the commercial power supply in order to supply electric power which is required for the inverter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Shinobu Tajima, Hiroshi Araki, Ikuro Suga, Kazuyuki Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20010008196
    Abstract: A band braking device has an annular brake band having a frictional surface formed on the inner peripheral side thereof and a bracket fixed to an end portion thereof. Concave portions are formed on one of the bracket and the brake band, and convex portions are formed on the other to be engaged with the concave portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Fujita, Shigeki Umezawa
  • Publication number: 20010008197
    Abstract: The rotary housing of a hydrokinetic torque converter, which can be utilized in the power train of a motor vehicle—for example, in conjunction with a continuously variable transmission—contains a torque monitoring device which is installed in such a way that it does not take up any, or any appreciable, additional space, especially in the axial direction of the housing. The torque monitoring device can serve to transmit torque between the lockup clutch and the output element of the torque converter. Additional features reside in the provision, configuration and manner of mounting of an auxiliary mass, and in the provision of means for centering the piston of the lockup clutch in the housing as well as means for centering the housing on the output element of a prime mover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Luk Getriebe-Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Stephan Maienschein, Uwe Wagner, Hartmut Faust, Marc Meisner, Steven Olsen
  • Publication number: 20010008198
    Abstract: A torque-transmitting apparatus, particularly for motor vehicles, with a fluid coupling or a hydrodynamic torque converter and a damping system has an improved design providing the advantages of stress-free mounting of the damper, technical and cost improvements in the manufacture of the apparatus, modular assembly, capability to transmit large torque and attenuate rotational perturbations over a wide RPM range so as to minimize wear to prolong the useful life of the entire unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Luk Getriebe-Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Stephan Maienschein, Marc Meisner, Rudolf Honemann
  • Publication number: 20010008199
    Abstract: The power train of a motor vehicle has an automated transmission and/or an automated clutch, at least one control unit and at least one actor receiving signals from the control unit and serving to control the operation of the automated constituent or constituents of the power train. A preferably reestablishable connection can be interrupted in the event of a malfunctioning of the power train, such as exhaustion of the supply of electrical energy, defectiveness of the actor and/or defectiveness of the automated constituent or constituents and/or defectiveness of the motion transmitting connection or connections between the actor and the automated constituent or constituents. This renders it possible to set the transmission in neutral or into another gear and/or to select the condition of the clutch in such a way that the vehicle can advance to a selected destination under it own power or that it can be towed to such destination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Luk Getriebe-Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Gerd Ahnert, Andreas Deimel, Andreas Rogg, Reinhard Berger
  • Publication number: 20010008200
    Abstract: A coin discriminating apparatus includes a magnetic sensor for detecting magnetic properties of a coin being transported and producing magnetic data of the coin, an optical sensor for producing optical data of the coin, a reference optical data memory for storing reference optical data of an obverse surface and a reverse surface of coins of each denomination, a reference magnetic data memory for storing reference magnetic data of an obverse surface and a reverse surface of coins of each denomination to be discriminated, a first coin discriminator for comparing optical data of the coin produced by the optical sensor with reference optical data of an obverse surface and a reverse surface of coins of each denomination and determining whether or not the coin is acceptable and the denomination of the coin, and a second coin discriminator for reading from the reference magnetic data memory magnetic reference data selected depending upon whether reference optical data of the obverse surface of a coin of a certain de
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Toshio Yoshida, Takao Moritani, Shigetoshi Imai
  • Publication number: 20010008201
    Abstract: A system for transporting articles. The transport system includes a conveyor system which includes a transport device for carrying articles between workstations and a drive rail and a support rail for supporting the transport device. The drive rail includes a drive system for propelling the transport device between workstations. At least one shoe carried by the transport device rides on the support rail for movably supporting the transport device on the support rail. The transport system also includes a protective container including a housing having an interior compartment for supporting a plurality of articles. The bottom surface of the housing is configured to engage the drive system such that actuation of the drive system propels the housing along the drive and support rails. At least one shoe carried by the housing is configured to ride on the support rail of the conveyor system to movably support the housing on the support rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony C. Bonora, Richard H. Gould
