Abstract: A wafer dryer system which is suitable for drying rinse water from substrates in the event of a system malfunction or failure during or after rinsing of the substrates. The wafer dryer system typically includes a pair of drying chambers, each of which is fitted with at least one nitrogen gas inlet, at least one IPA gas inlet and an exhaust opening. A wafer boat which holds multiple wet wafers from an interrupted rinsing process typically in a wet bench system is placed in one of the chambers, after which the chamber is filled with hot nitrogen gas and mixed IPA gas to dry the wafers in the wafer boat. Upon resumption of operation of the wet bench system from which the wafers were taken or upon availability of a second wet bench system, the dried wafers are removed from the chamber for continued rinsing, as necessary.

Abstract: The invention describes a method for the drying of a damp material (2), whereby the material (2) is treated in a treatment chamber (15) of a drying cabinet (1) in a mechanically immobile condition, in which air (10) is directed through the treatment chamber (15) and over a condenser (13) and the moisture in the air (10) can condense at the condenser (13) and be led away.

Abstract: A web-formed material (1), preferably a pulp web (1), is passed through a drying plant, comprising blow boxes arranged in a plurality of drying decks, floating above lower blow boxes, which at their upper sides blow out hot process air against the web-formed material (1). Water, in the form of steam, escaping from the web-formed material (1) is discharged by the process air, at least part of which is recirculated (43) whereas the non-recirculated process air is discharged as exhaust air (41) and is replaced by a corresponding portion of supply air (42) with a low water content. The temperature of the process air is controlled (4).

Abstract: An article and method for producing extremely small pore inorganic membranes. The method enables reduction of the pore size of a porous inorganic membrane, such as metal oxides, metal carbides, metal nitrides and cermets. Mean pore diameters of below about 10 Å. Can readily and efficiently be achieved. After the conventional formation of an inorganic membrane, the pore size of the membrane is progressively reduced in a controlled manner to deposit one or more layers of an inorganic compound on the pore walls. This is done by exposing the membrane to the vapor of an inorganic precursor compound. The compound reacts with hydroxyl groups and or absorbed water molecules on the surface of the membrane and is thus bonded to the surface. Water vapor, oxygen, or vapors containing one or more oxygen ligands such as an alcohol are used to hydrolyze the deposited material to the inorganic membrane.

Abstract: A system for separating hydrocarbons from a material which includes a process chamber, a process pan operatively connected to the process chamber and removable therefrom, a blower operatively connected to the process chamber and to a heat source, the blower adapted to force heated air into the process chamber through the material disposed on the process pan, the forced heated air adapted to vaporize hydrocarbons and other contaminants disposed on the material, and at least one condenser operatively connected to the process chamber and adapted to condense the vaporized hydrocarbons and other contaminants is disclosed. Further, a method for separating hydrocarbons from a material which includes passing a stream of heated air over the material to volatilize the hydrocarbons, passing the stream of heated air containing the hydrocarbons through at least one condenser to form liquid hydrocarbons, collecting the liquid hydrocarbons, and recirculating the heated air is disclosed.

Abstract: A device 1 for treating fabrics in a tumble dryer during multiple tumble drying cycles, the device comprising a support member 2 and a reservoir 6 for storing fabric treatment composition attachable to said support member 2, the support member including one or more suction cups for attachment of the support member 2 to the tumble dryer interior, and preferably the door, wherein the suction cup/s 8 have one or more respective suction cup actuators 10.

Abstract: A clogging shoe tap device having a first plate for attachment to a shoe, and a second plate pivotally attached to the first plate along a transverse line of attachment, the second plate also having a transverse balance axis, wherein the transverse line of attachment is offset from the transverse balance axis, causing the tapping edge to hang downwardly when in the rest position.

