Patents Issued in October 18, 2007
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Publication number: 20070240397Abstract: In a method of producing a cordierite honeycomb structure body, talc, kaolin, and alumina as prepared raw materials are mixed. The mixed raw materials are extruded and molded in an extrusion molding step. The obtained green body is cut into plural green bodies of a specified length. In a following drying step, the green body is dried and then fired in order to make the cordierite honeycomb structure body. In particular, the talc for use in the mixing step has IgLoss (Ignition Loss) within a range of 5.7 to 6.5 wt % which is obtained by firing at 1,000° C. for two hours.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Denso CorporationInventor: Kentaro Makino
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Publication number: 20070240398Abstract: A rotor reversing mechanism for a baler comprises a ratchet 12 mounted for rotation with the rotor, a pawl 22 carried by a reversing arm 16 for engaging the ratchet 12, a double acting hydraulic cylinder 32 for reciprocating the reversing arm 16 to cause the rotor to rotate in a reverse direction and means for disengaging the pawl 22 from the ratchet when the reversing arm is in a park position. In the invention, a spring 40 is provided for urging the reversing arm 16 towards the park position and the working chambers of the double acting hydraulic cylinder 32 are permanently connected to one another by way of a throttled passage 74.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Adrianus Naaktgeboren
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Publication number: 20070240399Abstract: A method for assembling a gas turbine engine includes providing a core gas turbine engine including a high-pressure compressor, a combustor, and a turbine, and coupling a counter-rotating fan assembly to the core gas turbine engine such that air discharged from the counter-rotating fan assembly is channeled directly into an inlet of the gas turbine engine compressor.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Robert Orlando, Thomas Moniz
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Publication number: 20070240400Abstract: A system capable of both increasing warm day output and maintaining compressor operating margin across the ambient and load range of a gas turbine combined cycle installation. The proposed solution takes advantage of the fact that both goals can be satisfied by manipulation of compressor inlet air temperature. Specifically, the system is designed to heat inlet air as may be required to maintain safe compressor operating margin at low ambient air temperatures or when burning dilute fuels. In the alternative, the system is designed to cool inlet air on warm days.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Raub Smith, Seyfettin Gulen, Barrett Gardiner
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Publication number: 20070240401Abstract: The invention contemplates a system having an engine linked to the turbine blade of a turbocharger to generate electricity. The turbine blade is associated with a housing of the turbocharger, which housing is in fluid communication with an exhaust stream of the engine. The turbine blade is configured to be driven by the exhaust stream. A generator may be associated with the turbine blade via a shaft, wherein when the turbine blade is driven by the exhaust stream, the generator generates electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Mark McNeely
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Publication number: 20070240402Abstract: A system for NOx reduction in combustion gases, especially from diesel engines, incorporates an oxidation catalyst to convert at least a portion of NO to NO2, a particulate filter, a source of reductant such as NH3 and an SCR catalyst. Considerable improvements in NOx conversion are observed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Anders Andreasson, Guy Chandler, Claus Goersmann, James Warren
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Publication number: 20070240403Abstract: A catalyst deterioration diagnosis apparatus for an internal combustion engine, comprising means for subjecting output signals of an upstream-side and a downstream-side O2 sensors to weighted correction processes corresponding to output levels, means for calculating amplitude magnitudes of the output signals of the upstream-side and the downstream-side O2 sensors after the weighted correction processes, and time integral values of differences between predetermined signals and the output signals of the upstream-side and downstream-side O2 sensors after the weighted correction processes, means for calculating a deterioration diagnosing parameter on the basis of the amplitude magnitudes and the time integral values, means for deciding deterioration of a catalyst converter on the basis of a result of a comparison between the calculated deterioration diagnosing parameter and a predetermined deterioration decision threshold value, and warning means for issuing warning when the catalyst deterioration has been decideType: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Masakazu Miyasako, Koji Wada, Makoto Nakano
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Publication number: 20070240404Abstract: A variety of embodiments of exhaust systems for engines including small off-road engines, and related methods of operation, are disclosed. In at least some embodiments, the exhaust system includes a first conduit that receives exhaust emissions from a first engine cylinder, and a second conduit that communicates air to a first port on the first conduit. The air mixes with the exhaust emissions within the first conduit so as to produce a chemical reaction, and a level of at least one undesirable component of the exhaust emissions is reduced. Further, the exhaust system does not include any catalytic converter. In some embodiments, the exhaust system further comprises a crankcase ventilation system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Eric Pekrul, Eric Hudak