  • Publication number: 20010008202
    Abstract: A conveyor is provided that can easily accommodate a change in specification of stations. Carriages (100) are coupled by carriage couplers (200, 210). Driving units (20) are provided to move entire coupled units (B1, B2) together by driving some of the coupled carriages (100). A distance of conveyance can be changed and a change in specification can be easily coped with only by rearranging the driving units (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Isamu Akatsuka, Yuji Nakano, Yoshitomo Takano
  • Publication number: 20010008203
    Abstract: A transporting installation (10, 110) comprises at least one conveyor belt (11, 111) on which are mounted at intervals carriages (12, 112) each equipped above with a horizontal roller (13, 113) for support of transport members (14) and side guide wheels (19, 119) running inside parallel opposing and facing C rails (20, 120). For support of roller and wheels the carriage has a U bracket (15, 115) fastened on the belt and with seats opening upward on the U arms for support of a support pin in a zone at the sides of the roller. The ends of the pin project on the two sides of the bracket (15, 115) to each support one of said guide wheels with there being between the wheels and the bracket spacers (22, 122) removable transversally to the pin to free a space for axial running of the guide wheels towards the center of the carriage. In this manner the wheels can be shifted in the direction of withdrawing them from the C guide rails upon removal of the spacers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Donato Patrito
  • Publication number: 20010008204
    Abstract: A disconnector comprises a first conductor (10), a second conductor (14) which is mechanically connected with the first conductor (10) but electrically insulated therefrom, and a semiconductor switch (28) which provides an electrically switchable electric connection between the first and second conductors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Jens Krause, Uwe Metzing, Ludger Leve
  • Publication number: 20010008205
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of forming an aluminum nitride layer on a substrate in a processing chamber comprising depositing a first aluminum nitride layer at a first chamber pressure on a substrate, and then depositing a second aluminum nitride layer at a second chamber pressure higher than the first chamber pressure on the aluminum nitride nucleating layer. The first aluminum nitride layer is deposited by sputtering an aluminum target in a nitrogen and inert gas plasma in a processing chamber at a chamber pressure of about 1.5 to about 3 milliTorr. The second aluminum nitride layer is deposited by sputtering an aluminum target in a nitrogen and inert gas plasma at a chamber pressure of about 5 to about 10 milliTorr. The process may carried out in the same physical vapor deposition chamber with the substrate being maintained at a temperature of preferably between about 125° C. and about 500° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 1999
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: INGO WILKE, ROCHELLE KING, HOA KIEU
  • Publication number: 20010008206
    Abstract: Silicon-chromium cathode targets comprising 5 to 80 weight percent chromium are disclosed for sputtering absorbing coatings of silicon-chromium alloy in atmospheres comprising inert gas, reactive gases such as nitrogen, oxygen, and mixtures thereof which may further comprise inert gas, such as argon, to form nitrides, oxides, and oxynitrides as well as metallic films. The presence of chromium in the cathode target in the range of 5 to 80 weight percent provides target stability and enhanced sputtering rates over targets of silicon alone, comparable to the target stability and sputtering rates of silicon-nickel, not only when sputtering in oxygen to produce an oxide coating, but also when sputtering in inert gas, nitrogen or a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen to produce coatings of silicon-chromium, silicon-chromium nitride or silicon-chromium oxynitride respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: JAMES J FINLEY
  • Publication number: 20010008207
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for forming a film of aluminum oxide in which a target containing aluminum is sputtered in a gas containing fluorine atoms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: KENJI ANDO, MASAAKI MATSUSHIMA, MINORU OTANI, YASUYUKI SUZUKI, RYUJI BIRO, HIDEHIRO KANAZAWA
  • Publication number: 20010008208
    Abstract: A sputtering apparatus for forming a sputtered film on a substrate held on a substrate holder in a vacuum chamber includes a target, a deposition preventing plate provided between the target and the substrate holder, a substrate holder carrying mechanism, and a moving mechanism for moving the substrate holder carrying mechanism to change a distance between the substrate and the deposition preventing plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 1999