Abstract: A shoe includes an upper with a first notched edge, an inner lining disposed inside the upper and having a second notched edge in alignment with the first notched edge, and a sock-like waterproof lining made of a waterproof breathable membrane and disposed between the upper and the inner lining. The waterproof lining has a third notched edge in alignment with the first notched edge. An elastic part spans the first, second and third notched edges, and has an outer layer and an inner layer both of which are elastic. The inner layer has a peripheral edge attached to the second notched edge to form an inner seam. The outer layer has a peripheral edge attached to the first notched edge to form an outer seam. The third notched edge is attached to one of the first and second notched edges along one of the inner and outer seams.

Abstract: The present invention provides soles or platforms incorporated into footwear, preferably athletic footwear, designed to promote a more efficient running technique by an energy-translating sole comprising one or more foot-strike member, angular displacement member and balance-thrust member, as well as other conventional features. Systems and methods of the present invention promote more efficient running technique by facilitating foot-strike to occur at a point under and behind the runner's center of gravity. This may be accomplished, for example, by a foot-strike member, angular displacement member and balance-thrust member working cooperatively to displace the runner's center of gravity and translate gravitational, inertial and ground reaction forces, as well as muscular tension forces, into linear momentum.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support especially for medical or technical purposes comprising at least one flexible element which can be arched and which comprises at least one central part and lateral elements, the arch of said element being adjustable by means of a device. According to the invention, even in its arched state, the support can be at least partially spatially distorted, and/or rotated, and/or deformed about an axis by means of at least one lateral element and/or central element.

Abstract: A comfortable heel counter for a dress shoe is provided. The dress shoe includes an upper that has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is connected to the second portion to define a heel counter pocket. A heel counter insert is disposed between the first portion and the second portion in the heel counter pocket. The heel counter insert is disposed in spaced relation to a calcaneus bone of a wearer. The heel counter insert provides comfort to the wearer and an improved fitting of the dress shoe.

Abstract: An interchangeable shoe ensemble includes a base member, or sole, having snaps secured along its periphery and positioned for snap fitting engagement with corresponding snaps on a removable strap. The strap is provided having a silk-screened design provided on its upper surface for aesthetic purposes. The configuration of the shoe lends itself to quick and efficient replacement of the strap where, for example, an alternative strap design is desired.

Abstract: A band 30 which is preferably made of lightweight aluminum, but can be made of any metal or other durable material, is placed around the top of boot 20. Attached to band 30 are two straps 40, extending down from band 30, under boot 20 just ahead of heel 25. Spike mount 50 is movably attached to strap 40. Spike 60 has a head 67 which fits into slot 55 in spike mount 50. In use, a worker wears the assembly 10, one on each boot 20. Spike 60 is installed in spike mount 50. The worker forces spike 60 into the pole, tree, or other object he or she desires to climb. In effect, this turns invention 10 into a “step”, allowing the worker to climb up and down as desired. When not in use, spike 60 can be removed from spike mount 50 and stored in spike holder 70.

Abstract: A work vehicle comprises an articulated frame having a first frame segment and a second frame segment that are pivotally coupled to one another by a vertical pivot. An actuator is coupled to the frame segments for articulating the segments relative to one another to steer the vehicle. Each frame segment is provided with ground engaging wheels which support the respective frame segments. A work implement in the form of a backhoe is mounted to the second frame segment. A stabilizer comprising two stabilizer arms is mounted to the first frame segment. The stabilizer arms have a work position and a transport position. In its work position the stabilizer arms are lowered and the ground engaging wheels of the second frame segment are lifted off the ground. The actuator for steering the vehicle can then be used to pivot the backhoe about a vertical axis defined by the vertical pivot.

Abstract: A sensor system is disclosed for a buried waste containment site having a bottom wall barrier and/or sidewall barriers, for containing hazardous waste. The sensor system includes one or more sensor devices disposed in one or more of the barriers for detecting a physical parameter either of the barrier itself or of the physical condition of the surrounding soils and buried waste, and for producing a signal representing the physical parameter detected. Also included is a signal processor for receiving signals produced by the sensor device and for developing information identifying the physical parameter detected, either for sounding an alarm, displaying a graphic representation of a physical parameter detected on a viewing screen and/or a hard copy printout.

