Patents Issued in February 19, 2009
  • Publication number: 20090044756
    Abstract: A pet sheet 1 including a topsheet 2, a backsheet 3, an absorbent core 41 located between the sheets 2 and 3, and a compression molded product 5 of a ground material of plant origin located between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41. The compression molded product 5 is designed to swell and disintegrate upon water absorption. The compression molded product 5 is preferably designed to form a rewet barrier layer between the topsheet 2 and the absorbent core 41 as a result of swelling and disintegration upon water absorption, the rewet barrier layer being formed of water-containing bulky material disintegrated from the compression molded product 5. The compression molded product preferably further contains inorganic powder, particularly zeolite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuya Otsuji, Yasuki Tsutsumi, Jun Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20090044757
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for storing aquatic animals comprises a tank (3) for receipt of the aquatic animals, and an arrangement (9) to create a foam environment (13) in the interior of the tank (3) such that at least a majority of the aquatic animals when stored in the tank (3) are submerged in foam. The arrangement to create a foam environment may be configured to deliver a synthetic foam to the interior of the tank (3), or may be configured to generate the foam, preferably from the natural proteins of the aquatic animals. A fluid recirculation arrangement may recirculate fluid to generate the foam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicants: NEW ZEALAND INSTITUTE FOR CROP & FOOD RESEARCH LIMITED, SEALORD GROUP LIMITED
    Inventors: Jacqueline Rachel Day, Alistair Renfrew Jerrett
  • Publication number: 20090044758
    Abstract: A companion animal convenience system for a motor vehicle has a moveable partition, said partition comprising a frame and netting attached said frame and said partition pivotally attached to a headliner of the vehicle; a removable bedding apparatus comprising at least one mattress, a plurality of compartments and a rubberized surface between said at least one mattress and the vehicle; and a collar operably sizeable to a companion animal and said collar in communication with the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Robert Adams, Carol Jones-Adams
  • Publication number: 20090044759
    Abstract: A fence panel for a horse training corral generally comprises a containment wall for containing a horse and a dog-leg support member connected to the bottom of the containment wall for supporting the containment wall at a height so as to contain a horse and extending substantially outward from the wall such that a horse confined inside the fence panel is substantially prevented from striking the bottom of the dog-leg support member with a hoof. A horse training corral includes a plurality of joined of fence panels wherein the second end member of one panel is joined to the first end member of an adjoining panel. Preferably, the dog leg support members extend laterally so as to align with the corral center. A plurality of ground footers each include bosses for receiving a dog-leg from each of adjacent joined the panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel Lewis
  • Publication number: 20090044760
    Abstract: A system for controlling escape of pets during emergency, such as a fire, smoke, gas or odor emission, includes a passageway from the inside of the enclosure to the outside thereof. The passageway is normally closed by a door and an apparatus is provided for enabling opening of such door during emergency. A pre-recorded message urges the pet or pets to the open passageway only when the alarm device annunciating such emergency is intermittently disabled. A control apparatus is also provided for enabling passage of the pet or pets through the passageway and annunciates location of the pet or pets with respect to interior or exterior of the enclosure. A method is disclosed for remote operation of the controlled pet door to enhance safety of the pet owner attempting to enter residential dwelling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Tom Kodat
  • Publication number: 20090044761
    Abstract: Electronic components, including a transceiver for two-way wireless communications, are carried by a freely roaming animal such as a rat. Electrodes are implanted in the brain of the animal to provide cues and rewards to the animal to achieved desired behaviors, including controlling the direction and speed of movement of the animal, and training the animal to recognize odors. The electronics can include network interface components that allow a network of the animals to work together. Sensors carried by the animal provide information to a remote base-station regarding, e.g., heading and location. Other sensors, such as a video camera, microphone, and chemical or gas detector, provide information regarding an environment of the animal. The animal can carry out missions such as searching for people buried in rubble piles, law enforcement operations, and detection of explosives, chemicals or other dangerous materials. A vehicle for deploying the animal is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: John K. Chapin, Timothy Hanson, Linda Hermer-Vazquez, Raymond Hermer-Vazquez
  • Publication number: 20090044762
    Abstract: A veterinary procedure table includes an animal support member upon which an animal may be placed during the performance of a veterinary procedure. A basin associated with the animal support member is adapted to receive fluid material that may be generated during the performance of the veterinary procedure. The veterinary procedure table further includes a grille associated with the animal support member. The grille includes a frame and a plurality of elongate rods rotatably coupled to the frame. In one embodiment, at least one rod is fixed against rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: MIDMARK CORPORATION
