Patents Issued in November 22, 2001
  • Publication number: 20010042409
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing at least one joint includes an articulation device and a defect detection system. The first joint being tested has an inner race rotatably mounted within an outer race, a driving shaft connected to either the inner race or outer race, and a load bearing shaft connected to the other one of the inner race or outer race. The articulation device connects to the driving shaft and articulates the driving shaft to articulate the first outer race with respect to the first inner race without rotating the driving and load bearing shafts. The defect detection system detects first signals from the first joint during the articulation of the first outer race with respect to the first inner race and determines if there is a defect in the first joint based on the detected first signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Kevin B. Kochersberger
  • Publication number: 20010042410
    Abstract: An ultrasonic probe which does not require electric wiring to a large number of microcomponents and does not induce increase of crosstalk and electric impedance. This ultrasonic probe comprises an optical transmission path array incorporating a plurality of optical transmission paths on which light is incident at first ends thereof; and a plurality of ultrasonic detecting elements which are formed on these optical transmission at the second ends thereof and adapted to reflect the light incident through the respective fibers based on ultrasonic waves applied thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Eiji Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20010042411
    Abstract: A pressure detecting apparatus includes: a housing (11) for forming fluid chambers (21A and 21B) into which external fluid pressures are imported respectively; a pressure-receiving member (31) slidably provided in the housing (11) for receiving the fluid pressures from the fluid chambers (21A and 21B); an elastic member (35) supported by the housing (11) and elastically deformed due to a slide displacement of the pressure-receiving member (31) from a predetermined position; a displacement detecting means (12) for detecting the displacement of the pressure-receiving member (31) from the predetermined position; the elastic member including a base portion supported by the housing, an engagement portion engaged with the pressure-receiving member, and a flexible arm extending from the base portion toward the engagement portion along a plane approximately perpendicular to a direction of sliding of the pressure-receiving member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Teijin Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masakazu Hattori, Tsutomu Yasui
  • Publication number: 20010042412
    Abstract: A description is given of a passenger detector comprising a flexible support of insulating material, at least two electrode structures placed on said insulating substrate at a certain distance from each other, and a layer of semiconducting material placed above said electrode structures in an active zone of the detector. In conformity with the invention, said layer of semiconducting material has an internal resistance that varies with a deformation of said layer and said layer of semiconducting material is placed in intimate contact with said electrode structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Bogdan Serban, Michel Witte
  • Publication number: 20010042413
    Abstract: A sample introduction probe for introducing a gas sample to a mass spectrometer, having an inner pipe for conducting the sample to be analyzed, and an outer pipe installed outside of the inner pipe. An opening is installed at one end of the inner pipe for enabling entry of the sample into the inner pipe. A pump is installed on a side of the one end of the inner pipe, and a probe tip heater is provided for heating the one end of the inner pipe, a heater for heating the inner pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Minoru Sakairi, Masao Suga, Yuichiro Hashimoto, Masuyoshi Yamada
  • Publication number: 20010042414
    Abstract: A sensor device, for diagnosing a processing system, generally includes a support platform and one or more sensors mounted on the support platform. The sensor senses a condition, such as direction or inclination or acceleration in one or two axes, of the sensor device and outputs a signal indicative thereof, which is then sent to a transmitter, also mounted to the support platform, for wireless transmission of the signal to a receiver mounted on or near the processing system. The support platform generally has physical characteristics, such as size, profile height, mass, flexibility and/or strength, substantially similar to those of the substrates that are to be processed in the processing system, so the sensor device can be transferred through the processing system in a manner similar to the manner in which production substrates are transferred through the processing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Reginald Hunter
