Patents Issued in April 17, 2014
  • Publication number: 20140101960
    Abstract: A drying device has a travel path (2) along which a web (W) of paper travels, a plurality of drying ovens (10) arranged side by side along the travel path (2), a plurality of conveyor rolls (23) provided in each of the drying ovens (10) to convey the web (W) along the travel path (2), a plurality of roll units (28a to 28c) each constituted by one or more of the conveyor rolls (23) and separated from each other along the travel path (2), and a plurality of conveyor motors (29) connected to the respective roll units (28a to 28c) to rotate the conveyor rolls (23), wherein a downstream one of the roll units with respect to the travel path is rotated at a lower rotating speed than an upstream one of the roll units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: JAPAN TOBACCO INC.
    Inventors: Shinzo KIDA, Masaaki FUKAYA
  • Publication number: 20140101961
    Abstract: The present invention provides a glass drying device that facilitates the drying of glasses, which have hard to reach areas. The device has a handle with a cleaning member having a cloth that can be compressed at one end allowing the inner part of the glass to be dried.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Ioulia Weber
  • Publication number: 20140101962
    Abstract: A media drying system removes a moistening liquid from a moistened medium, the moistening liquid having a moistening-liquid boiling point. A liquid reservoir contains a heating liquid. A liquid-heating system warms the heating liquid in the liquid reservoir to a temperature greater than the moistening-liquid boiling point. A media-transport system transports the moistened medium along a transport path which passes through the liquid reservoir. The moistened medium is submerged in the warmed heating liquid and heat is transferred from the warmed heating liquid to the moistening liquid. This vaporizes the moistening liquid and removing it from the moistened medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Alan Richard Priebe, Donald Saul Rimai, Christopher J. White
  • Publication number: 20140101963
    Abstract: A clothes drying rack for use with recreational vehicles disclosed, the rack being adapted to engage the supporting arms of a recreational vehicle ladder and including a plurality of through-holes that will accept standard clothes hangers or one or more rods extending therethrough for supporting clothes or other such articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Louis Larabie, Gladys Vargas
  • Publication number: 20140101964
    Abstract: An apparatus for delamination drying a substrate is provided. A chamber for receiving a substrate is provided. A chuck supports and clamps the substrate within the chamber. A temperature controller controls the temperature of the substrate and is able to cool the substrate. A vacuum pump is in fluid connection with the chamber. A tilting mechanism is able to tilt the chuck at least 90 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen M. SIRARD, Diane HYMES, Alan M. SCHOEPP, Ratchana LIMARY
  • Publication number: 20140101965
    Abstract: A method for removing a moistening liquid from a moistened medium includes bringing at least one surface of the moistened medium into contact with a heating liquid. The heating liquid is warmed to a temperature greater than a moistening-liquid boiling point. Heat is transferred from the warmed heating liquid to the moistening liquid, thereby vaporizing the moistening liquid and removing it from the moistened medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Alan Richard Priebe, Donald Saul Rimai, Christopher J. White
  • Publication number: 20140101966
    Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for heat treatment capable of heat-treating toner particles efficiently and uniformly while suppressing increase of coarse particles due to coalescence, to thereby enable stable toner production. The apparatus for heat-treating powder particles each of which contains a binder resin and a colorant includes: a cylindrical treatment chamber in which the powder particles are heat-treated; a columnar member (6) provided so as to protrude from a lower end part of the treatment chamber toward an upper end part thereof; a powder particle supply unit (2) for supplying the powder particles to the treatment chamber; a hot air supply unit (3) for heat-treating the supplied powder particles; and a collection unit (5) for collecting the heat-treated powder particles discharged outside the treatment chamber through a toner discharge port provided on the lower end part side of the treatment chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hironori Minagawa, Yuichi Mizo, Takeshi Ohtsu, Takakuni Kobori, Kohji Takenaka, Junichi Hagiwara, Daisuke Ito, Kunihiko Kawakita, Yasumori Kanai
  • Publication number: 20140101967
    Abstract: A process of dewatering tailings is provided comprising mixing the tailings with a sufficient amount of an additive or a mixture thereof; depositing the resulting mixture into a disposal area; pumping water from the deposit to one or more sumps, and allowing the deposit to reach a sufficient strength; and removing remaining deposit water and rainfall through one or more of a network of ditches, a decant tower, or a plurality of dike drainage structures to yield a non-segregating deposit for reclamation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. in trust of the owners of the Syncrude Project
