Abstract: A frame for casings, doors or windows and the like, particularly but not exclusively for outdoor use, applicable to casings and corresponding sashes of windows, doors, front doors, sliding sashes, center-hung sashes, matchboard shutters, Venetian-style shutters, open/closed slat shutters. The frame has a base framework of one or more laminated wood layers, an exposed finishing veneer adhered to the inside side and a metal skin for facing and protection, adhered to the framework; the metallic skin provides a frame with aesthetic finish and weather protection.

Abstract: A pre-stressing sheath for preventing wet concrete from penetrating between the sheath and strands being debonded, and for covering sections of reinforcing strands in pre-stressed concrete beams such that any potential strand tension transmitted to a beam is nullified by allowing the strands to slide freely within the pre-stressing sheath. The pre-stressing sheath is made up of a first hollow cylindrical sheath section having a longitudinal slit that allows the first sheath section to be opened and placed about the concrete reinforcing element, and a second hollow cylindrical sheath section having a longitudinal slit that allows the sheath section to be opened and placed about both the concrete reinforcing element and the first sheath section. The first sheath section further includes an integral outwardly projecting ridge for interlocking with the longitudinal slit of the second hollow cylindrical sheath section.

Abstract: A device for setting and leveling tile is provided that comprises an elongated straight edge. The straight edge includes a horizontal tile support flange and a vertical flange. A support leg is adjustably attached to the vertical flange adjacent each end of the straight edge and a bubble level is centered on the vertical flange between the support legs. The thickness of the horizontal support flange is sized so that after all the courses of tile are laid and the straight edge is removed, only a layer of grout is required to complete the installation. If the floor is not level, the support legs are adjusted to center the bubble in the level prior to laying the tiles. When leveling tile around a bathtub, an adjustable brace is affixed onto each of the support legs. Each brace includes and adjustment slot therethrough and a rubber boot secured on one end for engaging the bottom of the tub for supporting the straight edge on the edge of the tub.

Abstract: A railing system includes a railing assembly featuring a hollow tubular railing member, and a mounting assembly for mounting the railing member to a support structure. A pair of channels are formed along the railing wall and extend inwardly into the railing member, forming longitudinal grooves on the exterior of the railing wall. An optional cap rail is mountable over the railing member in a snap-fit connection without the need for tools. Optional decorative strips are also mountable to the railing member in a snap-fit connection. The mounting assembly includes a back plate and a railing mount that extends from the back plate. A trim cover formed of one or more trim pieces is connected around the perimeter of the railing member and over the back plate when the railing member is connected with the railing mount.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a door skin comprising an exterior surface having outer portions lying on a first plane, spaced grooves recessed from the plane of the outer portions, and tonal portions having a planar area and a plurality of spaced depressions recessed from the plane of said planar area. The present invention is also directed to a method of etching a plate, for use with a molded die set, for embossing a wood grain pattern in the door skin, and the etched plate formed therefrom.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for positioning and supporting multi-stranded cables (tendons) within a slab-on-grade foundation or other type of concrete structure. Each tendon support structure of the present invention comprises at least one tendon support arm that, in concert with the other components of the foundation or concrete structure, supports one or more tendons in a desired orientation within a slab-on-grade construction. The most preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a support base with a removably insertable portion for suspending support tendons in place.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various embodiments of connectors that may be utilized in building construction. According to one embodiment, the connector is composed of a generally U-shaped structure that is coupled to a first bracing member and a second bracing member at opposite ends of the U-shaped structure. This connector may be utilized to join two building elements that are generally perpendicular to one another. In another embodiment, the connector is composed of two brackets. The brackets are composed of a first, second, and third planar members that are generally rectangular. The first, second, and third planar members are coupled together such that the first planar member extends in a generally X-direction, the second planar member extends in a generally Y-direction, and the third planar member extends generally in a Z-direction. The brackets are affixed to tops of adjacent walls that form a corner and allow for a third building member to be coupled to the corner.

Abstract: An insulative, lightweight building panel is provided with a lightweight, insulative foam core and which includes one or more carbon fiber or steel reinforcements and an exterior concrete face which are manufactured in a controlled environment and can be easily transported and erected at a building site.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for repairing a construction component that has a damaged portion. First, the damaged portion is removed from the construction component. Next, a durable portion is provided that is preferably comprised of a cellulosic/polymer composite material which is moisture, decay, and insect resistant. The durable portion preferably has about the same shape as the damaged portion. The durable portion is then connected to the construction component to replace the damaged portion. The materials for repairing the construction component may be provided in a single kit.

