By Charged Gas Irradiation Patents (Class 361/213)
  • Publication number: 20090116162
    Abstract: This static eliminator is used for eliminating static electricity from an object by ionizing the air to be blown to a charged object, and has a case 12 body provided with an air blow duct 15 for blowing out an ionized air, and an electric discharge module 27 being mounted detachably on the case body 12. The electric discharge module 27 has an electric discharge needle substrate 31 having a plurality of electric discharge needles 38 arranged straightly, and a surface panel 32 detachably mounted on the case body, and the electric discharge module 27 is mounted on the case body 12 by mean of a mounting screw member 36 in the portion of the surface panel 12. By dismounting the electric discharge module 27 from the case body 12, the electric discharge needles can be replaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Koganei Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Onezawa, Yoshinari Fukada, Yosuke Enomoto
  • Publication number: 20090103229
    Abstract: A bar type ionizer has a discharging electrode, a ground electrode, a high voltage unit, and a controller unit and uses the technique of eliminating static electricity by corona discharging. The ionizer also has a FND unit mounted on the bar which lets the user see the bar information including address of the bar, frequency, duty rate, alarm, run/stop state easily, plus buttons that let the user control the bar information easily, an air supply device installed around the needles in the air injecting socket which sends air, and a second air supply device installed around the needles having round sections and sending air to the end of the needles to eliminate the dust attached on the end of the needles. The ionizer has a streamlined section so that inside air flows smoothly. The second air supply device is elliptic with the minor axis smaller than the radius of the needle. The needle is positioned at the center of this elliptic groove and fixed by it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Yong-Chul Jung, Byung-Soo Lee, Min-Ho Jung, Chung-Han Shim
  • Publication number: 20090067111
    Abstract: A flexible ionizer uses soft X-ray and has a head unit generating soft X-ray whose wavelength is 1.2˜1.5 ?, a soft X-ray protect unit shielding the leak of the soft X-ray from the head unit, and a power control unit supplying a control signal and control voltage to the head unit. The head unit is positioned outside of the soft X-ray protect unit with the flexible ionizer further having a flexible tube protecting a high voltage cable that connects the head unit and power control unit from external impact or vibration and letting the user bend the head of the head unit at an arbitrary angle toward a charged body if necessary, a connecting device letting the ions generated at the window positioned inside of the body of the ionizer emit toward the charged body by connecting one end of the flexible tube and the head unit, and a connecting device connecting the other end of the flexible tube and the body of the ionizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Yong-Chul Jung, Byung-Soo Lee, Min-Ho Jung, Chung Han Shim
  • Publication number: 20090027825
    Abstract: A neutralization apparatus comprising an ion generation element employing a novel, high efficiency discharge system capable of generating high concentration ions with a low ozone concentration. In the neutralization apparatus, the ion generation element is a minute electrode ion generation element consisting of a discharge electrode and an induction electrode having minute protrusions arranged in one direction on a plane, and a thin dielectric film sandwiched between them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Takafumi Seto, Makoto Hirasawa, Masaaki Tsuji, Akira Okuyama, Susumu Saito
  • Patent number: 7483255
    Abstract: Ions for neutralizing electrostatic charge on an object are generated and delivered in a stream of gas flowing through a dielectric channel that surrounds a loop of conductive filament which forms an ionizing electrode. The loop is formed within a single plane, or within multiple planes, and is supported within the channel with a plane of the loop substantially aligned with flow of gas through the channel. A region of minimum field intensity within the bounded region of the loop electrode is oriented in alignment with substantially maximum velocity of gas flow through a cross section of the dielectric channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Ion Systems
    Inventors: Peter Gefter, Scott Gehlke, John K. O'Reilly
  • Publication number: 20090009922
    Abstract: A neutralizing device for an electric-insulating sheet comprising at least two neutralizing units provided on the moving route of an electric-insulating sheet at intervals in the moving direction of the sheet, each neutralizing unit having a first electrode unit disposed on the first surface side of the sheet and a second electrode unit disposed on the second surface side of the sheet, the first electrode unit having a first ion generating electrode, the second electrode unit having a second ion generating electrode disposed facing the first ion generating electrode, wherein, in each neutralizing unit, the first ion generating electrode and the second ion generating electrode are so related as to be given a dc inter-ion-generating-electrode potential difference, and, when a total number of the neutralizing units is n (n: integer of at least two), the inter-ion-generating-electrode potential difference in at least n/4 (fractional portion rounded up) neutralizing units out of n neutralizing units and the inter-