    Inventors: JAMES LORENTZ, BARRY BARA, RANDY MIKULA, ERIC LENEVE, NAN WANG
  • Publication number: 20140101968
    Abstract: A method for removing a moistening liquid from a moistened medium includes providing a liquid-blocking barrier having a first surface and a second surface that is impermeable to a heating liquid. A surface of the moistened medium is brought into contact with the first surface of the liquid-blocking barrier. The heating liquid is brought into contact with the second surface of the liquid-blocking barrier, the heating liquid being at a temperature greater than a moistening-liquid boiling point. Heat is thus transferred through the liquid-blocking barrier from the heating liquid to the moistening liquid, vaporizing the moistening liquid and removing it from the moistened medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Alan Richard Priebe, Donald Saul Rimai, Christopher J. White, Kevin Edward Spaulding
  • Publication number: 20140101969
    Abstract: An orthopedic sandal comprises a sole and six mounted straps. Made of rubber that generates high friction, the straps pass through the edge of the sole to create 12 one to three centimeter-long extensions underneath the sole. The 12 extensions generate extra friction when the sandal contacts with the ground. The sole consists of an outer layer and an inner layer. Made of rubber mixed with nylon fibers, the outer layer has an empty inside divided sidewardly into 4 compartments. Each compartment is divided horizontally into two by a thin rubber layer. Made of soft rubber, the inner layer is a pouch divided into three compartments filled with special soft gel that has physical stability under the change of temperature and pressure. The inner layer is pre-shaped to ergonomically fit the wearer's sole and is also able to reshape to well fit the wearer's particular sole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Loan Kim Thi Pham
  • Publication number: 20140101970
    Abstract: Adjustable traction is provided in a traction cleat by selectively restricting or not the amount of flexure permitted for a dynamic traction element on the cleat. Restricting flexure is alternatively achieved by an adjustably positionable ring or by rotating the cleat to align the dynamic element with different shoe sole topographical features. A dual locking post is provided to reduce the surface area required on the cleat hub for locking structures. The cleat is formed in a two shot molding process that permits elongations of the dynamic traction elements without sacrificing the integrity of the cleat structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Pride Manufacturing Company, LLC
    Inventors: Rand J. Krikorian, John Robert Burt, Faris W. McMullin
  • Publication number: 20140101971
    Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper that defines an interior void, a sole structure secured to the upper, and a foot-supporting insert that is positionable within a lower area of the void and removable from the void. A system having a protrusion and an indentation may be utilized to, for example, secure the insert within the void. As an example, a protrusion may extend outward from a surface of the void, and the insert may define an indentation in a corresponding location and with a corresponding shape. When the insert is positioned within the void, the protrusion will extend into the indentation. The locations, shapes, numbers and overall configuration of the protrusion and indentation may vary significantly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: Mario A. Lafortune
  • Publication number: 20140101972
    Abstract: A shock absorbing shoe with a triangle shock absorbing space, the shoe having an outsole and a midsole, wherein the midsole is divided into upper and lower midsoles, a plurality of upper seating holes provided on opposite sides of the upper midsole behind an area corresponding to an arch region of a foot sole, a plurality of lower seating holes provided on opposite sides of the lower midsole. The shoe includes a shock absorbing means having a body member formed longitudinally between the upper and lower midsoles, and wing members provided on opposite sides of the body member. Each wing member includes an upper inclined portion inclined upwards to be received in the associated upper seating hole, a lower inclined portion inclined downwards to be received in the associated lower seating hole, and a connecting portion connecting the upper and lower inclined portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Yong-ho Ha
  • Publication number: 20140101973
    Abstract: A stability and comfort system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The stability and comfort system includes a bootie and a sock liner. The sock liner may include a heel counter that is contoured to fit a heel. The sole of the article may include an outrigger portion. The outrigger portion can be separated from a central portion of the sole to allow the outrigger portion to move substantially independently of the central portion of the sole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Luedecke, Jeffrey C. Spanks, Matthew A. Nurse, Eric P. Avar
