Abstract: A food service and dining tray having a smooth upper surface, opposing end panels that provide sturdy handles, a perimeter rim with a minimum height dimension of approximately one inch extending between the end panels, a removable high-friction mat, and a yielding bottom portion filled with granular and/or soft material that conforms to the configuration of the surface or lap upon which it is placed. Optionally, the serving tray may have a detachable self-contained bottom portion, a perimeter groove for food crumbs and/or mat storage, and one or more recessed areas in its upper surface for maintaining a container holding an easily spilled food or beverage in a substantially upright and fixed position. Also, the mat may have thermal properties that protect the upper tray surface from damage during repeated use with hot food containers and/or help food containers to maintain elevated and chilled temperatures during transport.

Abstract: A plastic pallet including a square upper plate part and lower plate part, and columns connecting the upper plate part and the lower plate part. Fork insertion apertures are formed between the columns in the side faces of the pallet. Rectangular reinforcing frames are multiply formed surrounding the cross-section of the fork insertion apertures orthogonal to the fork insertion direction, and a hollow portion is formed inside these reinforcing frames, along at least three sides of the reinforcing frame.

Abstract: A transporter to assist the movement of an impaired person. The transporter is movable on casters along a floor, and includes a top surface on which the person rests. This surface is smooth to facilitate sliding the person on and off, and vertically movable under power to raise and lower the person without personal effort.

Abstract: A burner assembly cofires a primary solid fuel and a secondary solid fuel in a combustion zone of a boiler. The burner assembly includes a fuel injector that mixes the primary solid fuel and the secondary solid fuel prior to injection into the combustion zone of the boiler. The primary solid fuel may be pulverized coal, pulverized petroleum coke, or the like, while the secondary solid fuel may be a biomass fuel or refuse-derived fuel.

Abstract: The process for minimizing the concentration of toxic organic compounds in the fly dusts of incineration plants comprises, when special combustion conditions are detected which lead to the formation of organic pollutants, in particular dioxins/furans and/or precursor compounds of dioxins/furans, recirculating the fly dusts produced in the incineration plant to the combustion process for destruction of these compounds.

Abstract: A compression system for a dual material delivery assembly for mounting on a frame alongside a plurality of similar assemblies is described. The assembly includes a furrowing knife for producing a furrow in the ground as it is towed across the ground. A fertilizer tube is mounted behind the furrowing knife. A seed dispensing tube provided is for depositing seed in the furrow behind the fertilizer knife offset to one side and above the fertilizer. A packer wheel is attached to the seed tube assembly. The fertilizer knife and the seed tube assembly are separately mounted on a bracket attached to the implement frame for pivotal movement about a common pivot Two separate cylinders are provided to apply a separate force on the furrowing element and the packer wheel. The cylinders of each of the assemblies are commonly connected for common adjustment on the frame or on the go on a tractor towing the frame.

Abstract: This invention is an apparatus for planting seed and injecting dry fertilizer (dry granular material) with a V-Blade Plow while at the same time tilling the soil. The apparatus consists of a series of circular conveyance tubes that direct the granular material into a groove formed by the apparatus by means of a knife mounted to the underside of a metal plate which also serves as the mounting structure. The seed and fertilizer are injected into the groove, below the compacted sweep layer (formed by the blade) and next to firm soil that does not dry out like the loose soil above the sweep layer.

Abstract: A sewing machine needle free from combined troubles of stitch skipping and fabric yarn breakage, irrespective of high-speed and multifunction sewing machines and diversified materials being used. The sewing machine needle includes a shank, a blade connected to the shank, a needle point formed at an extremity of the blade, a needle eye formed in the vicinity of the needle point, and a long groove extending from the needle eye along the blade. The blade is provided at a portion thereof where the scarf is formed with a crank in such a manner that a side of the portion is outwardly protruded in a direction opposite from the scarf with respect to a central axis of the needle. An end of the needle eye contiguous to the scarf is protruded outward by a predetermined height from a contour of the blade.

Abstract: A device for precise placement of the toe of a hosiery item during automated insertion in the conveyor of a sewing machine for closing the toe, composed of two laminas arranged side by side on a substantially horizontal plane so as to form therebetween a passage for a portion of the hosiery item proximate to the opening of the toe to be closed; the device comprises, proximate to the inlet of the passage, tensioning elements, arranged below the pair of laminas to engage a portion of the toe of the hosiery item, hanging at the toe opening to be closed with two flaps of the opening facing each other and actuated in order to tension the hosiery item downwardly during insertion in the passage.

