Patents Issued in December 27, 2001
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Publication number: 20010054288Abstract: A method for producing power, in accordance with the present invention, comprises the steps of: supplying clinker from cement production apparatus to a grate cooler for cooling the clinker; and extracting hot air from the grate cooler and supplying it to a filter e.g. an electrostatic precipitator or bag filter. When an electrostatic precipitator is used for extracting particulate matter from the hot air supplied from the grate cooler, the filtered air exiting the electrostatic precipitator is supplied to an air-heat transfer fluid heat-exchanger for heating the heat transfer fluid. A working fluid is vaporized using heat in the heated heat transfer fluid and vaporized working fluid and heat depleted heat transfer fluid is produced. Heat in the heat depleted heat transfer fluid is used to pre-heat working fluid while vaporized working fluid produced in the vaporizer is supplied to a turbine for producing power.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Ormat Industries Ltd.Inventors: Lucien Y. Bronicki, Hilel Legmann, Nadav Amir, Dan Batscha
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Publication number: 20010054289Abstract: An energy generating system includes a conduit in the form of a loop with an upflow section and a downflow section. A working liquid such as water is received within the conduit and has an ambient temperature and a boiling point. A supply subsystem including a vessel in communication with an input port at a lower portion of the upflow section of the conduit is configured to provide to the conduit a pumping liquid. The pumping liquid has a boiling point greater than the ambient temperature and less than the boiling point of the working liquid. A heating subsystem is configured to heat the working liquid within the conduit to a temperature greater than the boiling point of the pumping liquid by a predetermined differential. Accordingly, the pumping liquid is vaporized after passing through the input port into the working fluid, thereby generating pumping gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: John H. Cover
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Publication number: 20010054290Abstract: A fuel system for providing a desired fuel flow to an engine comprises a metering assembly for providing a variable portion of metered fuel flow to an associated nozzle system. The variable portion corresponds to a variable demand signal received by the metering assembly. A centrifugal pumping assembly is adapted to receive fuel from an associated pumping system. The centrifugal pumping assembly is capable of pressurizing and delivering adequate fuel flow to the metering assembly. A throttling valve is in fluid communication between the metering assembly and the centrifugal pumping assembly to maintain a constant pressure rise across the metering assembly. An electronic engine control provides the variable demand signal to the metering assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: ARGO-TECH CORPORATIONInventors: Timothy A. Herbison, Martin A. Clements, Robert J. Nyzen
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Publication number: 20010054291Abstract: A system and method for controlling a refrigerator capable of transmitting and receiving information over an external communication network. A display unit is installed on the front surface of the refrigerator, and a touch panel is connected to the display unit to input a variety of user commands. A schedule management function, a self-diagnosis management function and a component replacement time management function are performed and, if an emergency situation occurs while those functions are performed, a pop-up message is outputted to the screen and information related to the pop-up message is transmitted over the external communication network. Therefore, the user can recognize an emergency situation at an accurate date, manage the refrigerator more efficiently and rapidly and handle information more conveniently. A touch panel and a radio remote controller are selectively used to input a variety of function key signals enabling a user to watch television through the display unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Young Hoon Roh, Kwang Choon kim, Chul Jin Cho
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Publication number: 20010054292Abstract: A cooling system and related method of defrosting a refrigeration unit or a freezer unit involves the steps of (a) monitoring a compressor running time, (b) monitoring an evaporator coil temperature, (c) monitoring a first time period since a last cooled compartment door open alarm of the unit, (d) monitoring a second time period since a last defrost operation, (e) monitoring a third time period during which the cooled compartment door is closed, and (f) controlling initiation of a defrost operation as a function of the monitored compressor running time, the monitored evaporator coil temperature, the monitored first time period, the monitored second time period, and the monitored third time period. Various sets of conditions may be established for triggering initiation of the defrost operation. The system may also detect refrigerant leaks and a clogged condenser as a function of compressor running time and compressor discharge line temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Ronald Davis, Laura Lewis, Alvin Slade
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Publication number: 20010054293Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling evaporator and condenser fans in a refrigeration system. The apparatus is a refrigeration system including a refrigerant circuit defined by a compressor, a condenser, a throttling device, and an evaporator. The apparatus includes an evaporator fan and a condenser fan. The apparatus also includes a controller coupled to the fans. The controller includes a variable frequency drive unit. For the method of the invention, the speed of the fans is controlled by the controller.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Alan Gustafson, Dermott Crombie, Mark Freese