  • Publication number: 20140101974
    Abstract: A coated leather, in particular split cowhide leather, has a preferably nubuck-like appearing surface structure. The coating is formed with a surface layer formed with a mechanically and moisture-stable polymer and bonded to the surface of the leather or split leather by a polymer-based bonding layer. The outer layer is notable for inner smoothness and is formed with soft polyurethane. It includes in the non-embossed region microdepressions which are essentially closed in the direction of the leather but are open towards the outside, have an internal width of less than 130 ?m and are arranged close-packed to each other in the manner of soapy foam cells. The microdepressions are each separately bounded by thin mutually crosslinked stays which have on the outside a matt or finely fibrous fine-roughness structure surface, and have an essentially semispherical-shaped concave inner surface which faces outward and is smooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: LANXESS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: LANXESS Deutschland GmbH
  • Publication number: 20140101975
    Abstract: A bicycle shoe support includes a rigid support frame and a flexible support member. The rigid support frame has a cleat attachment section, a heel section and a pair of side sections. The heel section is arranged with respect to the cleat attachment section. The side sections longitudinally extend between the cleat attachment section and the heel section to define a foot receiving space therebetween. The flexible support member extends beneath the foot receiving space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventor: Yutaka UEDA
  • Publication number: 20140101976
    Abstract: A stop system may include: a first member; a second member movable with respect to the first member, the first and second members being different parts of a common machine; a body including a boss defining a hole; a base plate at least one of: attached to and part of, the body on the side of the body opposite of the boss, the body and base plate forming a shoe; and a fastener extending through the hole in the boss thereby pivotally attaching the body to one of the first and second member. A method of providing a stop for stopping a thumb against a stick is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Patrick Shea, Aaron Dean Kovar
  • Publication number: 20140101977
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectively decorating a vehicle surface are disclosed. The apparatus is a removable applique with a front face including a graphic comprising ultra-violet responsive material and a back face including an attachment agent having the ability to be applied and removed from the surface of the vehicle without causing damage. The method includes receiving the removable applique on the surface of a vehicle. The method further includes sending an instruction to illuminate an ultra-violet source to direct ultra-violet light at the graphic of the removable applique to render the graphic visible. In one embodiment, the instruction to illuminate the ultra-violet source can be sent in response to the activation of a switch, button, control panel or other input means of controlling the ultra-violet source. In another embodiment, the instruction to illuminate the ultra-violet source can be sent in response to a vehicle state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul D. Cowan
  • Publication number: 20140101978
    Abstract: A paving advertisement has an elongated flexible tape body with a base substrate layer. The base substrate layer has front and rear faces, the front face having at least one text message that conveys information. The base substrate layer includes a cold crack additive, such as polyvinyl chloride, thereby increasing its strength and flexibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory W. Gorman
  • Publication number: 20140101979
    Abstract: A rack system for displaying products comprises a rack unit supporting some of the products so as to be accessed at a forward facing product dispensing face. The rack unit has a side portion facing generally perpendicular to the dispensing face. A corner member is supported on the side portion and comprises a first wall portion extending generally forwardly to a vertical edge adjacent the product dispensing face, and a second wall portion extending generally laterally outward from the side portion to a second vertical edge. The first and second edges each have a retaining portion extending vertically. A flexible signage member is supported on the corner member in a flexed condition between the retaining portions with a signage surface that is concave outwardly between the retaining portions. The signage member is supported and retained on the corner member by a biasing of the signage member to extend wider than a distance between the retaining portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: GAMON PLUS, INC.