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Publication number: 20070240405Abstract: An exhaust gas purification apparatus of an engine, capable of preventing erroneous detection of an injection nozzle clogging, and having a reducing catalytic converter disposed in an exhaust system, for reducing and purifying nitrogen oxide in the exhaust gas using urea water; a urea water tank storing the urea water; a urea water supply unit sucking up the urea water from the urea water tank and mixes it with high-pressure air for delivery; and an injection nozzle injecting the urea water mixed with the high-pressure air, into an exhaust gas moving upstream side of the reducing catalytic converter in an exhaust gas passage, and further having a clogging detection unit capable of detecting clogging of the injection nozzle based on each detection output of a pressure of the air introduced into the urea water supply unit, and a temperature of the injection nozzle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: NISSAN DIESEL MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Mitsuhiro Nishina, Hideki Matsunaga
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Publication number: 20070240406Abstract: A system for treating diesel exhaust is disclosed. The system includes a first filter including layers of filtration material positioned between layers of corrugated metallic foil. The metallic foil defines a honeycomb arrangement of longitudinal passageways from an upstream end to a downstream end and also openings for allowing exhaust to pass between adjacent longitudinal passageways of the metallic foil. The filtration material is positioned such that exhaust between the adjacent longitudinal passageways passes through the filtration material. The metallic foil also includes flow diverting structures to divert flow within the longitudinal passageways through the openings. A second filter is positioned downstream from the first filter. The second filter defines a honeycomb arrangement of longitudinal passageways. The longitudinal passages are selectively plugged adjacent upstream and downstream ends to force flow radially through walls between the longitudinal passages of the second filter.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Wenzhong Zhang, Todd Taubert, Timothy Ricke, Julian Imes
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Publication number: 20070240407Abstract: A method for modifying a NOx adsorber regeneration triggering variable. Engine operating conditions are monitored until the regeneration triggering variable is met. The adsorber is regenerated and the adsorbtion efficiency of the adsorber is subsequently determined. The regeneration triggering variable is modified to correspond with the decline in adsorber efficiency. The adsorber efficiency may be determined using an empirically predetermined set of values or by using a pair of oxygen sensors to determine the oxygen response delay across the sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Michael Ruth, Michael Cunningham
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Publication number: 20070240408Abstract: An exemplary exhaust cleaner comprises a reverse flow heat exchanger and a gas permeable catalyst. The reverse flow heat exchanger includes two interleaved ducts that are spiral-wound around a central volume. The gas permeable catalyst is disposed within the central volume and separates the central volume into first and second regions. The first duct of the reverse flow heat exchanger opens into the first region, and the second duct opens into the second region. The heat generated at the catalyst by the catalysis of incomplete combustion products within the exhaust heats the exhaust within the central volume to a temperature sufficient to burn particulates within the exhaust. The heat generated within the central volume by the catalysis and the combustion of any particulates is carried by the exhaust into the second duct where the heat is transferred to the cooler exhaust within the first duct.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Lincoln Evans-Beauchamp
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Publication number: 20070240409Abstract: An exhaust header having a recessed sealing surface that receives an annular graphite gasket for affecting a fluid tight seal. The exhaust header further includes one or more exhaust head pipe flanges and one or more exhaust head pipes. Each exhaust head pipe flange is fixedly attached to one of the exhaust head pipes to form a passageway through the exhaust header. During installation, each exhaust head pipe flange is aligned with a passageway from an exhaust port of an internal combustion engine. A one to one registration between the exhaust head pipe flanges and the exhaust ports is achieved. The gasket circumscribes the exhaust port when the exhaust header is aligned with the surface of the internal combustion engine. Torquing of one or more fasteners compresses the gasket against the surface of the internal combustion engine to form the fluid tight seal between the passageways of the exhaust port and the exhaust header.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Darryl Bassani
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Publication number: 20070240410Abstract: An engine body of the multiple-cylinder engine for an outboard motor can include a crankcase for supporting a crankshaft whose axis extends vertically, and plural cylinders that are vertically arranged in line, each cylinder horizontally extending outward from the crankcase, and each cylinder having a respective exhaust port formed in a cylinder head. There are can be provided plural exhaust passages, each passage extending from the downstream end of the exhaust port, each passage communicating with the exhaust port and expansion chambers. Each expansion chamber can communicate with the extending end of the exhaust passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Yoshibumi Iwata, Kentaro Kameoka