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Publication number: 20010054294Abstract: The present invention provides a screw compressor for refrigerating apparatus capable of controlling the rotational speed of a motor to be suitable for cooling heat load by simply controlling an inverter, without causing the overload of the motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd.)Inventor: Noboro Tsuboi
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Publication number: 20010054295Abstract: An ice making machine of the open-cell type including a box-type housing, a water storage tank mounted to the bottom of the housing, a sprinkler mounted within the bottom portion of the housing and having a plurality of nozzles for spouting upward ice making water supplied to the water storage tank, and a plurality of ice making cell casings mounted wit an ice making chamber formed in an upper portion of the housing and located above the nozzles of the sprinkler to supplied with the ice making water spouted therefrom, wherein the box-type housing is composed of a pair of spaced side wall panels and front and rear wall panels jointed at their opposite side ends to front and rear end portions of the side wall panels respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Masaaki Kawasumi, Masahiro Kodani, Shinichi Nagasawa, Chiyoshi Toya, Shinsaku Hayakawa
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Publication number: 20010054296Abstract: A refrigerating unit includes a cooling chamber, a storage compartment removably guided within the chamber as far as a closing position, and a disengagement device. The chamber has a parallel-guide disposed on its sides. The guide has a mating toothed configuration, two rollers rigidly coupled, lying opposite each other, and each having an external toothed configuration with a pitch circle diameter to be rollingly coupled to the mating toothed configuration. The guide has an end section reached by the rollers near the closing position. One of the mating toothed configuration and the rollers is positionally fixed. The disengagement device disengages the mating toothed configuration from the external toothed configuration of the rollers and is at the end section and has a disengagement length compensating for oblique positioning of the compartment in and counter to a movement direction arising from an offset of the rollers along the mating toothed configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Mario Kaiser
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Publication number: 20010054297Abstract: A cooler with a number of product shelves and an oscillating drive mechanism. The oscillating drive mechanism is connected to the product shelves so as to rotate the product shelves in an oscillating manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: William S. Credle, James R. Bardin
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Publication number: 20010054298Abstract: with a Variable Proportion of Liquid Product In a single column distillation system for obtaining gaseous and liquid nitrogen with a variable proportions of liquid product by low-temperature separation from air, a first portion (12, 13) of nitrogen-rich fraction (5, 7, 8) is fed downstream of circulation compressor (9) to the liquefaction chamber of a condenser-evaporator (14) associated with the single column and condensed under a pressure higher than the operating pressure of the single column (4). A liquid oxygen-enriched fraction (228, 231) from the distillation column system is at least partially evaporated in the evaporation chamber of condenser-evaporator (14). A portion (18) of nitrogen-rich liquid (15, 16) from condenser-evaporator (14) is drawn off at least at times as liquid product.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Linde AktiengesellschaftInventors: Dietrich Rottmann, Christian Kunz
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Publication number: 20010054299Abstract: The invention is a device applicable to the positioning of a loose object on a carrier such as a device mounted on a necklace with a pendant to keep the pendant in a stationary position on the necklace. The device comprises at least one coil forming an opening and a locating section. The necklace is contained in the opening of the coil with the locating section serving to retain the pendant in position on the necklace. Optional end configurations serve to reduce risk of necklace entanglement as well as increase friction between the device and the necklace.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: James E. White
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Publication number: 20010054300Abstract: Voltage is applied between electrodes (14a, 14b) under UV irradiation to perform a UV excitation poling, thereby producing microcrystal particles at a core unit (10a). Accordingly, second-order optical nonlinearity is developed at the core unit (10a) of an optical fiber (10). Under a high-temperature condition, a second-order optical nonlinearity can be imparted by a comparatively low-voltage UV excitation poling when a second-order optical nonlinearity decreases.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Takumi Fujiwara, Syuji Matsumoto, Akira Ikushima
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Publication number: 20010054301Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a press forming machine for glass optical devices which is superior in the temperature uniformity and has a low manufacturing cost. An upper die is fixed to a lower end of a fixed shaft, and a lower die is fixed to an upper end of a moving shaft. The upper die and the lower die are accommodated in a quartz tube, and a forming chamber in which atmosphere adjustment is possible is formed inside the quartz tube. An infrared lamp unit is arranged so as to surround the quartz tube. The infrared lamp unit is constituted by a plurality of straight tube type infrared lamps each of which has a vertical axis, and a reflecting mirror is arranged behind each infrared lamp. In this example, straight tube type infrared lamps are used in the infrared lamp unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Satoshi Fukuyama, Isao Matsuzuki, Hiroaki Fujii
