Patents Issued in December 13, 2001
  • Publication number: 20010050237
    Abstract: A safety container for shipping or storing vials containing hazardous liquids. The container is constructed of a liquid impermeable outer layer and an interior layer that is embedded with a super absorbent polymer that will immobilize and stabilize any fluid that leaks from the vial. The container has an opening through which the vial is inserted which is sealed prior to shipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Michael Hacikyan
  • Publication number: 20010050238
    Abstract: A storage device for a plurality of generally planar storage members for compact discs or other flat articles comprises a base member formed from synthetic plastics material and having integral upstanding locating members disposed at spaced locations adjacent an edge of the base member, the locating members being adapted for engagement by complementary apertures formed adjacent an edge of each of the storage members, whereby to retain the storage members on the base member in a manner in which they may pivot about an axis generally parallel to the said edge of the base member, each locating member including a stalk or body portion defined by forming spaced cuts in the base member extending generally parallel to the said edge of the base member, the cut closer to the edge being shorter than the cut remote from the edge whereby to facilitate twisting movement of the locating members relative to the base member on pivotal movement of compact disc holders located in the device about an axis essentially parallel t
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: DURAWELD LIMITED
    Inventor: Richard McAlister Moorehouse Senior
  • Publication number: 20010050239
    Abstract: A disc holding mechanism enabling a disc-shaped recording medium to be held easily and reliably without e.g., a finger end of a user directly contacting a disc-shaped recording medium to prevent the recording surface of the disc-shaped recording medium from being damaged. To this end, the disc holding mechanism includes an engaging section 51, engaged in a center opening 3 of an optical disc 2, a gripping section 52, for gripping the optical disc 2 engaged in the engaging section 51, and a releasing member 53 having releasing pieces 68 abutted by a holding area 4 on the outer peripheral side of the center opening 3 of the optical disc 2 to cause movement of the optical disc 2 in a direction a1 for releasing the engaged state of the optical disc 2 with the engaging section 51.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Hirohisa Ishii
  • Publication number: 20010050240
    Abstract: The holder has one or two strips which are attached to its outer wall and which are formed into loops for receipt of tees. When the tees are so received, their heads are above the upper edge of the strips but below the upper edge of the holder. According to one embodiment of the holder, the pointed lower ends of the tees are within but do not protrude from beneath the strips. According to a second embodiment, the pointed lower ends are accommodated in a pocket and according to a third embodiment the pointed ends are above the lower edge of the holder and the holder is formed of sufficiently pliable material that it yields to the golfer's movements but is strong enough to resist penetration by the pointed ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Abel Pattrick Reid
  • Publication number: 20010050241
    Abstract: A golf ball holder is disclosed that holds a plurality of golf balls, each golf ball being independently removable from the holder without the need to remove one of the other balls first. The holder can be attached to a golf bag either permanently or temporarily. The holder is made from a flexible fabric with openings at a first end and a second end. Golf balls are slipped into the holder from either end. The golf balls are fitted within a location where an opening is made in the holder. The opening allows the user to see whether a ball is available as well as the type of ball. The opening can stretch to allow the user to remove the golf ball through the opening rather than through one of the end openings. The openings where the golf balls are held can also be large enough to insert a golf ball into the holder. The holder can be sewn to an outside portion of the golf bag, typically near the top for easy access.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Michael James Pratt, Joseph Novak
  • Publication number: 20010050242
    Abstract: A calculation aid is disclosed forming an integral part of a medication bottle. The calculation aid provides a reference chart for pediatric elixirs to assist in the accurate calculation of the weight-specific dosage for a child. The bottle includes parallel columns of patient's weights and rows of calculated quantity of elixir corresponding to the calculated dose. A movable indicator with an aperture allows selected viewing of the indicia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Brian Kaplan
  • Publication number: 20010050243