    Inventors: Terry J. Johnson, Travis Ogden Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140101980
    Abstract: A frame that is fitted around the border of a display device such as, but not limited to, a television set is disclosed. The frame is configured to be removably mounted to the display device. According to one embodiment of the invention, the frame has multi-piece construction which provides for advertising panels to be removably inserted into the frame. The frame and the advertising panels may be constructed of a material which allows transmission of infrared and/or RF signals to pass through. Optionally, the frame and/or the advertising panels may include knock-out panels positioned over a receiver for an infrared and/or RF signal. A mounting system, such as a hook-and-loop fastening system, may be used to mount the frame to the display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Best Fit Frames, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin A. Best, George Parke, IV, Christopher M. Wareham
  • Publication number: 20140101981
    Abstract: The safety device provides an added measure of safety to striker fired semi-automatic pistols. The safety device includes a contact member in the form of a sliding bar or pivoting lever, that is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, such that the contact member operatively blocks the movement of one of the fire control mechanism components to prevent discharge of the weapon but only when the contact member is manually held in an engaged position. The user manipulates and physically holds the contact member in its engaged position by pressing a thumb plate or button located at the rear of the slide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas Hilton Jones, Todd Louis Green
  • Publication number: 20140101982
    Abstract: Methods and systems for providing a firearm sighting optic, including a body having a first lens at a first end and a second lens at a second end, and a reticle associated therewith and a level device integral to the body and providing a visual indication of a rotation of the firearm sighting optic with reference to a predetermined plane, wherein the indication is presented in association with the reticle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: John Robert McPhee
  • Publication number: 20140101983
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed generally to an apparatus used to adjustably mount a fishing reel to the control end of a fishing rod. The fishing-reel-mounting apparatus is comprised of two main parts: (1) a rigid, light-weight, longitudinal track that is adapted to be securely and coupled to the standard reel-mounting region at the control end of a fishing rod, and (2) a sturdy, light-weight reel-carriage device that is adapted to be surely coupled at its top surface to the base of a fishing reel and is adapted to be slidably, adjustably, and lockably coupled at its lower surfaces to the longitudinal track. Among the key advantages of the fishing-reel-mounting apparatus is the ability for fishermen in the field to easily manipulate the balance of a fishing rod by allowing the adjustment of the longitudinal position of a fishing reel attached to a fishing rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Bruce William Scott
  • Publication number: 20140101984
    Abstract: Electric pest deterrents device having knitted conductors are presented. An elongated conductor comprising at least a single conducting strand knitted with itself or with other conducting strands can be attached to a based of the device. The conducting strands can be knitted according to one or more patterns to form textured surfaces having raise protrusions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Bird-B-Gone, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Donoho
  • Publication number: 20140101985
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to polymer devices impregnated with semiochemical attractants for termites. The materials for delivering the semiochemicals are preferably cellulose-free. Devices of the subject invention are placed in soil and provide a slow-release and permeation of the semiochemicals into the adjacent soil so that termites tunneling in the vicinity are directed toward the chemical sources. Because the semiochemicals are impregnated in the polymer, the device also protects the semiochemicals so that they do not degrade rapidly under field conditions. In a preferred embodiment, the subject invention comprises a durable station housing, preferably with a removable bait, wherein the body of the station housing itself is impregnated with a semiochemical attractant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.
    Inventor: NAN-YAO SU
  • Publication number: 20140101986
    Abstract: Method for making a slurry of a pulverized solid in liquid or supercritical carbon dioxide. The method includes making a water-pulverized solid slurry at ambient pressure and pressurizing the water-pulverized solid slurry to a high pressure. The pressurized water-pulverized solid slurry is mixed in a pressurized chamber with liquid or supercritical CO2 to form a CO2˜pulverized solid slurry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute Of Technology
    Inventors: Cristina Botero, Randall Perkins Field, Howard J. Herzog, Ahmed F. Ghoniem
  • Publication number: 20140101987
    Abstract: Compositions and methods of making bio-additives for diesel fuel, jet fuel and other fuels and lubricant formulations are presented. The compositions include a first polyalphaolefin, a second polyalphaolefin, a polyolefinic ester, a calcium overbased sulfonate, and a bean oil or seed oil. The fuel additives can be added to any fuel and result in advantages, such as a lower cloud point and a better lubricated engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: REAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventor: Clyde Ritter
  • Publication number: 20140101988
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method of converting glycerol into organic reaction products. The method may include mixing glycerol with a monohydric alcohol. The mixture of glycerol and monohydric alcohol is then reacted in the presence of a heterogeneous nano-structured catalyst, wherein the monohydric alcohol is present at subcritical/supercritical temperatures and pressures. This converts the glycerol into one or more reaction products, wherein the reaction products include an oxygenated organic reaction product. Ninety percent or greater of the glycerol is converted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Maoqi FENG, Chee-Kai TAN
  • Publication number: 20140101989