Abstract: A bobbin case tool to aid in the removal and installation of a prior art bobbin case on a sewing machine. The bobbin case tool includes an elongated arm having a clearance, a pair of lead in chamfers, a locking tooth disposed between the pair of lead in chamfers, and a locking tooth face. In application, the bobbin case tool designed to engage a releasing lever of the bobbin case and operatively pivot the releasing lever to an unlock position. The bobbin case tool is positioned so that the locking tooth is engaged in a spindle clearance of the releasing lever. The releasing lever of the bobbin case is rotated by the bobbin case tool until the releasing lever forces a locking plate of the bobbin case out of a spindle locking groove of a sewing machine's bobbin holder.

Abstract: A sail assembly includes a sail, a mast, a coupler, and a fastener. The mast is attached to a first side of the sail. The coupler is attached to the mast and is used to couple the mast to a handle portion of a paddle. The fastener is attached to the sail at a location opposite the first side of the sail and is used to fasten the sail to the blade portion of the paddle. The sail is held in an open position when the mast is coupled to the handle portion of the paddle at a right angle to the paddle and the sail is fastened to the blade portion of the paddle. Thus, when the mast is supported upright and the end of the sail is connected to the paddle, the sail is open and usable to propel the boat under power of the wind.

Abstract: A pier system having tethered deck sections that are selectively separable from supporting pile bents to prevent damage to the pier system during storm events. The pier system includes a plurality of deck sections supported above water by pile bents and engaged therewith in normal use mode by selective attachment mechanisms. In deployment mode, the attachment mechanisms are disengaged to allow the deck sections to be removed from the pile support systems by storm action. The tethers allow the decking sections to float free but remain close to the pile bents. The system may be reassembled into normal use mode following the storm event.

Abstract: An ROV comprising a topside, a fish and an umbilical cable for connecting the topside and the fish together. The fish is adapted to be powered by an onboard battery inductively coupled to the fish. The cable is of a fine diameter to reduce drag through the water. RF transmissions carry control and return signals to and from the fish and topside. The fish has two cameras. The front facing camera is located behind a dual layer flooded dome. A pan and tilt mechanism is fitted to one of the cameras and uses a pivotable gimbal frame driven by a lead nut moving along an arcuate bolt.

Abstract: An attractive wake tower assembly of a unique, generally U-Shaped configuration that can be readily pivotally mounted on powerboats of various constructions to enable the wake tower assembly to be pivoted from an upstanding to a lowered position. The wake tower assembly is of a high-strength, simple construction that does not interfere with the visibility of the boat operator. Each of the side members of the assembly has an upper portion and a lower portion, each of which is generally oval in cross section. The lower portion of each of the side members have a first width and the upper portion of each of the side members have a first width; and a bight portion interconnecting the upper portions of the sides, the bight portion being generally circular in cross section.

Abstract: A bird feeder for preventing squirrels and other type rodent animals from consuming the bird food includes a top convex surface, a bottom convex surface and a concave middle surface. The top and bottom convex surfaces are inverted bowls having equal diameters and depths. The concave middle surface is a non-inverted bowl having a diameter less than the top and bottom inverted bowls, and has a greater depth. The middle bowl holds the bird food for birds to consume. The rim of the middle bowl may serve as a perch for the feeding birds to light upon. The top and bottom inverted bowls serve as protective shields that prevent rodent animals, such as squirrels from reaching the middle bowl. These shields are constructed from a substantially rigid material, having a substantially smooth surface. The smooth surface and the convex shape prevent squirrels or the like from establishing a foothold so that they may consume the bird food.

Abstract: A method and system for the inland aquaculture of marine species using water from a saline aquifer having a heavy metals content within the acceptable limits of the EPA guidelines for drinking water. The aquifer is preferably the Coconino aquifer located in Arizona and New Mexico. The system can be used to culture microalgae, macroalgae, fish, shrimp and many other marine species. Nutrients and fertilizers can be added to the water to optimize culture conditions for particular species. Useful products can be isolated from the marine species or the cultured marine species can be harvested as useful products themselves.