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Hirai, Satoko Morioka, Harumi Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20090001787
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for dissipating an electrostatic charge from a vehicle seat and from an occupant seated thereon, wherein a blower directs ionized air through a vent toward the seat and occupant to neutralize an electrostatic charge accumulated on the surface and occupant. A sensor is configured to detect when the occupant is separating from the vehicle seat, and to activate the ionizer in response thereto. The apparatus also includes a seat cooling system for directing cool air through the seat, wherein a blower directs ionized air through vent holes in the seat when the cooling system is operating. A method is also provided for dissipating an electrostatic charge from a vehicle seat and an occupant seated thereon, including generating ionized air, sensing separation of a passenger from the seat, and directing ionized air toward the seat and occupant through one or more vents to dissipate the static charge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Jennifer P. Lawall, Diane K. Mc Queen, Steven E. Morris, David J. Trzcinski
  • Publication number: 20080278879
    Abstract: A static electricity eliminator including at least one nozzle having a body defining a supersonic tuyere for pressure reduction of a compressed gas, a corona tip located close to the neck of the tuyere, and an electric supply circuit connected to the tip of the corona. The tip includes a surgical needle made of steel with chrome. The tip thereof has a diameter of less than 30 micrometers. The eliminator can be used to improve the treatment of polymers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: VALITEC
    Inventor: Joseph Taillet
  • Publication number: 20080278880
    Abstract: A remover that removes the static charges on surfaces of substrates of semiconductors and liquid crystals in the processes for manufacturing them is provided. A cylindrical filter in the remover cannot be affected by soft X-rays, and the X-rays cannot leak outside the guiding vessel. A portion 1 for generating purified air that comprises a cylindrical filter 5, a portion 2 for irradiation of soft X-rays 19, and a portion 3 for blowing out the ionized purified air, are arranged in the direction of the air flow in a guiding vessel 4. Also, a shield 23 prevents the portion 1 for generating purified air from being exposed to the irradiation. Further, the portion 3 has a construction wherein the ionized purified air 35 is blown at an equal rate of flow along the longitudinal direction of the remover and prevents the soft X-rays 19 from leaking outside the guiding vessel 4.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicants: KONDOH INDUSTRIES, LTD., CAMBRIDGE FILTER JAPAN, LTD.
    Inventors: Toshirou Kisakibaru, Makoto Okada, Yasushi Honda, Naoji Iida
  • Publication number: 20080273283
    Abstract: An ionization system for a predefined area includes a plurality of emitter modules spaced around the area, a system controller for individually addressing and monitoring the emitter modules and communication lines for electrically connecting the plurality of emitter modules with the system controller. Each emitter module has an individual address and including at least one electrical ionizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: William S. Richie, Richard D. Rodrigo, Philip R. Hall
  • Publication number: 20080273282
    Abstract: A plasma discharged static eliminator comprises a plasma discharging electrode body for generating plasma as a source of ions. The plasma discharging electrode body includes two electrodes between which alternate voltage is applied, and a dielectric covering the electrodes. The plasma discharged static eliminator further comprises an inner grid electrode disposed around the plasma discharging electrode body, and an outer grid electrode disposed outside of the inner grid electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Makoto Takayanagi
  • Publication number: 20080232021
    Abstract: A low maintenance AC gas-flow driven static neutralizer, comprising at least one emitter and at least one reference electrode; a power supply having an output electrically coupled to the emitter(s) and a reference terminal electrically coupled to the reference electrode(s) with the power supply disposed to produce an output waveform that creates ions by corona discharge and to produce an electrical field when this output waveform is applied to the emitter(s); a gas flow source disposed to produce a gas flow across a first region that includes these generated ions and the emitter(s), the gas flow including a flow velocity; and wherein, during a first time duration, the output waveform decreases an electrical force created by the electrical field, enabling the gas flow to carry away from the emitter(s) a contamination particle that may be located within a second region surrounding the emitter(s), and to minimize a likelihood of the contamination particle from accumulating on the emitter(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: MKS INSTRUMENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Peter Gefter, Lawrence Levit, Leslie Partridge, Scott Gehlke