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: MASAYASU FUTAGAWA, KIYOSHI MITO
  • Publication number: 20010008209
    Abstract: A film forming apparatus comprises a sputtering chamber, a cooling drum disposed at an central portion thereof for cooling a roll film in contact with the surface thereof, a roll chamber, an SiOx film forming chamber and a monitor room disposed to the periphery of the drum, a sputter cathode disposed to the SiOx film forming chamber, and a moisture pump such as a cryogenic panel disposed in the film forming chamber for effectively discharging the moisture by which the partial pressure of the moisture in the film forming chamber is kept roll, in which the light absorption of the SiOx film after formation is monitored by an InSitu transmission light monitor, the value x for the SiOx is judged by the transmittance of light of the SiOx film to control the oxygen flow rate by an MFC such that the value x reaches an aimed value, thereby enabling to form an adhesion layer having sufficient adhesion and good permeability on the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: HIROICHI ISHIKAWA, MASAYASU KAKINUMA
  • Publication number: 20010008210
    Abstract: The apparatus of the invention includes a flow chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and a removable cover. The cover includes fittings for mounting a reference electrode assembly, a measuring electrode assembly, and a combined counter electrode/thermistor probe. According to the one illustrative embodiment invention, the flow chamber is substantially cylindrical with the inlet located near the bottom of the chamber and the outlet located near the top of the chamber. The axes of the inlet and outlet lie in the same plane as and are parallel to a diameter of the chamber. The inner diameter of the inlet is reduced to approximately ⅛″ so that the velocity of water entering the chamber is increased. The inner diameter of the outlet is approximately ¼″ so that the velocity of water exiting the chamber is less than the velocity of water entering the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 1998
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: FARID AHMAD, JOHN D. FOGEL, HAROLD M. TERWILLIGER
  • Publication number: 20010008211
    Abstract: It is intended to avoid invasion of oxygen through any route except for an introducing port for a measurement gas so that the amount of oxide or inflammable gas contained in the measurement gas may be measured highly accurately. Insulative layers are provided for respective lead wires at positions corresponding to portions at which the temperature of the oxygen ion-conductive solid electrolyte is increased due to heat generation effected by a heater. Each of the insulative layers is formed to have a pattern in which one end is exposed to a first chamber or a second chamber, and the other end terminates at a position separated by a predetermined distance from a corresponding through-hole. At least the lead wires, which lead to an auxiliary pumping electrode and a detecting electrode, are densified. Preferably, the insulative layers for these lead wires are also densified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: NGK INSULATORS, LTD.
    Inventors: NOBUHIDE KATO, KUNIHIKO NAKAGAKI
  • Publication number: 20010008212
    Abstract: A polymer material useful as the porous dielectric medium for microfluidic devices generally and electrokinetic pumps in particular. The polymer material is produced from an inverse (water-in-oil) emulsion that creates a 3-dimensional network characterized by small pores and high internal volume, characteristics that are particularly desirable for the dielectric medium for electrokinetic pumps. Further, the material can be cast-to-shape inside a microchannel. The use of bifunctional monomers provides for charge density within the polymer structure sufficient to support electroosmotic flow. The 3-dimensional polymeric material can also be covalently bound to the channel walls thereby making it suitable for high-pressure applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Timothy J. Shepodd, Leroy Whinnery, William R. Even
  • Publication number: 20010008213
    Abstract: In a method for controlling sample introduction in microcolumn separation techniques, more particularly in capillary electrophoresis (CE), where a sample is injected as a sample plug into a sampling device which comprises at least a channel for the electrolyte buffer and a supply and drain channel for the sample. The supply and drain channels discharge into the electolyte channel at respective supply and drain ports. The distance between the supply port and the drain port geometrically defines a sample volume. The injection of the sample plug into the electrolyte channel is accomplished electrokinetically by applying an electric field across the supply and drain channels for a time at least long enough that the sample component having the lowest electrophoretic mobility is contained within the geometrically defined volume. The supply and drain channels each are inclined to the electrolyte channel. Means are provided for electrokinetically injecting the sample into the sample volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Ciba-Geigh Corporation