  • Publication number: 20010042415
    Abstract: A shift-assisting device for a transmission, which comprises a controller for outputting, to an electric motor for shift-assisting, a signal of a driving force corresponding to a shift stroke position, and in which the controller outputs, to the electric motor, a signal of a driving force smaller than the driving force corresponding to the shift stroke position when a difference in the synchronized rotational speed is smaller than a predetermined rotational speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Yasushi Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20010042416
    Abstract: A compact manual transmission, especially for use in FF drive vehicles, has a small overall length even though a synchronizer is provided exclusively for reverse gear. The transmission has an input shaft, first and second intermediate shafts disposed in parallel with the input shaft, and reverse gearing. The reverse gearing includes a low-speed driving gear disposed on the input shaft; a low-speed driven gear disposed on the first intermediate shaft for meshing with the low-speed driving gear; a reverse-only driving gear disposed on the first intermediate shaft; a synchronizer for reverse gear disposed on the reverse-only driving gear for causing the low-speed driven gear and the reverse-only driving gear to engage and disengage; and an intermediate-speed driven gear disposed on the second intermediate shaft for meshing with the reverse-only driving gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Suzuki, Kan Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20010042417
    Abstract: A gear for use as the pinion in a rack and pinion gear includes spur gear teeth that have an upper portion of the face cut in a worm cut so the gear is effective as a worm wheel for a worm gear while retaining involute curved faces so it is effective as the pinion for the rack. The rack, pinion, and worm driver are connected. When the worm gear connected to a shaft, power is transmitted from the shaft to the rack via the worm driver and pinion with all gears making line contact instead of point contact. This improvement turns one gear piece into two gears. The rack pinion can be geared to a worm gear while it is also matched up with a straight cut rack. In this way the gear translates force between the two different types of gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Paul G. Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20010042418
    Abstract: In a selector lever device, for an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, with a selector lever, which is fixed in a selector lever support seat and is guided in a gate structure including at least one gate branch wherein it is held in a home position by a detent unit, the selection lever is supported so that it can be swivelled from the home position about at least one swivel axis for actuating the detent structure providing for a one-touch function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Dieter Junge, Peter Von Ey
  • Publication number: 20010042419
    Abstract: A tilt-steering mechanism for a vehicle including a steering shaft, a steering wheel, universal joint interconnecting the steering shaft and the steering wheel wherein rotation of the steering wheel correspondingly rotates the steering shaft, the universal joint including a yoke defining a cavity therein and a shaft having a first end pivotably supported within the cavity in the yoke, and a locking structure for selectively locking the shaft of the universal joint at a predetermined angle to the steering shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Frederick E. Latz, Ronald C. Singleterry, Andrew K. Stiteler, Terry W. Craftchick
  • Publication number: 20010042420
    Abstract: Adjustable steering arrangement for a driver of a vehicle having an inner steering wheel shaft adapted to be connected to a steering wheel of the vehicle. The inner steering wheel shaft being arranged to be vertically adjustable and with respect to distance from the driver. A first lock arrangement is configured to fix the inner steering wheel shaft in a chosen position with respect to vertical and distance from the driver and a second lock arrangement is configured to fix the steering wheel in at least two distinct vertical positions independent of any locking of the first lock arrangement. The first lock arrangement is supported on a locking spindle extending substantially transverse to a longitudinal direction of the inner steering wheel shaft and is connected to the inner steering wheel shaft. The second lock arrangement has a rotatable tilting spindle that extends coaxially through the locking spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel Danielsson
  • Publication number: 20010042421