    Inventor: Charles C. Keil
  • Publication number: 20090044763
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wearable apparatus for using one or more leashes in a hands-free manner and associated method for use. According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a wearable apparatus for using at least one leash in a hands-free manner is provided. Such apparatus may have a first arrangement including a first strap having a first end and structured to extend at least to one shoulder of a person. A second arrangement may be provided that includes a second strap having a second end and a third end, with the second end being connected to the first end and the third end being directly or indirectly connectable to at least one leash, for example. A third arrangement may also be provided and coupled to the second arrangement and directly or indirectly connectable to at least one leash, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: Steven Asher Cohen, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicole Russo, Ron Russo, Steven Cohen
  • Publication number: 20090044764
    Abstract: A pet collar includes a buckle having a through hole and a first transverse bar and a second transverse bar are connected to two sidewalls of the buckle. A first protrusion extends from a top of the first transverse bar and two second protrusions extend from two respectively undersides of the first and second ends of the frame respectively. A belt has a first end fixed to the second end of the buckle and a second end of the belt extends through a first opening between the first transverse bar and the first end of the buckle via the underside of the first end of the buckle and passes over the first and second transverse bars and extends through the second opening between the second transverse bar and the second end of the buckle. The holes in the belt are engaged with the first protrusion and the two second protrusions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Chih-Hisn Wang
  • Publication number: 20090044765
    Abstract: Certain techniques involve the use of a device including a fluid distributor which has at least one flow duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The inlet opening can be connected to a supply line for a fluid. Means for moving the fluid distributor are provided. Additionally, means are provided for recording an environmental parameter through the outlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: CLYDE BERGEMANN GMBH
    Inventors: Bernd Mussmann, Manfred Frach
  • Publication number: 20090044766
    Abstract: A method for disassembling a boiler supported on a supporting structure is disclosed. The method includes a holder installation step for providing a vertically extendable ascent-descent holder below the boiler; a holder lifting step for increasing a height of the ascent-descent holder to a position close to or in contact with a lower end of the boiler; a cutting step for cutting off a lower part of the boiler, the lower part extending from the lower end of the boiler to a predetermined height; and a removal step for removing the lower part from the holder, after the lower part being cut off and the weight of the lower part being transferred to the ascent-descent holder; the holder installation step, the holder lifting step, the cutting step, and the removal step are repeatedly carried out for successively disassembling the boiler from a bottom side thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: BESTERRA Co., Ltd.,
    Inventor: Yoshihide Yoshino
  • Publication number: 20090044767
    Abstract: In a boiler, a space is reserved to expand the boiler by increasing the front and rear walls. To expand the boiler, wall additions are added to increase the width of the front and rear walls. After the expansion, the distance between the front and rear walls is substantially the same distance between the front and rear walls before the expansion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: ANDRITZ OY
    Inventors: Jan Storbacka, Petri Tikka
  • Publication number: 20090044768
    Abstract: A piston squirter system and method for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The piston squirter system includes an oil reservoir, a variable displacement pump, and, for each cylinder, a piston squirter that sprays oil onto a piston for cooling and lubricating. A gallery connects the variable displacement pump to the piston squirters. The variable displacement pump receives oil from the oil reservoir and distributes the oil through the gallery to the piston squirters at a flow rate according to pressure required. The gallery does not require a relief valve and the piston squirters do not require check valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Gary J. Arvan, Edward R. Romblom
  • Publication number: 20090044769
    Abstract: An air-cooled engine (10) has a fan cover (16) for covering a cooling fan (14). The cover (16) is composed of a fan-cover peripheral wall (44) for covering the outside of the cooling fan (14), and a top board (45) for closing off one end of the fan-cover peripheral wall (44). The fan-cover peripheral wall (44) has an internally disposed guiding duct (47) for guiding cooling air (Wi) from the cooling fan (14) to an engine main body (12). A first fastening member (42) secures a portion of the external part of the fan-cover peripheral wall (44) that is proximal to the guiding duct (47) to a casing (25) of the engine main body (12). A second fastening member (41) extends from the casing (25) and through the fan-cover peripheral wall (44), and secures a top board (45) in a portion that is at a distance from the guiding duct (47).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Kubo, Kazuhisa Ogawa, Hiroshi Koyama, Akihisa Shinoda, Kazuhiro Sakamoto, Souhei Honda
  • Publication number: 20090044770