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Publication number: 20010054302Abstract: There are disclosed a method for producing an optical fiber base material ingot comprising depositing a soot on a starting core member, and subjecting the soot to dehydration, vitrification by sintering, and then cylindrical grinding, wherein the cylindrical grinding is performed while a core portion central axis is brought into line with a rotation axis of cylindrical grinding machine, and an optical fiber base material ingot produced by the method. According to the present invention, there are provided an optical fiber base material ingot having excellent ingot roundness and excellent core portion eccentricity, and a production method capable of producing the optical fiber base material ingot in a short period of time.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masami Terashima, Tadakatsu Shimada, Hideo Hirasawa
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Publication number: 20010054303Abstract: A circular knit blank for use in the manufacture of undergarments and the garments so manufactured comprising a tubular knit body having an elastomeric yarn on selected courses, wherein said tubular body contains at least one area of control that has a stitch pattern increasing the modulus by about 8%, to provide a balance of comfort and control. The stitch pattern is preferably a 1 by 1 alternating tuck.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Sara-Lee CorporationInventor: George Alexander Graham Browder
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Publication number: 20010054304Abstract: A method for determining the current state of a lubricant for lubrication of at least two frictional coupling elements capable of cooperating to transmit a torque by comparing reference slip characteristics associated with particular operating conditions with current slip characteristics of the coupling elements is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Dirk Heilenkotter
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Publication number: 20010054305Abstract: An apparatus that is configured to sense the presence of gases, vapors and liquids using acoustic waves. The apparatus comprises a first part that is configured to generate acoustic waves. The apparatus further comprises a second part having a sensing and acoustic wave guiding device, which is configured to sense the presence of such substances and propagate acoustic waves. The first part is removably fixable to the second part of the apparatus. When the first part is fixed to the second part, the acoustic waves propagate in the second part.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Pedro Banda, Andrew Campitelli
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Publication number: 20010054306Abstract: The present invention is related to an apparatus and a non-destructive method for determining the porosity of an element, particularly a thin film, formed on a substrate, said substrate being positioned in a pressurized chamber, said chamber being at a predetermined pressure and at a predetermined temperature. According to this method a gaseous substance like e.g. toluene vapour is admitted in said chamber and after a predetermined period of time the porosity of the thin film is determined by means of at least on ellipsometric measurement. Particularly, the optical characteristics resulting from this in-situ ellipsometry are used to determine the amount of gaseous substance condensed in the pores of the film. These amounts are used to calculate the porosity of the film.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Mikhail Rodionovich Baklanov, Fedor Nikolaevich Dultsev, Konstantin Petrovich Mogilnikov, Karen Maex
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PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR DETECTING CHANGE IN ELECTRIC CONSTANTS USING THE DEVICE
Publication number: 20010054307Abstract: A piezoelectric sensor device has a piezoelectric body vibrator consisting of the piezoelectric body which is sandwiched by a pair of electrodes, a power source which applies a voltage to the piezoelectric body vibrator so as to get excited for vibration, means for monitoring electric constants to detect changes in electric constants accompanied by vibration of the piezoelectric body. The change in electric constants in the piezoelectric body is detected as a change in frequency for vibration of the piezoelectric body corresponding to an electric constant under the determined conditions. The piezoelectric sensor device has a means to obtain the frequency value from frequencies at not less than two points giving a determined electric constant. According to the piezoelectric sensor device the dispersion in measured values due to change in vibration aptness of vibration system and the polarization state of piezoelectric body vibrator can be made smaller.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 1999Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: TOSHIKAZU HIROTA, TAKAO OHNISHI, KEIZO MIYATA, KAZUYOSHI SHIBATA -
Publication number: 20010054308Abstract: Method and apparatus for measuring suspended substance concentrations, wherein the method includes measuring the concentration of suspended substances mixed with a liquid by detecting pressure difference between two points distantly located in the depth direction of the liquid, calculating the average density of the liquid between the two points from the pressure difference, and then calculating difference between the average density and a predetermined reference density of the liquid as an index for determining the suspended substance concentration, whereby real time, continuous measurement and easy maintenance and control with high accuracy and wide measuring range are attained.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Hideaki Komiya, Saichiro Morita, Keijiro Uchiyama, Takashi Ochi