    Abstract: A bicycle speed control apparatus is provided with a pair of shifting levers to easily control a gear transmission mechanism via a drive cable. The bicycle speed control apparatus comprises a first seat connected to a bicycle handlebar and a second seat having a shaft used to connect to the first seat. A cylindrical sleeve member is used to connect to the drive cable and provided with first teeth, second teeth and third teeth in parallel. A first shifting lever and a second shifting lever are provided to pivot on the shaft so as to respectively shift a front and rear speed shifter. A first pawl and a second pawl are provided to movably mount on the first shifting lever and the second shifting lever, respectively. A resilient member is used to position on the shaft so as to engage the third teeth and disengage the first pawl from the first teeth and disengage the second pawl from the second teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: National Science Council
    Inventors: Chan-Hua Feng, Jen-Ji Wang
  • Publication number: 20010042422
    Abstract: A multiple crank drive for working machines, in particular for diaphragm pumps, with a crankshaft, which is disposed in a housing and which exhibits at lest two bearings, can be driven by a drive, in particular a gear, and in turn drives by a crank drive, one of several piston rods of the working machines. The drive is designed in such a manner that the crankshaft is suspended in the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Niels Kohlhase
  • Publication number: 20010042423
    Abstract: A tool for receiving adapters and sockets of various sizes. One embodiment includes a first receiving end having outer and inner cavities being substantially rectangular with the inner cavity having a smaller diameter than the outer cavity. A second extension end is positioned opposite the first receiving end and includes outer and inner extensions being substantially rectangular shaped with the outer extension having a smaller width than the inner extension. Another embodiment includes a first end having at least two receiving cavities axially aligned. A first receiving cavity is positioned proximate the first end and has a larger diameter than a second distal receiving cavity. A second end includes at least two receiving cavities axially aligned including a third receiving cavity positioned proximate the second end having a larger diameter than a fourth distal receiving cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Robert A. Bollinger
  • Publication number: 20010042424
    Abstract: A lathe base assembly is disclosed that decreases vibration and increases thermal stability in a lathe utilizing either a cast iron or composite base. Two separate pairs of rails mounted offset from each other are provided for mounting a secondary spindle and a tool turret, respectively. Vibration from the tool turret caused by the machining operation is thus isolated from the secondary spindle (and vice-versa). If a second tool turret is provided with the lathe, a third separate pair of rails can also be provided for mounting the second tool turret to increase vibration isolation. If a cast iron base is provided, cavities can be provided in the base for filling with a vibration damping material, such as a polymer composite. Alternatively, the base can be constructed from a composite material, and especially a polymer composite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 1999
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: sheehan
    Inventors: TERRENCE SHEEHAN, JACEK MIERZEJEWSKI, DOUGLAS E. BRACKLEY, GARY COMSTOCK
  • Publication number: 20010042425
    Abstract: In a perforating apparatus which has a holder to which a perforating blade can be fastened, the perforation is produced via the movement of a piston by the piston pressing against an air cushion, which in turn transmits this pressure to a perforating piston which presses the perforating blade downward. A positioning device which directly varies the position of the piston unit relative to the housing surface is provided for the zero setting of the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Markus Belmann, Hatto Hechler
  • Publication number: 20010042426
    Abstract: The machine controlled by the device comprises a set of cutting tools interchangeable in dependence on the blank to be cut, means adjustable in dependence on the jobs to be performed by each tool, and means for actuating the adjustable means. The control device comprises a memory (1) associated with each cutting tool in order to store the data relating to the characteristics of the tool and of the operations for adjusting the machine (5) in order to use the tool, reading means (2) for reading the data in the said memory, means (3) for displaying a menu relating to the data and control means (4) for generating and transmitting control signals (6, 7, 8) to the actuating means in dependence on the menu.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Bobst S.A.