Abstract: A speed roofing system consisting of a thin continuous sheet of flexible material with rigid material tabs integral to the continuous sheet. This method of using a rigid polymer based material is lighter and stronger than the existing tabs. The shear strength of these tabs is 60% greater than the existing tab anchoring method. They are less prone to deform or flex under the stresses roofs are subjected too. The tabs are labeled in both English language and Spanish with the phrase “Anchor All Tabs” on both sides of the tabs. The user arranges the speed roofing system in the appropriate pattern governed by governmental building codes. The continuous strip may be easily cut at any point to form to the application of the existing space. The user then anchors one end and then proceeds to anchor all the tabs. Because the speed roofing system places the integral tabs at the specified predetermined distance the user only considers the most efficient way to pattern the sheets.

Abstract: A roofing shingle for enhanced wind/rain durability embodies two transverse lines of adhesion. A first discontinuous line of adhesive joins the butt edge of an overlying shingle to the underlying shingle. Secondly, a band of sealant adjacent the top edge of an underlying shingle seals against an overlying shingle to prevent penetration by wind driven rain to the roof deck. A reduced headlap is thereby permitted, thereby either reducing shingle size or extending shingle coverage. Exposed portions of the sealant band improve the erosion resistance of underlying shingles.

Abstract: Floorboards with a surface of flexible fibers for laying a mechanically joined floating floor, and methods for manufacturing and profloorings containing such floorboards.

Abstract: A composite wood panel is disclosed, the wood panel having parallel first and second longitudinal edges, and parallel upper and lower faces, and comprising: a groove formed along the second longitudinal edge, a complementary shaped tongue formed along the first longitudinal edge, and a barrier layer. A first surface extends from the tongue to the upper surface and forms a generally obtuse angle, &agr;, with the upper surface, while a matching surface extends from the groove forming a generally acute angle, &bgr;, with the upper surface, and the sum of &agr; and &bgr; is from about 175° to less than about 180°. The composite wood panel allows for convenient and fast assembly, particularly in constructing roofs, and also provides resistance against the penetration of water through the structure formed by the panels.

Abstract: A thin decorative thermosetting laminate of postforming quality is glued to a longitudinal carrier to form a floor strip. The laminate has a thermosetting resin as well as hard particles impregnated therein to increase the abrasion resistance of the laminate. The carrier generally has a cross section of a dilatation, transition or a finishing profile, depending on the intended use of the floor strip. The floor strip has a tab portion on a surface that engages a channel on a floor tile or a reducer. The tab portion locks the floor strip into place and prevents movement of the floor tile or the reducer with respect to the floor strip.

Abstract: A spacer in a construction element (1) comprises an inner thread (5) provided in the construction element (1), a spacer screw and a support foot (6). The spacer screw has a thread for cooperation with the inner thread (5). The support foot (6) is intended for abutment against a support surface. The distance between the support foot (6) and the construction element (1) is adjustable by rotation of the spacer screw. The support foot (6) has a first engagement means (9) by means of which it is fixable in the construction element (1). The spacer screw and the support foot (6) have mutually corresponding engagement means by means of which the spacer screw is fixable in or on the support foot (6). The first engagement means of the support foot (6) is releasable from the construction element (1).

Abstract: A bracing device supports enclosed geometric frames during the construction phase of a building structure. The bracing device includes bracing members with adjustable lengths, a coupling device configured to couple the bracing members together, and the coupling device allows the bracing members to support an enclosed geometric shape. The coupling device may allow the bracing members to rotate through a 360-degree range. Alternatively, the coupling device may maintain a 90-degree relationship between a first and a second bracing member. The bracing device also includes articulating feet for engaging a beam member from many different angles. The articulating feet are adjustable, allowing the length of the bracing member to be finely adjusted. The bracing member may also include telescoping extension members.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting sections of a drilling rig substructure is disclosed. The disclosed invention is a unique structural connector in which sections of a drilling rig substructure can be connected together without the use of pins or pin-type connectors. The structural connector of the present invention utilizes specially-shaped fixed members connected to, and extending through, support plates that are attached to sections of a drilling rig substructure that mate with specially-shaped mating lugs that are mounted on mating lug plates that are attached to separate sections of the drilling rig substructure. When the sections of the drilling rig substructure to be connected are positioned together, the specially-shaped mating lugs engage the specially-shaped fixed members and form a high strength structural connection between the sections of the drilling rig substructure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a brace apparatus having a core member configured to absorb energy generated by seismic or other forces by undergoing plastic deformation. A buckling restraining assembly is included for maintaining the structural integrity of the brace after the core member has undergone plastic deformation. The buckling restraining assembly includes one or more bearings is located proximal the core member. The bearings are adapted to minimize friction between the core member and the buckling restraining apparatus. An air gap is positioned between the core member and the one or more bearings of the buckling restraining apparatus are adapted to prevent bonding of the core member and buckling restraining assembly. Projections are included in the core member of the brace apparatus to minimize movement of the middle portion of the core member relative to the buckling restraining assembly.

