Abstract: A multi-type air conditioner is provided including an outdoor unit and a plurality of indoor units connected to the outdoor unit by a liquid pipe and a gas pipe. The plurality of indoor units includes a first indoor unit including first and second heat exchangers and first and second heat exchanger connecting pipes, and a second indoor unit. An indoor heat exchanger connecting pipe connects the first and second indoor units, and a liquid pipe connecting tube connects the first indoor unit and the liquid pipe. Opening amounts of a first indoor expansion valve, and first and second bypass expansion valves provided in the first indoor unit are opened selectively to operate the first heat exchanger as a condenser and the second heat exchanger as an evaporator to continuously drive a dehumidification mode while maintaining a room temperature within a predefined range.

Abstract: An apparatus including a movable cryopump that may be disposed in a first operational position and a second regeneration position is disclosed. In the first operational position, the front surface of the cryopump may be disposed in the same plane as the wall of the processing chamber, effectively serving as a part of a chamber wall. In certain embodiments, the front surface of the cryopump may extend into the processing chamber. In the second regeneration position, the cryopump is retracted into a cavity, which is isolated from the processing chamber by a movable gate. The first operational position serves to enhance the pumping speed of the cryopump, while the second regeneration position ensures that previously trapped molecules are not released back into the processing chamber.

Abstract: A sensor-plug for insertion into a drier bottle of an automotive condenser. The sensor-plug is a unitary piece and positioned within the drier bottle to eliminate the use of a separate sensor on the opposite side of the condenser.

Abstract: A sensor unit for measuring a measurement variable in a medium, in particular in an aggressive liquid or gaseous medium, comprises a sensor that is arranged in a sensor capsule and has a sensor region that is arranged on a base body. In order to detect the measurement variable in the sensor region, a measurement opening is provided in the sensor capsule. On a side facing the measurement opening, the sensor region has a measurement surface that is provided with measurement electronics. An electrical supply line is provided on the sensor for the purpose of transmitting a sensor signal that is generated by the measurement electronics. A plated-through hole is provided in the base body. The plated-through hole is used to connect the measurement electronics to the electrical supply line via signals through the base body, on a base side of the sensor that faces away from the measurement opening.

Abstract: A shut-off valve mounting structure is for holding shut-off valves in place in an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, and includes bases, and a fixing portion. The shut-off valves are connected to an indoor unit of the air conditioner via refrigerant communication pipes. The bases extend upwards from a bottom frame of the outdoor unit (2). The fixing portion is continuous with the bases, and holds the shut-off valves in place such that a space exists below the shut-off valves.

Abstract: An objective is to realize an air conditioner in which the amount of consumed electric power can be integrated without using an exclusive electric-power-amount counter, and a control line for measuring the amount of the electric power can be shortened. Commercial electric power is supplied to an outdoor unit 1 and an indoor unit of the air conditioner through a Watt-hour meter 3, for measuring the amount of electric power supplied to the outdoor unit 1 and the indoor unit, having a transmitter for transmitting pulse signals, and through an electric power line 4. The Watt-hour meter 3 and the outdoor unit 1 are communicatively connected to each other through a control line 5. The outdoor unit 1 and the indoor unit are communicatively connected to a centralized controller through a transmission line 7.

Abstract: An Electric device which improves Efficiency during warm weather in ammonia type refrigerators found in recreational vehicles. The system operates automatically to turn on a blower to dissipate heat from the refrigerator's condenser, and turns off automatically when the refrigerator is not being used, or when the refrigerator's thermostat cycles off.