    Inventor: Marc Nicole
  • Publication number: 20010042427
    Abstract: A novel method and apparatus for producing an endless flexible seamed belt using templates is disclosed. A first form of the template is a mask template with a template aperture in the form of a puzzle cut pattern to be used in combination with an excimer laser. The template is placed between the excimer laser source and the belt material to be cut. As the excimer laser traverses the width of the belt, the laser forms a puzzle cut pattern on the belt. A second form of the template is a punch and die having patterned edges in the form of a puzzle cut pattern with extremely small nodes and kerfs. The cutting tolerances of the patterned edges make it necessary to fix the punch with respect to the die so that there is no misalignment of the punch and die between cutting operations. This is accomplished by resiliently fixing the punch to the die, rather than having the punch attached to the force generating assembly as in normal punch and die assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Robert C. U. Yu, William A. Hammond, Edward L. Schlueter, Constance J. Thornton
  • Publication number: 20010042428
    Abstract: A tensive cutting assembly includes a tensionable cutting member formed of a strip of material, typically metal, which is formed having a serpentine configuration. The tensionable cutting member is removably mounted on a tensive cutting head. The tensive cutting head includes an aperture formed through its cross section for passage of food product during the cutting process. The cutting head also includes a first set of returns adjustably opposing a second set of returns, the distance between which is adjustable and which may be driven apart by a cutting member tensioning device. The tensive cutting assembly may also include a breakage detecting device for detecting breakage during use of the tensive cutting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Raleigh J. Jensen
  • Publication number: 20010042429
    Abstract: A power tool includes a table. A shaft is fixedly secured to the table. The power tool also has a support housing supporting a motor and a working tool driven by the motor. The support housing is disposed on the shaft adjacent to the table and is axially movable along the shaft and laterally pivotable about an axis of rotation. In addition, the power tool has a locking mechanism for locking the support housing at a predetermined lateral position, wherein the locking mechanism includes a handle disposed on the shaft. The handle is rotatable in two directions with respect to the shaft, such that rotation of the handle on the shaft urges the support housing into locking contact with the table. A method for operating the power tool is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2000
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Mark E. Brunson, William R. Stumpf, Adan Ayala
  • Publication number: 20010042430
    Abstract: A perforating punch has first, second, third, and fourth tips, a first diagonal ridge contiguous to the first and second tips, a second diagonal ridge contiguous to the third and fourth tips, and an included angle setting point located at the point of intersection between the first and second diagonal ridges and positioned longitudinally of the perforating punch to bend the first and second diagonal ridges for thereby establishing included angles at the first, second, third, and fourth tips. The perforating punch allows an included angle and a shear angle thereof to be established independently for each of the four sides of a rectangular perforation to be produced, and is capable of establishing cutting conditions easily in a wide range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: YOSHIHISA NEGISHI
  • Publication number: 20010042431
    Abstract: A cut-to-length shearing device for cropping strips has a stationary lower blade carrying beam having a first lower shearing blade and a stationary upper blade carrying beam having a first upper shearing blade. A mobile blade carrying beam is positioned between the stationary upper and lower blade carrying beams and has a second upper shearing blade and a second lower shearing blade. The second upper shearing blade is complementary to the first upper shearing blade and the first and second upper shearing blades define an upper cutting plane. The second lower shearing blade is complementary to the first lower shearing blade and the first and second lower shearing blades define a lower cutting plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Herbert Epskamp, Peter de Kock
  • Publication number: 20010042432
    Abstract: A silent piano includes a hammer stopper changed between a free position out of the trajectories of hammer shanks and a blocking position on the trajectories for blocking strings from being struck with the hammers and a tandem regulating button mechanism having standard regulating buttons and regulating bars used together with the hammer stopper changed in the blocking position for changing escaping speed of jacks, and an adjusting mechanism is provided between the regulating bars and a shaft for adjusting the regulating bars to appropriate angular positions, wherein the adjusting mechanism has regulating screws projecting from stationary brackets fixed to the shaft into a free space created in front of the array of action mechanisms so that a tuner easily adjusts the regulating bars to the appropriate angular positions without removing the action mechanisms from on the key bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Satoshi Inoue