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Publication number: 20010054309Abstract: In an internal combustion engine having a double-structure exhaust passage comprised of an inner (bypass) exhaust passage and an outer (main) exhaust passage arranged to surround the outside of the inner exhaust passage such that exhaust gases are discharged through one of the inner and outer exhaust passages, an exhaust gas characteristic detecting apparatus is capable of reliably detecting the characteristic of exhaust gases through the inner exhaust passage. The detecting apparatus comprises a guide pipe extending across the outer exhaust passage and having an exhaust gas introducing port facing the inner exhaust passage for introducing exhaust gases flowing into the inner exhaust passage into the guide pipe, and a sensor having a sensing unit for detecting the humidity of exhaust gases and arranged such that the sensing unit is positioned in the guide pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kenichi Ohmori, Shusuke Akazaki, Kei Machida, Norihito Watanabe
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Publication number: 20010054310Abstract: A process for determining the wheel radius ratios of a vehicle equipped with an anti-lock braking system uses the rotational speeds of the vehicle wheels to determine a vehicle drive slip value. This drive slip value and the driving force of the vehicle drive wheels are combined in a Kalman filter to compute the wheel radius ratio data. When traveling around curves, however, the drive slip value calculation can become inaccurate, thereby corrupting the computed wheel radius ratio data. To correct for this curve travel effect, the inventive process includes the yawing rate of the vehicle in its computations. As a result, the corrected wheel radius ratios can be more reliably used for detecting tire pressure problems.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Thomas Dieckmann, Arne Michaelsen
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Publication number: 20010054311Abstract: A measuring system for determining an air data for an aircraft includes a measuring device for determining measured variables which are a function of the resulting flow vector and the inertia forces acting on a front fuselage section in relation to a rear fuselage section, an acceleration transducer, and an evaluation unit for determining the air data from the measured variables.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Peter Hakenesch
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Publication number: 20010054312Abstract: A sensor system for measuring displacement includes a primary coil wound around a longitudinal axis and at least one secondary coil wound around the longitudinal axis. Each secondary coil has a winding density distribution that varies between the ends thereof. The winding direction of each secondary coil varies between a clockwise winding direction between the ends thereof. A coupler is positioned adjacent the primary coil between the ends thereof. The coupler includes a resonating circuit configured to resonate at a resonating frequency. The coupler or the coils are configured to move relative to the other of the coupler or the coils. A control system excites the primary coil with a first step of a signal and receives from each secondary coil in response thereto a time varying signal. Each time varying signal includes a ringing component superimposed on a time varying component temporally adjacent the first step of the signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Czarnek and Orkin Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Robert Czarnek
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Publication number: 20010054313Abstract: A transducer for use in any of an accelerometer, a piezo-resistive strain gauge, a piezoelectric transducer, and surface acoustic wave transducers, the transducer having a beam and an electrode deposited on the beam, wherein the electrode is formed of a material having properties as compared to gold of: a low radiation capture cross-section, and high electrical conductivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: John T. Williams
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Publication number: 20010054314Abstract: In a pressure sensor, a first contact electrode is formed on a base board. A second contact electrode is formed on the base board such that a top face thereof is made flush with a top face of the first contact electrode. A deformable click rubber has a flat bottom face opposed to the first and second contact electrodes. The flat bottom face is in parallel with the top faces of the first and second contact electrodes. The sensor generates an output signal when the click rubber is brought into contact with the first contact electrode. A contact area between a bottom portion of the click rubber and the second contact electrode varies in accordance with the deformation of the click rubber to vary an amplitude of the output signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Yoshihiro Hirao
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Publication number: 20010054315Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing a micromechanical component. The micromechanical component has sensor holes, wherein at least one component protective layer and/or a spacer coating is applied on the component before separating the wafer into chips. The component protective layer sealingly covers at least the walls of the holes extending parallel to the surface of the wafer and perpendicular to the surface of the wafer and the spacer coating sealingly covers at least the walls of the holes extending parallel to the surface of the wafer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Robert Aigner, Christofer Hierold, Hergen Kapels, Stefan Kolb, Dieter Maier-Schneider, Klaus-Gunter Oppermann, Hans-Jorg Timme, Thomas Scheiter, Wolfgang Werner