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Publication number: 20070240411Abstract: A torque converter in which a plurality of output openings of the pump form a cone-shape so that a plurality of input openings of the turbine are substantially parallel to the plurality of output openings of the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KGInventors: Marc McGrath, Bhaskar Marathe
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Publication number: 20070240412Abstract: A torque converter with torus shape that is sheared such that imagined axial sections through the torus shape, starting from the inner stator passage diameter, are shifted increasingly axially in one direction as the effective radius increases.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KGInventors: Bhaskar Marathe, Joachim Hoffmann
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Publication number: 20070240413Abstract: A circuit or system having application for operating an implement or attachment for a power machine is disclosed. The circuit includes a first or primary valve, a second or auxiliary valve connected in series with the first valve and a supplemental line connected in parallel with the second valve to provide fluid to a supplemental system in parallel with the second valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Adam Mauch, William Shelbourn, Joseph St. Aubin, Knute Brock, Wally Kaczmarski
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Publication number: 20070240414Abstract: A system configured to drive a fan of an agricultural applicator is provided. The fan is mounted on a wheeled chassis assembly propelled via a drive train by an engine in a forward direction of travel. The system includes a hydraulic pump mechanically driven by the engine. The hydraulic pump is connected to drive the fan in creating a pressurized air stream to distribute product from the applicator across a field. The system further includes a stroke limiter mechanically connected to the hydraulic pump. When the engine slows below a threshold speed, the stroke limiter automatically diverts a portion of a power demand by the hydraulic pump via the drive train to drive movement of the wheeled chassis assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Rex Ruppert
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Publication number: 20070240415Abstract: A compound cycle engine (10) comprises a compressor and a turbine section (14, 18), and at least one cycle topping device (16) providing an energy input to the turbine section (18). The compressor section (14) compresses the air according to a pressure ratio PRgt. The cycle topping device (16) further compresses the air according to a volumetric compression ratio Rvc, and wherein PRgt×Rvc are selected, according to one aspect of the invention, to provide a cycle which permit a more compact and lighter compound cycle engine to be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Andre Julien, Andre Chevrefils
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Publication number: 20070240416Abstract: A rotary combustion engine (12) with a self-cooling system comprises a heat exchanging interface for discharging excess heat from the rotary combustion engine (12), and a direct drive fan (44) integrated on the rotary engine output shaft (26) for providing a flow of forced air over the heat exchanging interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Richard Ullyott
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Publication number: 20070240417Abstract: The present invention provides an actuator including: a housing having an igniter housing and a cylinder, an igniter accommodated inside the igniter housing and a piston provided inside the cylinder to be slidable, the piston having a rod and an enlarged surface portion formed on one end surface or an outer peripheral surface of the rod, and part of the piston, which includes the other end of the rod, protruding outside the housing before activation, the igniter disposed such that the central axis direction of the igniter and the central axis direction of the rod of the piston are different from each other, wherein, during the activation of the igniter, the piston slides inside the cylinder by pushing the enlarged surface portion by a combustion product generated due to activation of the igniter, and the protruding portion of the piston is retracted inside the housing due to the sliding of the piston.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Masato Hirooka, Nobuyuki Katsuda, Kenji Numoto
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Publication number: 20070240418Abstract: The invention relates to a heat engine comprising a first ambient heat exchanger (1) for exchanging heat with the environment at a first temperature level, a second ambient heat exchanger (2) for exchanging heat with the environment at a second temperature level, a first high-pressure tank (11) for receiving a high-pressure working medium, a second high-pressure tank (12) for receiving a high-pressure working medium, a working machine (31) for producing mechanical energy from the working medium that is discharged from one of the high-pressure tanks (11, 12), and a control device (42) for controlling the progress of the process.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Steve HARGREAVES