Abstract: A cold head (20; 30) for a cryo refrigerator comprises at least one refrigerator tube (5), at least one pulse tube (6, 9), and one feed line (4) for feeding a working gas from a turning valve (3) of the cryo refrigerator to a warm end of the regenerator tube (5), wherein a cold end of the pulse tube (6, 9) is connected to a cold end of the regenerator tube (5) via a connecting line (7, 8), and wherein a buffer line (10, 11) extending to a buffer volume (14, 15) of the cryo refrigerator is provided at a warm end of the pulse tube (6, 9), is characterized in that a first reversing valve (21) is provided in the feed line (4), and a second reversing valve (23; 31, 32) is provided in the buffer line (10, 11), such that, in a rinsing state of the reversing valves (21, 23; 31, 32), the turning valve (3) and the buffer volume (14, 15) are separated from the regenerator tube (5) and from the pulse tube (6, 9), and the regenerator tube (5) and the pulse tube (6, 9) can be rinsed via the reversing valves (21, 23; 31, 32

Abstract: A method and a kit is described for cooling beverages. Each employs a naturally occurring, non-porous igneous rock material, such as granite, that may be configured in the form of a polyhedron, such as a cube. The method involves placing one or more masses of the material in a reduced temperature environment for a selected time that may be sufficient to allow the mass to reach equilibrium temperature with the reduced temperature environment. One or more masses are then placed in a vessel along with the beverage to be cooled. The kit houses the masses in a lidded container and one or more vessels are included. A correlation between the size of the masses and the vessels is disclosed.

Abstract: An Internet refrigerator with a Web pad and a method for operating the same. The Web pad is detachably mounted on the Internet refrigerator, and transmits and receives data to/from the Internet refrigerator on the basis of a remote display protocol (RDP). The Web pad is a client Web pad detachably mounted on an outer surface of the Internet refrigerator. The client Web pad is adapted to receive a display signal transmitted from the Internet refrigerator and output the received display signal externally. A server control unit is provided to transmit the display signal to the client Web pad on the basis of the remote display protocol such that data processed in the Internet refrigerator is displayed through the client Web pad. Application programs and multimedia data are driven on the basis of the server control unit, resulting in a reduction in work-load on the client Web pad.

Abstract: A soil remediation system, such as an in situ thermal desorption system, may be used to treat contaminated soil in a treatment area with an arcuate obstruction in the treatment area. A pattern of wells may be positioned to avoid placing a well in a wall of the obstruction. The well pattern may be oriented based upon the center of the obstruction. A well of the well pattern may be placed at the center of the obstruction. Alternatively, the center of the obstruction may be positioned at a centroid of a unit of the well pattern, or at the midpoint of a side of a unit of the well pattern. The well pattern may be a regular pattern that is positioned so that the arcuate obstruction is placed within a large gap between adjacent orbitals (or rings) of the regular well pattern.

Abstract: A refrigerator adapted for playing and recording voice messages is disclosed. The refrigerator includes a cabinet for enclosing a refrigerating compartment, the cabinet having a door for providing access to the refrigerating compartment, a message center operatively connected to the cabinet. The message center includes a speaker, a microphone, and a display.

Abstract: A filter cartridge F in a condenser K for an automobile air-conditioning system comprises a permeable housing 1 containing a desiccant charge, said housing being inserted into a header pipe 8 of said condenser which header pipe is closed by a plug S being part of said filter cartridge F. In a condenser K being equipped with a filter cartridge F in header tube 8 which is closed by a plug S said plug is made from plastic material or light metal and is part of said filter cartridge F to fulfil a dual function, namely to seal the header tube and to position the cartridge.

Abstract: A system and a method for transferring cryogenic fluids; e.g. transferring liquefied natural gas (LNG) between an offshore receiving/loading station and an onshore facility. The flowline system which can be submerged in water is comprised of a main transfer conduit which is positioned within an outer jacket and a return conduit which is positioned within the main transfer conduit. The annulus between the jacket and the main conduit is insulated. Both the main conduit and the return conduit include means which allow the respective conduits to expand/contract with temperature changes.

Abstract: A gas hydrate storage reservoir includes at least one insulated wall defining an opening and a sunlight permeable top covering the opening. A gas-tight, gas hydrate storage cavity is defined within the top and the wall(s). A cover element is provided to cover at least a portion of the top to prevent sunlight from passing through that portion of the top. The gas storage reservoir also includes devices for removing gas and water from the storage cavity. In use, when gas is desired by the user, the cover element is removed from at least a portion of the sunlight permeable top so that sunlight will pass through the top and into the storage reservoir. Heat energy from the sun warms the exposed gas hydrates, thereby forcing the hydrates to dissociate into gas and water. The gas is removed from the tank and transported to an appropriate location for use. When sunlight is unavailable or when additional gas is needed than that produced by dissociation via the sun, an external, auxiliary heater (e.g.