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device of producing low-sulfur high-octane-number gasoline with low cost and method thereof, the device is composed of an extractor, a first cutting column, an etherification device, a hydrogenation desulfurizer, a reforming pretreatment device, a second cutting column, an isomerization device, a reformer and a stabilizing device. Sulfur in raw material is enriched in extracted oil by introducing extractor in the invention, thereby reducing the scale of hydrogenation desulfurization device. The scale of reformer is increased by delivering heavy raffinate obtained from the first cutting column in the reformer. Benzene extractor and corresponding fractionation device are saved by adjusting the cutting temperature in the second cutting column, thereby greatly lowering investment and energy consumption, and increasing the gasoline yield. The investment of reformer is reduced, while the liquid yield is increased by introducing the reforming patent technology.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Beijing Grand Golden-Bright Engineering & Technologies Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: RANFENG DING
  • Publication number: 20140101990
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing solid fuel, including estimating a heat value for at least a portion of a combustible waste stream. At least one type of combustible polymer is added to the combustible waste stream as needed to raise the estimated heat value of the portion of combustible waste stream to a desired heat value. The combustible waste stream is heated and mixed while adding a binder to the combustible waste stream to increase the structural integrity of a solid fuel formed from the mixed combustible waste stream. The heated and mixed combustible waste stream is pressed into briquettes of solid fuel which are substantially hydrophobic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Joyce Lorman
  • Publication number: 20140101991
    Abstract: A cellulosic feedstock composition including an oil content of up to 15% of the composition, a cellulose content of 40-99% of the composition, a hemicellulose content of 2-20% of the composition, a lignin content of less than 15% of the composition, a nitrogen containing organic compound content of less than 20% of the composition, a protein containing organic compound content of less than 20% of the composition, a mineral content of less than 5% of the composition, a sand content of less than 5% of the composition, and a dirt content of less than 25% of the composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: APPLIED CLEANTECH, INC
    Inventors: Refael Aharon, Israel Biran, Ronny Banker
  • Publication number: 20140101992
    Abstract: This invention provides processes and systems for converting biomass into high-carbon biogenic reagents that are suitable for a variety of commercial applications. Some embodiments employ pyrolysis in the presence of an inert gas to generate hot pyrolyzed solids, condensable vapors, and non-condensable gases, followed by separation of vapors and gases, and cooling of the hot pyrolyzed solids in the presence of the inert gas. Additives may be introduced during processing or combined with the reagent, or both. The biogenic reagent may include at least 70 wt %, 80 wt %, 90 wt %, 95 wt %, or more total carbon on a dry basis. The biogenic reagent may have an energy content of at least 12,000 Btu/lb, 13,000 Btu/lb, 14,000 Btu/lb, or 14,500 Btu/lb on a dry basis. The biogenic reagent may be formed into fine powders, or structural objects. The structural objects may have a structure and/or strength that derive from the feedstock, heat rate, and additives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: BIOGENIC REAGENTS LLC
    Inventors: James A. Mennell, Daniel J. Despen
  • Publication number: 20140101993
    Abstract: A method can include providing an underground vault; providing a lift mechanism; providing a crop protection system that includes a housing that houses a vertically oriented roll of material; and positioning the crop protection system in the underground vault where the lift mechanism provides for vertically adjusting the crop protection system with respect to the underground vault to raise the vertically oriented roll of material above ground. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Karen Perricone
  • Publication number: 20140101994
    Abstract: A base (and method) for display of a substantially vertical member having a supporting generally cylindrical member, adapted to provide adequate lateral stability to permit the vertical member to remain upright when exposed to lateral forces, to accept and retain liquid, and to allow the liquid to come into contact with the lower end of the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member is retained within the base by interference fit with a member comprised of an expanding, preferably plastic, foam which is initially in an unexpanded state, and is caused to expand after the cylindrical member is introduced into the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Loren Shapiro, Mark Glynn
  • Publication number: 20140101995
    Abstract: A plant support device is disclosed formed of malleable members such as wire. A base engages a central support structure in a vertical disposition to support a planar platform which may be angled. Plant stalks are protected by following a central pathway through the base and support structure. Leaves and branches of he plant are supported in an elevated position by the platform which may be angled to maximize light to the plant, or maintain separation from adjacent plants. The various components may be provided in a kit for assembly as needed by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Gilbert Hernandez, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140101996
    Abstract: A man-made vitreous fibre (MMVF) plant growth substrate is provided together with an irrigation strategy for providing water to the substrate. The substrate comprises a slab having a volume of 3 to 20 litres on which a single block containing one or more plants is disposed. In the context of this substrate, it is found that an irrigation strategy can be used which comprises a first period during which the desired water content in the slab is reduced to a minimum level before increasing and a second period during which the desired water content is maintained at a substantially constant level, wherein the difference between the minimum level and the constant level expressed as a percentage of the water content required to saturate the plant growth substrate is less than or equal to 25%. This provides excellent control over the balance between vegetative and generative growth in the plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventor: Eelke Gjalt Hempenius
  • Publication number: 20140101997
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing consumer-ready vegetables, mushrooms or herbs, comprising the steps of culturing vegetables, mushrooms or herbs in a closed container under suitable growing conditions until maturity; and transferring the container with the mature vegetable, mushrooms or herb to a retail outlet. The culturing of the vegetables, mushrooms or herbs until maturity takes suitably place in or in the vicinity of the retail outlet. The invention further relates to a set for performing the method and to the container comprising the mature vegetables, mushrooms or herbs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: RIJK ZWAAN ZAADTEELT EN ZAADHANDEL B.V.