Abstract: The ironing board comprises a perforated worktop (1) enclosed by a casing (2) with which it defines a chamber (3) associated to ventilation means for the steam ejected by an iron to pass therethrough. The ironing board further comprises adjustable support legs (8, 9), whose upper end portions are connected directly to the worktop (1). At least one (9) of these legs is adapted to pass in an air-tight manner through a longitudinal aperture (20) provided in the casing (2).

Abstract: This is a display device made from a baseball bat that has been cut into sections, spools, and slats. The spools and slats are re-assembled in such a way that the fact that the display device is constructed from baseball bat parts is not lost on the casual observer.

Abstract: A method of creating an expression of a positive feeling such as love towards another involves taking an empty receptacle, such as a package, wrapping and enclosing the package with gift-style material, placing a note on the package expressing the positive feelings to the recipient of the package and including a request that the package remain unopened but suggesting that the unopened package is filled with the positive feelings. A closed wrapped container, such as a package, has a written note on an exterior surface thereof advising the recipient leave the package unopened, but suggesting that the unopened package is filled with the positive feelings such as love.

Abstract: A lid, cover or closure for cups or containers that holds hot or cold liquids or other substances intended for individual consumer consumption which displays informational, advertising and decorative indicia including images, language, color, symbols, art, and/or print, by means of printing, imprinting, embossing, dying, drawing, adhering, and any and all other means of imposing or incorporating such indicia onto the lid, cover or closure. The lid, cover or closure allows for individualized advertisements, coupons, messages, or other communicating or decorative content that can be permanent or removable. The lid, cover or closure includes advertising, informational or decorative indicia on its top, bottom and/or sides. The present invention provides an improved means for distributing information, advertisements and coupons, as well as enhancing the aesthetics of lids, covers or containers.

Abstract: A displaying ornament with rotatable color disc includes a base and a color disc circumferentially rotatably mounted on the base. The color disc includes a plurality of parallelly arranged clear thin plates to provide a closed narrow space between any two adjacent thin plates. Each of the narrow spaces has a differently colored liquid and a small amount of air contained therein, and has a plurality of circumferentially equally spaced air-collecting units formed along an outer peripheral area thereof to catch air bubbles moving upward in the narrow spaces. When the color disc is rotated, air bubbles caught in the air-collecting units are moved from an upper position to a lower position in the color disc and automatically released from the air-collecting units to float and overlap each other in the narrow spaces to show non-uniform shapes, continuously creating dynamic and colorful views in the displaying ornament.

Abstract: The invention relates to a frame panel system (1) for suspending sliding panels that comprise a frame (8) and a fabric covering (6) or a board (6′). The panels can be freely displaced with respect to one another in parallel, thereby producing color effects or optical effects. The panels are movably received in a guide rail (2) by means of a special fixture (3). The inventive system is mainly used for window decorations, blackout panels and sun protection devices, as well as for room dividers and sliding elements for paneling shelves, wardrobes, cupboards or niches.

Abstract: A frame surrounds a framed area. The frame has an interior side and an exterior side opposite the interior side. An object to be displayed at certain times, such as a television set, is placed within the framed area. A flexible canvas cover has an area that is greater than or equal to the framed area. A storage roll is secured to the flexible canvas cover, thereby allowing the flexible canvas cover to be rolled onto the storage roll. A roll driver mechanism is securably attached to the interior side of the frame. The roll driver mechanism rotates the storage roll, thereby moving the flexible canvas cover between a deployed position and a retracted position. In the deployed position, the flexible canvas cover covers the framed area; in the retracted position, the flexible canvas cover is rolled onto the storage roll, and is positioned adjacent to the interior side of the frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to a display medium (1) intended to be installed in a scrollable device, the edges of which can be guided laterally inside said scrollable device. The inventive medium is characterised in that it comprises several adjacent sections (2, 3, 4) which are reversibly interconnected by means of the opposing horizontal edges thereof (10-13) and in that it comprises a lateral rod (7, 17, 27, 8, 18,38) located on each of the lateral edges extending continuously over all of the adjacent sections.