    Abstract: A carrying case for electronic equipment, such as a portable computer, includes back, front, top, bottom and side walls defining an interior including a compartment for receiving electronic equipment defined between a wall surface and a floating panel of the carrying case. The floating panel is selectively movable linearly toward and away from the wall surface to adjust the size of the compartment in accordance with the size of the electronic equipment received therein. A securing mechanism within the interior resiliently biases the floating panel toward the wall surface and provides a shock or impact absorbing effect for the electronic equipment. The carrying case has a handle including first and second handle portions rotatable between an engaged position wherein the handle portions are in abutment and a disengaged position wherein the handle portions are separated from one another. The first and second handle portions are configured to automatically matingly engage one another when rotated into abutment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: W. Dale Hollingsworth
  • Publication number: 20010050244
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process of producing gasoline with a low sulphur content from a feedstock containing sulphur. This process comprises at least one step a1 of selectively hydrogenating the diolefins and acetylenic compounds, at least one separation of the gasoline (step b) obtained at step a1 into at least three fractions, at least one step c1 of treating the heavy gasoline separated at step b on a catalyst enabling the unsaturated sulphur compounds to be at least partially decomposed or hydrogenated and at least one step d to remove the sulphur and nitrogen from at least one intermediate fraction, followed by catalytic reforming.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Blaise Didillon, Denis Uzio, Quentin Debuisschert, Jean-Luc Nocca
  • Publication number: 20010050245
    Abstract: A process for treating a light cracked naphtha to be used as an etherification feed stock is disclosed in which mercaptans, H2S and diolefins are removed simultaneously in a distillation column reactor using a reduced nickel catalyst. The mercaptans and H2S are reacted with the diolefins to form sulfides which are higher boiling than that portion of the naphtha which is used as feed to the etherification unit. The higher boiling sulfides are removed as bottoms along with any C6 and heavier materials. Any diolefins not converted to sulfides are selectively hydrogenated to mono-olefins for use in the etherification process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: CATALYTIC DISTILLATION TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventors: Dennis Hearn, Gary R. Gildert, Hugh M. Putman
  • Publication number: 20010050246
    Abstract: A process for capturing mercury and possibly arsenic comprising at least:
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Blaise Didillon, Carine Petit-Clair, Laurent Savary
  • Publication number: 20010050247
    Abstract: A separator card substrate material for use in high speed document processing machines is imprinted with an array of periodically laterally spaced magnetic strips across an area of the face of the substrate and furthermore a machine readable code array of light and dark blocks representing selected data is imprinted in at least a portion of the same space of the substrate as is occupied by the magnetic strips with the light and dark blocks spanning widthwise dimensions between the strips as well as lengthwise dimensions between the strips. The interleaving of the magnetic strips and the light and dark blocks enables the separator card to be encoded with relatively large fields of optical data enabling the use of low resolution sensors for detecting the optical data used to uniquely identify each separator card without interfering with the function of the magnetic strips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: David E. Myer
  • Publication number: 20010050248
    Abstract: A water purification system for purifying water flowing through a water flow path. The system includes a water purification device having an inlet and an outlet in the water flow path and at least one interior volume communicating with the inlet and outlet. A purification medium is disposed within the interior volume of the water purification device. A flow control system is provided controlling a volume of purified water dispensed from the outlet. The flow control system includes an input device configured to allow a user to input a desired volume of purified water to be dispensed from the outlet and a sensing device coupled with the electronic input device and operative to determine the volume of purified water being dispensed from the outlet. A flow regulation device is coupled with the flow control system and operative to stop the discharge of purified water at the outlet upon reaching the desired volume of purified water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: Barnstead Thermolyne Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Larkner, Steven C. Peake, Chester E. Chomka, Joseph F. Tilp, Eric J. Willman, Kerry W. Leppert, Tina M. Timmerman