  • Patent number: 7427864
    Abstract: An ion balance monitor for simultaneous monitoring of the positive and negative ion production rates, and therefore ion concentration, by measurement of currents resulting from the presence of airborne ions as created for example by an air (gas) ionizer. Additionally it examines the ion balance by comparing the aforementioned currents. Information acquired in this way can be used in real time monitoring of the ionizer. Ion balance and production rate of ions of both polarities can be recorded by the ion monitor, regardless of the type of the ionizer. The ion monitor can provide a feedback signal needed to keep an ionizer system in balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Trek, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce T. Williams, Jerzy Kieres, Maciej A. Noras
  • Publication number: 20080225460
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for minimizing contamination buildup on corona emitters that are employed in an ionizer. Contamination buildup control is accomplished with solely electronic means. High voltage is applied to the emitters with waveforms that serve to push contaminants away from the emitter, rather than attracting contaminants toward the emitters. The results are fewer cleaning cycles, more time between cleaning cycles, and more stable ionizer operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Peter Gefter, Scott Gehlke, Lawrence Levit
  • Patent number: 7397647
    Abstract: The ionizer of the present invention comprises a chamber which has an ionization part that ionizes a portion of an ion carrier gas that is supplied to the interior of this chamber, and a blowing part which feeds the ion carrier gas toward a charged body. The ionization part is constructed from an ionization source which is contained in the chamber, and a control device which is connected with this ionization source via a high-voltage cable. Either the generating part of a soft X-ray generating device, the generating part of a low-energy electron beam generating device or the generating part of an ultraviolet radiation generating device is used as the ionization source. The control device, the connecting part between the control device and the high-voltage cable and the connecting part between the ionization source and the high-voltage cable are formed with an explosion-proof structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignees: Techno Ryowa Ltd., Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Harada Corporation
    Inventors: Akira Mizuno, Akio Sugita, Masanori Suzuki, Tomokatsu Sato, Toshihiko Hino, Haruyuki Togari
  • Patent number: 7391599
    Abstract: An ionization system for a predefined area includes a plurality of emitter modules spaced around the area, a system controller for individually addressing and monitoring the emitter modules and communication lines for electrically connecting the plurality of emitter modules with the system controller. Each emitter module has an individual address and including at least one electrical ionizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William S. Richie, Jr., Richard D. Rodrigo, Philip R. Hall
  • Patent number: 7339778
    Abstract: A corona discharge static neutralizing device includes a wire electrode retained in tension between spaced ends of a resilient support member that is positioned within a flowing air stream. Another electrode aligned with and spaced from the wire electrode promotes a flowing ion stream, when connected to receive an ionizing difference of potential, that flows in skew orientation relative to the flowing air stream. Multiple wire electrodes are supported in tension on a resilient support member along with another electrode disposed on the support member intermediate the wire electrodes and in substantially the same plane therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Ion Systems
    Inventors: Peter Gefter, Scott Gehlke, Lawrence B. Levit, Dennis A. Leri
  • Publication number: 20080030918
    Abstract: A spot-type DC ionizer is placed above and apart from a measurement plate of a charge plate monitoring device. A grid using a metal net is attached to a nozzle opening. The pressure of compressed air is set at a predetermined value, and use distance between the measurement plate and the nozzle opening is set at a predetermined distance L. When ion balance and an ion balance variation are within threshold values, static elimination time is measured. If the static elimination time is longer than a threshold time, the air pressure is increased until the static elimination time is equal to or shorter than a threshold time. In this manner, the optimal air pressure for a particular use distance is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Tomohide Nakajima
  • Patent number: 7324322