Abstract: A CO.sub.2 deep sea throw-away system includes a floating offshore base (2), receiving liquefied CO.sub.2 carried by a liquefied CO.sub.2 carrier (1). The base has a throwing pipe (3) and a throwing pipe outlet (4) to deliver the liquified CO.sub.2 in an enclosing bag (11) in the sea at a depth where a liquid phase state of the liquified CO is maintained. An unmanned submersible working boat (10) is provided and has a plurality of capsules (26) mounted thereon. Each capsule contains an enclosing bag (11) to enclose the liquified CO.sub.2. The boat transports the capsules into the sea at a depth where a liquid phase state of the liquified CO.sub.2 is maintained and operates to enclose the liquified CO.sub.2 in the enclosing bags (11). The liquified CO.sub.2 in the enclosing bag (11) and the capsule (26) are then released so as to fall onto the sea bottom. Also, a control base (9) is provided on the offshore sea to control the unmanned submersible working boat (10).

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for (a) increasing expansion tank "acceptance" (defined herein as working fluid storage capacity); and (b) adjusting the rate of pressure variations within a prespecified range in precharged fluid storage systems (for example, holding pressure down below a prespecified threshold value for a given volume of acceptance, stored water temperature level, etc.). A "volatile" fluid (defined herein as a fluid having a boiling point within the predetermined pressure and temperature operating ranges for a given system), is used at least in part as the expansion fluid in an expansion tank included in a fluid storage system.

Abstract: A method is provided for producing CO.sub.2 hydrates. In the subject method, CO.sub.2 is first dissolved in water to produce a CO.sub.2 hydrate precursor. The CO.sub.2 hydrate precursor is then mixed with CO.sub.2 gas, resulting in hydrate production. Between the first and second steps, the CO.sub.2 hydrate precursor may optionally be cooled to at least 0.degree. C. and/or CO.sub.2 hydrate nuclei may be introduced into the CO.sub.2 hydrate precursor. The method is carried out in a continuous hydrate production reactor. The subject method finds use in sequestering CO.sub.2 gas emissions in the form of hydrates, where the hydrates are deposited in high pressure, low temperature environments, such as in the ocean at depths greater than 1000 m or in subterranean fresh water aquifers.

Abstract: A liquefied carbonated gas abyssal casting apparatus prevents freezing at an outlet of a casting tube and flotation of cast carbonated gas. The liquefied carbonated gas is fed from a reservoir to a single casting tube and discharged to the abyss through an inner tube of a double casting tube from a lower end of the single casting tube. A heat medium fluid is recirculated between the inner tube and an outer tube of the double casting tube. The liquefied carbonated gas which flows through the inner tube is heated to an abyssal temperature of from -1.degree. to 5.degree. C.

Abstract: A method of making a nonporous, substantially liquid-impermeable cryogenic barrier within the Earth, and a nonporuous, substantially liquid-impermeable cryogenic barrier. A triple array of casings extends along respective sets of central axes from arrays of spaced apart locations on the surface of the Earth. A refrigerant is flowed through the two outer arrays of casings to form overlapping, continuous cold columnar regions extending along and about the respective central axes of the casings. The intermediate region between the two outer arrays of casings contains the central array of casings. A heat transtar agent is flowed through a selected subset of casings within the central array of casings to establish a relatively warm region between the continuous cold regions.