Abstract: The invention concerns a process for the renovation of the steps of a staircase, comprising step treads and risers, whereby, starting from the top step to be renovated, starting on the step tread thereof, a step tread plate provided with an impact section that protrudes beyond the step tread is arranged and fastened, and whereby, starting from said impact section, a riser plate extends along the riser and is fastened in the area of the corresponding next [lower] step to be renovated.

Abstract: There are provided a honeycomb structure capable, of suppressing a decrease in isostatic strength attendant on the thinning of the honeycomb structure, a honeycomb structure converter thereof, and a method of manufacturing the honeycomb structure. There is provided a honeycomb structure 1 having a number of cells 3 partitioned by partition walls 2 and extending to a axial direction. There are the honeycomb structure wherein a thickness (TY) of a partition walls (2Y) whose longitudinal direction is one direction (Y-direction) in a section perpendicular to the axial direction of the honeycomb structure 1 is greater than that (TX) of a partition walls (2X) whose longitudinal direction is the other direction; and a honeycomb structure converter thereof. There is provided a method of molding the above-mentioned honeycomb structure. That is the method of molding honeycomb structure wherein the honeycomb structure is extrusion molded such that the Y-direction is a direction of gravity.

Abstract: Wall system employing lightweight precast concrete wall panels. The precast wall panels include a concrete slab and a plurality of spaced-apart elongated generally parallel bent sheet metal channels that are partially embedded in the slab. Each wall panel can be coupled to a support wall by extending self-tapping screws through metallic wall framing members and the channels at locations where the framing members and channels cross.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a packaging system for causing articles M to fall downward along a predetermined falling route A and filling the articles M into a tubular film F. The packaging system is provided with an auxiliary device 205 operating on the falling route A at predetermined timing and facilitating or improving the flow of the articles M, determination unit 21a determining whether a state of the flow of the articles M on the falling route A is normal or abnormal, and a change unit 21b changing the operating timing of the auxiliary device 205 according to the state of the flow of the articles M determined by the determination unit 21a. With this configuration, the state of the flow of the articles M is improved and the high productivity (yield) and/or operativity of the packaging system can be maintained.

Abstract: A neck support knife for supporting a bottle during capping includes an arcuate planar surface having a plurality of elongated cleats extending away from the planar surface and arranged in a radial pattern. The cleats have a tooth-like vertical cross-section. An inner arcuate face adjoins the planar surface and engages the bottle neck during operation. On each cleat, the corner nearest the inner arcuate face is shaped to reduce contact with the bottle flange/neck junction. In a preferred embodiment, the cleats are all canted from the radial orientation in the same direction so that the bottle is biased against the inner arcuate face during capping.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for sealing containers which comprises a sealing head 16 for sealing a peripheral edge portion of a lid L to the inner surface of a downwardly tapered body wall B of the container C. The sealing head 16 is provided with a seal holding face 72 fittable to the inner surface of the container body wall B. The seal holding face 72 has an upper region 91 and a lower region 92. Recesses 93 are formed respectively in a plurality of portions of the lower region 92 along the circumference thereof for absorbing the slack produced in the peripheral edge portion of the lid L at the time of sealing. The apparatus obviates faulty seals in containers and gives an improved aesthetic appearance to the sealed portion.

Abstract: A bag sealing apparatus including a receiving member 34 attached to a fixed plate 31 and a sealing member (heating plate) 33 attached to a movable plate 32 that is disposed beneath the fixed plate 31. The upward and downward movement of the movable plate 32 is guided by the guide shafts 35. A plurality of rubber tubes 36 are connected between the fixed plate 31 and movable plate 32. The rubber tubes 36 expand in the radial direction and contract in length when compressed air is supplied and recover to their original state when the compressed air is discharged; accordingly, the movable plate 32 is moved to and from the fixed plate 31, and at the same time, the heating plates 33 and 34 are separated from and contacted with each other.