    Abstract: A static eliminator generates ions by applying positive and negative high voltages to a discharge electrode of a discharge head. The static eliminator includes a high voltage power supply unit including a high voltage power supply circuit and a high voltage cable for supplying a high voltage generated in the high voltage power supply unit to the discharge head. The discharge head includes a tubular insulator disposed surrounding the discharge electrode, and a tubular ground electrode placed on an outer periphery side of the insulator. Further, the discharge head includes an electrode holding part for supporting the discharge electrode with the discharge electrode piercing in a deep part of the tubular insulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Keyence Corporation
    Inventors: Tsukasa Fujita, Tomonori Shimada
  • Patent number: 7242568
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a display module to display a picture, a casing placed around the display module, an anion generating unit including a plurality of electrodes provided inside the casing to generate anions and an electrode housing to accommodate the plurality of electrodes and formed with an opening opened in a predetermined direction to radiate the anions, and an anion cover provided at the casing in contact with the opening of the electrode housing and formed with an anion outlet to communicate with the opening of the electrode housing. Thus, the display apparatus can prevent electromagnetic waves from coming out through the anion outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Se-ki Jang, Man-yeob Lee, Ju-hwan Kim, Tai-hung Kim, Jun-su Jung
  • Patent number: 7204038
    Abstract: A hairdryer air intake is cleansed of dust particles with an electrostatic precipitator. The precipitator consists of a charging device (1) and a grounded filter media (2) that can be removed and cleaned. A warning lamp (13) indicates the need to clean the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Inventor: Daniel Santhouse
  • Patent number: 7187533
    Abstract: A passive device to neutralize electrostatic charging of fuel when it exists a filter monitor cartridge is described. Filter cartridges containing light filter media generate electrostatic charges, which flow with the fuel as it exists the filter. The device neutralizes the charges as the charges fuel exits the filter/monitor using corona discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Velcon Filters, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory S. Sprenger, Michael J. Gish
  • Patent number: 7161788
    Abstract: An ionization system for a predefined area includes a plurality of emitter modules spaced around the area, a system controller for individually addressing and monitoring the emitter modules and communication lines for electrically connecting the plurality of emitter modules with the system controller. Each emitter module has an individual address and including at least one electrical ionizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William S. Richie, Jr., Richard D. Rodrigo, Philip R. Hall
  • Patent number: 7126807
    Abstract: The ionizer of the present invention comprises a chamber which has an ionization part that ionizes a portion of an ion carrier gas that is supplied to the interior of this chamber, and a blowing part which feeds the ion carrier gas toward a charged body. The ionization part is constructed from an ionization source which is contained in the chamber, and a control device which is connected with this ionization source via a high-voltage cable. Either the generating part of a soft X-ray generating device, the generating part of a low-energy electron beam generating device or the generating part of an ultraviolet radiation generating device is used as the ionization source. The control device, the connecting part between the control device and the high-voltage cable and the connecting part between the ionization source and the high-voltage cable are formed with an explosion-proof structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignees: Techno Ryowa Ltd., Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Harada Corporation
    Inventors: Akira Mizuno, Akio Sugita, Masanori Suzuki, Tomokatsu Sato, Toshihiko Hino, Haruyuki Togari
  • Patent number: 7042694
    Abstract: An improvement for a self-balancing shielded bipolar ionizer (U.S. Pat. No. 6,002,573), which uses pressurized air or nitrogen to increase performance, extend the operating distance range, and reduce cleaning frequency. An air assist assembly is inserted into the ion generation cavity, which directs pressurized air or nitrogen past the electrodes. In applications where little natural airflow exists, air assist technology is particularly useful. Ions are blown toward the target. This directs the ions to where they are needed, and delivers ions faster. Useful operating distances are increased. Faster delivery minimizes ion losses due to recombination. Furthermore, pure pressurized air protects the electrodes from impurities in the environmental air. Less chemical growth affects electrode performance. Hence, the ionizer exhibits more stable performance, plus the need for electrode cleaning is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Ion Systems
    Inventors: Gregory Vernitsky, Aleksey Klochkov
  • Patent number: 6941606
