Abstract: Methods for producing low oxygen biomass-derived pyrolysis oil are provided. Starting biomass-derived pyrolysis oil is deoxygenated by exposing the biomass-derived oil to a first catalyst in the presence of hydrogen-containing gas at first hydroprocessing conditions to produce a partially deoxygenated biomass-derived pyrolysis oil. The first catalyst has a neutral catalyst support. The partially deoxygenated biomass-derived pyrolysis oil is exposed to a second catalyst in the presence of additional hydrogen-containing gas at second hydroprocessing conditions to produce a hydrocarbon product. The biomass-derived pyrolysis oil may be esterified prior to deoxygenation. A portion of the low oxygen biomass-derived pyrolysis oil is recycled.

Abstract: Processes for producing a low acid biomass-derived pyrolysis oil are provided that include pre-treating a biomass-derived pyrolysis oil to form a treated acid-containing biomass-derived pyrolysis oil. The processes also include esterifying the treated acid-containing biomass-derived pyrolysis oil in the presence of supercritical alcohol and a catalyst composition to form the low-acid biomass-derived pyrolysis oil, the catalyst composition comprising a material selected from the group consisting of an unsupported solid acid catalyst, an unsupported solid base catalyst, and a catalytic metal dispersed on a metal oxide support.

Abstract: Methods for deoxygenating treated biomass-derived pyrolysis oil are provided. The treated biomass-derived pyrolysis oil is exposed to a catalyst having a neutral catalyst support such as a non-alumina metal oxide support, a theta alumina support, or both. The non-alumina metal oxide support may be a titanium oxide (TiO2) support, a silicon oxide support, a zirconia oxide (ZrO2) support, a niobium oxide (Nb2O5) support, or a support having a mixture of non-alumina metal oxides. The catalyst may include a noble metal or a Group VIII non-noble metal and a Group VIB non-noble metal on the neutral catalyst support. The treated biomass-derived pyrolysis oil is introduced into a hydroprocessing reactor in the presence of the catalyst under hydroprocessing conditions to produce low oxygen biomass-derived pyrolysis oil.

Abstract: This invention relates to a hydroprocessing process with improved catalyst activity when hydroprocessing petroleum based feedstock or an oxygen containing feedstock. This invention also relates to a hydrotreating process with improved hydrodesulfurization (HDS) activity of a hydrotreating catalyst such as Co/Mo by co-feeding carbon monoxide or its precursors. Such inventive process confirms that adding a small amount of CO to H2 in a hydrotreater for a few days leads to an increase in product sulfur due to the inhibition of CO on the hydrotreating catalyst such as Co/Mo. However, it has been unexpectedly found that after the CO was removed from the hydrogen stream, product sulfur levels decreased to values below they were before CO addition which means the activity of the hydrotreating catalyst increased after the CO treatment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for utilizing biomass, wherein the following steps are performed: First, at least one raw material containing carbon is thermally gasified. In a next step, the synthesis gas produced in the gasification is purified. During said purification, the temperature of the synthesis gas is changed. Then the synthesis gas is preferably converted into a liquid fuel by means of a catalyzed chemical reaction, wherein a straw-like biomass is selected as the raw material containing carbon, the gasification is performed in a fixed bed reactor, and the ash-softening temperature of the straw-like raw material is increased by adding at least one alkaline-earth salt.

Abstract: The invention is a new solid fuel combining coal and biomass and the process for making such fuel. The coal must be selected and prepared to be the correct sizes and quality, including the moisture content and levels of pollutants. Biomass must be selected and prepared by grinding and through a heating process in order to remove moisture and partially char the biomass. The biomass may be selected based on its percentage volume of carbon and hydrogen. A third material, binder is prepared in volumes to associate with the coal and biomass. The coal, biomass and binder are mixed in appropriate quantities and may be delivered to an extrusion, press pellet or briquetting machine that forms the mixture into an appropriate size and shape for the intended combustion situation. The resultant solid fuel has had desired properties for efficient burning and emission levels in the furnace for which it is designed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are example embodiments of torrefaction systems and methods for producing torrefied products from biomass. Exemplary embodiments include catalytic oxidation and/or reuse of the resultant combustion gases directly in a torrefaction reactor, a cooler, and/or a dryer/preheater.