    Abstract: A wiper seal for preventing leakage of oil between advance and retard chambers formed between rotor vanes and stator lobes in a vane-type camshaft phaser is a monolithic structure made from a single material that includes a wiper element and a compressible spring element extending from the wiper element. The spring element is designed as a cantilevered arm and provides a sealing pressure to the wiper element. The wiper seal may further include a rib element as part of the monolithic structure that vertically extends the wiper element towards the spring element. The rib element assists in preventing over-compression of the cantilevered arm and in preventing tangling of a plurality of wiper seals during handling and shipping. The wiper seal is provided at the tip of each rotor vane and/or stator lobe of a vane-type camshaft phaser for varying the timing of combustion valves in an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Matthew T. Scott, David M. McCarthy, Thomas H. Lichti, Amanda M. Weiss
  • Publication number: 20090044771
    Abstract: An arm coupling mechanism for selectively switching a double valve variable control and single valve variable control. The single valve variable control is achieved in a condition in which a large lift arm and a second rocking cam arm are coupled together with a pin. The second rocking cam arm for moving a second valve includes a pin hole, in which the pin is inserted, formed therein. The position of the pin hole is set so that a pin switching operation can be executed when control is provided to achieve an operating angle, at which the single valve variable control is to be started for reduced NOx. A second driving cam is adapted to have a cam height greater than a cam height of a first driving cam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shuichi Ezaki
  • Publication number: 20090044772
    Abstract: An engine is provided with features allowing a method of assembly that combines the ease of assembly of a net-assembled system with the positional accuracy of an index-assembled system in order to meet critical valve to piston clearance requirements, especially critical in a diesel engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Gregg T. Purcilly, Edward R. Romblom
  • Publication number: 20090044773
    Abstract: A valve cover assembly for sealed engagement with a cylinder block includes a cover portion, a rail and a molded-in-place elastomeric bridge molded to the cover portion and the rail maintaining the cover portion and the rail in spaced relation to one another. The rail has an outwardly extending mounting flange providing a hard mounting bottom surface that is coplanar with the rail sealing surface. A seal depends from the sealing surface of the rail when in an uninstalled, uncompressed state for compression against the cylinder block upon the sealing surface and the hard mounting bottom surface being brought into engagement with the cylinder block, thereby establishing fluid-tight seal between the valve cover assembly and the cylinder block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Jake Hu, Daniele DeFranceschi, Tom Swasey, Jim Zwick
  • Publication number: 20090044774
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes a camshaft, a valve, a cam follower and a rocker arm. The cam follower is coupled between the camshaft and the valve. The rocker arm is coupled between the cam follower and the valve. At least one of the cam follower and the rocker arm is configured so as to move through an adjustable distance prior to transmitting motion for moving the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen W. Schwitters
  • Publication number: 20090044775
    Abstract: A system and method for lash adjustment in the valvetrain of an internal combustion engine include a hydraulic lash adjuster having a damping device to limit rate of movement of a plunger relative to a body to control response time of the lash adjuster reducing or eliminating over-compensation or pump-up of the lash adjuster.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin V. Tallio, Jeff Chester Lyjak, Floyd Melvin Comer
  • Publication number: 20090044776
    Abstract: An ignition device with a laser light generating device for the coupling of laser light into a combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, wherein the laser light generating device is configured to couple at least dichromatic laser light into a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Johann Klausner, Herbert Kopecek, Georg Reider
  • Publication number: 20090044777
    Abstract: An engine starting assist system configured to be used on an internal combustion engine. The engine starting assist system includes a battery, a choke valve disposed in an air intake of an air/fuel-mixing device, the choke valve having an open position and a closed position, a rotary solenoid powered by the battery, the rotary solenoid having an output shaft, and a bimetal coil. The output shaft of the rotary solenoid is coaxial with the bimetal coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: Max W. Clouse, Thomas G. Guntly, Mel O. Lux, Michael B. Busateri
  • Publication number: 20090044778
    Abstract: A split-cycle engine includes a crankshaft rotatable 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 intake and compression strokes during a single rotation of the crankshaft. An expansion piston is slidably received within an expansion cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the expansion piston reciprocates through expansion and exhaust strokes during a single rotation of the crankshaft. A crossover passage interconnects the expansion and compression cylinders. The crossover passage includes crossover compression (XovrC) and crossover expansion (XovrE) valves defining a pressure chamber therebetween. At least one of the XovrC and XovrE valves is a balanced valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Stephen P. Scuderi, Riccardo Meldolesi
  • Publication number: 20090044779