  • Publication number: 20010042433
    Abstract: A bonding structure is provided, which is capable of eliminating overflow of the adhesive to the outside of the body, and which is capable of eliminating generation of a shrinkage cavity. The cross-section of a rib member 10 is to have approximate H shaped cross section, which shape is formed by an internal flange 11 and an external flange 12, each connected by a web 13, and the plate members are adhered to the top and bottom surfaces 11A and 11B of the internal flange 11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Minakuchi
  • Publication number: 20010042434
    Abstract: An audio signal processing apparatus capable of changing the tempo of an input audio signal, comprises magnification designator capable of designating a plurality of different magnifications; device capable of automatically detecting a BPM (Beats Per Minute) or a beat period of the input audio signal, changing said BPM or said beat period in accordance with a magnification designated by the magnification designator, changing the tempo of the audio signal in accordance with the changed BPM and the changed beat period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: YOUICHI YAMADA, TAKEAKI FUNADA, HIROYUKI ISOBE, KEITARO KABURAGI, NAOMI AMEMIYA, GEN INOSHITA, KO ATSUMI
  • Publication number: 20010042435
    Abstract: A hydraulic cylinder in which the cylinder head contains the main control valve for the cylinder. In one fluid path from the main control valve to an area located on one side of the cylinder's piston, fluid is directed through a transfer tube that extends through the center of the piston and terminates within a hollow ported section of the piston rod. The cylinder head can additionally include two electrically-actuated pilot valves and two pilot-operated check valves. The pilot-operated check valves are located in different passages that extend to areas located on opposite sides of the piston. The pilot-operated check valves include structure that, in combination with passages in the cylinder head, cause both pilot-operated check valves to open when pressurized fluid is being directed to one of the pilot-operated check valves by the main control valve. In the preferred embodiment, electrical wiring to the cylinder head travels through one of the fluid hoses connected to the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Don B. Porter, Wayne D. Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20010042436
    Abstract: A Positive Fluid Displacement Device (PFDD) with single piece double-ended pistons connected to a crankpin for circular motion. Pistons are nested together to maintain all pistons in the same plane perpendicular to the axis of the crankshaft. Cylinders are driven in a reciprocating fashion by the pistons and are held loosely in a cylinder carriage along its axis with radial sealing engagement therebetween. Pliable members mount port plates within a housing such that there is no direct contact therebetween or with a two-layer manifold. A flat surface of the port plate is urged against the cylinder head by a pliable member which exerts a force on the center of the port plate. Grooves in the first layer of the manifold are sealed by the second layer to form fluid passageways. The cylinder head is guided in housing grooves with a pliable member. A sealing lip is integral with a piston head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: EncyNova International, Inc.
    Inventor: Michel A. Pierrat
  • Publication number: 20010042437
    Abstract: A symmetric pump having a symmetric end cap attached to a symmetric housing is disclosed. The end cap is attachable in a first position or a second position wherein the second position is rotated relative to the housing. A trunnion arm extends in a first direction and a system port opens in a first orientation when the housing is connected to the end cap in a first position. The end cap includes structure such that the housing may be connected in a second position so that the trunnion arm extends in a second direction while maintaining the system port opening in the first orientation. The end cap may be provided with a symmetric porting system. A control device for affecting movement of the swashplate is disclosed. Methods of locking the swashplate into a predetermined position are also taught.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Trimble
  • Publication number: 20010042438
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to offer not only a compressor which is compact and reduced in weight, but also its piston whose neck portion is increased in strength at a time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Fuminobu Enokijima, Seiji Katayama, Takayuki Kato
  • Publication number: 20010042439