Abstract: The invention relates to a poster suspension device comprising a poster sheet. Said poster sheet, while under longitudinal tension, can be displaced in a to and fro manner between rollers, which are arranged one above the other at a distance, and from roller to roller in a direction of transport. The poster sheet is comprised of at least two individual posters. The aim of the invention is to enable individual posters to be separated from the sheet or to be placed in the sheet. To this end, connecting means, which can be removed between the poster surfaces themselves as well as in their edge reinforcements, are provided between at least two individual posters that follow one another in the longitudinal direction of the poster sheet.

Abstract: Any beverage container having phosphorescent luminosity on the exterior surface as a light source for reading and or decorative purposes in the absence of any other light source. The beverage containers can include cans, bottles (plastic or glass), cartons, ‘squeeze-up’ plastic containers or any other beverage container. The exterior surface of the beverage container includes a phosphorescent luminescent coating thereon for providing luminosity for reading or decorative purposes in the absence of any other light source. The phosphorescent luminescent coating may exist in the form of paint directly applied to the container, and adhesive coat or sheet applied to the container, a plastic sleeve partially or completely covering the container, a material (egg plastic or bottle) made with the phosphorescent pigments in its formation and any other means of application.

Abstract: A film molded casing includes a transparent or translucent film molded member having a printed layer provided on the inner surface thereof so as to define the place of an illumination display, and a casing inside of which a lens for guiding light of an inner light source to the appearance surface thereof is integrally formed with the casing using a light-permeable resin, in which a light transmitting area is integrally formed with the casing so as to be contiguous with the lenses, and on the inner surface of which a light-impermeable printed layer is provided. In this film molded casing, the light transmitting area is matched to the light transmitting area of the film molded member.

Abstract: This invention provides a sign image by projecting light through a replaceable pivotable image forming apparatus onto an adjacent surface. The apparatus is contained within a telescoping tube of three locking sections with overlap indicators. The tube is pivotably mounted within a wall or ceiling. The pivotable tube and stencil permits projecting the sign image onto an adjacent inclined surface. The first section has a light source at its outer end and image forming apparatus which provides the sign message. The other two sections each contain a lens for respective image size and focus adjustment by changing the sections overlaps.

Abstract: A device for displaying samples, particularly designed for cosmetic products including a frame having a front edge receiving the samples. The front edge has a polished section having a base bordered by fixed flaps, and the samples are arranged in a rack beneath a removable top forming a lid for the profiled section.

Abstract: A device for safely storing a firearm such as a rifle or shotgun includes a frame for securing the device to a surface such as a vehicle floorboard or the like. The device is defined by a locking system for closing off the end of a barrel and the clip area as well as for precluding access to the trigger device. A lock housing, slidably positionable on a tubular member secured to the frame, enables accommodation for various length barrels, and is deployed to close off the open end thereof. The device is particularly adapted for safely mounting and storing a pair of firearms.

Abstract: A grip for a weapon accessory rail, in which the grip is latched into any position on the accessory rail by a plastic compression latch which is inserted through the side of the grip, and is designed to be removed with the aid of a cartridge, or alternatively by a user depressing a button on the latch through a hole in the grip. The grip is manufactured by overmolding, allowing a variety of textures to be formed thereon, and allowing the material of the overmolded part to be selected for maximum grip, whilst the material of the core of the grip can be selected for maximum strength.

Abstract: The animal lure scent solution and the dispenser containing the solution is for attracting a species of deer in the deer family. The attractant solution comprises approximately one-third by volume of an attractant scent and approximately two-thirds by volume of a scentless liquid bubble soap which forms a carrier for the attractant scent when mixed with the carrier to form the animal lure scent solution. The solution is released into the atmosphere by blowing air on the bubble solution with the result that bubbles containing the attractant scent are formed which travel with the airflow and break on tree limbs, surrounding bushes, vegetation on the ground for the purpose of attracting a species of deer.