Abstract: A device for cleaning and applying solution to the leaves of a plant. The device comprises a pair of tongs equipped with permanent sponge pads along the inner portion of each tong leg. A plurality of sleeve hooks is provided along each leg to allow securement of replaceable quilted sleeves, which cover the legs of the tongs while in use. The tongs are used to grasp an elongated leaf and run along its length to clean and remove dust from them using a dry sleeve. Alternatively, the sleeves may be used when wet, either with water or in conjunction with a desired solution. The wet sleeves are then used to apply the solution to specific leaves in a controlled operation, without risk of spreading or misting solution onto undesirable locations.

Abstract: A modular plant support system is described which provides a structure within which a plant may be grown and physically supported. The plant support structure has three or more vertical members and a number of cross members connected to each other by metal or plastic pipe fittings, which provide the modular feature of the structure. The vertical members are pipe-like and connect to each horizontal member at the fittings. The vertical members are hollow and fit over rod-type staking structures. The layers of the horizontal members may be stacked at any reasonable height to support the requirements of the plant. It is easily assembled and dissembled without tools and can be compactly stored in the dissembled state.

Abstract: A plant support structure. The plant support structure includes a cord secured to pegs on a plurality of stakes. The stakes are inserted into the ground and are typically vertically oriented. The stakes have pegs between which the cord can be secured to provide a support for a plant. Each stake has a plurality of pegs and plant support can be formed in multiple places between each stake. The stakes can be inserted into the soil in a variety of orientations depending on the application, and the stakes may include a cross-member securing two stakes together.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, use and compositions for reducing sunburn damage in plants. More specifically, it relates to methods and compositions for controlling, preventing, or treating sunburn damage using UV filters.

Abstract: A long-term no-watering flowerpot includes a main body having a lower portion formed as a water groove. At least a water exit is bored in a circumferential wall of the main body above the water groove. The water groove can store extra water. By means of capillarity, water in the water groove can be sucked up to moisturize the soil in the flowerpot for the plant to absorb. Thus watering cycle can be prolonged to save manpower and water resource.

Abstract: The invention relates to a container (1) for at least cultivating for instance an agricultural or a biological material, the container comprising: a space (7) defined therein for in use accommodating at least the material arranged in the space,—at least one opening providing access to the space; and a closing means (5,9) associated in use with the opening to selectively inhibit access to the space, whereby the closing means exhibit a different permeability during and after initial cultivation.

Abstract: The invention includes a box with a water inlet on top, drainage outlets in the bottom, and multiple nursing cells horizontally and vertically arranged inside. The nursing cells are permanently linked inside the box. Each nursing cell has reservoir grooves in the bottom, and light and air circulation cells around all sides. A slit is placed on adjacent walls of nursing cells in each row, and also in each column, thereby connecting two adjacent nursing cells. The planting module is integrated, ready for use without any assembly required. Light and air circulation cells around nursing cells provide sufficient sunlight for growth of the plants inside. Reservoir grooves in the cell bottom can better keep moisture and nutrients inside. Horizontal and vertical slits in the cell walls provide even and rapid distribution for water that enters the module.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for organizing multiple organic polarized objects are provided. In some embodiments, an organic polarized object is spread on a conveyor belt when the organic polarized object is transported from organic polarized object storage. An inventory control system is updated when a count of organic polarized object is communicated. The apparatus includes an image processor to identify the size, shape, location and orientation of organic polarized objects and to communicate this information to a robotic end effector. The organic polarized object is automatically filled in slot of a tray or stuck onto pins through a robotic end effector. The tray may be covered with a basket and flipped. The apparatus includes a calibration module to align the coordinate systems of an image capture device and a robotic end effector. The apparatus also includes organic polarized object sorter machine, basket flipping machine and a nutrient filling machine.