    Abstract: A sheet and web cleaner has a pair of substantially identical units in facing relation, providing a path for transporting a sheet or web therebetween. Each unit includes a suction hood with an inlet slot. A pair of channels adjacent and parallel thereto have a pressurized air ionizing bar which discharges ionized air at high velocity onto a moving sheet or web. A faceplate covers the channels and the inlet slot and has a tapered central elongate inlet opening which overlies the inlet slot. Elongate air discharge openings overly each of the channels adjacent the inlet opening. A plurality of spaced ridges are disposed on a side of the faceplate proximate the sheet or web oriented relative to a direction of travel of the sheet or web from a travel direction towards respective edges of the sheet or web. Spaces between the ridges communicate with the inlet and discharge openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: ElectroStatics, Incorporated
    Inventors: Peter Mariani, Robert Myers
  • Patent number: 6934142
    Abstract: A device and a method for at least partial removal of electric charges from dielectric surfaces, in particular surfaces of plastic films, paper webs or plastic fibers are described. First, a plasma is generated through microstructure discharges with a plasma device in at least one plasma region. In addition, the dielectric surface is introduced into the plasma region with a feed mechanism and is temporarily exposed to electrically charged particles generated by the plasma there.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Grosse, Sascha Henke
  • Patent number: 6909587
    Abstract: An ion generator generates ions above a semiconductor wafer and the ions are directed towards a surface of a semiconductor wafer. The ions combine with static charges on the semiconductor wafer to thereby discharge the surface of the semiconductor wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akihiro Sonoda
  • Patent number: 6873515
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of removing electrostatic charges from a clean room with a laminar flow apparatus. The laminar flow apparatus is disposed on a ceiling of the clean room. An ion generator at a first height and a transportation system at a second height are disposed in the laminar flow. An output tip of an emitter of the ion generator faces toward the ceiling to enlarge a divergent angle between positive and negative ions, effectively removing the electrostatic charges from the clean room and from a carrier in the transportation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventor: Kuang-Yeh Chang
  • Patent number: 6852990
    Abstract: A method for electrostatic discharge depolarization is implemented. The buildup of charge on tool structures in fabrication tools for semiconductor processing may be expected to be of concern whenever high voltage is employed near the structure in a tool. The process herein includes selectively exposing the structure to a plasma for a selected time interval. The duration of the exposure time interval is sufficient to reduce the polarization of the structure whereby the forces due to the polarization do not interfere with the transport or movement of a wafer being processed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Zhiyong Zhao, David Hendrix
  • Patent number: 6807044
    Abstract: An ionizer bar includes upper and lower housings having aerodynamically-shaped exterior surfaces to support laminar air flow over the structure. The upper housing forms an upper interior chamber for electrical circuitry isolated from a lower chamber within the lower housing that confines fluid under pressure therein. Outlets spaced along the length of the structure include ionizing electrodes that are disposed within fluid conduits and that are connected to a source of ionizing voltage mounted in the upper chamber. Fluid passages at the outlets release fluid under pressure within the lower chamber around associated ionizing electrodes mounted at the outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Ion Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Vernitsky, Scott Gehlke, Peter Gefter, Dennis A. Leri
  • Patent number: 6785114
    Abstract: An improved air ionizer apparatus includes an air inlet, a high voltage source, an electrode electrically connected to the high voltage source for generating ions and an air outlet. An air mover is provided for causing air to flow into the air ionizer through the air inlet and out of the air ionizer through the air outlet. A foraminous filter comprising an electrically conductive material is electrically coupled to at least one of a voltage source and ground. The filter is positioned over at least one of the air inlet, the air outlet and the electrode, such that air flowing into the air inlet, air flowing out of the air outlet or air flowing past the electrode flows through the filter. In a preferred embodiment, the filter comprises a metal grid or screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: John Gorczyca, Michael Jacobs, Nicholas Kowalski, Richard D. Rodrigo
  • Patent number: 6781811
    Abstract: An ionizer control system uses a short-range wireless communication means implemented with, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) between an ionizer, an ion monitor, and a server, and that automatically evaluates the performance of the ionizer and the ion monitor, monitors the operational state thereof, and adjusts the ion balance. The ionizer control system includes an ionizer, an ion monitor, and a server, each having communication means that complies with a short-distance wireless communication standard, such as Bluetooth. For example, ionizer control data, including the magnitude and time of a positive or negative voltage applied to emitters, and operational state data are transmitted and received between the server and the ionizer. For example, ion monitor control data, such as a charge start voltage applied to a charge plate and a stop voltage, and operational state data are transmitted and received between the server and the ion monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Hugle Electronics Incorporated