Abstract: System, method and material for making pneumatically filled packing cushions in which a plastic film material having two superposed layers joined together along first and second longitudinal edges is prefabricated at a first location by forming longitudinally spaced, transversely extending rows of perforations across it and sealing it together along seal lines which extend from the first edge of the material in a direction generally parallel to the rows of perforations other and terminate a short distance from the second edge to form chambers with open mouths facing the second edge between the rows of perforations. The material is then fan-folded or formed into rolls for storage and shipment. At a second location, gas is introduced into the chambers by passing the material along a tube positioned between the ends of the seals and the second edge of the material and injecting the gas into the open mouths of the chambers through openings in a side wall of the tube.

Abstract: A method of roll packing a variety of compressible materials is provided which prevents the rotatable mandrel about which the materials are rolled from radially collapsing. The method further provides for easy removal of the roll packed material without tearing or-telescoping of the material. One embodiment of the present invention provides for wrapping a corrugated material around the rotatable mandrel prior to the compressible material being wrapped around the mandrel. In another embodiment, roll-packing material is laminated prior to being wound upon,the mandrel before the compressible material is wrapped around the mandrel.

Abstract: A form, fill and seal packaging machine bottom fills a carton. The machine includes a lid application station for applying a lid to the carton open top at an upper edge and means for removing the carton from the mandrel. The carton is positioned on a conveyor and is conveyed to a filling station disposed along the conveyor for filling product into the carton. After filling, the carton is indexed to a bottom flap folding station for folding the bottom flaps toward one another and a bottom fin sealing station for sealing a portion of the bottom wall flaps to one another to form an elongated fin. A bottom panel folding station folds the bottom panels toward one another to form a sealed bottom wall and a discharge station discharges the packages from the machine. A method for forming the carton and a carton formed by the method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for format adjustment in a packaging machine whereby a leaflet (P), folded in a folding device (16), is supplied to a leaflet transport (11) at a constant speed (V1) by means of a leaflet supply device (20). The transport moves at a constant speed (V2) and the leaflet is transferred to a holder (12) on the leaflet transport and supplied, in the holder, to a folded-box transport (14). The transfer position for the leaflet in the holder of the leaflet transport is adjustable for a format adjustment of the leaflet. Separate drives are provided for the leaflet supply device and the leaflet transport.

Abstract: A packing method and system are disclosed which system includes a first platform having a product support surface for supporting a product and a second platform for supporting a box into which the product is to be packed. After a box is received on and secured to the second platform, the second platform is rotated so that the open top of the box faces the first platform and moved toward the first platform until the box substantially surrounds the product on the product support surface. The first and second platforms are then rotated simultaneously so that the product is transferred from the product support to the box, and the full box is discharged to a discharge conveyor.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming and filling a flexible package are provided in which an evacuation device (26) and a fitment (20) are attached to a sheet of flexible material (16). The sheet of flexible material (16) is formed into a package that is filled and sealed.

Abstract: A bag-making and packaging machine including a bag-making apparatus 1, a bag-filling (packaging) apparatus 2, and a bag transfer apparatus. The bag-making apparatus 1 of a bag-making and packaging machine, while releasing a film F from a film roll disposed in the horizontal direction and feeding the film lengthwise, folds and overlaps the film in two in a horizontal attitude, performs sealing in locations corresponding to the bag bottom portions and side portions of the film in the horizontal attitude, and separates bags by cutting. The line corresponding to the bag bottom ends of the folded and overlapped film F (this position indicated by S) is set in the same position regardless of the bag length, and the respective apparatuses such as the forming apparatus 5, sealing apparatuses 8, 9 and 11, and cutting apparatus 14, etc. are disposed with reference to this position.