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Publication number: 20010054316Abstract: An inertia force sensor having a mass body (11) which moves when force is applied to the sensor, at least one holding beam (12) for holding the mass body (11), and an anchor portion (13) for fixing an end portion of the holding beam (12), the sensor being designed to detect inertia force, which acts on the mass body (11), on the basis of a movement of the mass body (11). The sensor is characterized in that the mass body (11) is composed of a free standing structure (9) which is formed by removing an inner part of a silicon substrate (1) therefrom by means of an etching process within a single step, and the anchor portion (13) is composed of at least a part of a main body of the silicon substrate. Because the inertia force sensor is composed of single crystal silicon, its mechanical properties and reliability may be highly improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Hiroshi Ohji, Kazuhiko Tsutsumi, Patrick J. French
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Publication number: 20010054317Abstract: The novel peak strain detection linear displacement sensor system for smart structures is designed to provide monitoring of the strain in structures and reporting their strain histories. The system comprises the use of micro miniature, high resolution, passive peak strain detector. A displacement sensor, such as a differential variable reluctance transducer, is used and the sliding core of the unit is constrained so that it shows the maximum movement in one direction. Once positioned and attached, mechanical movement of the core will always occur in response to structural deformation. The system comprises attachment devices and a body clamp and core extender and compressor, a housing, a spring loaded collar, a sensor core and a measuring unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 1999Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: STEVEN W. ARMS
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Publication number: 20010054318Abstract: A system and method for measuring forces and behavior of a material when subjected to an applied force in a contained vessel or mold in directions not aligned with the applied force. Materials which flow, including mixed materials with an aggregate and a mastic, can be tested within a material vessel or mold by applying a force to the material within the mold and, in addition to measuring resistance of the material to the applied force, resulting forces applied by the material to the mold walls, for example laterally relative to the applied force, are measured and are indicative of flow characteristics and load bearing performance, and shear strength of the material. In a specific testing device, a material testing mold for use with material testing equipment which applies forces to material within the mold, has a mold cavity formed by walls. At least one portion of the wall is configured to deflect or deform in response to material pressure created by a force applied to the material.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Rajib B. Mallick, Matthew R. Teto
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Publication number: 20010054319Abstract: A sensor including a sensing layer is disposed over an electrode or an optode and a layer-by-layer assembled mass transport limiting membrane disposed over the sensing layer. The membrane includes at least one layer of a polyanionic or polycationic material. The assembled layers of the membrane are typically disposed in an alternating manner. The sensor also optionally includes a biocompatible membrane.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: TheraSense, Inc.Inventors: Adam Heller, Ting Chen, Keith A. Friedman
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Publication number: 20010054320Abstract: An apparatus for detecting an anomaly in a flowing stream includes a set of blades rotatably suspended in the flowing stream and aligned with a normal flow direction of the flowing stream. The blades are configured to rotate at one rate when the anomaly is present in the flowing stream and to rotate at a different rate when the anomaly is absent from the flowing stream. A device is prescribed for measuring rate of rotation and rotation direction of the blades.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Stephen T. Stark, Stephen H. Caldwell
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Publication number: 20010054321Abstract: A device for testing a transaxle is constructed such that a drive motor is coupled with an input shaft of the transaxle through an input-shaft torque meter, and dynamometers are coupled with output shafts of the transaxle through axle shafts and output-shaft torque meters, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA MEIDENSHAInventors: Toshifumi Kamiyama, Masayuki Egami, Akira Yamamoto
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Publication number: 20010054322Abstract: A process for removing a modulation sinusoidal error from signals of a rotating load cell measuring forces and/or moments with respect to a non-rotating orthogonal coordinate system includes mounting the load cell to the rotating object and obtaining a first set of signals from the load cell, wherein at least one signal of the first set of signals is indicative of a load as the object rotates. A characterization of a modulation error is obtained from the first set of signals. The modulation error is a periodic signal having a frequency greater than and proportional to a frequency of revolution of the load cell. A second set of signals is obtained from the load cell pursuant to object loading. A modulation error in the second set of signals is calculated as a function of the characterization of the modulation error from the first set. The calculated modulation error in the second set of signals is subtracted from the second set of signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Jodi L. Sommerfeld, David M. Fricke