Abstract: A method of forming a valve assembly for delivering a fluid from a fluid bag to an animal caging system for housing an animal can include forming, in an injection molding machine, an upper member having a piercing member and a connecting member. The upper member has a fluid channel defined therethrough; and forms, in an injection molding machine, a base having a flange member and a base fluid channel defined therethrough. The base is designed to be matingly coupled to the upper member. The method can further include forming, in an injection molding machine, a stem member designed and dimensioned to be disposed in part within the base fluid channel. The stem member has an actuation portion extending through a spring element. The stem member has a top portion having a lower surface.

Abstract: A scooping assembly includes at lease one container adapted to scoop up and dispose of pet droppings, and at least one clamping member adapted to removable engage the container. The scooping assembly further includes at least one triggering member operatively coupled to the clamping member and adapted to force the clamping member to release the container to allow the container to scoop up the pet droppings.

Abstract: A steam generation apparatus is set forth including a housing; a boiler adapted to generate steam within the housing; a filler cap adapted to be removably coupled to the boiler; a first pressure relief device coupled to the boiler adapted to release steam at a first pressure level; and a second pressure relief device coupled to the boiler adapted to release the steam at a second pressure level, where the second pressure level is higher than the first pressure level, the first pressure relief device is incorporated into and is made to vent into the filler cap, and the second pressure relief device is made to vent internally to the housing.

Abstract: A method of reducing smoke and particulate emissions from steam boilers and process heaters operating on liquid petroleum fuel by adding a fuel additive which contains an oil-dispersible iron compound and an over-based magnesium compound to liquid petroleum fuel.

Abstract: A rotary piston machine includes a housing provided with a cylindrical inner wall and at least one piston disposed inside the housing and rotating around a longitudinal central axis of the housing while moving back and forth in a linear manner, under the control of a control mechanism, to periodically enlarge and reduce the size of at least one chamber associated with the piston. The at least one piston moves linearly parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the housing.

Abstract: An engine includes a crankshaft having a crank throw, the crankshaft rotating about a crankshaft axis. A compression piston is slidably received within a compression cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the compression piston reciprocates through an intake stroke and a compression stroke of a four stroke cycle during a single rotation of the crankshaft. An expansion piston is slidably received within an expansion cylinder. A connecting rod is pivotally connected to the expansion piston. A mechanical linkage rotationally connects the crank throw to the connecting rod about a connecting rod/crank throw axis such that the expansion piston reciprocates through an expansion stroke and an exhaust stroke of the four stroke cycle during the same rotation of the crankshaft. A non-circular path is established by the mechanical linkage which the connecting rod/crank throw axis travels around the crankshaft axis.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine has a variable valve actuation device for lifting an intake valve. The device is capable of changing the amount of opening of the intake valve. The device is configured to calculate a first estimated value Gao of the amount of intake air from a parameter regarding the operation state of the engine at the time of opening the intake valve; calculate a second estimated value Gac of the amount of intake air from a parameter regarding the operation state of the engine at the time of closing the intake valve; and calculate an actual amount of intake air Ga based on the first estimated value and the second estimated value.

Abstract: If it is determined that the present engine startup is a high-temperature startup, immediately fuel injection in concert with start of cranking is prohibited. After a delay time elapses following the start of cranking, or when THC<THCh is satisfied, fuel injection is started. Therefore, the cranking during the delay time cools interior of the combustion chambers. Since fuel injection starts after the cooling, pre-ignition can be prevented.

Abstract: An electric starter apparatus and method with three-stage gearing and method for starting an internal combustion engine. The apparatus includes a starter assembly, a first gear, a second gear, a third gear, a fourth gear and an engine shaft. The starter assembly includes an electric starter motor and a starter motor shaft communicating with the starter motor. The starter motor shaft is rotatable in response to energizing of the starter motor. The first gear is attached to the starter motor shaft for rotation therewith. The second gear engages the first gear, the third gear engages the second gear, and the fourth gear engages the third gear. The fourth gear is attached to the engine shaft for communicating with an internal combustion engine. The engine is started by energizing the starter motor to rotate the starter motor shaft, the gears, and the engine shaft. The arrangement of gears enables the use of a low-torque/high-rpm electric starter motor in combination with a nickel-cadmium battery.