Abstract: A methanation section for producing substitute natural gas (SNG) by reacting a fresh syngas, the methanation section comprising adiabatic reactors connected in series, with heat removal and reacted gas-recirculation, wherein the fresh syngas is fed in parallel to said adiabatic reactors. In a preferred embodiment the reacted gas is recirculated to the first reactor and further dilution of the fresh gas at the inlet of the first and second reactor is achieved by steam addition.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to system and method for processing material to generate syngas. A reactor chamber is implemented with a plurality of electrodes that can generate an arc within the chamber when electricity is applied to them. The arc can be used to create free radicals which along with the heat and light of the arc breakdown material comprising carbonaceous material, such as Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), into gas components that form syngas. The syngas can be extracted from the reactor chamber and be used for various commercial purposes. The reactor chamber may comprise a material feed system operable to move material from a material input opening in the reactor chamber towards the electrodes at a controlled rate. Further, the reactor chamber may comprise a water injection system within the reactor chamber operable to inject water into the reactor chamber while electricity is applied to the electrodes.

Abstract: A downdraft gasifier (1) has an oxidant inlet (3), a biomass injector (2), a grate (9), a gas exit port (7), and an ash removal system (11). A sensor (10) maintains the height of the bed and a rotating paddle (5) maintains the top of the bed (4) at an even height. The grate arrangement (9) is preferably a sliding grate arrangement which actively moves ash material through the grate. An in-bed oxidant distributor (6) injects oxidant within the bed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for the production of hydrogen from a hydrocarbon feedstock and water vapor comprising: A stage for the production of a synthetic gas in a vapor reforming unit of the hydrocarbon feedstock in the presence of water vapor, with a fuel that provides the heat that is necessary to the reaction, A stage for conversion to vapor of the synthetic gas that is obtained in the preceding stage producing a hydrogen stream that contains methane and carbon dioxide, A stage for recovering carbon dioxide that is present in the stream that is obtained in the stage for conversion to vapor, making it possible to separate the carbon dioxide from the hydrogen stream, A stage for recovery and recycling to the vapor reforming stage of impurities that are present in the hydrogen stream, comprising a decompression phase.

Abstract: A door opening/closing device for an ice dispenser is disclosed. The door opening/closing device includes a DC motor 1 which is rotated in forward and reverse directions, a 2-staged spur gear 3 meshed with a worm gear 2 installed on a driving shaft, a 3-staged spur gear 4 meshed with the 2-staged spur gear 3, and a fan-shaped output gear 5 meshed with the 3-staged spur gear 4 and rotated in forward and reverse directions by interconnection of the motor 1 and the gears 2, 3 and 4. If the output gear 5 is rotated in the forward direction, a rod-shaped boss 5a pushes and rotates a link lever 6a to press a coil spring 8 wound around an opening/closing link 6 and thus open a door 7. If the output gear 5 is rotated in the reverse direction, the coil spring 8 is released from a pressurized state, and the rod-shaped boss 5a rotates in the reverse direction while abutting against the link lever 6a, so that the door 7 is closed without generating impact and sound.

Abstract: A brace includes a first body configured and disposed to secure ends of adjacent structural members together, the brace having a substantially triangular shape.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aircraft opening window comprising at least one pane (2) equipped with a movable frame (3), the assembly comprising the said movable frame (3) and the said at least one pane (2) being movable relative to a fixed frame (1), an element (4) for maneuvering the said movable assembly, a device for locking/unlocking and opening/closing the said movable assembly actuated by the said maneuvering element (4) and means for guiding and supporting the said movable assembly.

Abstract: A window or door assembly and/or system having a drain method and device that is less invasive than previous implementations. The assembly can include slidable window or door panels and an upright support allowing translational movement of the panels. Distal thereto, a weeping upright is provided. The upright support and the weeping upright can form a channel therebetween where the liquid is collected, wherein the channel in one embodiment is L-shaped. To remove liquid from the channel, an accumulator that is perpendicular to the channel can receive the fluid through an opening. Liquid can also be removed through a drainage opening within the upright support or weeping upright. An aperture along with a connector along a bottom portion of the channel can also be used to remove the liquid within the channel.

Abstract: A sliding door with reversible hand configurations can include a plurality of mounting locations along a top and a bottom edge thereof. The plurality of mounting locations can be configured to allow the sliding door to selectively hang and operate according to multiple orientations in order to satisfy site-specific handedness requirements. In one implementation, the sliding door includes a door frame and mounting hardware for selectively mounting the sliding door to a roller track affixed near the upper portion of a doorway.