  • Publication number: 20010050249
    Abstract: A solid-liquid separating apparatus including a strainer of a cylindrical shape. The strainer is comprised of circular ring members arranged side by side with gaps in between and disposed inside an accommodating section the device casing. The circular ring members comprise end-part circular ring members at both ends of the strainer and a plurality of intermediate circular ring members disposed between the end-part circular ring members and have inward projections projecting from their inner circumferential surfaces. A plurality of lateral bridge members are installed between the end-part circular ring members, and these bridge members have engaging parts that engage with the respective inward projections of the intermediate circular ring members so as to hold the intermediate circular ring members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: IZUMI PRODUCTS COMPANY
    Inventor: Shunji Izumi
  • Publication number: 20010050250
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filter element with improved corrosion and heat resistance and structural properties to be used in filtering solids containing material in order to achieve a filter cake of solid material on at least one external surface area of the filter element. According to the invention, at least one part of the external surface area of the filter element separated from the external surface area for forming the filter cake is provided with at least one corrosion and heat resistant polymer-based material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: OLLI HOGNABBA, GREGG W. GRUME
  • Publication number: 20010050251
    Abstract: A sealing means for sealing a filter envelope of a filter apparatus which includes at least one clip for sealing the filter envelope, and at least one connecting means extending from the filter apparatus to the at least one clip. Such a sealing means prevents the accidental discarding of clips for sealing filter envelopes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: James R. Munson
    Inventor: James R. Munson
  • Publication number: 20010050252
    Abstract: A composite membrane and method for making the same, comprising a porous support and a polyamide surface. The subject membrane provides improved flux and/or rejection rates. The subject membrane is further capable of operating at lower operating pressures. The subject method includes reacting a polyfunctional amine with a polyfunctional acyl halide to form a polyamide. The method includes the step of contacting a complexing agent with the polyfunctional acyl halide prior substantial reaction between the polyfunctional acyl halide and a polyfunctional amine. The subject process is easily adapted to commercial scale manufacturing processes and is particularly suited for making nanofiltration and reverse osmosis composite membranes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: William E. Mickols
  • Publication number: 20010050253
    Abstract: A screening device (e.g. screen plate or screen cylinder) is manufactured relatively inexpensively and easily yet has uniform screening openings (e.g. screening slots) even when of a width of less than 0.5 mm. A plurality of wires having first and second sections (the second sections having base portions and of smaller cross-section than the first sections) are mounted substantially parallel to each other, supported by at least one support bar or ring. The bars or rings have slots formed in a first side surface, and a cavity in open communication with the slots in a second side surface. The wires are fixed to the bars or rings by deforming the wires (e.g. by bending a flap, engagement by a reciprocating tool, welding, etc.) within the cavity, or by deformation of the support bar or ring in the cavity. The screen plate or cylinder is preferably used to screen or otherwise treat a cellulose pulp suspension, e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: JONATHAN MAY, TIM WOOD, JOHN STEPHENSON, JARI JURVANEN
  • Publication number: 20010050254
    Abstract: The invention discloses a method for rapid identification of a candidate selective separation material by placing small samples of the candidate material in an array of vials and adding a solution of the analytes to be separated. The solution is allowed to interact or equilibrate and the distribution of the analytes in the solid or liquid phase is measured usually by gas or liquid chromatography. The identified candidate material with the greatest differential adsorption of the analytes is selected and used as an adsorbent for large scale separation. The rapid screening of chromatographic adsorbents provides an efficient way of finding suitable absorbent materials for large scale separations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: CHRISTOPHER J. WELCH, MARINA PROTOPOPOVA, BHAT GANAPATI
  • Publication number: 20010050255