Abstract: A tunable intake manifold extends between a plenum and an intake of an internal combustion engine. A manifold housing defines an interior and a runner wall extending through the interior. A slider extends through the interior and slidably engages the manifold housing. The slider defines a slider wall cooperative with the runner wall to form a runner for transporting air therethrough. The runner defines a cross section. A drive assembly is operatively coupled between the manifold housing and the slider to move the slider transversely along the manifold housing to change the defined cross section of the runner such that the volume of air passing therethrough changes with the movement of the slider.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for start delay warning in a liquefied petroleum gas injection engine is disclosed. During a period required for forming a sufficient fuel pressure in a fuel supply line, a warning signal is generated such that a driver is directed to maintain an ignition switch at its second (simply IG on) stage.

Abstract: A method for operating an internal combustion engine (10) installed in a motor vehicle having controlled intake and exhaust valves and that is coupled in fixed fashion with an electrical machine (16) charging an electrical energy accumulator, in particular a battery (21), wherein, in order to enable the electrical machine to perform recuperation on overrun or during braking operation of the internal combustion engine (10), the drag power or braking power of the internal combustion engine is regulated via intervention in the valve actuation process so that a braking or deceleration behavior of the motor vehicle is obtained that is familiar to the driver of the motor vehicle, wherein the valve actuation process and a regulation of the generator and motor operation of the electrical machine (16) are carried out as a function of the state of charge, preferably of at least four levels of the state of charge, of the energy accumulator (21), and wherein the valve actuation process and the regulation of the electrica

Abstract: An electronically controlled throttle control apparatus prevents a throttle valve from malfunctioning due to deterioration in sliding resistance ascribable to abrasive dust at a sliding contact portion between a valve gear of a geared reduction device and a coil spring. The outer periphery of a spring inner periphery guide is provided with a plurality of groove portions as abrasive dust removing means for removing abrasive dust at least from a sliding contact portion between the outer periphery of the spring inner periphery guide and the inner periphery of a default spring, so that individual edge portions of the plurality of groove portions can rub the inner periphery of the default spring to scrape off abrasive dust from the inner periphery of the default spring and direct the abrasive dust into the plurality of groove portions.

Abstract: A control device of an internal combustion engine designed to find a response time constant of a cylinder air filling amount or its equivalent value by a simpler method. The control device comprises means for setting the target opening degree, means for finding a target intake pipe pressure, means for finding a current intake pipe pressure, means for finding a throttle valve air passage flow rate, and means for finding a cylinder intake air flow rate and calculating the response time constant based on the target intake pipe pressure, the current intake pipe pressure, the throttle valve air passage flow rate, and the cylinder intake air flow rate.

Abstract: A fuel vapor pressure regulator by which the input pressure of an input fluid is regulated by the opening and closing of a valve unit controlled by a piston pressure sensor, the operation of which is, in turn, controlled by a movement of a preset bias, the output pressure of the fluid delivered by the regulator, and a biasing pressure that reflects the operating demands of the utilization unit to which the fluid is delivered.

Abstract: Method for operating an internal combustion engine in which fuel is injected into a combustion chamber by an injector. The injector has a drivable piezo-actuator. A setpoint value is generated for driving the piezo-actuator. A setpoint charge quantity (QCsetpoint) is determined from the setpoint value, and an actual charge quantity (QCactual) supplied to the piezo-actuator is determined. The setpoint charge quantity (QCsetpoint) and the actual charge quantity (QCactual) are combined, and the combined result (Son) acts upon the drive circuit of the piezo-actuator.

Abstract: A device including an internal combustion engine, an engine control device coupled to the internal combustion engine and manually operable to stop operation of the engine, a fuel tank for providing fuel to the engine, and a fuel vent closure device automatically operable in response to the manual operation of the engine control device to substantially seal the fuel tank when the engine is stopped, thereby substantially preventing emissions from the fuel tank. The device also preferably includes a fuel shutoff device automatically operable in response to the manual operation of the engine control device to substantially block the supply of fuel to the engine when the engine is stopped.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting fuel-vapor gas leaks that includes a jet pump (8) that introduces outside air into and pressurizes a vapor purge system including a fuel tank (1) by gasoline flow from a fuel pump (2); an internal pressure sensor (14) for measuring vapor purge system internal pressure, an open/close controllable reference orifice (21) that causes leakage through a reference leak hole; and a storage device for storing as an initial curve pressure changes during pressurization by the jet pump (8) for a predetermined time period, with the reference orifice (21) alone opened. The device can accurately detect leakage even while an internal combustion engine is running because it judges leak presence/absence by comparing a time series in a pressure curve obtained by jet pump (8) pressurization over the predetermined time period while idling with the vapor purge system completely shut-off, with a time series in the initial curve.