Abstract: An electrical door-locking device includes screws which are rotatable in a forwards and backwards direction, and are placed in line on one side of a door frame in the direction in which the electrical door main body slides; locking hooks located adjacent to the screws; and a sliding unit equipped with a rotatably-provided locking lever having a latch for latching onto the locking hooks when the electrical door main body is closed and is equipped with a locking-lever-pressing part for pressing the locking lever such that the latch of the locking lever unlatches from the locking hooks, and one end of which is rotatably linked to the screws and the other end of which is linked to the electrical door main body.

Abstract: An exterior siding mounting bracket used in conjunction with siding placed over sheathing of an exterior wall has a base member having a base flange fastened to the sheathing. A wall arrangement projects laterally outward from the base flange and away from the sheathing. A trim member of the bracket has a partition arrangement that preferably snap fits to the wall arrangement and a trim flange constructed and arranged to cover cut edges of the siding that cover in-part the base flange. Integrated at least into the trim member is a water diversion device that diverts water away from the base flange and sheathing. Preferably, the water diversion device has an elongated trough supported by the trim member and projecting laterally inward from the trim flange and toward the base flange and above the wall and partition arrangements.

Abstract: The invention relates to a modular container system for creating cuboid modular units for living or working purposes, which are arranged next to and on top of each other.

Abstract: A building structure is formed of large, pre-formed or pre-cast structural slabs i.e., pre-cast wall panels (1) that contain a plurality of horizontally extending reinforcing members (2) that protrude out of the wall panel at its two opposite ends by a predetermined length. The pre-cast wall panel (1) further consists of a plurality of recesses (3) and projecting recess keys (4). The pre-cast wall panels (1) are placed facing each other or orthogonal to each other each such that when an imaginary line from the ends of the wall panels that are oriented towards each other, projects from the projecting reinforcing members (2), of each respective reinforced concrete pre-cast wall panel (1), these lines intersect at a common point. The gap in between the wall panels provides a means of connecting the individual pre-cast wall panels by means of a wet joint (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d). The wet joints (11b, 11c, 11d) can then act as columns 5 of a building structure.

Abstract: This invention relates to inclined outer building surfaces such as roofs reflectively responsive to sun elevation angle and predominantly ornamental when viewed from common viewing positions. More specifically, this invention relates to methods of sizing, shaping, surface characteristics, and coating resulting in improved performance, increased ornamental quality, improved economy of roofing of this class using human eye contrast sensitivity and visual perception.

Abstract: An improved building technique includes setting at least one wall for a building into a final position, and then subsequently match-casting a foundation or floor for the building, the foundation/floor being in contact with the base of the wall and helping to secure the wall.

Abstract: The invention provides a metal joint connecting a pair of subject members relatively displaceable in one direction, a metal joint connecting a pair of subject members relatively displaceable in one direction, the metal joint comprising: multiple first attachment portions attached to one of the subject members; a second attachment portion attached to an other of the subject members; and multiple plate portions connecting between the first attachment portions and the second attachment portion to each other, wherein an attachment direction of each of the first attachment portions with respect to one subject member and an attachment direction of the second attachment portion with respect to the other subject member are set so that a surfaces of the plate portions follow a direction of the relative displacement.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sealed translucent glass glazing unit and a method of drying a sealed translucent glass glazing unit. The unit comprises two lites of translucent glass spaced apart from one another to define a gap; an absorptive filler in the gap; a spacer around the perimeter of the unit to seal the unit and maintain the gap; and a vent tube mounted within the spacer with one end open to the filler and one end open to the exterior. The method comprise subjecting the filler to exterior temperature cycling such that the filler absorbs moisture from the air as it cools and release moisture to the air as it warms, such that air flows through the tube from the gap to the exterior when heated and air flows through the tube from the exterior to the gap when cooled, the tube being sized to maintain controlled airflow according to a predetermined time constant; whereby the unit is dried. Also disclosed is a method of making a sealed glass glazing unit.