    Inventors: Andreas Manz, D. Jed Harrison, Carlo S. Effenhauser
  • Publication number: 20010008214
    Abstract: The invention provides an exemplary support pillow and methods for its use. An exemplary method is provided for supporting an object in front of a person's torso. According to the method, a support pillow is provided having a resilient cushion body with a medial region and first and second opposing cantilever arms extending from the medial region. The cantilever arms are curved about a vertical axis to define a substantially toroidal configuration for the cushion body. The cantilever arms and medial region cooperate to define a generally circular open well. The support pillow is placed around the person's torso with first and second end portions of the cantilever arms being at the back of the person's torso, and with the medial region of the support pillow being at the front of the person's torso. The cantilever arms are biased around the person's torso to hold the support pillow vertically positioned relative to the person's torso.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Susan H. Matthews
  • Publication number: 20010008215
    Abstract: A case (10) for tool accessories, such as drills or jigsaw blades, comprises a base (11) having a closure lid (12) slidable on it. Present in the base are housings (13) for the accessories which are aligned and directed in the sliding direction of the lid. The base (11) has a hinged head end (15) susceptible of being overturned backward on opening of the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Hardware Industrial Manufacturing
    Inventor: Giorgio Colombo
  • Publication number: 20010008216
    Abstract: An assembly for storing semiconductor wafers includes a container, a wafer carrier and a plate. The container may be a box having a substantially rectangular bottom surface. The wafer carrier fits in the container. The wafer carrier has a plurality of slots. Each slot is capable of receiving a semiconductor wafer. The plate has a size and shape so as to snugly fit in a predetermined position in the container. The plate substantially prevents motion of the wafer carrier relative to the container. The plate may be an insert formed of a separate piece of material from the wafer carrier. The insert has a substantially rectangular shape so as to fit snugly on the bottom surface of the box. The insert has at least one mounting feature to snugly hold the wafer carrier. For example, the insert may have at least one groove shaped to receive a tab extending from a bottom of the wafer carrier. The insert may be formed of an acetyl homopolymer, polypropylene, polyethylene, or other soft plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2000
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph C Rauchut, Gary J Reichl, Noel L Rodolfo, James V Roth
  • Publication number: 20010008217
    Abstract: Heterogeneous assays for different analytes in a single biological sample are performed simultaneously in a multiplexed assay that combines flow cytometry with the use of magnetic particles as the solid phase and yields an individual result for each analyte. The particles are distinguishable from each other by characteristics that permit them to be differentiated into groups, each group carrying an assay reagent bonded to the particle surface that is distinct from the assay reagents of particles in other groups. The magnetic particles facilitate separation of the solid and liquid phases, permitting the assays to be performed by automated equipment. Assays are also disclosed for the simultaneous detection of antibodies of different classes and a common antigen specificity or of a common class and different antigen specificities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: MICHAEL I. WATKINS, RICHARD B. EDWARDS
  • Publication number: 20010008218
    Abstract: A multimedia fluid treatment unit and rotatable valve are disclosed in which a plurality of discreet containers are removably stacked upon each other and contain various different and distinct water treating media. The rotatable valve is rotatable between either of three positions one of which is a service position for routing the water to be treated through the unit for treatment, a second of which is a rinse position for rinsing the media in the unit, and a third of which is a backwash position for backwashing and/or regenerating the media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Yiu Chau Chau
  • Publication number: 20010008219
    Abstract: A fluid filter comprising a housing defining a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a filter element defining an upstream surface communicating with the fluid inlet and a downstream cylindrical surface communicating with the fluid outlet, the filter element comprising a stack of filter disks defining a hollow volume interiorly thereof and a longitudinal axis, and backflushing means for removing filtered out sediment from the filter element comprising an axially displaceable backflushing nozzle assembly disposed within the hollow volume comprising a rotating head coupled to the fluid inlet and having fluid outlet means, arranged to provide a generally radially directed pressurized jet and rotational motion of the rotating head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Mordeki Drori