    Inventor: Arnel Posadas
  • Publication number: 20040141278
    Abstract: A device and a method for at least partial removal of electric charges from dielectric surfaces (30), in particular surfaces of plastic films, paper webs or plastic fibers are described. First, a plasma is generated through microstructure discharges with a plasma device (1) in at least one plasma region (12, 40). In addition, the dielectric surface (30) is introduced into the plasma region (12, 40) with a feed mechanism (2) and is temporarily exposed to electrically charged particles generated by the plasma there.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Stefan Grosse, Sascha Henke
  • Patent number: 6677582
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the minor constituents of a sample with high efficiency in positive and negative ion monitoring modes. The directions in which the sample gas is forced to flow in the ionized region within the ion source are properly switched in the positive and negative ion monitoring modes, respectively, thereby enabling both positive ions and negative ions to be detected with high sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masuyoshi Yamada, Yasuaki Takada, Masao Suga
  • Patent number: 6671161
    Abstract: A method and a device for quick neutralization of a created electrostatic field formed by a multitude of basically charged particles includes a medication powder (180) deposited onto a defined target area (160) of a substrate member (140) in the course of a dose forming process. A charge generator emits charges, which are directed towards the target area of the substrate member such that the electric field created by the accumulated charges from the deposited particles is neutralized by the added charges. Various elements may be used to generate neutralizing charges, but an ion source (195) is most efficient in achieving neutralization of the dose charge and the substrate. The source may be applied so that the dose (180) and the target area (160) are exposed to the emitted charges during the entire or part of the dose forming process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Microdrug AG
    Inventor: Thomas Nilsson
  • Patent number: 6667874
    Abstract: A structure for eliminating electromagnetic interference caused by CPU includes a fixing seat, onto which two conductive members having a plurality of elastic contacts are mounted. Each of the conductive members is formed at two ends with two contact wings that are in contact with contacts of a demagnetizing circuit provided on a circuit board onto which the fixing seat is assembled with fastening members. When a central processing unit mounted on the circuit board operates and generates electromagnetic waves, the same are received by a radiator mounted on the fixing seat in contact with the conductive members, and then guided by the conductive members from the radiator to the demagnetizing circuit and be eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Asia Vital Components Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuei-feng Chiang
  • Patent number: 6668154
    Abstract: A device (2, 3) for charging and/or discharging of printing media (7) in printing presses and copiers, with at least one corona wire (5, 5′), as well as a guiding device (1) for printing media (7) with bridging members (11, 12, 13), which bridge the interior of the discharging device and/or charging device (2, 3) in the transport direction (10), whereby the guiding device (1) has, below the bridging members (11, 12, 13) on the side turned toward at least one corona wire (5, 5′), slim guide fingers (18, 18′), which extend into the border areas (14, 14′) of the device (1) parallel to at least one corona wire (5, 5′) and from the side outside the surfaces covered by the printing media suppress the thickest ion flow, which is directed to the printing media (7) for discharging of the printing media (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Nexpress Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Andreas Dickhoff
  • Publication number: 20030218855
    Abstract: An ionization system for emitting positive and negative ions includes a first ionizer unit having at least one positive ion emitter, at least one negative ion emitter, a positive power supply connected to the at least one positive ion emitter, a negative power supply connected to the at least one negative ion emitter, a feedback control circuit for controlling power supplied by the positive and negative power supplies based on a feedback signal and an air outlet for emitting positive and negative ions from the positive and negative ion emitters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: Semtronics
    Inventor: Tony K. Goldenberg
  • Patent number: 6643113