Abstract: A rigid rectangular construction panel, such as a floor panel, has quick release connections along its edges. The panel is made from composite materials in a single work piece. The base of the panel is made up of pillars to separate the body of the panel from the underlying construction surface, such as a concrete slab or wall. The base defines a fluid flow field to permit drainage and drying of the underlying construction surface. An impermeable moisture barrier may be provided to prevent migration of moisture into or through the panel. The panel may be provided with an added, removable surface layer which may be selectively removed and replaced without removing the underlying panel from an installation area. The core of the panel may be provided with a temperature modification element which may interconnect with similar elements in neighboring panels.

Abstract: A racking system for photovoltaic solar panels greatly reduces material, weight, labor and system profile as compared to previous mounting systems. Special pedestals are secured to a roof at far larger spacings and fewer number than required in previous systems. The pedestals are configured for efficient and dependable flashing for waterproofing the roof. In assembly the extruded aluminum components are fitted together quickly with efficient and strong connections, with the photovoltaic panels retained in a compact array and fully supported along the length of each panel. The fittings provide for field adjustment of the height of the uprights, helping accommodate uneven roof surfaces, such as flat roofs.

Abstract: A combination through-wall masonry flashing/drainage device having a flashing membrane with at least one reinforcing cloth adhered to at least one side of the flashing membrane. A wicking cloth made of a synthetic wicking material is then adhered to the device. The wicking cloth material is selected for wicking ability, life expectancy, mildew resistance, and strength characteristics.

Abstract: A method for installing flooring boards is provided. The method comprises laying down a two layer pad on a floor, applying a band of adhesive, laying a flooring board on the top of the two shifted-layer pad and the edge of the floor board occupying one half of the width of the band, and laying an adjacent floor board, which covers the remaining of the band of the adhesive.

Abstract: A roof insulation fastening system employs a fastener and a compression plate with a tube which interacts with the compression plate to permit the plate to vertically move relative to the head of the fastener when the adjacent area and/or plate is subject to excessive compression. The tube includes a retainer shoulder and a pair of tabs wherein the plate captures the tube. The tube includes a throat and a tapered portion with a throughbore. The fastener is inserted into the tube and secured in place so that the head is retained at the intersection of the throat and the tapered portion and the shank is secured into the roofing substrate.

Abstract: An architectural panel system including a plurality of architectural panels, a first mounting extrusion attached to a first architectural panel, and a second mounting extrusion attached to a second architectural panel, as well as a first anchor clip including a first attachment configuration that enables the first mounting extrusion to be slidably attached thereto, and a second anchor clip including a second attachment configuration that enables the second mounting extrusion to be slidably attached thereto. The system also includes a panel joint filler strip. The first mounting extrusion includes a first pocket portion, and the second mounting extrusion includes a second pocket portion that is shallower than the first pocket portion. The first and second pocket portions cooperate with each other to seat the panel joint filler strip. Also disclosed are methods of installing the panel system and of replacing a damaged panel of an installed array of panels.

Abstract: A clip for a suspended ceiling grid to join a pair of grid runners intersecting a third grid runner from opposite sides of the third grid runner, the clip being bendable sheet metal symmetrical about a vertical plane, having a saddle portion with a seat and generally planar flaps depending from opposite sides of the seat, including a pair of generally planar wings each cantilevered from a respective one of the flaps; the seat width corresponding to a hollow reinforcing bulb of a grid runner, the flaps extend over the sides of the reinforcing bulb and web of the third grid runner, a flap and wing joined at a vertical bend line, weaker than each adjacent area of the flap and wing whereby the wing can be manually bent to a desired angle relative to the flap.

Abstract: A novel dust cover is formed to overlie horizontal structural surfaces such as a channel or web of an I-beam, H-beam, conduit or channel member. The dust cover includes an elongated spanning section and a pair of longitudinal leg members extending from the spanning section to lie flush against the adjacent structural element to prevent dust accumulation. The cover is held to the structural member by a plurality of magnets spaced along the length of the member.

Abstract: Floor panels (1, 1?) are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system comprising tongue and grooves provided with protrusions and cavities which are displaceable in relation to each other.