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Publication number: 20070240419Abstract: The present invention provides a piston-free Stirling cycle engine by incorporating the operation of a Stirling cycle within a rotary engine. The engine consists of a rotor located within a housing. The rotor is circular in shape and has chambers extending into the rotor and positioned around the periphery of the rotor. The rotor is connected to a driver and resides within the housing. A blade extends from each chamber and contacts an inner surface of the housing. Compartments are formed between adjacent extended blades and contain gas. The housing is of a unique shape consisting of four sections having different arcs. A first quarter section and a second quarter section have distinct radii lengths and a common center. The common center is the point about which the rotor rotates. A third quarter section and a fourth quarter section, positioned between the first and second quarter sections, are each connected on opposite sides of the housing and have distinct centers and identical radii lengths.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Edouard Paknia
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Publication number: 20070240420Abstract: The present invention provides an integrated engine generator Rankine cycle power system which increases the efficiency of the use of its power output. The system comprises a closed Rankine cycle power generating unit through which working fluid flows and an engine generator, the closed Rankine cycle power generating unit including a waste heat boiler for vaporizing said working fluid by means of exhaust gases discharged from the engine generator, an expander in which the vaporized working fluid expands and performs work to drive a shaft for producing mechanical power, or an electric generator coupled thereto and adapted to produce electrical power, from both the engine generator and the expander, and an external lubrication system in fluid communication with the expander wherein one or more closed Rankine cycle power generating unit components are operationally connected to the electric generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Ormat Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Lucien BRONICKI
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Publication number: 20070240421Abstract: The brake actuation device of a motor vehicle brake system includes a pneumatic brake booster 1, the interior of which is subdivided into at least one vacuum chamber and one working chamber, a master brake cylinder 2 and a pneumatic motor-and-pump assembly 3 for providing the vacuum in the vacuum chamber, which has a vacuum pump 6 and a motor 7 driving the vacuum pump 6. A vacuum level in the vacuum chamber or a difference in pressure between the vacuum chamber and the working chamber is sensed using a sensor 9, and the motor-and-pump assembly 3 is enabled by an electronic control unit 12 when the vacuum falls below a first defined bottom vacuum level Pe in the vacuum chamber and is disabled when a second defined top vacuum level Pa is reached. The rotational speed np of the motor-and-pump assembly 3 is controlled depending on driving conditions of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Jurgen Schonlau, Manfred Ruffer, Jose Gonzales
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Publication number: 20070240422Abstract: A transition duct having a panel assembly with an inlet end of generally circular cross section and an outlet end having a generally rectangular arc-like cross section is disclosed. The panel assembly has an uncoated internal profile substantially in accordance with coordinate values X, Y, and Z as set forth in Table 1. The coordinates are taken at a sweep angle ? wherein ? is an angle measured from the inlet end and X, Y, and Z are coordinates defining the panel assembly profile at each angle ? from the inlet end. An alternate embodiment is also disclosed defining an envelope for the uncoated internal profile of the panel assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Power Systems Mfg. LLCInventors: Stephen Jorgensen, Heather Johnston
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Publication number: 20070240423Abstract: A gas turbine combustor includes a substantially cylindrical combustor liner located substantially concentrically within a flow sleeve, the combustor liner composed through a ceramic matrix composite material, a forward end of the combustor liner provided with a plurality of circumferentially arranged bolt holes. An inner metal ring is located about an outside surface of the forward end of the combustor liner, the inner metal ring provided with a second plurality of circumferentially spaced bolt holes, with a plurality of bolts extending through the first and second pluralities of bolt holes and secured by self-locking nuts. An outer metal ring is spaced radially outwardly of the inner metal ring, with a plurality of circumferentially spaced struts extending between the inner and outer rings.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: David Bulman, Toby Darkins, Mark Schroder, John Lipinski
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Publication number: 20070240424Abstract: A gas turbine engine having a bypass flow in which the bypass flow includes a central bypass passage formed by a rotary shaft of the engine, and an outer bypass passage located between the casing and the combustor, where the hot gas stream from the turbine is located between the outer bypass flow and the central bypass flow. Also, a gas turbine engine having a central bypass passage with a single spool or twin spools, in which various ways are arranged to support the rotary members of the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Alfred Matheny, John Ryznic
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Publication number: 20070240425Abstract: A process for combusting solid liquid or gaseous fuels in a high temperature refractory-lined reactor with the aim of generating electric power comprises mixing at least one fuel with steam. The refactory material of the reactor and the opaque gases of the reaction environment bring about high power infrared radiation which substantially instantaneously preheats the reactants on input including said reactants being intrinsically transparent to infrared radiation (N2/O2) but rendered opaque and thus absorbers of energy from infrared radiation thanks to dilution with steam. A high efficiency combustor is provided for carrying out the above-stated process.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: ITEA S.P.A.Inventors: Massimo Malavasi, Edoardo Rossetti