    Abstract: A method of balancing positive and negative ion output in an electrical ionizer having positive and negative ion emitters and positive and negative high voltage power supplies associated with the respective positive and negative ion emitters includes automatically adjusting at least one of the positive and negative high voltage power supplies by ramping up or ramping down the at least one of the positive and negative power supplies at a predetermined rate. Another method of balancing positive and negative ion output in an electrical ionizer having positive and negative ion emitters and positive and negative high voltage power supplies associated with the respective positive and negative ion emitters includes automatically adjusting at least one of the positive and negative high voltage power supplies by ramping up the at least one of the positive and negative power supplies at a predetermined rate upon initiation of the operation of the electrical ionizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William S. Richie, Jr., Richard D. Rodrigo, Philip R. Hall
  • Patent number: 6636411
    Abstract: A small quantity of electron attaching gas is introduced into the corona region of an electrical ionizer to stabilize the corona in the otherwise electron non-attaching nitrogen gas. The corona region is closely localized at emitter points so the quantity of electron attaching gas is very small. Clean-dry-air is preferably used as the purge gas but other gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide may be used. The small quantity of electron attaching gas may be introduced either through a hollow needle emitter or an external purge gas (sleeve about the needle, or by using a gas purge nozzle).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Toolworks, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles G. Noll
  • Patent number: 6624413
    Abstract: A corona treating apparatus has an electrically conductive electrode housing with a downwardly opening channel, within which are adjustably positioned a number of conductive electrode segments. Each segment has a stem which extends into the channel, and a foot which extends below the channel and which overlies an electrically conductive electrode roller, over which the material to be treated travels. Top springs extend into bores in the top of the electrode segments, and ball detents extend through the housing to urge against slots on one side of the segments. Each electrode segment stem has a first lip which engages with an upper ledge when the segment is in a retracted position, and a second lip which engages with a lower ledge on the opposite wall when the segment is in an active position. Pushing upwardly on one sideward flange of an electrode foot readily changes the position of each segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: QC Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Klein
  • Publication number: 20030165040
    Abstract: An ionizer control system uses a short-range wireless communication means implemented with, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) between an ionizer, an ion monitor, and a server, and that automatically evaluates the performance of the ionizer and the ion monitor, monitors the operational state thereof, and adjusts the ion balance. The ionizer control system includes an ionizer, an ion monitor, and a server, each having communication means that complies with a short-distance wireless communication standard, such as Bluetooth. For example, ionizer control data, including the magnitude and time of a positive or negative voltage applied to emitters, and operational state data are transmitted and received between the server and the ionizer. For example, ion monitor control data, such as a charge start voltage applied to a charge plate and a stop voltage, and operational state data are transmitted and received between the server and the ion monitor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Arnel Posadas
  • Publication number: 20030133248
    Abstract: A structure for eliminating electromagnetic interference caused by CPU includes a fixing seat, onto which two conductive members having a plurality of elastic contacts are mounted. Each of the conductive members is formed at two ends with two contact wings that are in contact with contacts of a demagnetizing circuit provided on a circuit board onto which the fixing seat is assembled with fastening members. When a central processing unit mounted on the circuit board operates and generates electromagnetic waves, the same are received by a radiator mounted on the fixing seat in contact with the conductive members, and then guided by the conductive members from the radiator to the demagnetizing circuit and be eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Applicant: ASIA VITAL COMPONENTS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kuei-Feng Chiang
  • Patent number: 6574086
    Abstract: An ionizer creates a corona current distribution having a balanced flow of positive and negative ions in a variable ion mobility gaseous environment. The balanced flow of positive and negative ions are directed toward a workspace or target located in the gaseous environment and downstream from the ionizer. The ionizer includes a corona electrode, a counterelectrode, a corona-free dc bias electrode, and a control circuit. The corona electrode has a negative polarity. The counterelectrode has an ion collecting surface. The corona-free dc bias electrode has a positive polarity. The control circuit controls the output of the corona-free electrode so as to cause a balanced flow of positive and negative ions to be emitted from the ionizer and directed towards the workspace or target. In this manner, a static-free environment is created at the workspace or target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Charles G. Noll