Abstract: Disclosed is a floorboard to provide simplified assembly of flooring panels without damage and achieve enhanced horizontal coupling force. The floorboard includes a tongue part provided at a first flooring panel and a recessed part provided at a second flooring panel. The tongue part includes a tongue protrusion, a tongue bottom portion, and a raised retaining portion protruding downward from the tongue bottom portion. The recessed part includes an upper lip caught by the tongue protrusion when the tongue part is inserted into the recessed part, a lower lip, a raised portion protruding upward from an end of the lower lip, and a guide wall defining an inner wall of the recessed part and having the same contour as an arc drawn by an end of the tongue protrusion as the tongue part introduced between the upper and lower lips is pivotally rotated.

Abstract: An improved connector for joining wire mesh and or concrete reinforcement bars and for joining them to other structures comprised of a channel shaped part and wedge. Also connectors constructed from one part having the same function. All connectors preferable made from sheet metal.

Abstract: A telecommunications tower segment for the construction of a section of a telecommunications tower is disclosed. A plurality of such segments is adapted to form a tubular section of the telecommunications tower. Each telecommunications tower segment has a convex first surface. Additionally, each telecommunications tower segment has a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein the second surface is flat or partly flat.

Abstract: In building a house, it is necessary to arrange bearing walls and non-bearing walls in a well-balanced manner. However, in the case where a bearing wall is configured by fixing a plate-like body such as a bearing wall panel to the exterior-side face of a structural frame member formed by assembling horizontal members and pillar members into the shape of a square frame, the surface of the bearing wall panel protrudes from the face of the structural frame member on the exterior side by a distance corresponding to the thickness of the bearing wall panel. Thus, the exterior-side face of the bearing wall in which the bearing wall panel is provided is not flush with the exterior-side face of the non-bearing wall in which the bearing wall panel is not provided, and so there is a step. Accordingly, processing of the base during attachment of an exterior building material has been necessary.

Abstract: A modular unit (10) for automatic packaging of food products to be packaged in trays employs one or more pick-up heads for picking up and transferring the product from a feeding belt. The trays to be filled circulate multiple times on a dual-belt system having adjacent linear conveyors and pushing devices for the reversing function, for receiving multiple deposits of product therein. The pick-up head picks up and deposits the product using vacuum generating elements; an optical reader checks the position of the product on the feeding belt.

Abstract: A drive unit, which has a first motor and a second motor, for rotationally and linearly moving a working element with respect to a first housing element. In order to permit a design and a mounting and to reduce the required axial installation space and cost, the drive unit has bearing arrangement which, in the case of a linear movement of the working element with respect to the first housing element, permits a primary part and a secondary part of the first motor and/or of the second motor to be arranged in an axially non-displaceable fashion.

Abstract: Provided is an aseptic filling packaging machine that includes film feeder (1), plug feeder (2), welding devices (22, and 55), sterilizer (3), and filling packaging device (5). Film feeder (1) feeds strip film (8). Plug feeder (2) feeds plug (7) to a predetermined position of fed film (8). Primary welding mechanism (22), which serves as a welding device, temporarily welds plug (7) to the predetermined position of film (8). Sterilizer (3) immerses film 8 having plug (7), which has been fed from film feeder (1), in a sterile liquid. While forming film 8 having plug (7), which has been fed from sterilizer (3), into a bag shape, filling packaging device (5) fills the formed film packaging body having the plug with content to seal it. In filling packaging device (5), secondary welding mechanism (55) that serves as a welding device completely welds plug (7) to film (8).

Abstract: A method for producing decorative grass having a decorative pattern thereon is disclosed. The decorative pattern may be printed material and/or an embossed pattern, or the decorative pattern may be a non-linear side edge that provides the decorative grass with a contoured configuration.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser system for use with an apparatus for forming and filling pouched products, the system comprising a first fluid dispenser shoe, the first fluid dispenser shoe comprising an inlet bore for placing in fluid communication with a source of liquid to be dispensed; at least one liquid dispensing manifold in fluid communication with the inlet bore; and a plurality of exit orifices positioned along the at least one liquid dispensing manifold for dispensing the liquid on an outer surface of the pouched product, wherein the first fluid dispenser shoe is positioned downstream of the apparatus for forming and filling pouched products and adjacent a stream of pouched products as they exit the apparatus..