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Publication number: 20070240426Abstract: A controller for operating a gas turbine engine, wherein the gas turbine engine is installable in an installation platform, wherein the gas turbine engine includes a compressor, a turbine, and a shaft connecting the turbine to the compressor. The controller includes a program which instructs the controller to run a computer dynamic model of the gas turbine engine, wherein the computer dynamic model has inputs including engine operating conditions and installation platform operating conditions. The controller also is programmed to calculate a dynamic limit on mechanical power extraction from the shaft based at least on the running of the computer dynamic model of the gas turbine engine. A method for operating a gas turbine engine installed in an aircraft includes running a computer dynamic model of the engine and calculating a dynamic limit on mechanical power extraction from a shaft of the engine based at least on the running of the model.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Herman Wiegman, Karl Sheldon, John Turco, William Carlson
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Publication number: 20070240427Abstract: A compound cycle engine (10) comprises a compressor (19) and a turbine section (16 & 20), and at least one cycle topping device (12) cooperating with the turbine section (16 & 20) to provide power. The cycle topping device (12) has an output shaft (26) extending at an angle to the turbine shaft (28). Angled gearing (34) is provided for connecting the gas turbine shaft (28) and the cycle topping device (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Richard Ullyott
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Publication number: 20070240428Abstract: A compact and highly efficient hybrid magnetic refrigerator includes a hybrid refrigerating apparatus wherein an evaporator of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle and a heat exchanger of a magnetic refrigeration cycle are thermally connected. The magnetic refrigeration cycle is provided with a magnetic refrigeration unit in which a magnetic substance dissipates and absorbs heat according to the increase and decrease of a magnetic field in order to heat and cool a refrigerant circulating in its vicinity. The heated refrigerant is cooled by the evaporator of the vapor compression refrigeration cycle and the cooled refrigerant is supplied to the heat exchanger cooling the outside air.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Akihiro Koga, Katsumi Hisano, Hideo Iwasaki, Akihiro Kasahara, Akiko Saito, Tadahiko Kobayashi, Takuya Takahashi
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Publication number: 20070240429Abstract: A temperature controlling system adapted for a projection apparatus is provided. The projection apparatus comprises at least a heat generating element, while the temperature controlling system comprises a liquid flow system, a heat generating device, and a heat transferring device. The liquid flow system is disposed along the heat generating element. The heat generating device produces heat with a positive value (endothermic) or a negative value (exothermic) in response to an environment dependent on the location of the projection apparatus. The heat transferring device transfers the heat generated by the heat generating device along the liquid flow system. The present invention maintains the operation of the projection apparatus under the desired working temperature and enables a thermal equilibrium of the projection apparatus without being influenced by the over-temperature or under-temperature of the external environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Chia-Jui Lin, Hsiu-Ming Chang, Kuo-Ching Chang, Hui-Chih Lin, Yu-Ho Tsao
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Publication number: 20070240430Abstract: This invention relates to a cooling device (1), the cooling performance of which is improved by controlling the cycle of the refrigerant.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Yalcin Guldali, Talip Caglar
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Publication number: 20070240431Abstract: The present invention provides a cooling apparatus of a fuel cell vehicle in which a cooling efficiency of a fuel cell cooling heat exchanger located downstream of an air conditioner external heat exchanger does not decrease. (1) In the cooling apparatus, the air conditioner external heat exchanger and the fuel cell cooling heat exchanger are partially offset from each other so that a high-temperature portion of the air conditioner external heat exchanger is not overlapped with the fuel cell cooling heat exchanger in a front view taken from a front side of the vehicle. (2) A portion of the fuel cell cooling heat exchanger extending beyond an end of the air conditioner exterior heat exchanger opposite the high-temperature portion is disposed outside a fan shroud so as to be cooled by a vehicle-running wind only.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Jun Hoshi, Susumu Ichikawa
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Publication number: 20070240432Abstract: A system for use in freezing, storing and thawing biopharmaceutical materials includes a flexible sterile container means for holding biopharmaceutical material therein and a holder more rigid than said container means. The container means is received in a cavity of the holder and the holder extends along a perimeter of the container means. The holder is fixedly connected to the container means. The holder includes opposing sides defining an opening and the container means extends between the opposing sides of the holder defining the opening. The container means includes a substantially smooth exterior surface extending between the opposing sides.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: INTEGRATED BIOSYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Nicolas Voute, Eric Lee, Dimitry Yakoushkin