Abstract: A homogenous charge compression ignition barrel engine includes an engine housing with a first and second end. An elongated power shaft is longitudinally disposed in the engine housing and defines a longitudinal axis of the engine. A plurality of cylinders surround the longitudinal axis with each cylinder having a closed end and an open end. Each cylinder has a central axis. The open ends of the cylinders are each generally directed toward the first end of the housing. An intake system is operable to introduce a combustible mixture of air and fuel into each of the cylinders. A track is disposed between the first end of the housing and the open ends of the cylinders such that a portion of the track is disposed generally in alignment with the central axis of each of the cylinders. The track has a cam surface that longitudinally undulates with respect to the open ends of the cylinders. A portion of the cam surface is disposed generally in alignment with the central axis of each of the cylinders.

Abstract: A mechanism for a gas powered gun where a tubular bolt 10 of a paintball gun communicates with a cylinder 16 through bores 17 when in a forward, firing position, allowing compressed gas from the cylinder to expel a paintball. A port 20 whereby the cylinder communicates with a source of compressed gas is occluded by the bolt 10 except when a circumferential recess 23 in the bolt is in register with the port 20. By this arrangement only gas stored in the cylinder 16 is used to fire a paintball and the source of compressed gas is not in communication with the cylinder except when the trigger is released and the bolt 10 is withdrawn.

Abstract: A bladeshaft assembly for a cutting saw includes a hollow tubular housing member. A shaft member extends coaxially through the tubular housing member and has at least one end that extends outwardly of the tubular housing member. At least one bearing member is disposed in surrounding relation to a portion of the shaft member. A seal is provided for sealing around the at least one end of the shaft member. A pulley member is mounted on the at least one end of the shaft member that extends outwardly of the tubular housing member. A tapered fit is formed cooperatively between the pulley member and the end of the shaft member so as to enable a press fit relation between the pulley member and the end of the shaft member. Additionally, first and second gauge points are formed respectively between the pulley member and the at least one end of said shaft member; the first and second gauge points engaging one another so as to establish a predetermined placement of the pulley member on the end of the shaft member.

Abstract: A thermic module for a self-heating container. The container includes a bottom end with a cavity having internal walls formed therein for receiving the thermic module. The thermic module will be comprised of a first cup having plastic walls and containing a first chemical reactant. The module will also include a second cup containing a second chemical reactant and a dividing wall positioned between the first and second cups such that the first and second chemical reactants cannot mix. An end cap will be positioned below the second cup and will retain the second chemical reactant within the second cup. An actuator for puncturing the dividing wall will be positioned between the end cap and the dividing wall. Finally, the walls of the first cup are formed of a plastic of sufficient thinness and having a sufficiently low Vicat Softening Point such that the plastic walls will expand into contact with the internal walls of the container cavity upon mixing of the first and second chemical reactants.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus comprising a closure-cap and a container in the form of a two-chamber cartridge in which an active ingredient and a solvent can be stored separately until the apparatus is used in a nebuliser, as well as an active substance concentrate in which the active substance is present as a solution or suspension for storage purposes.

Abstract: A care system and associated methods are provided for alleviating patient pain, anxiety and discomfort associated with medical or surgical procedures. The system comprises: at least one patient health monitor device generating a signal reflecting at least one physiological condition of a patient; a drug delivery controller supplying one or more drugs to the patient; a memory device storing a safety data set reflecting parameters of at least one patient physiological condition; and an electronic controller interconnected between the patient health monitor, the drug delivery controller and the safety data set. A method of electronically tracking recurring revenues generated by the use of the care system where the system is at the location of its user is also provided. Additional embodiments of the system and methods are directed to alleviating patient pain or discomfort while enabling safe patient controlled drug delivery in correlation with the monitoring of patient health conditions.

Abstract: The germ and noise filter device is a disposable, hand held filter apparatus that covers the mouth of the user during the exhale phase of a cough. The device comprises: a body with a cavity that houses three micro-filters; a corrugated tube; two one-way valves and a mesh screen. The body can be made of durable plastic material that may be transparent or a combination of many attractive colors. The two one-way valves act as a filter element for the noise that would normally occur. An eyelet is formed on the body to allow the device to be worn about the person. When a cough is eminent, the opening of the device is engaged against the user lips to prevent the transmission of air-borne diseases and reduce the noise of the coughs.