    Abstract: A compensating shaft (1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) for compensating mass forces and/or mass moments of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine (13) is provided, with at least one bearing journal (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d), on whose outer casing surface (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) the compensating shaft is supported in the radial direction in a housing support (10) of the reciprocating piston internal combustion engine, and with at least one unbalanced section (4) bordering the bearing journal in the axial direction. The outer casing surface of the bearing journal is formed on the side of the unbalanced section facing away from the unbalanced direction by a cylindrical section (5) of the bearing journal and by one or more axial projections (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d), wherein these axial projections extend like a collar from the cylindrical section while forming a radial undercut (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KG
    Inventor: Peter Solfrank
  • Publication number: 20090044780
    Abstract: A new use for and improvements to a device for generating electricity from a stationary source. The device is comprised of a special Improved Durability Engine; a generator; a special valve seat; a means of rotation eliminator; a series of process improvements; and a group of significant material improvements to several critical components wherein the improvements provide improved durability to a natural gas fueled engine. The configuration includes design features, process controls, dimensional controls and material enhancements that provide superior durability and equipment life for the conversion machines to transfer natural gas or the like to electrical power and thermal energy. The critical elements work together to support head life of 16,000+ hours.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Laura M. Soverns
  • Publication number: 20090044781
    Abstract: A portable engine, comprising an engine casing, an air deflector cover, a fan and an exhaust pipe; a left upper baffle plate and a right upper baffle plate at the upper part of the engine constitute two left and right upper air ducts together with a cylinder head cover and the engine casing; a left lower baffle plate and a right lower baffle plate at the lower part of the engine constitute two left and right lower air ducts together with the engine casing; and a base plate of the engine and the engine casing constitute a bottom air duct. The portable engine can specifically cool each part through controlling air intake of each air duct, thus attaining better cooling effect for the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Yunfeng Ma
  • Publication number: 20090044782
    Abstract: In an internal combustion engine, comprising: an upper link (11) connected via a piston pin (21) to a piston (32) that reciprocates within a cylinder; a lower link (12) attached to a crank pin (33b) of a crankshaft (33) to be free to rotate and connected to the upper link (11) via an upper pin (22); and a control link (13) which is connected to the lower link (12) via a control pin (23) and oscillates about an oscillation central shaft (24), the following equation is established when the piston (32) is at bottom dead center cos(?l+?)<cos(?l+?) where: ?l is a lower link attitude angle; and ? is a lower link aperture angle. As a result, a load acting on a crank journal when the piston is at bottom dead center can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Makoto Kobayashi, Kenshi Ushijima, Naoki Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20090044783
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel pump for a fuel system of an internal combustion engine, having a housing and a housing cap joined to the housing. In order to create a fuel pump which in its operation generates little airborne sound, structure-borne sound (vibration amplitudes) and pulsations in a low-pressure region of the fuel pump, it is proposed that the housing cap has at least one damping element, which is embodied as a sandwich construction having at least a first cover layer, a second cover layer, and a damping connection layer disposed between them. The damping connection layer has a markedly higher elasticity and/or higher material damping than the two cover layers, which may be constructed of sheet metal or the housing cap itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Fischer, Matthias Schumacher, Christian Wiedmann, Matthias Maess, Matthias Fischer
  • Publication number: 20090044784
    Abstract: A fuel damper fixing clip includes a clip main body formed from a sheet member having a plurality of flat portions, and formed in a generally square cylindrical shape. The clip main body surrounds portions of the outer peripheries of a cup portion and a fuel damper and deforms in a tightening direction. The clip main body includes two ends overlapped on an outside and an inside surface thereof. Slits are disposed in the plurality of flat portions of the clip main body, and the collar portions of the cup portion and the fuel damper are disposed therein and locked in a diameter-reduced state of the clip main body in which the clip main body is tightened. A receiving hole is formed in one of the ends of the clip main body. A claw portion is disposed on the other end of the clip main body obliquely projecting in a direction opposite to the tightening direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Takeshi FUJII
  • Publication number: 20090044785
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle, with a fuel tank which has tank ventilation, the tank ventilation for adsorption of fuel vapors having an activated charcoal filter through which a flushing air flow can flow, and with a vehicle unit which has a vacuum pump, in particular a brake booster. It is provided that the delivery side of the vacuum pump produces compressed air for driving the flushing air flow and/or that the compressed air forms the flushing air flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Christian MALY
  • Publication number: 20090044786
    Abstract: Carburetors for attaching to fuel-burning engines are described. The carburetors generate improved engine efficiency and reduced engine emissions by improving combustion of fuel. The carburetors include a plurality of nebulizers, each of which nebulizes a thin film of fuel covering a vibrating plate. The vibrating plate vibrates at a high frequency, and this vibration ejects a fog or mist of fuel particles into an air/fuel mixture channel that passes above the nebulizers in series. Air is drawn into the air/fuel mixture channel, passes over each of the plurality of nebulizers in turn, and then passes to a nebulized fuel outlet within a Venturi narrowing of a main channel of the carburetors. The Venturi narrowing provides a reduced air pressure area that performs the function of drawing the air through the air/fuel mixture channel over the nebulizers, thus drawing out the mixed air and nebulized fuel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Georg B.L. Adams
  • Publication number: 20090044787
    Abstract: Carburetors for attaching to fuel-burning engines are described. The carburetors generate improved engine efficiency and reduced engine emissions by improving combustion of fuel. The carburetors include a plurality of nebulizers, each of which nebulizes a thin film of fuel covering a vibrating plate. The vibrating plate vibrates at a high frequency, and this vibration ejects a fog or mist of fuel particles into an air/fuel mixture channel that passes above the nebulizers in series. Air is drawn into the air/fuel mixture channel, passes over each of the plurality of nebulizers in turn, and then passes to a nebulized fuel outlet within a Venturi narrowing of a main channel of the carburetors. The Venturi narrowing provides a reduced air pressure area that performs the function of drawing the air through the air/fuel mixture channel over the nebulizers, thus drawing out the mixed air and nebulized fuel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Georg B.L. Adams
  • Publication number: 20090044788
    Abstract: One implementation of an air boost system for an engine includes a boost device and an accumulator adapted to store pressurized fluid and selectively provide pressurized fluid to the boost device. A pump may deliver fluid under pressure to one or both of the accumulator and the boost device in at least some operating conditions. A first control valve may be disposed between the pump and the accumulator to control fluid flow to the accumulator, and a bypass may be provided between the pump and the first control valve. The bypass may, in at least some operating conditions, permit at least some of the pressurized fluid from the pump to bypass the accumulator and be delivered to the boost device. In one form, the accumulator is carried by the boost device in a compact unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: John Shutty, Philip S. Keller, Thomas Grissom, David White, David B. Roth
  • Publication number: 20090044789
    Abstract: A device for recycling and cooling exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine is disclosed, comprising a first exhaust-gas heat exchanger and a second exhaust-gas heat exchanger, wherein the first and second exhaust gas heat exchangers are combined in a structural unit and form a module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: BEHR GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Jochen Eitel, Markus Flik, Peter Geskes, Thomas Heckenberger, Dieter Heinle, Jens Ruckwied, Andreas Thumm
  • Publication number: 20090044790
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for reintroducing exhaust gas to the intake of an internal-combustion engine wherein, during the engine exhaust phase, part of the exhaust gas contained in combustion chamber (60) of cylinder (10) of the engine is fed, for an operating range of this engine, into a first fluid circulation circuit (C1) and the other part of said gas is discharged into an exhaust circuit. According to the invention, the method consists: during the engine intake phase, in cooling the exhaust gas fed into fluid circulation circuit (C1), in mixing the cooled recirculated exhaust gas with fresh supply air (AF) coming from engine supply circuit (44), in feeding the mixture of recirculated exhaust gas and of supply air into a second fluid circulation circuit (C2), and in cooling said mixture fed into second circuit (C2) prior to feeding it into combustion chamber (60).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Bertrand Gatellier, Dominique Soleri, Bruno Walter
  • Publication number: 20090044791
    Abstract: A positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system is provided for an internal combustion engine. The PCV system includes a centrifugal separator disposed within a shaft member, for example a balance shaft, of the internal combustion engine. The centrifugal separator is operable to impart rotational motion on the gases flowing through the shaft member such that the centrifugal forces urge the separation of oil particle entrained within the gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Alan E. Rice, Robert J. Moran
  • Publication number: 20090044792
    Abstract: A barometric pressure regulator circuit is described. The circuit includes a memory storing output parameters to be supplied to a pressure regulator unit, and a processor operatively coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to perform operations including receiving voltage signals representing output parameters of an engine, storing the received voltage signals in the memory, identifying output parameters to be supplied to the pressure regulator unit that correspond to the received voltage signals, converting the identified output parameters into output electrical signals, and transmitting the output electrical signals to the pressure regulator unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: PLASMADRIVE, INC.
    Inventor: Patrick Hogue
  • Publication number: 20090044793
    Abstract: A burner box for a furnace. The burner box includes a housing attached to the furnace. The burner box further includes a module configured to align and support a burner within the housing. The module is detachable from the housing and removable from the furnace burners. The module is detachable from the housing without disassembly or detachment of the housing from the furnace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventors: Tabraiz Ali KHAN, Robert CABRERA, Gregory Kenneth REASER
  • Publication number: 20090044794
    Abstract: In a multistage combustion furnace having a motor driven inducer blower and a pressure sensing device or set of switches for sensing pressure in the combustion gas flowpath through the furnace, a high firing rate blower speed and low firing rate blower speed are set based on the blower speed setting required for a medium firing rate. Each particular furnace, having its own pressures and combustion gas resistance to flow characteristics, may be provided with a database of inducer blower motor speeds required to achieve predetermined pressures in the combustion gas flowpath for a variety of combustion gas venting systems generating such resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Gordon Jeffrey Hugghins, Stephen Kowalski, Robert G. Roycroft
  • Publication number: 20090044795
    Abstract: A grate assembly includes a cook top defining a support surface, and a grate that includes a projection extending from a peripheral portion. The projection is configured to support a cooking vessel on the grate. The peripheral portion is configured to support the grate on the support surface. A hole is formed in one of the peripheral portion of the grate or the support surface of the cook top. An insert is disposed within the hole and between the support surface of the cook top and the peripheral portion of the grate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Timothy Scott Shaffer, James W. Allen, Daniel J. Trice
  • Publication number: 20090044796
    Abstract: The object of the present patent is an elevator for hot plates or grates of barbecue grills, having gutters (1), (2) and (3) assembled in a ā€œUā€ shape, the gutter (5), in its ends the plates (6) with rollers (8), the gutters (10), (11) and (12), also assembled the shape of a ā€œUā€, constituting the support for the hot plate or grate and with the mortises (13) embracing the gutter (5), which slides vertically through the grooves (4) of gutters (1) and (3), taken by the cable (18), which passes through the groove of the pivot (7) of one of the plates (6) and is fixed there by the fixers (19), being the cable mobile in a circuit between the pulleys (16) and (17), by the action of the crank (14), fixed to the axle (15), the pulley (16) and the pivot (20), after its release from the part (21), but coming back due to the work of the spring (22), when the hot plate or the grater is the desired position and, in order to keep the hot plate or the grate in a horizontal position, there are the cables (24) and (25) departin
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Joao Urbano Amaral
  • Publication number: 20090044797
    Abstract: A baffle system that can be used to provide ventilation to attics and roofs at the time of new roof construction or retrofit and further provides for solar thermal energy control and harvesting systems in conjunction or combination with the baffle systems. According to one embodiment, the baffle vents are made from a resilient material and are designed and configured to be flexed into a deformed shape, positioned between adjacent roof rafters and released whereupon the baffle vents become wedged between adjacent roof rafters. According to another embodiment the baffle vents have side edge portions that are configured to extend over the upper portions of roof rafters and thereby support the baffle vents between adjacent roof rafters. The baffle vents can function as radiant barriers by providing the baffle vents with a reflecting coating(s) or reflective surface(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Robert Klement
  • Publication number: 20090044798
    Abstract: A coilable solar water heater includes a heat collecting plate and a soft pipe. The heat collecting plate includes two heat collecting layers, capillary tissues, two protecting layers and a soft support body. The heat collecting layers are stacked with each other and form a plurality of passages at intervals between the heat collecting layers. Each passage is provided for passing the capillary tissues. Each protecting layer is stacked on an external surface of each heat collecting layer. The soft support body is attached onto an external surface of a protecting layer. Each soft pipe has a plurality of through holes, each being connected to a passage of the corresponding heat collecting layer. The solar water heater can be coiled and folded to reduce its volume significantly and facilitate its transportation or moving.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Shih H. Chen
  • Publication number: 20090044799
    Abstract: An intubation device is provided. The intubation device comprises a movable guide having a guide extension, and a guide tip; at least one trachea condition sensor to detect a trachea condition wherein the at least one trachea condition sensor is disposed on the guide; and a guide control device operatively coupled to the guide, the guide control device to move the guide in response to the trachea condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Chunyuan Qiu
  • Publication number: 20090044800
    Abstract: A device (10) for improving the breathing air quality for the crew and/or the passengers in an aircraft cabin (12) comprises an oxygen source (16), a water source (18) and a feed line (14), wherein the feed line (14) is connectable to the oxygen source (16) and the water source (18) in order to oxygenate and/or humidify air that is introduced into the feed line (14). The feed line (14) is further connected to an inlet port (24) of a locally delimited area (26) of the aircraft cabin (12) and adapted so as to feed oxygenated and/or humidified air to the locally delimited area (26) of the aircraft cabin (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: AIRBUS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventor: Paul Jorn
  • Publication number: 20090044801
    Abstract: A device to administer inhalational anesthesia to a user includes a mouthpiece as a passageway to deliver the anesthesia to the user, a container to hold the anesthesia, a first inlet for inputting the anesthesia into the container, a unidirectional valve in the passageway to be activated by the user to receive the anesthesia. The device includes a second inlet to deliver the anesthesia to the user, and the second inlet includes a valve to control the flow of anesthesia. The valve may be controlled by knob, and the container may be flexible. The passageway may include a flexible segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Vera Lucia Ferreira Barbosa
  • Publication number: 20090044802
    Abstract: A device to administer inhalational anesthesia to a user includes a passageway to deliver the anesthesia to the user, a container to hold the anesthesia, a first inlet for inputting the anesthesia into the container, a first unidirectional valve in the passageway to be activated by the user to receive the anesthesia. The device includes a second inlet to deliver the anesthesia to the user, and the second inlet includes a mouthpiece for inhalation and exhalation of anesthetic gases by the user and a second unidirectional valve to control the flow of anesthesia to the atmosphere. The container may be flexible. The passageway may include one or more flexible segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Vera Lucia Ferreira Barbosa
  • Publication number: 20090044803
    Abstract: An anaesthesia simulator includes a sealed container, a gas input device that introduces gases into the sealed container whereto it is connected, a gas output and return device wherefrom gases exit the sealed container whereto it is connected, and a pressure generator connected to the sealed container which exerts pressure inside the sealed container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Javier Garcia Fernandez
  • Publication number: 20090044804
    Abstract: Methods for administering medical gases are disclosed including providing the medical gas in compressed gas cartridges containing an amount of the medical gas preferably corresponding substantially to a unit dose of the medical gas and providing a patient with means to access the medical gas from the gas cartridge upon need therefor. Apparatus for administering medical gases is also disclosed including a housing, a cassette associated with the housing containing at least one compressed gas cartridge preferably containing at least an amount of the medical gas substantially as required for a single dose and a patient supply interface to provide the medical gas to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: AGA Linde Healthcare
    Inventor: Royce S. Fishman
  • Publication number: 20090044805
    Abstract: A controller or processor for a respiratory pressure treatment device determines an estimate of patient respiratory flow based on a measure of pressure associated with flow generated by a flow generator and a measure of frequency of the flow generator, such as a rotational velocity of a servo-controlled blower motor. The estimate can be made without data from a flow sensor. The measure of frequency may be converted to an expected pressure based on characteristics of the flow generator and subtracted from the measured pressure to determine the flow estimate. The flow estimate can be implemented in the provision of respiratory pressure treatment with the flow generator. For example, the flow estimate may be utilized to trigger expiratory pressure relief during a patient's expiration as detected with the estimated flow signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Chinmayee Somaiya, Nicholas Ming Yun Yip, John David Oates, Adrian Barnes, Christopher Kingsley Blunsden