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Publication number: 20070240433Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the rate of heat transfer between an evaporator of a refrigeration system and the environment surrounding the evaporator. In one embodiment, the evaporator is placed in thermal communication with the air of a data center where electronic equipment is operated therein. To improve the rate of heat transfer between the air and the evaporator, water is evaporated into the air before it flows over the evaporator coils. As a result, when the humidified air flows over the cold evaporator coils, a portion of the water vapor in the air condenses on the evaporator, thereby wetting the evaporator coils. The wetted surfaces of the evaporator coils improve the rate of heat transfer between the air and, ultimately, the refrigerant passing through the evaporator. In one embodiment, a humidifier having a water atomizer may be used for spraying and dispersing water into the air.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: TECUMSEH PRODUCTS COMPANYInventor: Dan Manole
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Publication number: 20070240434Abstract: This invention describes apparatus for and methods of testing cooling systems. The apparatus and method can be used for, among other things, pressurizing the cooling system either to a positive pressure or to a negative pressure, and for conducting temperature tests.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Lincoln Industrial CorporationInventors: David Allen, Eric Krassinger
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Publication number: 20070240435Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for predicting ice formation on and shedding from blades of an air cycle machine (“ACM”) turbine. The method comprises generating operational condition data representative of ACM turbine operating conditions using a software model of the ACM, determining an amount of ice formation on the blades of the ACM turbine, and determining an amount of ice shed from the blades of the ACM turbine. The apparatus comprises means for generating operational condition data representative of ACM turbine operating conditions using a software model of the ACM, means for determining an amount of ice formation on the blades of the ACM turbine, and means for determining an amount of ice shed from the blades of the ACM turbine. In some embodiments, the means and apparatus may also involve predicting ACM wear, based at least in part on the predicted ice formation and shedding.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: David Elpern, Sunil Menon, Alex Morando, Girija Parthasarathy, Jon Schryver
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Publication number: 20070240436Abstract: A system and method of controlling components of a refrigeration system includes determining a desired rate of change of a refrigeration system operating parameter, using historical data to predict an expected rate of change of the operating parameter for cycling each component, calculating an appropriateness factor for each component corresponding to a difference between the expected rate of change for the component and the desired rate of change, ranking the components based on the appropriateness factor, and selectively cycling at least one component based on the ranking.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Daniel Landers, Gregory Mickelson
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Publication number: 20070240437Abstract: An air conditioning controller is provided with a room temperature-humidity combination calculation unit, a temperature-humidity setting value determination unit and a temperature-humidity control unit. The room temperature-humidity combination calculation unit is configured to calculate combinations of room temperature and room humidity corresponding to a target value of a thermal comfort index PMV. The temperature-humidity setting value determination unit is configured to select and determine a combination of the room temperature and humidity that achieves energy saving among the calculated combinations of the room temperature and humidity. The temperature-humidity control unit is configured to separately control the room temperature and humidity so that the room temperature and humidity would measure up respectively to the determined temperature and humidity values.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Kenzo Yonezawa, Yasuo Takagi, Yutaka Iino, Nobutaka Nishimura
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Publication number: 20070240438Abstract: A process-fluid chiller system for chilling a process fluid to be transported to a process load to remove thermal energy from the process load. The process-fluid chiller system includes a storage tank in which the process fluid can be stored, and a refrigeration system that can be selectively activated to chill the process fluid. The refrigeration system includes an evaporation device for evaporating a refrigerant from a liquid state to a gaseous state and a compressor for elevating a pressure of the refrigerant in the gaseous state. A temperature sensor is included for sensing a temperature of an exchange medium to which thermal energy from the process fluid can be transferred when the temperature of the exchange medium falls below a predetermined low temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Martin King
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Publication number: 20070240439Abstract: An internal refrigerating machine heat exchanger (11) which increases the efficiency of the refrigerating machine (10) comprises a pipe having an internally arranged low-pressure channel and having a substantially larger cross-section than all of the high-pressure channels provided on the outside of the pipe. In addition, the inside width of the low-pressure channel is at least as large as the inside width of the connecting lines (17, 21). Preferably, the wall of the low-pressure channel is smooth.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Peter Klug