Abstract: A method for increasing circulation in a breathing person utilizes a valve system that is interfaced to the person's airway and is configured to decrease or prevent respiratory gas flow to the person's lungs during at least a portion of an inhalation event. The person is permitted to inhale and exhale through the valve system. During inhalation, the valve system functions to produce a vacuum within the thorax to increase blood flow back to the right heart of the person, thereby increasing cardiac output and blood circulation.

Abstract: A gas flow regulator includes a one-piece housing with an internally disposed flowmeter. The flowmeter is screwed into the housing. A fitting, such as a hose barb, extends through the housing and into the body of the flowmeter to secure the pieces together. Similarly, an inner core assembly can be separately fabricated, screwed into the housing and secured by fittings. This allows a full brass core for oxygen regulators.

Abstract: A system controls and manages administration of a therapeutic gas, such as NO, O2, or the like, to a spontaneously breathing, non-ventilated patient such that concentrated NO is as low as reasonably possible while delivering the desired amount of NO to the distal portions of the lungs. The system includes an entrainment cell that provides remote, turbulent mixing with low temporal latency and can be used with a nasal cannula or a mask. The entrainment cell uses room air to dilute the therapeutic gas; however, supplementary gases can also be used. A baffle can be included to promote mixing and a flow sensor can also be used if desired. Multiple ports can be included in the entrainment cell. An equalizing valve is also disclosed.

Abstract: A mask system for delivering air to a user includes a suspension mechanism to allow relative movement between a face-contacting cushion and a mask shell. The suspension mechanism also provides a predetermined force to the cushion that is a function of mask pressure, displacement of the cushion or both.

Abstract: A nasal cannula system includes a nasal cannula for the delivery of and collection of gases, wherein the nasal cannula is coupled to a pair of extension tubes which are slidingly received within right and left earpieces respectively for retaining and securing the extension tubes to fix the cannula in a desired position for use by a patient. Each nasal cannula includes an open recessed channel disposed between a pair of bridges for retaining the extension tube within the earpiece and an locking exit hole at its distal end for helping to secure therein the extension tube to provide a fixed distance adjustment between the nasal cannula and the ears of the patient.

Abstract: A mouthguard (10) of “C” shaped configuration having a forward portion (11) from which there rearwardly diverges a pair of arms (12). The mouthguard (10) in transverse cross section is of a “U” shaped configuration. In one embodiment each arm (12) is provided with a ridge (22) which acts as a shield, while the forward portion (11) is thickened so as to provide a labial shield (23).

Abstract: A cosmetic case of button open type is disclosed. The cosmetic case includes: a main case (1) made of a box type board and having an opening path formed in a side surface; a make-up case (21) having partitions (25) for containing cosmetics of various kinds; a cover (30) for covering the top portion of the make-up case (21) and coupled to the main case (1); a receiving drawer (40) being in the form of a rectangle, and having partitions (25) for providing a receiving space for receiving make-up tools and a slider (41) mounted on the outer side surface; hinge shafts (50) inserted into shaft holes (15) formed in both sides of the cover (30) for hinging the cover (30) to the main case (1); and an elastic member (51) mounted on the outer side surface of the main case (1) and elastically compressed by the cover (30) to rotate and open the cover (30).

Abstract: A method of cleaning potable liquid flow lines employing a high pH caustic cleaning solution or a low pH acid cleaning solution with a stable dye in sufficient concentration so as to have a visible color when the solution is further diluted. The cleaning solution is pumped through the lines. The lines then are flushed with clean water until no colored solution is discharged from the lines, indicating the lines have been purged of cleaning solution. The method can be used with draft beer, soft drink or other potable liquid flow lines to prevent inadvertent consumption of caustic cleaning solution along with subsequently dispensed potable liquid.

Abstract: A method of designing a fuel vapor pressure management apparatus that performs leak detection on a headspace of a fuel system. A pressure operable device separates the housing into first and second portions, and includes a seal and a poppet that cooperatively engages the seal with a contact force. The seal includes a first effective area that is equal to a difference between a first area defined by a major perimeter and a second area defined by a minor perimeter. The poppet moves along an axis and includes a second effective area that is defined by the minor perimeter of the seal. A first pressure level, at which excess negative pressure is relieved, is calculated by dividing the contact force by the first effective area. And a second pressure level, at which excess positive pressure is relieved, is calculated by dividing the activation force by the second effective area.