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Publication number: 20010054323Abstract: An apparatus (10) includes a member (14) that has a first slot (30) extending through the member within the periphery (32) of the member. The first slot (30) has opposed spaced surfaces (34) that define a gap (40) that has a width measured from one of the opposed surfaces to the other of the opposed surfaces. The member (14) includes first and second portions (42 and 44) positioned on opposite sides of the first slot (30). The apparatus (10) also includes a sensor (16) that has a first end (100) connected to the first portion (42) on one side of the first slot (30) and an opposite second end (102) connected to the second portion (44) on an opposite side of the first slot such that the sensor extends across the first slot. The apparatus (10) further includes means (20) for fixedly connecting the second portion (44) to inhibit movement of the second portion of the member relative to the first portion (42).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.Inventors: Ernst M. Faigle, Tracy S. Sparks, Douglas P. Campbell, Craig J. Lyszczyk
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Publication number: 20010054324Abstract: A sampling device comprising an elongate tube and an identification device. The identification device comprises a transponder which is removably attached to the tube by means of a clip. The identification device may thus be removed from the tube prior to analysis and/or replaced between successive sampling operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Alun Cole, Elizabeth Angela Woolfenden
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Publication number: 20010054325Abstract: A receiving device for pedals of a motor vehicle is provided. The mounting plate has bearings for a brake pedal, a clutch pedal and an accelerator pedal. The clutch pedal can be demounted or installed in a simple manner as a function of the use of a manual or an automatic transmission.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Hans-Uwe Baumann, Dieter Semmel, Vasil Barbunopulos
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Publication number: 20010054326Abstract: A steering apparatus capable of accurately recognizing operations of an operation section and of reducing the number of parts and simplifying its structure. The steering apparatus is composed of a steering wheel for controlling movements, operation sections mounted on the steering wheel for operating equipment, and a vibration section for giving vibrations to at least a portion of the steering wheel in relation to the operations of said operation sections.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 1999Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Brinks Hofer Gilson & LioneInventors: MIKIO ONODERA, HIDETAKA NUMATA, KATSUYA MITSUZUKA
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Publication number: 20010054327Abstract: There is provided a steering wheel having a ring portion which is constituted by a core bar and decorative portions which are disposed along the core bar partially to so cover an external surface of the core bar. The decorative portions are disposed to cover the external surface of the core bar along the full circumference thereof in a transversely circumferential direction of the ring portion when an upper decorative portion having a substantially inverted U-shaped cross section and a lower decorative portion having a substantially U-shaped cross section which constitute each of the decorative portions are combined together.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTDInventors: Tsutomu Ishii, Mikine Hayashi, Atsushi Nagata
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Publication number: 20010054328Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing nanophase Cu—Al2O3 composite powder by means of 1) the producing precursor powders by centrifugal spray drying process using the water base solution, in which Cu-nitrate (Cu(NO3)23H2O) and Al-Nitrate (Al(NO3)39H2O) are solved to the point of final target composition (Cu-1 wt %/Al2O3),2) the heat treatment process (desaltation process) at the 850° C. for 30 min in air atmosphere to remove the volatile components such as the moisture and NO3 group in precursor powder and simultaneously to synthesize the nano CuO—Al2O3 composite powders by the oxidation of corresponded metal components and 3) the reduction heat treatment of CuO at 200° C. for 30 min in reducing atmosphere to produce the final nanophase Cu—Al2O3 composite powders with the size below 20 nm.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: Korea Institute of Machinery and MaterialsInventors: Byoung Kee Kim, Dong Won Lee
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Publication number: 20010054329Abstract: This invention relates to a method for operation of a moving hearth furnace in conjunction with an electric melter for production of high purity iron product having a range of silicon and manganese, with low sulfur and phosphorus content. The method includes producing high purity iron product and a range of carbon content product from iron oxide and carbon bearing agglomerates, including the steps of providing a furnace for direct reduction of iron oxide and carbon bearing agglomerates, pre-reducing iron and carbon bearing agglomerates in a furnace having a moving hearth surface, producing intermediate carbon-containing metallized iron. An electric melter furnace is utilized for receiving intermediate carbon-containing metallized iron from the pre-reducing step, which is fed directly and continuously into a central interior area of the electric melter, with heating of the carbon-containing metallized iron in the electric melter under elevated temperatures of about 1300° C. to about 1700° C.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Glenn E. Hoffman, Ronald D. Gray