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for obtaining colloid-forming metal particles from an aqueous mine waste solution containing that metal in ionic form. In accordance with this process, an aqueous mine waste solution containing that metal in ionic form is provided having a pH value of about 4.0 to about 6.5. The solution is electrified with direct current a about 1.2 to about 2.0 volts to reduce the desired metal ions to colloidal metal particles. A slurry of cellulose particles is agitatingly added to the colloid composition followed by a flocculant to form a solid phase cellulosic floc containing the colloid. The solid and liquid phases are separated, and the solid phase is dried, fluxed and heated to a temperature sufficient to melt the flux and colloid and form larger metal particles that can then be recovered. The colloid-forming metal is preferably gold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Keith Barrett
  • Publication number: 20010050256
    Abstract: The measurement of blood flow in a dialysis shunt is obtained by injection of an indicator material into a venous line leading from dialysis equipment to the shunt. The blood flow in an arterial line leading from the shunt at a location downstream of the venous line to the dialysis equipment is monitored by an arterial line sensor for the presence of the indicator material. A detector connected to the sensor provides a dilution curve in response to the presence of the indicator material and the blood flow in the shunt is calculated from the area under the dilution curve. The locations of the arterial and venous lines in the shunt can be reversed to obtain a measurement of blood recirculation from the venous line into the arterial line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Nikolai M. Krivitski
  • Publication number: 20010050257
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for treatment of waste water effluent includes a main conduit connected to a source of waste water, and a removable filter positioned within the main conduit, the filter comprising a light weight particulate material for filtration of the effluent. A drain field for filtration treatment of waste water effluent comprises a source of waste water effluent, a main conduit in fluid connection with the source of waste water, and at least one in-line filter positioned within the main conduit, the filter comprising light weight particulate material. The drain field may comprise at least one extension conduit connected in fluid communication with the main conduit and extending substantially upwardly therefrom, said extension conduit having a removable cap comprising a sensor to thereby generate a signal when water in said extension conduit reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Michael H. Houck, Thomas K. Weaver
  • Publication number: 20010050258
    Abstract: A water purification system for a swimming pool, pond, aquatic mammal tank, spa or fountain, which is simple to operate, low in maintenance, and highly reliable. The system takes advantage of synergistic benefits derived from the combination of ozonation and electrolytic chlorination in the same system. Combining both of the technologies of Ozonation and Electrolysis allows as in-site production of at least one of chlorine dioxide that is used as a disinfectant agent for treating water reservoirs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph Gargas
  • Publication number: 20010050259
    Abstract: A technique of utilizing a sulfuric acid/peroxide liquid mixture, for example, its waste liquid material, is to be developed so that the waste liquid can be re-utilized and effectively applied to obviate the problem resulting from disposal. To this end, there is provided a method for utilizing a sulfuric acid/peroxide liquid mixture, for example, its waste liquid, in which peroxide in the sulfuric acid/peroxide liquid mixture is decomposed to render it possible to utilize the liquid mixture as sulfuric acid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: YASUHITO INAGAKI
  • Publication number: 20010050260
    Abstract: A device is provided for supporting a vehicle tire having a body formed with a front ramp surface adapted to permit the tire to roll up onto the device, and a top surface for supporting the tire having an arcuate configuration adapted for supporting the tire. The top surface includes a pair of spaced apart peaks and a trough positioned between the peaks for supporting the vehicle tire. Additionally, support blocks may be provided beneath the device for raising the device to ensure that the vehicle, when supported, remains level. Still further, the device provides for grooves extending through the top surface to permit drainage and air flow around the vehicle tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: James Ralph Graham
  • Publication number: 20010050261
    Abstract: THE “COVER OUT, COMPACT DISC CASE DISPLAY” OFFERS, CASE OWNERS THE UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO DISPLAY THE ALWAYS DIFFERENT COVERED ARTWORK AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHS DESCRIBEING THE CONTENTS OF SAID, COMPACT DISC. THROUGH PICTURE ASSOCIATION, CASE OWNERS CAN EASILY LOCATE THEIR DESIRED DISC FROM THE “COVER OUT, COMPACT DISC CASE DISPLAY”, WHICH IS EITHER HUNG OR MOUNTED ON ANY VERTICAL PLAIN.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Mitchell Edward Savard