Abstract: A fish holder clamp system includes an elongate lever having a handle end and a jaw end. Disposed intermediately between a proximal part of the handle end and a distal part of the jaw end is a pivot pin that defines an obtuse angle between virtual lines connecting the proximal part of the lever to the pivot pin and the distal part of the jaw end to the pivot pin. A lever effect about the pivot pin to causes an elevation of the jaw end responsive to a depression of the handle end.

Abstract: A fishing reel (104) and spool (106) can be made as a more versatile kit (102) in that the fishing reel (104) includes a locking system adapted to interact with a circumferential area of the spool (106). changing spool (106) becomes easier with no loose parts and alternating between left and right hand becomes possible.

Abstract: A fixed shaft cover of a bail arm includes a first guide portion that guides line along its outer circumference, and a concave portion that is disposed such that a bail is interposed between it and the first guide portion. The concave portion further includes a second recessed portion disposed to interpose the bail between the second recessed portion and the first guide portion, and a first recessed portion that is disposed at a portion of the fixed shaft cover closest to the spool. The first recessed portion is connected at least partially with the second recessed portion on a side closer to the line roller.

Abstract: Weighted fish hooks having a hook shank having a bend at one end and a hook eye at an opposite end. A double-tapered weight having a top weight taper and a lower weight taper is provided on the hook shank between the bend and the hook eye.

Abstract: A flying inspect trap includes large, multi-directional, oppositely facing ingress openings to elongated chambers housing UV lamps emitting insect attractant light. A disposable cartridge has two sections which mate together to form a container for a roll of adhesive trapping medium. The cartridge sections are opened and spread apart to fit beneath the UV lamps. A motor indexes the adhesive medium so that some unused portion is always available for trapping insects until the roll is exhausted. The spent roll is then rolled into one cartridge section externally; and the two cartridge sections are coupled together to encase the spent roll for disposal.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved insect bait station and a method of treating insects with a toxicant. The improved insect bait station comprises a screw-shaped body and a top. The screw-shaped body at least partially defines a toxicant/bait-receiving chamber and defines at least one opening to the toxicant/bait-receiving chamber intermediate opposite ends of the body. The top defines an opening to the toxicant/bait-receiving chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel oil additive capable of effectively improving the quality of fuel oils, which comprises an oil-soluble metal salt of organic acid having the general formula MR, where R is an organic acid radical and the corresponding organic acid is a C1-C40 saturated or unsaturated fatty acid, naphthenic acid, aromatic acid or alkylphenol, M is a metal cation and the corresponding metal is an alkali metal, alkali-earth metal, rare-earth metal, transition metal, or the like. The present invention also provides fuel oil products added to the fuel oil additive, including gasoline, diesel oil, kerosene, heavy oil, resid, or the like. The present invention especially provides a gasoline antiknock agent and a gasoline having excellent antiknock property, and this kind of gasoline antiknock agent is characteristic of effectiveness, economy, safety, no environmental pollution, no toxicity to human body, no adverse effect on parts of automobile engine, use convenience, and the like.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward systems and methods of providing a low-emissions diesel fuel for use in cold climates. Such fuels may be prepared by a Fischer-Tropsch process and include a pour point depressant. Furthermore, the fuel is used in conjunction with a heated fuel delivery system so that low cloud points are not necessary. Fuels prepared according to embodiments of the present invention may be produced in higher yields than otherwise possible because a higher paraffin wax content can be tolerated, thus obviating the need to remove or exclude the wax. These fuels are characterized by a sulfur content less than 1 ppm, a cetane number greater than 60, an aromatics content less than 1 wt %, and a difference between the cloud and pour points that is greater than about 5° C. The present fuel may be prepared by a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis from any number of carbon-containing sources such natural gas, coal, petroleum products, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides a continuous process for preparing additive mixtures for mineral oils and mineral oil distillates, comprising

Abstract: A mulch for use in association with the germination of seed comprising paper particles and corn particles. The paper and corn particles are intimately mixed into a substantially uniform mulch. The mulch may be compressed into a pellet form. Additionally, the invention includes a method of manufacturing the mulch.