Abstract: A pneumatic strapping tool for tensioning a strap around a load, adhering the strap onto itself, and cutting a feed end of the strap includes a piston, a weld motor operably connected to the piston and a vibrating weld element operably connected to the piston for contacting the strap and adhering the strap onto itself. A tensioning motor is configured for unidirectional rotation. A feed wheel is operably connected to the tensioning motor by a drive assembly to tension the strap prior to adhering the strap onto itself. A transmission cooperates with the drive assembly and is switchable between a first state in which the transmission engages the drive assembly to permit only one-way rotation of the drive assembly and a second state in which the transmission permits two-way rotation of the drive assembly. The strapping tool includes a self-contained pneumatic module that is removably mounted to a cylinder housing.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed towards an air filter assembly in an air induction system in a motor vehicle. The air filter assembly comprises a housing and layered filter disposed in the housing. The air filter assembly provides for a sealing surface such that the air filter is sealed in the housing such that the filter can not removed without breaking the seal.

Abstract: A clutch filter for filtering a fluid and a method for installing a filter member on the clutch filter are provided. The clutch filter includes a conduit member having an inlet end and an outlet end. The clutch filter further includes a filter member configured to be removably disposed about an exterior of the conduit member wherein an inner surface of the filter member and an exterior surface of the conduit member are in a spaced relationship. Finally, the clutch filter includes a collection vessel coupled to the outlet end of the conduit member. The collection vessel defines a first area in fluid communication with the outlet end. A second area is defined between the inner surface of the filter member and the exterior surface of the conduit member that is in fluid communication with the first area. A portion of the exterior surface of the filter member is not covered by the collection vessel.

Abstract: A filtration portion 11 constituting a filter element 3 is composed of a first filtration material 9 wound around the outer periphery of an inner tube 8 and a second filtration material 10 wound tightly around the outer peripheral surface of the first filtration material 9, and gas comprising oil mist is passed inside the filtration portion 11 from the inner peripheral surface to the outer peripheral surface thereof. As a result, a filter with good oil mist separation efficiency can be provided in which oil mist can be trapped and caused to condensate into oil drops with the first filtration material 9 and the oil drops can be grown with the second filtration material 10 and separated from the gas.

Abstract: A honeycomb structure includes partition walls arranged in an X-direction and intersecting partition walls so as to form a plurality of cells extending to an other-end portion from a one-end portion through an axial direction. There are disclosed a honeycomb structure in which intersecting portions of the partition walls include an intersecting portion (lacking portion) lacking in the one-end portion, a method of manufacturing the honeycomb structure, and a discharge fluid purification system comprising the honeycomb structure. The honeycomb structure is able to inhibit the opening from being blocked and is easily manufactured.

Abstract: There are disclosed a honeycomb structure which is preferably usable as a filter, for example, for trapping particulates in an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine, boiler or the like or for filtering liquids such as city water and sewage and in which an increase of a pressure loss at a use time is inhibited. A honeycomb structure 1 comprises: two end surfaces 5 consisting of first and second end surfaces; a porous body 2 in which a plurality of fluid channels 3 extending to a second end surface 5b from a first end surface 5a are formed; and plugging members 4 for plugging end portions 6 on end surfaces 5 side of the fluid channels 3.

Abstract: A flexible band is tensioned between fingers, capable of gripping together, of a gripper. In the bunching of plant stems, the band is held in an opening between fingers of the gripper behind a pair of rollers. The plant stems are carried along between the pair of rollers and received in the flexible band. After a bunch has thus been gathered, the ends of the fingers are brought towards each other, and the stems in the gripper are moved away from the rollers. Subsequently, the stems are tied together.

Abstract: A gas turbine system comprises a compressor that takes in suction air on the inlet side and compresses it to compressor end air that is available on the outlet side, a combustor in which a fuel is burned by using the compressor end air while resulting in the formation of hot gas, as well as a turbine in which the hot gas is expanded while providing work output. In a method for cooling this gas turbine system, compressed air is removed from the compressor, is fed as cooling air for cooling inside an internal cooling channel through thermally loaded components of the combustor and/or the turbine, is then compressed and added to the compressor end air. An improved cooling without disadvantage for the efficiency of the system is achieved in that, in the manner of a targeted leakage, a small part of the cooling air is fed for film cooling into the turbine stream through drilled film cooling openings provided on the components.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of fueling gas turbines from natural gas reserves with relatively low methane concentrations. The invention uses such reserves to generate electric power. The invention permits the use of these reserves at significantly lower cost than by producing pipeline natural gas to fuel gas turbines to generate electric power. These reserves currently generally are used only after the removal of impurities to produce pipeline natural gas quality turbine fuel. The latter current technology is capital intensive, and at current natural gas prices, economically unattractive. The process of the invention can remove the impurities from the gas from the natural gas reserve necessary for protection of the environment, and leaves inert gasses in the fuel in an amount which will increase the output of a gas turbine for the generation of power by about 5 to about 20%.