  • Patent number: 6563110
    Abstract: A first stream of pressurized gas is directed at high toward a target area through an ionization chamber. As the high-speed, pressurized gas flows through the ionization chamber, a low-pressure region is used to draw a second stream of gas into the ionization chamber. The second stream of gas is drawn into the ionization chamber from the target area. Re-circulation of gas from the target area supplements the pressurized gas, thereby increasing the efficiency of ionization while reducing the volume of pressurized gas that must be consumed. This helps to prevent recombination while increasing the rate of flow of ionized gas to the target area. A cost-effective, safe, low-level radiation source is used to direct soft X-rays through a filtering window at the gas as it passes through the ionization chamber. Use of the filtering window physically separates the low-level radiation source from the ionization chamber and only allows soft X-rays to pass into the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Ion Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis A. Leri
  • Publication number: 20030067732
    Abstract: A method of balancing positive and negative ion output in an electrical ionizer having positive and negative ion emitters and positive and negative high voltage power supplies associated with the respective positive and negative ion emitters includes automatically adjusting at least one of the positive and negative high voltage power supplies by ramping up or ramping down the at least one of the positive and negative power supplies at a predetermined rate. Another method of balancing positive and negative ion output in an electrical ionizer having positive and negative ion emitters and positive and negative high voltage power supplies associated with the respective positive and negative ion emitters includes automatically adjusting at least one of the positive and negative high voltage power supplies by ramping up the at least one of the positive and negative power supplies at a predetermined rate upon initiation of the operation of the electrical ionizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William S. Richie, Richard D. Rodrigo, Philip R. Hall
  • Patent number: 6538421
    Abstract: An invention including separated conductors is disclosed. The invention can assume many different embodiments. The invention includes a chassis or body adapted to receive a first conductor and second conductor, the first conductor being separated from the chassis and the second conductor a distance sufficient to accommodate a portable, handheld current-sensing device. The first conductor has an insulating jacket and is generally less flexible than the flexibility of the first conductor without the insulating jacket. In addition, the invention preferably does not influence the current flow through the apparatus and the invention continues to provide electricity even if the current detector malfunctions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: Warren W. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 6515238
    Abstract: An analytical balance that includes a balance scale, a wind guard encircling the balance scale, and an apparatus for generating an ionized stream of air for dissipating electrostatic charges of goods to be weighed. The apparatus for generating an ionized stream of air includes a blower that draws in air from the weighing space into at least one boundary surface of the weighing space. The blower also recycles the air back into the weighing space via at least one exhaust opening at another point. In this manner, highly effective dissipation of electrostatic charges is possible, and the stream of air can be conducted so that it exerts scarcely any vertical forces on the goods to be weighed. The analytical balance is very user-friendly in operation. Additionally, the apparatus for generating an ionized stream of air is preferably structured to be an easily installed optional component of the analytical balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Sartorius Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joerg-Peter Martens, Heinrich Feldotte, Steffen Hirche, Eduard Bierich, Guenter Boetcher
  • Patent number: 6507473
    Abstract: A room ionization system includes a plurality of emitter modules, each including an electrical ionizer. The emitter modules are spaced around the room and are connected in a daisy-chain manner to a system controller. Each emitter module has an individual address for allowing the system controller or a remote control transmitter to individually address and control each emitter module. Electrical lines containing both power and communication lines connect the plurality of emitter modules with the system controller. Each emitter module stores a balance reference value and an ion output current reference value for use by automatic balance control and automatic ion output current control circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William S. Richie, Jr., Richard D. Rodrigo, Philip R. Hall