    Abstract: The system and method for molecular contamination control permits purging a SMIF pod to desired levels of relative humidity, oxygen, or particulates. The SMIF pod includes an inlet port including a check valve and filter assembly for supplying a clean, dry gaseous working fluid to maintain low levels of moisture, oxygen, and particulate content around materials contained in the SMIF pod. The SMIF pod outlet port, which also includes a check valve and filter assembly, is connected with an evacuation system. Flow of purge gas inside the SMIF pod can be directed with one or more nozzle towers to encourage laminar flow inside the pod, and one or more outlet towers, having a function similar to that of the inlet tower, may also be provided. The purge gas can be dried by exposure to a desiccant, heated to temperatures between about 100° C. and about 120° C., and can be tested for baseline constituent levels prior to or after introduction into a SMIF pod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Glenn A. Roberson, Robert M. Genco, Robert B. Eglinton, Wayland Comer, Gregory K. Mundt
  • Publication number: 20010042440
    Abstract: A gas adsorption separation process characterized by adsorption separation of components in a gas by contacting the gas with a porous solid which is a porous solid having an X-ray diffraction pattern with at least one peak at a diffraction angle corresponding to a d value of 1 nm or greater; and
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO
    Inventors: Kohji Miyazawa, Shinji Inagaki
  • Publication number: 20010042441
    Abstract: A bubble trap having a cylindrically symmetrical chamber, a filter covering an outlet and offset from the axis of the chamber, an inlet with a plurality of vertically aligned orifices, the orifices arranged to produce circumferential flow within the chamber. Bubbles in the liquid coalesce on the filter and are removed. A method of removing bubbles is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Geoff Purdom, Daniel Karrer, Ian Rayner
  • Publication number: 20010042442
    Abstract: A filter assembly for a vacuum cleaner that includes a main housing having an inlet and an outlet. A motor moves air from the inlet to the outlet, and a first filter is arranged between the inlet and the outlet for filtering the air. An inner wall and an outer wall that is spaced apart from the inner wall form a cavity between the walls. The cavity is located between the first filter and the outlet. The inner wall has an inner opening that permits air to flow from the first filter into the cavity, and the outer wall has an outer opening. A back cover is removably secured to the outer wall over the outer opening to seal the cavity and guide the air from the cavity to the outlet. The back cover includes an access opening that is removably secured to the back cover over the access opening to seal the access opening. A filter cartridge is removably disposed within the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Rexair, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Alberts, William H. Schmid, Scott A. Zaremba
  • Publication number: 20010042443
    Abstract: An automatically operating fermentation vat for wine-making establishments includes a main vat (2), an upper vat (4) over the main vat, an uplift pipe (8, 12, 10, 24, 26) for feeding the fermenting liquid from the bottom of the main vat to the upper vat, means (16, 14, 18) for discharging this liquid from the upper vat into the main vat so as to spray the layer of marc floating in the main vat and injector means (20, 32) associated with the uplift pipe for injecting an oxygen-containing gas into the liquid flowing through the said pipe, characterized in that the uplift pipe has a first outlet aperture (24) directing liquid into the upper vat (4) and a second outlet aperture (40) which directs the liquid into the mass of liquid in the main vat, valve means (22) being associated with the uplift pipe for selectively directing the liquid into the upper vat or into the main vat or both at the same time though the two outlet apertures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Marco Francia
  • Publication number: 20010042444
    Abstract: Described is a coffee machine (1) comprising a brewing means (5, 5′), a support surface (15) for ground coffee and a means (3, 6, 7) for applying water to the ground coffee, in which it is possible to level off the ground coffee positioned on the support surface (15) in a constructionally simple and generally applicable manner to obtain a layer having a substantially uniform thickness. To this end there is provided a means (22, 24, 25, 122, 222, 322) which guides water in a purposefully non-uniform manner over the ground coffee such that the ground coffee is distributed over the support surface (15) in a layer having a substantially uniform thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: SIEGFRIED HUBER, GUNTHER NAGEL
  • Publication number: 20010042445