Abstract: A low profile commercial greenhouse is provided which is adapted for growing plants, as well as methods for using same. The low profile commercial greenhouse includes a housing having an upper end, a lower end, and a plant retaining space, wherein the plant retaining space has a height sufficient to provide a predetermined amount of spatial clearance between the upper end of the housing and an upper end of living items growing therein to permit circulation of air and other fluids about at least a portion of the living items. The housing of the low profile commercial greenhouse may be provided with a lid or door therein for accessing the plant retaining space, and one or more apertures may be formed in the housing for modifying the atmosphere contained therein. The low profile commercial greenhouse may be provided with a conveyor disposed therein for conveying items within the plant retaining space of the, housing such that the items are provided with more uniform exposure to light.

Abstract: A tree stand which provides both easy and quick mounting of the tree in the tree stand and a source of continuing water supply to the cut end of the tree. Mounting assemblies are provided wherein a mounting shaft may be slide to the tree with a grip plate on the inside end of the mounting shaft to engage the tree and then have a pivot latch engage the thread of the mounting shaft to permit the mounting shaft to be turned on the thread to firmly press the grip plate against the tree. A reservoir holds water which is fed into the container holding the tree when a float actuated valve permits the water to enter the container.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides methods for storing tree seedlings. The methods of this aspect of the invention each include the steps of (a) freezing a population of tree seedlings wherein each seedling within the population includes a root mass that includes roots and a growth medium, the roots being disposed within the growth medium, wherein the root mass is disposed within a container; and (b) storing the frozen seedlings at a temperature at which the seedlings remain frozen.

Abstract: A plant container has a semi-spherical opened top cup-shaped receptacle permanently attached to a vertical back panel. The cup and back panel form a pocket for retaining soil for a plant. The back panel has at least one opening for receiving a mounting element, such as a suction cup, for removably mounting the container to a vertical supporting surface, as for example, a window pane. The back panel also defines a reservoir for water and openings in communication with the receptacle for watering a plant received in the receptacle.

Abstract: A suspended barrier for a plant pot. The suspended barrier for a plant pot is designed for plant pots with sloping inner walls, placed within the plant pot and against the inner walls of the plant pot. The suspended barrier is made up of a generally concave polygon with a plurality of apertures, that holds a layer of soil above the generally concave polygon, and with the plant pot forming an enclosed air space below the generally concave polygon, the plurality of apertures being small enough to allow water from the layer of soil above the generally concave polygon to seep through the generally concave polygon into the enclosed air space below, while holding the layer of soil above the generally concave polygon.

Abstract: A decorative cover for use with a plant having substantial horizontal growth is provided, as well as methods of making and using same. The decorative cover includes a base in which the plant can be disposed and a decorative border connected to and extending from the base. The decorative border has a curvilinear, undulating configuration which permits the decorative border to hold, support and cushion individual leaves and petioles of the plant to prevent damage thereto and to accommodate horizontal growth of the leaves and petioles of the plant.

Abstract: A water and air retaining flower and landscape planter pot for display inside and outside of the home which provides adequate reservoir of air and water for the sustenance of these plants with extended times between required waterings. The novel planter pot also does not require drain holes to keep adequate air within the growing structure.

Abstract: A reforming and hydrogen purification system operating with minimal pressure drop for producing free hydrogen from different hydrogen rich fuels includes a hydrogen reforming catalyst bed in a vessel in communication with a core unit containing a hydrogen permeable selective membrane. The vessel is located within an insulated enclosure which forms an air inlet passageway and an exhaust passageway on opposite sides of the vessel. Air and raffinate pass through a burner within the air inlet passageway, providing a heated flue gas to heat the catalyst to the reaction temperature needed to generate free hydrogen from the feedstock. The burner flue gas flows laterally over and along the length of the bed between the input and output ends of the bed. Hydrogen is recovered from the core for use by a hydrogen-consuming device such as a fuel cell. The remaining unrecovered hydrogen in the reformed gases is contained in raffinate and is used to supply process heat via the burner.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for the preparation of synthesis gas by catalytic steam and/or CO2 reforming of a hydrocarbon feedstock comprising the following steps: