Patents Issued in March 24, 2011
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Publication number: 20110067707Abstract: A condom, including a non-porous sheath member, having an open end and a rounded end, and shaped to cover the glans and body portion of a penis, and at least one rib having at least one outer portion and at least one inner portion, wherein the at least one outer portion is attachedly fixed to said non-porous sheath member, and wherein an inner cylinder formed by at the at least one inner portion is exclusive from said non-porous sheath member, and including at least one lubricant within the inner cylinder and at least one hole extending from the inner cylinder through the outer portion to provide for flow of the lubricant outwardly from the inner cylinder through the at least one hole pursuant to application of a predetermined pressure, wherein the at least one rib extends at least one of substantially from the open end to the closed end and substantially about a circumference of the non-porous sheath member.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: John Shun Hui
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Publication number: 20110067708Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Rajiv Doshi, Motohide Hatanaka, Robert A. Howard
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Publication number: 20110067709Abstract: Described herein are nasal respiratory devices and methods for treating a variety of medical diseases including snoring and steep apnea through the use of such devices. In general, these devices include an airflow resistor, such as a flap valve and a holdfast for securing the device in communication with the subject's nasal cavity. The devices may be configured to include leak paths to regulate the expiratory pressure when worn by a subject. Methods for using these devices may include securing a device over or at least partially within (or both of) a subject's nasal cavities.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Rajiv Doshi, Ryan Kendall Pierce, Bryan Loomas
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Publication number: 20110067710Abstract: A dental appliance for preventing the grinding of teeth associated with bruxism and including a bite tray that includes opposing first and second posterior sections for positioning between upper and lower posterior teeth of the wearer and anterior section disposed between the first posterior section and the second posterior section. The anterior section of the bite tray can have an arcuate curvature and a bite surface adapted to reflect the prevalent shape of a glenoid fossa.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: DenTek Oral Care Inc.Inventors: John M. Jansheski, Marco Wo, Daniel Nelsen, Ronald W. Spencer
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Publication number: 20110067711Abstract: A dental appliance for preventing the teeth grinding associated with bruxism that includes a bite tray having opposing first and second posterior sections for positioning between upper and lower posterior teeth of the wearer and an anterior section disposed between the first and second posterior sections. The posterior sections can include a concave curvilinear surface, a convex curvilinear surface, and a tangential portion disposed between the concave curvilinear surface and the convex curvilinear surface that is adapted to reflect the curve of Wilson as found in a prevalent occlusal alignment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: DenTek Oral Care Inc.Inventors: John M. Jansheski, Marco Wo, Daniel Nelsen, Ronald W. Spencer
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Publication number: 20110067712Abstract: Methods and apparatus described herein may utilize activation of an SMP material to install medical devices with respect to a surgical site. Activation of the SMP material may be performed with the use of a triggering force and/or a constraint applied to the SMP material. Activation using a triggering force and/or a constraint may be used to create varied activation rates in an SMP material and may be combined with temperature or other activation stimuli to create the varied activation rates.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: MEDSHAPE SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventor: Kenneth A. Gall
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Publication number: 20110067713Abstract: The present document describes a twin-chamber humidifying tube that permits an even spread of moisture on each side of a cigar for up to six months without drying out thanks to the twin chamber system in the tube. The present invention also allows the recovery of dried cigars. Apart from the humidifying role, the invention provides an advertising opportunity since cigars stored in it can be viewed from the outside.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Nelson Alfonso Egüed
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Publication number: 20110067714Abstract: An apparatus and method for post-threshing inspection and sorting of tobacco lamina is described and which includes a separation conduit which receives a source of post-threshed tobacco lamina and other contaminants for inspection and sorting, and wherein a source of pressurized air causes the tobacco lamina to move along the separation conduit past an inspection station where it is optically inspected to identify undesirable tobacco lamina or other contaminants; and a downstream reject station is provided which responds to a sorting signal provided by the inspection station and which removes unwanted or undesirable tobacco lamina and other contaminants from an air stream so as to provide a resulting product which is substantially free from contaminants or other defects.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Harry Drewes, Wolfgang Benz, Hans Dierken, Peter Funke, Frank Schuster, Cliff J. Leidecker, J. Thomas Higgins
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Publication number: 20110067715Abstract: Methods of selectively reducing constituents in tobacco as well as the tobacco obtained by such methods are disclosed. Subcritical fluids, e.g., liquid carbon dioxide, serve as the reduction media.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicants: US Smokeless Tobacco Co., Phasex CorporationInventors: Val Krukonis, Hans Schonemann, Anthony Gudinas, Paula M. Wetmore, Kara Williams, Carl H. Midgett, Clifford Brown Bennett, Harry Y. Zheng, Kathleen S. Johnston
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Publication number: 20110067716Abstract: The apparatus and method for delaminating tobacco in the form of slices from a layered parcel comprise conveyor means for delivering a parcel of tobacco to a separating location and a rotatable tine assembly mounted on an axis extending at right angle to the conveyor means and parallel the layering of the parcel. The rotatable tine assembly includes a plurality of tines which are pointed and profiled to extend in the direction of rotation of the tine assembly and are driven at a speed greater than that of the conveyor means. The tines are adapted to enter the parcel at an entering location in a direction substantially parallel to the layering of the parcel and to accelerate a layer away from the parcel for effecting separation of the layer of tobacco from the parcel.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: Philip Morris USA Inc.Inventors: Carlos Munoz, Roger Spry, Michael Lauenstein
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Publication number: 20110067717Abstract: A hair wash and rinse brush provides for a substantially flat brush structure that comprises a handle portion and a paddle, or “brush,” portion. The brush portion incorporates a plurality of apertures. Some of the apertures have hollow bristles disposed within them. In this fashion, water can be dispersed directly onto the hair of the user or the user's pet and directly onto the user's scalp or onto the pet's skin during washing and rinsing. The brush may also alternatively include an enclosure at the back of the brush, the enclosure having means for attaching the brush to a water supply. The enclosure can also be configured to be removably attachable to the back of the brush.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: David McHugh
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Publication number: 20110067718Abstract: A cosmetic patch for testing and evaluating a cosmetic product. The patch comprises a top surface colored and textured to match that of a user's features, preferably that of their lips. The reverse side of the patch comprises a weak adhesive surface to temporarily bond to the user's hand, forearm, or other object. When the user deposits a sample of the cosmetic product onto the textured surface of the patch, the user may then compare and evaluate the look of the cosmetic product on their particular features, for example their lips, without having to actually place the cosmetic product on their features and thus prevent the spread of contagious diseases and maintain costs at a minimum for the cosmetics vendor.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Bonnie Lee
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Publication number: 20110067719Abstract: A hair extension device that allows a user to add supplemental, natural, human hair strands to the natural hair of the user. The hair extension device includes a filament formed into a circular or oval shape to encircle the head. Hair weft lengths are attached to the filament along an arcuate length of the filament. When the device is positioned on the head, the hair strands of the hair weft lengths extend down the sides and back of the user. The natural hair held beneath the filament is pulled up and forward, then backward over the filament, blending together the natural hair of the user and the supplemental hair strands.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Michelle LaDue
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Publication number: 20110067720Abstract: Compositions and methods are disclosed for imparting water repellency to the hair. The compositions generally comprise a first hydrophobic particulate material having a coefficient of dynamic friction of 0.5 or greater in combination with a second hydrophobic particulate material having a coefficient of dynamic friction less than 0.5.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: Avon Products, Inc.Inventors: Rahul A. Ranade, Mark S. Garrison, Freda E. Robinson, Giovana A. Sandstrom
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Publication number: 20110067721Abstract: A hair styling method including: (A) increasing the number of intersections of hair fibers, thereby enhancing the volume of the hair; and (B) applying an aerosol hair cosmetic composition capable of forming a film having a film strength, as measured by a film strength evaluation method, of 800 gf/cm2 or greater.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: KAO CorporationInventors: Yoshimasa Tate, Koji Yui, Michiko Asami
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Publication number: 20110067722Abstract: The present invention relates to hair colouring and hair bleaching compositions comprising at least one oxidizing agent, a specified gel network thickener system comprising a specified tertiary component system, and a polysaccharide and a polyol. The compositions surprisingly provide hair colourant and bleaching compositions which deliver lightening and colour which are easy to manufacture and improve adhesion of the composition to the hair roots.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Andrei Sergeevich BUREIKO, Juergen SCHMENGER
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Publication number: 20110067723Abstract: The present invention relates to hair colouring and hair bleaching compositions comprising at least one oxidizing agent, a specified gel network thickener system comprising a specified tertiary system, a cationic polymer and a mica and or titanium oxide. The compositions surprisingly provide improved hair colourant and bleaching compositions which deliver lift, lightening and colour, whilst minimizing damage which are easy to manufacture and which improve adhesion of the composition to the hair roots.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Andrei Sergeevich Bureiko, Juergen Schmenger
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Publication number: 20110067724Abstract: A comb system for creating or replicating a haircut. The comb system has a comb with level attachments and measuring devices that measure different angles of the comb with respect to an object, such as a head. The level attachments and measuring devices are removable and adjustable, allowing for flexibility and customization. In one embodiment, the comb system can measure the comb's roll, pitch, and yaw angles for any given orientation of the comb.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Jose Joaquin Regalado, Fredrico Hormozi
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Publication number: 20110067725Abstract: A brush for applying mascara or the like, comprising an elongated core and a plurality of coating surfaces axially spaced along the elongated core, distributed around the core over a substantial portion of the length of the core extending from the distal end thereof. The coating surfaces are arranged in a plurality of rows forming turns of at least one helix extending lengthwise of the core and spaced laterally around the core periphery. The axial distance between consecutive rows of coating surfaces varies longitudinally along the core.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: Alcan Packaging Beauty ServicesInventor: Davide Manici
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Publication number: 20110067726Abstract: A way of using narrowband irradiation to de-ice or release ice from a surface is provided. The methodology can be applied to a range of different types of de-icing from windshield de-icing to aircraft wing de-icing to releasing ice from the ice tray of an ice making machine. While there are many different specific applications, the concept and methodologies taught remain similar across all of them.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Don W. Cochran, Jonathan M. Katz, Benjamin D. Johnson, Denwood F. Ross, III
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Publication number: 20110067727Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing uniform pressure, friction and/or contact between a substrate and a cylindrical roller in a brush-type cleaning system is described. The apparatus includes an alignment member adapted to allow pivotal movement of the cylindrical roller based on the topography of a substrate and/or the outer surface of the cylindrical roller. The method includes positioning a substrate between two cylindrical rollers, moving each of the two cylindrical rollers to a position where at least a portion of an outer surface of each of the cylindrical rollers are in contact with the major surfaces of the substrate, and rotating one or both of the substrate and the two cylindrical rollers relative to each other while allowing a longitudinal axis of one or both of the two cylindrical rollers to pivot relative to a plane defined by one of the major surfaces of the substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.Inventors: HUNG CHIH CHEN, HUI CHEN, DAN ZHANG
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Publication number: 20110067728Abstract: A method and an apparatus for cleaning of the perineal and the adjacent areas of a human body after using a toilet are disclosed. The method comprises cleaning the said areas with dilute soap solution delivered by gravity drainage, or a soap solution-air suspension delivered from a dispenser, and rinsing the cleaned areas with water delivered by gravity drainage or from a water dispenser. The apparatus comprises either reservoirs holding soap solution and rinse water that are hung from a decorative stand, or dispenser for soap solution-air or water-air suspension. Advantages over prior art include portability for indoor and outdoor use, compatibility with a western or a squat toilet, operability with atmospheric pressure water, affordability because of lower cost, acceptability because of easier installation and placement away from the toilet bowl, and comfortability of use by people suffering from itches, inflammation, or hemorrhoids.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Neilin Chakrabarty, Tapantosh Chakrabarty
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Publication number: 20110067729Abstract: A self-propelled robotic pool cleaner (100) has a first pair of driven brushes (12, 14) and second pair of free brushes co-axially mounted for rotation on axles (16) at the opposite ends of the pool cleaner that are transverse to the direction of movement. The first pair of brushes are mounted on one side and are driven by a drive motor (110); the second pair of brushes are mounted on the opposite side of the cleaner. A rotational delay clutch (30) is co-axially positioned between each pair of the first and second brushes so that reversing the drive motor causes the first pair of driven brushes to temporarily rotate at an angular rotational velocity that is greater than that of the second pair of brushes, thereby pivoting the pool cleaner through a predetermined angular change in direction before the synchronous rotation of the second pair of dual brushes is initiated by the engagement of the clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Giora ERLICH, Tibor Horvath
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Publication number: 20110067730Abstract: A method for cleaning containers, in particular bottles of glass or plastics, and a cleaning machine with at least one cleaning medium, with the containers cleaned at least in one station preferential for the cleaning result and/or in a procedure step with at least essentially chemical-free cleaning media. The cleaning medium is advantageously a granular material, in particular granular ice, carried under pressure with compressed air or compressed water. The cleaning machine suited for carrying out the method includes downstream of an unpacking and presoaking station, a pre-cleaning station with a high pressure water blasting pre-cleaning section, and subsequently an intensive cleaning station with at least one intensive cleaning section to which a pressure blasting system for chemical-free, granular material and a carrier medium are associated, and a disinfection station following the intensive cleaning station.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: KRONES AGInventors: Cornelia Folz, Jan Momsen, Heinz Humele, Timm Kirchhoff, Klaus-Karl Wasmuht, Bernd Hansen, Thomas Islinger, Christoph Weinholzer
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Publication number: 20110067731Abstract: A cleaning device for removing a deposit adhering to an object to be cleaned is disclosed. The cleaning device includes a cleaning chamber forming a space for housing multiple cleaning media shaped like flakes; a circulating air-flow generating unit configured to generate a circulating air flow to cause the cleaning media to fly and repeatedly collide with the object in the cleaning chamber and thereby to remove the deposit adhering to the object; and a cleaning medium recycling unit configured to suction and remove the deposit adhering to the cleaning media that have collided with the object and thereby to recycle the cleaning media. The pencil hardness of the cleaning media is greater than the pencil hardness of the deposit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Tatsuya Satoh, Yoichi Okamoto, Akihiro Fuchigami, Yuusuke Taneda
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Publication number: 20110067732Abstract: In situ cleaning systems and methods of use are disclosed and provide cleaning use solutions with minimal chemical additives providing environmentally-friendly cleaning compositions. The in situ cleaning system provides one or more in situ cleaning components, including water treatment components, oxidizing agent generating component and/or alkalinity generating component, providing a cleaning use solution to a washing system.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Keith E. Olson, Erik C. Olson, Michael S. Rischmiller
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Publication number: 20110067733Abstract: To provide a cleaning method capable of favorably removing an object to be cleaned having a plasma polymer formed in a plasma etching step employing a fluorinated gas. A cleaning method comprising an immersion step of immersing an object 1 to be cleaned in a cleaning liquid (fluorinated solvent) 3 containing at least a fluorine compound, wherein in the immersion step, the temperature t of the cleaning liquid 3 is at least the lower one of the normal boiling point of the fluorine compound contained in the cleaning liquid 3 at 1 atm and 100° C., and the atmospheric pressure is such a pressure that the fluorine compound is in a liquid state at the temperature t.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: ASAHI GLASS COMPANY, LIMITEDInventors: Hidekazu Okamoto, Hideo Namatsu
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Publication number: 20110067734Abstract: A method of cleaning a semiconductor substrate includes cleaning a semiconductor substrate with a cleaning liquid, rinsing the semiconductor substrate with rinse water after the semiconductor substrate has been cleaned, and drying the semiconductor substrate after the semiconductor substrate has been rinsed. A temperature of the rinse water is set to 70° C. or above in the rinsing, and the rinse water is set so as to be acidic.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Yoshihiro OGAWA, Hajime Onoda, Hiroshi Kawamoto
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Publication number: 20110067735Abstract: The present invention relates to non-surfactant active containing delivery particles, cleaning compositions comprising said particles, and processes for making and using the aforementioned particles and cleaning compositions. When employed in cleaning compositions, such particles provide more uniform active delivery. Thus, resulting in improved cleaning performance without the increased cleaning negatives that may be associated with higher levels of certain active levels.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Paul R. Mort, III, Wendell Ivan Norman, George Douglas Hiler, II, Gregory Scot Miracle
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Publication number: 20110067736Abstract: What is contemplated is a printing cylinder washer having a removable or portable drive assembly, or a series of portable drive assemblies of different lengths to accommodate different sizes of print rollers. The drive assemblies have a drive mechanism enabled by a dynamic flow of cleaning solution within the washer reservoir. What is also contemplated is the use of an elevation system, an agitation platform, under-immersion spray bars, an ultrasonic wave cleaning system, and a hatch or door equipped with a thermal breaker in conjunction with the hydro-driven portable drive assembly. What is also contemplated is a method of washing printing rollers within the above-described printing cylinder washer by aligning a nozzle with the drive assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: SAFETY-KLEEN SYSTEMS, INC.Inventor: Rudy Publ
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Publication number: 20110067737Abstract: A method for cleaning a film separating device involves: a) performing positive-direction water cleaning when the ratio between the film filter resistance and the preliminary film filter resistance is less than 1.2; b) performing reverse water cleaning when the ratio between the film filter resistance and the preliminary film filter resistance is greater-than or equal-to 1.2; c) performing reverse chemical cleaning when the ratio between the film filter resistance and the preliminary film filter resistance is greater-than or equal-to 2; d) performing positive-direction chemical cleaning when the ratio between the film filter resistance and the preliminary film filter resistance is greater-than or equal-to 3.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: BEIJING ECOJOY WATER TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventor: Youfeng Sun
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Publication number: 20110067738Abstract: A chemical delivery system capable of handling a variety of concentrated chemicals in such a manner as to reduce the amount of service required to maintain the system. The system should be able to accurately and consistently deliver an appropriate quantity of concentrated chemicals as needed by the application where the system is utilized. Additionally, the system is configured such that the system occupies as little space as necessary.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Christopher Molitor, Gary A. Brown, David Kensinger
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Publication number: 20110067739Abstract: A multi-functional foldable frame is revealed. The multi-functional foldable frame includes two C-shaped frames, two H-shaped frames, and a flat rack. By the H-shaped frame pivoted to and located with each vertical segment of the two C-shaped frames and a demountable horizontal tube part of the other H-shaped frame, the frame is folded inward around an axis respectively located on a connection between the two C-shaped frames and the H-shaped frame. Thus the volume of the frame after being folded is reduced and this is beneficial to easy carrying and transportation. Moreover, the frame is applied to bath chairs, chamber pots, walking aids, shelves and so on.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Ching-Hsiu Ma
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Publication number: 20110067740Abstract: A walker (1) is disclosed, which comprises a base frame (20) supported by wheels (22) and support rods (3, 4) mounted on the said base frame (2) to support at a suitable height support means (7, 8) designed to support the patient during walking. The support rods (3, 4) are hinged mutually and to the base frame (2), in such a way to go from the operating position, in which the support means (7, 8) are at a suitable height to support the patient, to a minimum-volume position, in which the support means (7, 8) are near the baseframe (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Luigi Menichini
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Publication number: 20110067741Abstract: A portable containment unit including an enclosure, a base supporting the enclosure, the base having wheels attached thereto for moving the containment unit, an extension platform selectively coupled to the base and having wheels attached thereto, and an air machine on the extension platform. The containment unit may also include an auxiliary portion selectively coupled to the base for providing support to additional items, wherein the auxiliary portion is designed to be stored under the base. The enclosure may include a frame, a resilient tarp attached to the frame, and a portion that can be selectively opened. A shroud surrounds the portion that can be opened. The shroud includes an edge connector for coupling the portable containment unit to another portable containment unit. The enclosure can include a transparent portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Scott DeLeo, John Pierson
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Publication number: 20110067742Abstract: Some embodiments provide a waste heat recovery apparatus including an exhaust tube having a cylindrical outer shell configured to contain a flow of exhaust fluid; a first heat exchanger extending through a first region of the exhaust tube, the first heat exchanger in thermal communication with the cylindrical outer shell; a second region of the exhaust tube extending through the exhaust tube, the second region having a low exhaust fluid pressure drop; an exhaust valve operatively disposed within the second region and configured to allow exhaust fluid to flow through the second region only when a flow rate of the exhaust fluid becomes great enough to result in back pressure beyond an allowable limit; and a plurality of thermoelectric elements in thermal communication with an outer surface of the outer shell.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Lon E. Bell, Douglas T. Crane, John LaGrandeur, David van Heerden
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Publication number: 20110067743Abstract: An intelligent solar panel array is disclosed. The array comprises a master panel and a plurality of client panels connected by a predetermined scheme. All panels further comprise a plurality of solar energy collection modules, a supporting, pivoting and tilting mechanism, a controller and a short range communication unit. The communication units of panels form an ad hoc communication network. The master panel further comprises another communication unit for communicating with a server through an existing communication network such as the Internet. At a moment of operation, the optimized position of the master panel towards the sun is determined by measuring current-voltage curve at multiple positions. The optimized position is transmitted to all client panels through the ad hoc communication network. All panels therefore generate electrical power based upon the optimized positions towards the sun.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Yang Pan
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Publication number: 20110067744Abstract: A direct current (DC) power system uses High Concentration Photovoltaic (HCPV) modules and Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) module. Power outputs of the HCPV/BIPV modules are mixed to improve utilization of generated power. Thus, solar power is used through best power control and energy conservation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL-INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCHInventor: Ting-Chia Ou
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Publication number: 20110067745Abstract: Different systems to achieve solar power conversion are provided in at least three different general aspects, with circuitry that can be used to harvest maximum power from a solar source (1) or strings of panels (11) for DC or AC use, perhaps for transfer to a power grid (10) three aspects can exist perhaps independently and relate to: 1) electrical power conversion in a multimodal manner, 2) alternating between differing processes such as by an alternative mode photovoltaic power converter functionality control (27), and 3) systems that can achieve efficiencies in conversion that are extraordinarily high compared to traditional through substantially power isomorphic photovoltaic DC-DC power conversion capability that can achieve 99.2% efficiency or even only wire transmission losses. Switchmode impedance conversion circuits may have pairs of photovoltaic power series switch elements (24) and pairs of photovoltaic power shunt switch elements (25).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: AMPT, LLCInventors: Anatoli Ledenev, Robert M. Porter
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Publication number: 20110067746Abstract: Provided is an interconnector capable of reducing stress that is generated between a first electronic device element and a first connection portion and between a second electronic device element and a second connection portion without needing a larger space for attachment.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRLC CORPORATIONInventor: Mitsuru Okubo
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Publication number: 20110067747Abstract: A concentrated photovoltaic module includes a carrier, a plurality of side plates coupled to the carrier and having a plurality of openings, and a light-collecting unit having a lens assembly disposed above the carrier and a solar cell assembly disposed below the carrier. A receiving space is defined and formed by the carrier, the side plates, and the light-collecting unit. Water vapor, which might otherwise adversely affect photoelectric conversion taking place in the solar cell assembly when trapped inside the receiving space, is discharged from the receiving space through the openings, thereby reducing the possibility of damaging the solar cell assembly and prolonging the service life the photovoltaic module.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: EVERPHOTON ENERGY CORPInventors: Yee-Lee Chen, Chong Han Tsai
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Publication number: 20110067748Abstract: The present invention relates to a solar system comprising a plurality of solar modules, particularly photovoltaic modules, characterized in that the solar modules are arranged at least two different angles of inclination relative to a flat, particularly horizontal, base area, for instance a flat roof. According to a variant the present invention further relates to a solar system having a plurality of solar modules, wherein a reflecting element is arranged between two solar modules.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: Inventux Technologies AGInventor: Andre Pfeiffer
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Publication number: 20110067749Abstract: Disclosed herein is a solar array support structure that includes a mounting structure extending a length and configured to receive a solar array. The solar array support structure further includes a support column extending from the mounting structure into a ground. Moreover, the solar array support structure includes a lateral force resistance component in communication with the support column in the ground, the lateral force resistance component being dimensioned to reduce pressure on the ground from a force transmitted by the support column in a first direction and a second opposite direction more so than any other two opposite directions located in the same plane as the first and second opposite directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Michael Zuritis
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Publication number: 20110067750Abstract: According to one embodiment, a tracking drive solar photovoltaic power generator (1) in a tracking solar photovoltaic power generation system comprises a photovoltaic panel (10) that converts sunlight into electric power, and a tracking control portion (13) that provides tracking control over a turning position and a tilt position of the photovoltaic panel (10) so that the photovoltaic panel can track the solar trajectory based on a turning coordinate and a tilt coordinate that have been set corresponding to the solar azimuth angle and the solar altitude. The turning direction and the tilt direction of the photovoltaic panel (10) are controlled by a driving portion (12). The driving portion (12) is capable of tracking the solar trajectory based on the turning coordinate and the tilt coordinate transmitted from the tracking control portion (13) via a control line (13c).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Kousuke Ueda
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Publication number: 20110067751Abstract: Photovoltaic modules comprising back-contact solar cells manufactured using monolithic module assembly techniques comprising a flexible circuit comprising a back sheet and a patterned metallization. The module may comprise busses in electrical contact with the patterned metallization to extract the current. The module may alternatively comprise multilevel metallizations. Interlayer dielectric comprising islands or dots relieves stresses due to thermal mismatch. The use of multiple cord plates enables flexible circuit layouts, thus optimizing the module. The modules preferably comprise a thermoplastic encapsulant and/or hybrid adhesive/solder materials. An ultrathin moisture barrier enables roll-to-roll processing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: David H. Meakin, James M. Gee, Sysavanh Southimath, Brian Murphy, John Telle, Andrew Mark Mitchell
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Publication number: 20110067752Abstract: A monolithic semiconductor photovoltaic solar cell comprising a plurality of subcells disposed in series on an electrically conductive substrate. At least one subcell of the plurality of subcells includes an epitaxially grown self-assembled quantum dot material. The subcells are electrically connected via tunnel junctions. Each of the subcells has an effective bandgap energy. The subcells are disposed in order of increasing effective bangap energy, with the subcell having the lowest effective bandgap energy being closest to the substrate. In certain cases, each subcell is designed to absorb a substantially same amount of solar photons.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: CYRIUM TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATEDInventor: Simon FAFARD
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Publication number: 20110067753Abstract: A semiconductor structure is described, including a semiconductor substrate and a semiconductor layer disposed on the semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor layer is both compositionally graded and structurally graded. Specifically, the semiconductor layer is compositionally graded through its thickness from substantially intrinsic at the interface with the substrate to substantially doped at an opposite surface. Further, the semiconductor layer is structurally graded through its thickness from substantially crystalline at the interface with the substrate to substantially amorphous at the opposite surface. Related methods are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Bastiaan Arie Korevaar, James Neil Johnson, Todd Ryan Tolliver, Theodore Carlton Kreutz, Xiaolan Zhang
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Publication number: 20110067754Abstract: This invention comprises manufacture of photovoltaic cells by deposition of thin film photovoltaic junctions on metal foil substrates. The photovoltaic junctions may be heat treated if appropriate following deposition in a continuous fashion without deterioration of the metal support structure. In a separate operation, an interconnection substrate structure is provided, optionally in a continuous fashion. Multiple photovoltaic cells are then laminated to the interconnection substrate structure and conductive joining methods are employed to complete the array. In this way the interconnection substrate structure can be uniquely formulated from polymer-based materials employing optimal processing unique to polymeric materials. Furthermore, the photovoltaic junction and its metal foil support can be produced in bulk without the need to use the expensive and intricate material removal operations currently taught in the art to achieve series interconnections.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventor: Daniel Luch
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Publication number: 20110067755Abstract: A method of manufacturing a CIS-based thin film solar cell that achieves high photoelectric conversion efficiency comprises: forming a backside electrode layer on a substrate; forming a p-type CIS-based light absorbing layer thereon; and further forming an n-type transparent and electrically conductive film. The above-mentioned forming a p-type CIS-based light absorbing layer comprises: forming a metal precursor film (30a) at least comprising a first metal layer (31, 32) containing a I group element and a second metal layer (33) containing a III group element; and selenizing and/or sulfurizing the metal precursor film, and the above-mentioned forming the metal precursor film includes forming either one of the first metal layer (31, 32) or the second metal layer (33) of at least two layers including a layer (31) that contains an alkali metal and a layer (32) that substantially does not contain the alkali metal.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: Showa Shell Sekiyu K.K.Inventors: Hideki Hakuma, Yoshiaki Tanaka, Satoru Kuriyagawa
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Publication number: 20110067756Abstract: A thin film solar cell includes; a first electrode, a first active layer disposed on the first electrode, a porous intermediate layer disposed on the first active layer, a second active layer disposed on the intermediate layer and a second electrode disposed on the second active layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: SAMGUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Seung-Jae JUNG