  • Publication number: 20010050262
    Abstract: The modular display system of the present invention contains multiple sections which would be placed around the perimeter walls of a retail store. Each section includes two posts for attachment of brackets which hold the horizontal shelves for the merchandise. Each post comprises two perimeter standards positioned vertically. Each perimeter standard is slidably engaged within a vertical sleeve for structural rigidity. Positioned at the bottom of each standard is a foot bracket which is secured to the floor. The height of the display system is adjusted by having a leveler adjustment screw which extends into the foot and into a leveler arm positioned in between the two standard sleeves adjacent the floor. Two outriggers extend from in between the two standard sleeves to an outrigger bracket which is mounted on the wall. Preferably, the two outriggers are positioned in the general vicinity of the top and the bottom of the vertical standards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Angelo J. LaBruna Jr., Anthony J. Maldonado
  • Publication number: 20010050263
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the vinyl lifting crane includes a portable, mobile aluminum jib crane with an attached nip roller drive system. The drive will feed a preferred flat rope between the rollers for traction to achieve two primary functions. One function will enable the hoist to climb itself up to a structure by a person securing one end of a preferably flat rope to a support beam for example, and allowing the rope to hang in a vertical manner. The crane will be attached to free end of flat rope and radio control may be used to command the nip rollers to feed the rope between said rollers, enabling the hoist to climb the rope. This will eliminate the need to carry the hoist when climbing up stairways, ladders etc. Once the crane has climbed the rope, it is releasable attached to the structure by inserting a male square tubing member into a female square member of the structure, for example. Also the crane can be inserted into a trolley for horizontal travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Glen Dale Freeman
  • Publication number: 20010050264
    Abstract: A hinged cap with a cap body having a raised portion with an outlet opening in its upper boundary wall, a hinged lid connected via a hinge to said cap body, and a locking arrangement formed on cap body and on hinged lid. At least the raised portion is formed of an elastically deformable material, and the hinged lid positions tight against at least the lip of the outlet opening in a closed position, exerting pressure on the raised portion in the direction of closure. An element formed of an elastically deformable material is provided on the hinged connection which generates a biasing between the cap body and the hinged lid in order to bring the hinged lid into an opened position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: HORST SCHORNER
  • Publication number: 20010050265
    Abstract: The invention generally provides an apparatus and a method of removing metal oxides, particularly copper oxides and aluminum oxides, from a substrate surface. Primarily, the invention eliminates sputtering of copper oxide from the bottom of an interconnect feature onto the side walls of an interconnect feature, thereby preventing diffusion of the copper atom through the dielectric material and degradation of the device. The invention also eliminates sputtering of the copper oxides onto the chamber side walls that may eventually flake off and cause defects on the substrate. The method of reducing metal oxides from a substrate surface comprises placing the substrate within a plasma processing chamber, flowing a processing gas comprising hydrogen into the chamber, and maintaining a plasma of the processing gas within the chamber through inductive coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: BARNEY M. COHEN, GILBERT HAUSMANN, VIJAY PARKHE, ZHENG XU
  • Publication number: 20010050266
    Abstract: Methods for making a micromachined device (e.g. an microoptical submount) having positive features (extending up from a device surface) and negative features (extending into the device surface). The present techniques locate the positive feature and negative features according to a single mask step. In one embodiment, a hard mask is patterned on top of the device layer of an SOI wafer. Then, RIE is used to vertically etch to the etch stop layer, forming the positive feature. Then, the positive feature is masked, and metal or hard mask is deposited on the exposed areas of the etch stop layer. Then, portions of the device layer are removed, leaving the patterned metal layer on the etch stop layer. Then, the etch stop layer is removed in an exposed area, uncovering the handle layer. Then, the handle layer is etched in an exposed area to form the negative feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: David W. Sherrer, Gregory A. Ten Eyck, Dan A. Steinberg, Neal Ricks
  • Publication number: 20010050267