    Abstract: An iced-beverage making machine comprises a tank (11) to contain the beverage, a mixer (12) to stir the beverage in the tank and a refrigerating circuit (14) to cool the beverage in the tank. The mixer is connected by a magnetic joint to a movement reduction motor (13). The magnetic joint comprises a driving portion (16) which is provided with a crown of first magnets (22) and is connected to the reduction motor (13), and a driven portion (17) which is provided with a crown of second magnets (21) and is connected to the mixer and magnetically driven in rotation by the driving portion. Close to the two magnet crowns there is the presence of means (23, 24) for detecting the angular phase displacement of the two crowns relative to the angular position of maximum attraction between the magnets, the detecting means sending a disabling signal (26) to the refrigerating circuit when the detected angular phase displacement exceeds a preestablished value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Ugolini S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giancarlo Ugolini
  • Publication number: 20010042446
    Abstract: Several embodiments of a beverage preparation and dispensing container each include a quantity of potable water (spring water, distilled water, etc.) sealed therein, with a separate concentrated drink mix packet removably secured to the container's outer surface. Each container is relatively short and squat, to provide a good ratio between internal volume and outer surface to more efficiently retain the heat of a heated beverage therein. The container walls are also relatively thick, for the same reason. Each container has a relatively wide mouth, allowing the consumer to slowly sip a beverage from the container and present a large surface area to cooling air, rather than ingesting a large amount at one time and possibly burning the mouth, as would occur with a narrow necked bottle. The drink mix (tea, coffee, powdered or syrup flavoring, etc.) is secured to the container side or top in one of several ways, for convenient access.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Sean P. Denny
  • Publication number: 20010042447
    Abstract: A toaster having a base and at least two substantially vertical heating elements defining a cooking space that is open at least at the upper part of the toaster, the heating elements being in the form of transparent glass walls composed of a glass substrate covered, on one of its faces, with a layer of metal oxide or oxides, the layer being connected to an electric supply circuit for supplying heating current. At least two of the glass walls have an upper rim, or lip, the rim or lip being made of a transparent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Sylvain Thiriat
  • Publication number: 20010042448
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an automated chromium-covered dual surface cooking system comprising one or more electric actuators that raise and lower one or more cooking heads before and after foodstuffs are cooked and audibly tell the user when the cooking is completed. The cooking system further comprises LED timer and temperature displays and a leveling system that maintains the upper cooking surface a requisite distance from the food to be grilled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Alexandre Menektchiev, Michael E. Mirshak
  • Publication number: 20010042449
    Abstract: Enclosed rotisserie with added convenience, including a countertop resting box-like enclosure housing a safety rear mounted heating element and a power rotated dual rod spit assembly. The gear driven spit assembly may be easily inserted and removed straight into and out of the enclosure without need for angling or coupling the assembly to a power drive socket. The spit assembly may also be mounted at various distances from the heating element to decrease cooking times. The open front of the enclosure is from time to time covered by an inclined glass panel door which may be opened in various ways to facilitate food insertion into and removal from the enclosure, and which may be easily removed for cleaning or other purposes. The embodiment's design makes efficient use of valuable counter space by recessing back and raising off the countertop its controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Alan L. Backus, Ron Popeil
  • Publication number: 20010042450
    Abstract: A device for improving the efficiency, safety and cleanliness of cooking on a grill wherein the device is placed between the item being cooked and the heat source. Said device being a chamber with dimensions proportional to those of the cooking surface. The chamber is encased by a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is to be compatible with and coated by an oxidation catalyst, constructed by one or more layers, have structural integrity and constructed so that gases can pass freely through the structure while any liquids or solids falling from above would be interrupted by impingement. The top surface is to be compatible with and coated by an oxidation catalyst and having a structure constructed of one or more layers which would allow substantial flow of liquids and gases. The top and bottom surface forming a chamber with dimensions of separation ranging from 0.1 inches to 6 inches. The top layer to be optimized for collecting and oxidizing the fats and oils to reduce flame but not smoke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: ADVANCED CATALYST SYSTEMS, LLC.