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Publication number: 20070240440Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for linearizing control of a commercial refrigeration system. In an embodiment of the invention, a controller is configured to receive a non-linear sensed suction pressure and convert the suction pressure to a linear temperature equivalent. The linear temperature equivalent is used by the controller to achieve efficient system operation over an entire range of operating temperatures.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Hussmann CorporationInventor: Ted Sunderland
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Publication number: 20070240441Abstract: The present invention is an automated ice vending machine for delivering ice to consumers. The machine of the present invention includes an insulated enclosure, an ice manufacturing apparatus, a cooling unit, an ice inventory storage bin, an ice agitating device, an incline ice transport device, and a bagger assembly. The present invention also includes a method of vending ice to a consumer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Robert Hobson, James Clark, Warren Johnston
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Publication number: 20070240442Abstract: A novel portable insulated cooler unit at least includes: a plurality of coolant lines embedded in a plurality of walls of the cooler unit, the coolant lines at least including coolant fluid; a compressor coupled to the coolant lines; a fan adapted to circulate air around the coolant lines; a thermostat adapted to measure the cooler unit internal temperature; a temperature adjust control coupled to the compressor and to the thermostat, the temperature adjust control adapted to cause the cooler unit internal temperature to be adjusted; an AC power supply adapted to receive AC power when available; a DC power jack adapted to receive DC power when available; a rechargeable battery coupled to the AC power supply and to the DC power jack, the rechargeable battery adapted to operate the compressor and the fan when the cooler unit is ON, and the cooler unit is not receiving external power; and a foldable solar panel at least including a photovoltaic array, the solar panel adapted to be functionally stored when foldeType: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventor: Phillip Costanzo
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Publication number: 20070240443Abstract: Described is a refrigerated cabinet comprising at least one goods compartment opening adapted to be closed by a rolling night blind, said refrigerated cabinet being e.g. a refrigerated (freezer) chest or a refrigerated (freezer) shelf cabinet, in which the rolling night blind(s) (1, 1?) is/are held in a rolled-up state in their inoperative position. According to the invention, the support of the or of at least one of the rolling night blinds (1, 1?) comprises at least one loose bearing (5). In addition thereto, the or at least one of the rolling night blinds (1, 1?) is preferably supported so as to be slidable along the longitudinal axis of its blind carrier shaft (4).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2005Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Oliver Merker, Bernhard Moeller, Stefan Strupp
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Publication number: 20070240444Abstract: In a cooling system, a member is positioned between an evaporator and the spaced to be cooled by the cooling system. The member diverts air that flows back from the cooled space to the evaporator away from the bottom region of the evaporator.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicant: Carter & Burgess, Inc.Inventor: Marcos Braz
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Publication number: 20070240445Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for cooling fluids entering a closed circuit cooling tower. A triple circuit assembly is used to cool the fluid in the closed loop. The triple circuit assembly design allows a heat transfer tube bundle to maintain a relatively low pressure drop, but without simultaneously lowering thermal performance to a significant degree as compared to traditional double serpentine or QUAD serpentine designs.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2006Publication date: October 18, 2007Inventors: Frank Morrison, Thomas Carter
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Publication number: 20070240446Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a vapor-compression evaporation system includes a plurality of vessels in series each containing a feed having a nonvolatile component. A first set of the plurality of vessels includes vapor-compression evaporators and a second set of the plurality of vessels includes multi-effect evaporators. A mechanical compressor is coupled to the last vessel in the series of vapor-compression evaporators and is operable to receive a vapor therefrom. A turbine is coupled to, and operable to drive, the mechanical compressor. A pump is operable to deliver a cooling liquid to the mechanical compressor, and a tank is coupled to the mechanical compressor and is operable to separate liquid and vapor received from the mechanical compressor. A plurality of heat exchangers is coupled inside respective ones of the vessels, wherein the heat exchanger in the first vessel in the first set is operable to receive the vapor from the tank, and at least some of the vapor condenses therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2007Publication date: October 18, 2007Applicants: The Texas A&M University System, Highland Interests, Inc.Inventors: Mark Holtzapple, Gary Noyes