Abstract: A lock assembly for a thrust reverser system that prevents thrust reverser deployment when the thrust reversers are in the stowed position, but does not prevent thrust reverser movement, in either the deploy or stow directions, when the thrust reversers are out of the stowed position and the lock assembly is in the locked position.

Abstract: A sensor and method for monitoring and controlling catalytic converters, in particular motor vehicle catalytic converters, is designed as a temperature probe which is provided with a catalytic coating. A catalytically coated temperature probe is used for control purposes, with the quantity and/or type of reagents fed to the catalytic converter being at least partially controlled by the sensor.

Abstract: A method to regulate catalyst temperature by adjusting engine air and fuel amounts. The method provides catalyst temperature regulation while reducing fuel consumption.

Abstract: The present invention involves thermal management of an integrated emission reduction system for the removal of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from diesel engine exhaust streams. The inventive integrated emission reduction system may include a diesel particulate filter (DPF), a heat source for adjusting the temperature of the exhaust stream entering the DPF, at least one selective catalytic reducer of NOx, a heat exchanger for adjusting the temperature of the exhaust stream entering the NOx reducer, and a computing device for monitoring the temperature and/or pressure of the exhaust stream entering the DPF and the NOx reducer, and for controlling the operation of the heat exchanger and heat source, thereby improving the efficiency of the DPF and the NOx reducer.

Abstract: An exhaust gas purifying system for an internal combustion engine is arranged to determine a recovery execution timing for recovery processing of recovering an exhaust gas purifying device such as a particulate filter and a NOx trap catalyst from a specific content stacked state, to determine a target air/fuel ratio for executing the recovery processing, to determine a first engine controlled variable relating to an air/fuel ratio on the basis of the target air/fuel ratio, and to determine a second engine controlled variable relating to a combustion period at a value different from a value employed during normal processing when the recovery processing is executed.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a an internal combustion engine having a plurality of cylinders, at least some of which may be selectively deactivated to provide variable displacement operation, including temperature management of at least one engine/vehicle component by monitoring the temperature of the component and controlling activation of at least one cylinder to control the temperature of the component. In one embodiment, the engine/vehicle component is an emission control device, such as a catalytic converter.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for controlling operation of an engine coupled to an exhaust treatment catalyst. Under predetermined conditions, the method operates an engine with a first group of cylinders combusting a lean air/fuel mixture and a second group of cylinders pumping air only (i.e., without fuel injection). In addition, the engine control method also provides the following features in combination with the above-described split air/lean mode: idle speed control, sensor diagnostics, air/fuel ratio control, adaptive learning, fuel vapor purging, catalyst temperature estimation, default operation, and exhaust gas and emission control device temperature control. In addition, the engine control method also changes to combusting in all cylinders under preselected operating conditions such as fuel vapor purging, manifold vacuum control, and purging of stored oxidants in an emission control device.

Abstract: An exhaust muffler system for use on a motorcycle or four-wheeled vehicle provides for operation in either of two modes, a regular configuration that provides a high degree of noise reduction, or a racing specification that provides for a freer-flowing exhaust. Without changing the main body of the muffler, an operator can choose between a quieter, public road setting or a louder, high performance setting. The muffler is provided with two interchangeable spark arresters, and a main body having multiple expansion chambers therein, defined by bulkheads. When a regular spark arrester is installed, exhaust gas passes through one bulkhead three times, greatly reducing the noise produced. With the spark arrester removed, the exhaust gas passes straight through to the open air, enhancing performance. A seal is provided between the bulkheads and the spark arrester, which provides for extension or retraction in the lengthwise direction of the tail pipe.

Abstract: A failure detection apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes failure detecting means (S22-S30) for detecting abnormality of fresh air quantity detecting means (air flow sensor) based on the result of comparison between a fresh air quantity detected by the fresh air quantity detecting means (air flow sensor) and a fresh air quantity reference value set by fresh air quantity reference value setting means (S20), and exhaust flow rate adjusting means. The fresh air quantity reference value setting means sets the reference value (S16) in accordance with not only the operating state (engine speed Ne, fuel injection quantity Qf, etc.) of the engine but also a target adjustment amount (target throttle valve opening) set for the exhaust flow rate adjusting means by target adjustment setting means (S12, S14).