    Abstract: A method of processing a metal layer on a substrate. The method comprises disposing the substrate in a chamber having a dielectric member and processing gas. An interior surface of the dielectric member is heated to a temperature above about 150° C. and the metal layer is processed when processing power is passed through the heated dielectric member. Heating of the interior surface of the dielectric member essentially prevents deposits from forming on the interior surface and allows a stable power transmission through the dielectric member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Jeng H. Hwang, Steve S.Y. Mak, Kang-Lie Chiang
  • Publication number: 20010050268
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a polishing pad for chemical mechanical polishing of substrates, for example, the surface of electrical devices such as semiconductors or other substrates; wherein the pad comprises a polyurethane that is the reaction product of an organic polyisocyanate and 1,3 propane diol; preferably, the pad has a porous structure and more preferably has a microporous structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Heinz F. Reinhardt
  • Publication number: 20010050269
    Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide an electrode wire for an electrical discharge machining apparatus, which is low-priced in cost of production, has sufficient conductivity and strength at high temperature and is suited for improving the speed of electrical discharge machining. Cu—Zn alloy covering layer is formed around a core metallic wire formed of Cu-0.02 to 0.2 Zr alloy or Cu-0.15 to 0.25 Sn-0.15 to 0.25 In alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: KIYOSHI SHIMOJIMA, SEIGI AOYAMA, HIDEO KAWANO, KOICHI TAMURA, TAKAHIRO SATO, TAKAMITSU KIMURA, MASATO WATABE
  • Publication number: 20010050270
    Abstract: A layered anisotropically conductive element (11), a resistant element (12), and a feed element (13) constitute an electrode (14) for discharge machining. The layered anisotropically conductive element (11) includes conductive layers and low-conductive layers alternately laminated on each other, the conductive layers and the low-conductive layers being made of thin metallic plates coated with an insulative film. The layered anisotropically conductive element (11) has an anisotropic conductivity, in which the conductivity in a direction parallel to the low-conductive layers is much higher than that in a direction perpendicular to the low-conductive layers. The resistant element (12) is connected to one of layer-perpendicular end surfaces (11c) of the layered anisotropically conductive element (11). The feed element (13) is connected to the resistant element (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Tatsushi Sato, Yoshihito Imai, Hidetaka Miyake, Takayuki Nakagawa
  • Publication number: 20010050271
    Abstract: According to the method of processing in accordance with the present invention, first, a beam area formed by a laser beam on the organic insulating film is set to be larger than an area formed by projecting a target part of an organic insulating film onto a horizontal plane, subsequently, the organic insulating film is moved toward the irradiated region of the laser beam, and the irradiation with the laser beam is terminated when the end part of the target part coincides with the moving end part of the laser beam. This enables the resultant processed target surface to be smooth and free from reaction product including decomposed segments of the target body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Matsushima, Yorishige Ishii, Kuniaki Okada, Hideaki Fujita, Yukio Kurata, Toshihiro Tamura
  • Publication number: 20010050272
    Abstract: A method of fast and complete laser removal of inorganic and organic foreign material, including particles down to submicron-sizes and atomic contaminants, such as heavy metals and alkaline elements, from a substrate without any damage to the substrate, carried out by UV laser irradiation of the substrate surface in a reactive oxygen based gas, which comprises carrying out the removal process in the presence of gas containing F and/or Cl atoms in its molecules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: BORIS BUYANER LIVSHITS, MENACHEN GENUT, OFER TEHAR-ZAHAV, ELIEZER ISKEVITCH
  • Publication number: 20010050273
    Abstract: Hybrid welding process using a laser beam and an electric arc to produce a weld bead. The electric arc is established between an electrode connected to a first pole of a current source and at least one workpiece to be welded and connected to a second pole of a current source via at least one electrically conducting earth contactor in contact with the workpiece to be welded. To obtain effective welding, a contact is made between the earth contactor and the workpiece to be welded laterally and/or upstream of the point of impingement of the electric arc on the workpiece(s) to be welded, and considering the direction of formation of the welded joint, so as to balance the forces associated with the induced electromagnetic field acting on the puddle of liquid metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: L'Air Liquide and La Soudure Autogene Francaise