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Publication number: 20010054330Abstract: The method for producing a mother alloy for an iron-based amorphous alloy has the steps of (a) melting raw materials for elements constituting the amorphous alloy together with at least one oxide of an element constituting the amorphous alloy, the raw materials containing aluminum as an inevitable impurity, and the oxide having a smaller standard free energy of formation than that of Al2O3 in an absolute value; and (b) removing the resultant Al2O3 from the melt, thereby reducing the content of aluminum to 50 ppm or less in the melt.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Applicant: HITACHI METALS, LTDInventors: Yoshio Bizen, Setsuo Mishima, Takashi Meguro
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Publication number: 20010054331Abstract: A method for recovering a valuable metal including the steps of: recovering valuables from scraps containing the valuable metal; and removing at least part of carbon contained in the recovered valuables by heating the valuables in a non-oxidizable atmosphere, and a method for recovering a valuable metal including the steps of: thermally treating a melted mixture including the valuable metal and slag with a flux component to separate the valuable metal in a liquid phase from the slag in another liquid phase. In accordance with the present invention, the valuable metal in the scrap can be easily recovered.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Kiyotaka Yasuda, Minoru Sakai
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Publication number: 20010054332Abstract: Flat composite cutting elements are provided having a layer of Cubic Boron Nitride comprising less than 80 volume percent Cubic Boron Nitride sandwiched between two layers each made from a material brazeable to carbide or steel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Jerome J. Cheynet De Beaupre, Daniel J. Miess, Monte E. Russell, Madapusi K. Keshavan
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Publication number: 20010054333Abstract: An automatic fastener feed system provides a nut, bolt or other fastener to a movable drive tool such that the fastener is automatically engaged with a drive member on the drive tool and subsequently driven onto a corresponding fastener on a work piece. The feed system includes a fastener acceptor which is adapted for connection to a parts feeder via a supply line. The parts feeder provides the fasteners to the fastener acceptor, which at least temporarily retains the fastener in a position for engagement with the drive member. As the drive member rotates and moves through the fastener acceptor toward a mating fastener on a work piece, the fastener within the fastener acceptor is automatically aligned and engaged with the mating fastener as the drive member is rotatably driven by the drive tool. Continued operation of the drive member causes the fastener acceptor to release the fastener, thereby allowing the fastener to be driven completely onto the mating fastener on the work piece.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Thomas J. Jasperse
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Publication number: 20010054334Abstract: A spanner comprises a box end that has an inner periphery consisting of a number of wall faces to define a first polygonal receiving space. Each wall face includes a groove defined therein. The grooves of the wall faces together define a second polygonal receiving space. At least one of the grooves includes a closed first end and an open second end.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: David Ling, Hsien-Chung Tuan-Mu
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Publication number: 20010054335Abstract: A modified self-adjusting vise-grip wrench implemented by replacing the conventional set screw element with two embodiments of a spring-loaded replacement set screw and slide pin or push rod element device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Wes F. Harman
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Publication number: 20010054336Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the pliers includes a handle and a jaw, with the handle incorporating a first arm and a second arm and the jaw incorporating a first jaw member and a second jaw member. The first arm, second arm, first jaw member and second jaw member cooperate with each other in a conventional scissors-like manner. Preferably, the jaw also includes a first stud-receiving area, which is defined by first and second opposing and arcuately shaped recesses, which is adapted to receive and engage a stud to be removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Mitchell R. Eidson
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Publication number: 20010054337Abstract: A method and apparatus for tensioning a continuous loop, such as a cutting blade installed on a band saw having a frame, a manually rotatable tensioner, a first pulley rotatably connected to the manually rotatable tensioner, a second pulley spaced away from the first pulley, and a cutting blade strung between the first pulley and the second pulley, generally including the steps of positioning an adjustable body, such as a reciprocally actuated rod, between the manually rotatable tensioner and the second pulley, extending the adjustable body in a direction away from the second pulley and toward the manually rotatable tensioner so that the manually rotatable tensioner and the first pulley move in direction away from the second pulley, withdrawing the adjustable body in a direction toward the second pulley so that the manually rotatable tensioner and the first pulley move in a direction toward the second pulley.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventor: Howard L. Snodgrass