    Inventors: Wilhelmus Petrus Adrianus Roeland VOERMANS, Jeanette Diana VAN DER LAKEN, Michiel Anton ZWAAN, Marc Alfons Constant CELIS
  • Publication number: 20140101998
    Abstract: A pot assembly includes a pot having an inner part and an outer part which supports the inner part. A hollow area is defined between the inner and outer parts, and a recessed space is defined between an inner bottom and the periphery of the inner part. At least one hole is located at a position of the space and communicates with the hollow area. A water-guide member includes multiple particles, and irregular paths are defined between the particles. The water-guide member is located at traces between the space and the at least one hole. Liquid in the hollow area slowly spreads upward into the soil in the space by way of the surface tension and the paths. The owners do not need to water the plants frequently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: CHIN-TAI TSAI
  • Publication number: 20140101999
    Abstract: A growing unit includes a tub that receives plants and a nutrient solution. The base of the tub includes a plurality of channels that drain toward a peripheral channel that extends around the periphery of the tub base. The peripheral channel drains to an aperture that forms a drain. Nutrient solution for irrigating the plants can be provided into the tub through the aperture and, after an appropriate time, can be drained from the tub through the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Guy M. Gardner, Darin Allison
  • Publication number: 20140102000
    Abstract: Gasifiers for the gasification of solid carbon-based fuels are disclosed herein. An example gasifier includes an inlet chamber for introducing fuel into the gasifier and a pyrolysis region for pyrolyzing the fuel introduced into the vessel. The pyrolysis region includes first means for admission of a pyrolysis agent. The example gasifier also includes a combustion region for incinerating pyrolysis gases originating from the pyrolysis region, where the combustion region includes second means for admission of a gasifying agent. Also, the example gasifier includes a reduction region for gasifying carbonized fuel originating from the pyrolysis region, an outlet for collecting gases originating from the reduction region, and a region for collecting and discharging ashes. In addition, the example gasifier includes active transfer means to actively transfer solid material from the pyrolysis region to the reduction region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Haube, Johan Klein, Frederic Bourgois, Alexandre Bacq
  • Publication number: 20140102001
    Abstract: A flow splitter is operable to divide flow of a fuel mixture. The flow splitter includes a first tube having an outlet end and a plurality of second tubes that are coupled at the outlet end to divide flow from the first tube. Each of the plurality of second tubes has a respective inside diameter that satisfies Equation (I) and Equation (II) disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Chandrashekhar Sonwane, Kenneth M. Sprouse
  • Publication number: 20140102002
    Abstract: Process for gasification of an alkali containing energy rich aqueous solution (120) from a pulp mill in an entrained flow gasification reactor (2), the process comprising the steps of d) Supplying said alkali containing energy rich aqueous solution (120) to said gasification reactor (2), e) Gasifying said alkali containing energy rich aqueous solution (120) in the reactor (2) by using an oxidizing medium at sub-stoichiometric conditions and at a temperature below 1400 C in an outlet of said reactor (2); and, f) Producing a phase of a liquid material and a phase of a gaseous material in said reactor (2). wherein in step (a) supplying a bio-oil (110) to said gasification reactor (2), in step (b) simultaneously gasifying said alkali containing energy rich aqueous solution (120) and said bio-oil (110) in the reactor (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: CHEMREC AB
    Inventors: Erik Furusjo, Ingvar Landalv, Ragnar Stare
  • Publication number: 20140102003
    Abstract: The control assembly comprises a torque-restoring mechanism (13) with springs (20), a motion converting transmission with a multiplying gearing (56, 57) converting a rotation of the turnstile over 120° into a rotation of the rotary shaft entering the hydraulic damper (26) over 180°. The hydraulic damper (26) comprises two pistons mounted onto a single piston rod. A cam or crank mechanism converts a rotation of the rotary shaft entering the hydraulic damper over 180° into a reciprocating motion of the two pistons over two half stroke lengths. The first piston damps the rotary movement of the turnstile when moving in one direction whilst the other piston damps this movement when the pistons move in the other direction. The movement of the turnstile is thus damped in both of its rotation directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph TALPE
  • Publication number: 20140102004
    Abstract: A door assembly including a vertically moving door to permit and prohibit access through an opening which has a top, a bottom defined by a floor, and at least two sides, the door assembly. The assembly having a door body having upper and lower portions, and being mounted proximate the opening such that the lower end portion being proximate the floor when the door is in the closed position. A protective body is configured in connection with the door so as to be moveable between a first position under at least a portion of the door body lower portion when the door is in at least a partially open position and a second storage position. The protective body having at least one debris collecting surface, and opposing ends, the protective body being configured such that debris collected on the debris collecting surface will be urged toward one of the opposed ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Rytec Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Norbert Drifka
  • Publication number: 20140102005
    Abstract: A sliding panel system can include a sealing mechanism such that, when a panel is slid to a closed configuration, one or more seal elements form a seal between the door panel and its surroundings at the top, bottom, and/or sides of the panel to reduce or prevent infiltration or communication of gases or liquids such as air or water. Manual or motor driven movement of the panel can move an actuation mechanism to extend the seals around the panel. The sealing member can include weather stripping, brush or another seal element for sealing contact with a header, floor, door, frame, or other surface. Multiple panels can be arranged to form a door panel system or a window panel system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: John B. Higman and Valorie J. Higman; Trustees of the Higman Family Trust u/d/t as amended and resta
    Inventor: Eric David Hans
  • Publication number: 20140102006
    Abstract: An internally powered sliding panel has a power source and drive train contained internally within the stiles and rails of a frame. A driven wheel is rotatably mounted on the frame and connected to the power source via the drive train. The panel may further include a lift system including a second power source, a lift mechanism, and a lift drive which are contained internally within the stiles and rails of the frame. The power sources, drive train, lift mechanism, and lift drive may be contained completely inside the stiles and rails of the frame. The movement of the panel along a fixed path, and the raising and lowering of the panel, may be regulated by a control system. The control system includes a microcontroller and sensor used to determine the position of the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Brad Mickelson
  • Publication number: 20140102007
    Abstract: In an aspect, a window regulator module kit is provided, comprising a guide rail having substantially no helical twist, a carrier plate having a selected mounting arrangement configured to bring the guide rail to a selected helically twisted position when the guide rail is mounted to the carrier plate, a lifter mountable to the guide rail, wherein the lifter is configured to hold a window glass, and a cable drive assembly connectable to the lifter so as to slide the lifter along the arcuate rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Magna Closures Inc.
    Inventors: Milos Pavlovic, Vesna Pavlovic
  • Publication number: 20140102008
    Abstract: An apparatus for creating a resealable opening is a locket that includes at least an inner ring and a hatch. The hatch includes a door and a mounting portion, the mounting portion including protrusions and the door being pivotably coupled to the mounting portion. For example, the door may be pivotably coupled to the mounting portion via a two-part hinge. The inner ring includes bosses configured to receive the protrusions, such that when the inner ring and hatch are installed on opposite sides of an item, the protrusions may extend therethrough and be secured within the bosses, thereby securing the locket to an item. A method for creating a resealable opening includes installing the inner ring to a first side of an item, installing the hatch to a second, opposite side of the item, and securing the plurality of protrusions within the plurality of bosses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Mary G. Mastrosimone-Gese
  • Publication number: 20140102009
    Abstract: A multistage lock has a stationary frame, an inner frame, an outer frame mounted between the stationary and inner frames, multiple stops mounted on the stationary and inner frames, two sliding panels mounted on the outer frame and a handle assembly connected to the sliding panels. Stopping protrusions of the stops selectively engage limiting protrusions on the sliding panels when the at least one handle is turned. Consequently, the inner and outer frames are selectively opened. The multistage lock has a simplified structure and allows people to decide whether a door panel (window) is open according to situations and weather outdoors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Jui-Wen WANG