    Inventors: Philippe Lefebvre, Jean-Marie Fortain, Christian Bonnet
  • Publication number: 20010050274
    Abstract: The “Defogger” is a new device developed from several existing components, which will eliminate fog or condensation formed from the floating vapor molecules produced from showers, which collects on the face of a bathroom mirror. This combination of components has not been structured, built, or utilized to perform this function explained in the specification as to my knowledge and through extensive research on the subject matter. The “Defogger” has been devised as a new device, which will eliminate fog or condensation from a mirror, unlike such existing mechanisms, this invention works better and faster than the present standard existing moisture removal systems, or for example, “The Bathroom Ceiling Fan.” The “Defogger” can be utilized in hotels, motels, homes, or any where steam/vapor travel can accumulate onto glass or mirror surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Andrew M. Decker
  • Publication number: 20010050275
    Abstract: Process and circuit for heating up a glow plug of a given glow plug type in a given arrangement in an internal combustion engine to a predetermined temperature. The power supply voltage is on the glow plug via a measurement resistor (12) and a switch (11). A control and regulation unit (16) taps the voltage drop via the measurement resistor (12) and determines the heat energy supplied to the glow plug therefrom and from the likewise tapped voltage on the glow plug. The signal which occurs on the output (15) of the unit (16) controls the switch (11). After closing the switch (11) the unit (16) supplies the glow plug with heat energy which is added up in the unit (16). As soon as the heat energy which is required for heating up to a predetermined temperature and which is determined beforehand from the known parameters of the glow plug and from the starting temperature is reached, the switch is opened again via the output signal at the output (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Gunther Uhl
  • Publication number: 20010050276
    Abstract: An automatic temperature control device comprises a reaction chamber for housing a vessel, a tray for supporting the vessel, a temperature control part for controlling at least the temperature in the reaction chamber, a transfer means for slidably moving the tray such that the tray may freely enter or withdraw from the reaction chamber, a first cover part for closing up the reaction chamber tightly when the tray is made to enter the reaction chamber by the transfer means, a second cover part for closing up the reaction chamber tightly when the tray is made to withdraw from the reaction chamber by the transfer means, and first and second magnets for holding the second cover part in a tightly closed-up state, wherein the tray for supporting the vessel is allowed to move slidably in linkage with the pivotal motion of the cover for pivoting the cover and also making the vessel to enter or withdraw from the reaction chamber in one operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Atsushi Inami
  • Publication number: 20010050277
    Abstract: An electric baking oven includes an open mesh vertically oriented baking basket to hold food while the food is baked in air by a programmed combination of radiant and convective and conductive energy transfer. An electrical programming control controls the energy from vertically oriented toaster heating elements located juxtaposed to the large vertical faces of the basket and from at least one elongated heating member located below the vertical baking basket with the axis of the elongated heating member oriented nominally horizontal and parallel to the longer horizontal axis of the vertically oriented baking basket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel D. Friel
  • Publication number: 20010050278
    Abstract: A method and system for ensuring that installations of fittings to plastic pipe meet governmental and/or industrial standards includes measuring physical parameters employed in the application of fittings to plastic pipe, recording the steps involved and values of the parameters measured, comparing the steps and values recorded for each installation with pre-established approved standards and providing a record identifying installations that meet or that do not meet pre-selected approved standards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: David O. Chenault
  • Publication number: 20010050279
    Abstract: A current-limiting resistor is connected between a power-supply line and a heater provided near the oxygen-detecting element of limiting-current type oxygen sensor. A power MOSFET is connected between the heater and a ground line. The resistor and the heater have such resistances that a current I2 flowing through the resistor and the heater when the heater has a resistance R2 is about I1{square root}{square root over ((R1/R2))}, where I1 is a current flowing through the resistor and the heater when the heater has a resistance R1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: FUJIKURA LTD.