  • Publication number: 20010008220
    Abstract: Device (DME) or panel for collecting, distributing, mixing or drawing off several fluids, at least one main fluid and at least two secondary fluids, that comprises at least:
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Gilles Ferschneider, Jean-Christophe Viguie, Olivier Callebert, Frederic Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20010008221
    Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods separate whole blood into red blood cells and a plasma constituent within a rotating centrifugal separation device. The systems and methods convey whole blood into the separation device through an inlet path including a pump operable at a prescribed rate. The systems and methods remove plasma constituent from the separation device through an outlet path including a pump operable at a prescribed rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventor: Richard I. Brown
  • Publication number: 20010008222
    Abstract: A water insoluble polymeric composition which is a reaction product of a cyclodextrin monomer and a polyfunctional crosslinker from the group of polyisocyanates, dihalohydrocarbons, and dihaloacetylhydrocarbons is disclosed together with a process for removing a target organic compound from an aqueous composition including contacting the aqueous composition containing a target organic compound with a water insoluble cyclodextrin polymer which is the reaction product of a cyclodextrin monomer and a polyfunctional crosslinker from the group of polyisocyanates, dihalohydrocarbons, and dihaloacetylhydrocarbons for time sufficient to form a reaction product between the water insoluble cyclodextrin polymer and the target organic compound whereby the concentration of the target organic compound in the aqueous composition is reduced. Organic chromophores added to the water insoluble cyclodextrin polymers can provide organic nonlinear optical materals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: MIN MA, DEQUAN LI
  • Publication number: 20010008223
    Abstract: A storage structure according to the invention includes generally rectangular panels arranged in at least one first group of panels that are vertically oriented and each hinged about a respective hinge pin to a common connecting structure to pivot between two limit orientations. Each end panel has, on its bottom horizontal edge, a support wheel which rolls on the floor to support the panel cantilever-fashion. Each panel can carry objects such as works of art that can be observed from a sufficient distance in a storeroom. Both faces of each panel are accessible and can be used to fix objects, which maximizes the available storage area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Feralp, societe anonyme
    Inventor: Henri Accatino
  • Publication number: 20010008224
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing electronic components includes disposing a top metal layer (502) comprised of solder over a bottom metal layer (201, 202) comprised of titanium or tungsten, and selectively etching the bottom metal layer (201, 202) over the top metal layer (502) with an etchant mixture (601) comprised of an etchant, an additive to control the temperature of the etchant mixture (601), and another additive to reduce the redeposition of the top layer (502).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: ERIC J. WOOLSEY, DOUGLAS G. MITCHELL, GEORGE F. CARNEY, FRANCIS J. CARNEY, CARY B. POWELL
  • Publication number: 20010008225
    Abstract: A method of wiring formation includes forming a feeder film partially on a substrate, forming on the substrate a plating base film via a physical film making method so that the plate base film partially overlaps the feeder film, forming a plated wiring on the plating base film using an electrolytic plating, and selectively removing at least an area of the feeder film which is exposed from the plated wiring, using a wet etching process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Tonami, Yoshihiro Koshido
  • Publication number: 20010008226
    Abstract: An integrated in situ oxide etch process particularly useful for a counterbore dual-damascene structure over copper having in one inter-layer dielectric level a lower nitride stop layer, a lower oxide dielectric, a lower nitride stop layer, an upper oxide dielectric layer, and an anti-reflective coating (ARC). The process is divided into a counterbore etch and a trench etch with photolithography for each, and each step is preferably performed in a high-density plasma reactor having an inductively coupled plasma source primarily generating the plasma and a capacitively coupled pedestal supporting the wafer and producing the bias power. The counterbore etch preferably includes at least four substeps of opening the ARC, etching through the upper oxide and nitride layers, selectively etching the lower oxide layer but stopping on the lower nitride layer, and a post-etch treatment for removing residue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 1998
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: HOIMAN HUNG, JOSEPH P. CAULFIELD, SUM-YEE BETTY TANG, JIAN DING, TIANZONG XU