    Inventors: Tracy D. Staller, Larry E. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20010042451
    Abstract: Converting press for paper or cardboard sheets including a waste stripping station and/or a blanking station with a pull-out chase (1, 2, 3, 4) comprising a pair of horizontal transverse rails (5, 11) receiving an upper stripping tool, respectively a blanking tool, from which the first rail (5) is fixed compared to aforesaid chase and from which the second rail is movable in a longitudinal direction, and whose profile allows receiving and maintaining in an operational waste stripping position, respectively blanking position, either a pull-out chase of an upper tool or an upper stripping board, respectively blanking board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Bobst S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Bernard De Dompierre, Ha-Simon Tran, Bernard Jaquet
  • Publication number: 20010042452
    Abstract: A set of calender rollers is described, which comprises at least three rollers, for rolling a plastic material into a plastic material sheet and for laminating the plastic material sheet onto a base material sheet at a nip portion to be formed into a laminated plastic material sheet, wherein
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Isao Hirose, Tomoo Yamaguchi, Yasunobu Ina, Shuzo Fujiwara, Kunihiko Kaita
  • Publication number: 20010042453
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for marking a sheet metal workpiece on a punching press. A marking tool, mounted in a holder on the punching press is forced either against the surface of the workpiece, or to a depth into the surface of the workpiece. The workpiece is displaced in its plane, while engaged by the marking tool, in accordance with the desired contour. The marking tool is mounted either in the punch holder or in a holder of the workpiece table. A support roller or ball provides counter-support on the side of the workpiece opposite from the marking tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Albrecht Schneider
  • Publication number: 20010042454
    Abstract: A user does not have to observe the orientation of a supply-side film core and a roll-up-side film core, when placing them into a case. Shaft sections are disposed at both ends of the supply-side film core and the roll-up-side film core made of resins. The shaft sections have different diameters from each other. Each shaft section has a diameter corresponding to each supporting section. The user can therefore set the ink film in a predetermined position and orientation in the case as a single step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Masahiro Nakashima, Takaharu Kobayashi, Takashi Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20010042455
    Abstract: A method and apparatus orient, position and spin print indicia on pellet shaped articles, such as pharmaceutical capsules and the like. More specifically, the method and apparatus use a rotating pick-up drum that receives and transports the pellet shaped articles to a rotating positioning drum that is synchronized with the pick-up drum. The positioning drum receives the pellet shaped articles from the pick-up drum and properly aligns the pellet shaped articles so that they may be transferred to a rotating printing drum which is also synchronized with the positioning drum. The printing drum contains a vacuum source that maintains the pellet shaped articles within pockets as the pellet shaped articles are passed through a printing station. The printing station contains a movable printing roller capable of being moved toward and away from the printing drum such that the printing roller accurately spin prints indicia onto the pellet shaped articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: ACKLEY MACHINE CORPORATION
    Inventor: E. Michael Ackley
  • Publication number: 20010042456
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for decorating cylindrical articles using direct rotary screen printing of a UV radiation curable composition in various predetermined patterns and registrations. A rotary screen printing assembly is arranged in either a horizontal or vertical orientation to achieve production rates of about at least 250 articles per minute, and up to 1000 articles per minute. The UV radiation curable compositions are at least partially cured between a plurality of screen printing workstations using a UV radiation source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Melvin E. Kamen, Marvin Wells
  • Publication number: 20010042457
    Abstract: A stencil printing machine and a control method is provided wherein first and second printing drums 25 and 26 are rotatably supported in close proximity to an outer periphery of a press drum 27 at positions spaced by a given angle, wherein outer circumferential peripheral walls of the first and second printing drums 25 and 26 carry stencil clamping bases 28, respectively, and inner press rollers 33 are located inside the printing drums 25 and 26, respectively. During printing operation, the printing drums 25 and 26 are rotated with a rotational phase angle of 180 degrees relative to the press drum and, at termination of printing operation, the printing drums 25 and 26 are stopped at respective stationary rest positions which are out of ink stain zones of respective printing drums.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Hiroshi Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20010042458
    Abstract: A printing stencil for a screen-printing machine is proposed, having a frame (1) which holds a screen element and being distinguished by the fact that the screen element is substantially curved in a U shape, and by the fact that its concave side is assigned to a pressure squeegee and its convex side is assigned to the surface to be printed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Mircea Iliescu