    Inventors: Takashi Takizawa, Hiroshi Nishida
  • Publication number: 20010050280
    Abstract: An easy-to-manufacture structure of a ceramic heater having a high durability and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The ceramic heater may be used in an oxygen sensor for automotive air-fuel ratio control systems and includes a ceramic square rod formed with a laminate of a heater substrate on which a heater-patterned layer consisting of a heater element and leads is formed and a covering substrate covering the heater-patterned layer. Metallic terminals are connected electrically to the leads of the heater-patterned layer, respectively, and mounted on surfaces of the ceramic square rod opposed to each other in a direction of lamination of the heater substrate and the covering substrate, respectively. At least one outer lead is joined to one of the metallic terminals through a bonding layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hirokazu Yamada, Makoto Shirai, Hisao Kuroki, Masayuki Kobayashi, Hirokazu Yamada
  • Publication number: 20010050281
    Abstract: An apparatus for quenching a metallic material such as steel is provided. The apparatus includes a heating furnace, a liquid metal sodium chamber, a gas cooling chamber, and a liquid metal sodium removal chamber. The heating furnace heats the metallic material to more than 700° C. The liquid metal sodium chamber includes liquid metal sodium, and the metallic material is cooled approximately to between 100° C. and 250° C. The inert gas chamber includes inert gas such as nitrogen or argon, and the metallic material is cooled approximately to room temperature. In the liquid metal sodium removal chamber, the liquid metal sodium remaining on the metallic materials is removed by using vapor, mist, and water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Susumu Ninomiya
  • Publication number: 20010050282
    Abstract: A method of installing a tank liner in a tank, the method comprising the steps of: A) adhering a backing sheet to a liquid permeable sheet with an adhesive to form a first panel outside of the tank; B) placing the first panel within the tank against a wall of the tank, with the liquid permeable sheet between the tank wall and the backing sheet; and C) laying up fiber reinforced plastic onto the backing sheet inside of the tank to create a tank liner inside the tank. A tank liner formed of plural panels sealed together to form an encircling wall and an end wall, each panel comprising: a liquid permeable sheet; a fabric sheet adhered to the liquid permeable mesh sheet on one side of the fabric; and fiber reinforced plastic applied to the other side of the fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: Mocoat Services '98 Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian Heath
  • Publication number: 20010050283
    Abstract: A condiment cup for containing a condiment and for attachment to a storage container sidewall of a storage container has a condiment container for storing the condiment, an attachment arm for attaching the condiment container to the storage container, and a sealing lid for sealing the opening of the condiment container. The condiment container is typically filled with the condiment, such as ketchup, sealed with a sealing lip, and then distributed to a consumer. The consumer then peels off the sealing lid and hangs the condiment container on the storage container using the attachment arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Gary Nance
  • Publication number: 20010050284
    Abstract: The inventive bin for collecting valuable biological materials comprises a container (G) which has a floor (3), side walls (2) and an openable lid (4). Said container is provided with at least one aeration opening (7). Side grates (10) are provided inside the container (G) and are situated at a distance from the side walls (2), the intermediate spaces between the side grates (10) and the corresponding adjacent side walls (2) being connected to the at least one aeration opening (7). An inset for converting a usual commercial refuse bin (1) into a bin of this type comprises at least two sides grates (10) and fixing elements (8) which are configured for mounting on the inner surfaces of the side walls (2) of the refuse bin (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Georg Jaeger
  • Publication number: 20010050285
    Abstract: The Pour Bowl is a vessel with multiple applications to aid in the preparation, cooking and serving of food items. It can be applied to solid food items from first step rinsing, through steaming or cooking in water or natural broth. The Pour Bowl is generally round or oval in shape. It can be from single serving to banquet size. It has a loop handle or handles projecting at a right angle from a vertical exterior surface. The opposing vertical exterior surface has a rising sector that ramps above the otherwise common vertical plane of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Michele M. Morris
  • Publication number: 20010050286
    Abstract: A holder for a beverage container, typically a can or a bottle, to provide supplemental cooling to the beverage. The holder includes support ridges, pedestal, or other support means to support the bottom of the can or bottle above the holder bottom to create a space for an ice or an ice and water cooling medium. A sealing means between the holder and the beverage container permits the container and the holder to be tipped for drinking without spilling the ice or ice and water used to provide the cooling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Scott B. Duff, Carols E. Ortiz