Abstract: A process for the disposal of carbon dioxide in deep sea, which comprises compressing and dehumidifying gaseous carbon dioxide to be disposed of, passing the so compressed carbon dioxide gas through a cold sea water region where a temperature condition enough to liquefy the compressed carbon dioxide gas prevails via a pipe line to effect cooling of the gas by heat exchange with the cold sea water to thereby liquefy the compressed carbon dioxide gas, conducting the liquefied carbon dioxide through an extension of the pipe line to such a depth of sea water, that the specific weight of the liquefied carbon dioxide at such depth is greater than that of the ambient sea water of such depth, and then discharging out the liquefied carbon dioxide into such deep sea.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method for the fixation of carbon dioxide which is characterized by the steps of bringing carbon dioxide and seawater or fresh water into contact with each other at a temperature and a pressure required for the formation of carbon dioxide hydrate, and sinking it in the seawater or fresh water satisfying certain conditions for the stability of carbon dioxide hydrate; a method for the fixation of carbon dioxide which uses a pressurized pipeline for producing and cooling the hydrate and releases the product hydrate at a position in the sea where the hydrate can remain stable; an apparatus for fixing and dumping carbon dioxide which is disposed in seawater or fresh water satisfying certain pressure and temperature conditions for the formation of carbon dioxide hydrate and which comprises a container for producing carbon dioxide hydrate, and a discharge means for discharging the hydrate produced out of the container; and an apparatus for the treatment of carbon dioxide which comprises a reaction de

Abstract: An underground storage system for storing natural gas at a vehicular fueling center which dispenses natural gas to natural gas powered vehicles. Compressed gas is stored in tubes positioned vertically in an elongate casing. The ground hole may be drilled using a conventional water well drilling rig and conventional water well casing and well head may be used to house the storage tubes. The tubes contain the natural gas under about 8,000 psi, which provides a much more rapid dispensing rate. The underground place of the storage tubes is safer than conventional above ground storage systems, as the pressurized containers are insulated by the surrounding earth. Moreover, with the storage tubes underground, vandalism is discouraged and the overall appearance of the fueling center is improved. Because the storage tubes contain large volumes of gas at high pressures, a low power compressor can be used. The low power compressor is inexpensive to operate and maintain and is relatively quiet.

Abstract: Carbon dioxide gas collected from combustion exhaust gas or the like is transported in a liquefied gas state on the sea by means of ships up to a marine float installation provided with a throw-in pipe reaching to the deep sea, and then the liquefied carbon dioxide is thrown into the deep sea through the throw-in pipe.

Abstract: An air conditioning unit for use in the cooling of persons includes a fan secured below the person's neck. A moistened foam necklace may be wrapped around the neck or a moistened foam pad otherwise positioned between the fan and the neck of the user. The fan of the air conditioning unit includes a frame, an electric motor mounted on the frame, a fan blade operably connected with the motor and rotatable by the motor for moving air, a battery or other power source operably connected with the motor for actuation thereof, and a switch operably connected between the battery or power source and the motor for controlling the actuation of the motor. Furthermore, the air conditioning unit includes a flexible element attached to the frame, the flexible element being constructed and arranged to be worn around the user's neck so that air generated by the moving fan blade moves against the neck area after being evaporatively cooled by the foam necklace or pad.

Abstract: A freshener device for air for use in a refrigerator or freezer compartment for replacing an unwanted odor with a food or fruit-like scent. A process therefor is also provided. The device includes a perforated front plate and a perforated rear plate and a peripheral plate enclosing a chamber containing a selected particle mixture of about a 5 percent food or fruit extract, about 47 percent carbon filter type particles and about 48 percent sodium carbonate particles. The rear plate has a support and attachment means for mounting the device on an inner surface of a refrigerator or freezer wall and spaced therefrom.

Abstract: A disaster prevention system for underground spaces has a compressed air supply system and an independent power generator installed in an underground space. In the event of a disaster, the compressed air supply system discharges compressed air into an underground space in order to maintain the air pressure therein at a higher level than that of the external atmosphere. The independent power generator generates electrical energy which provides the necessary lighting for the underground space.

Abstract: The combination of a refrigerator cabinet, a hot refrigerant loop conduit passing through an opening in a peripheral wall of the cabinet and a grommet shielding the conduit from the edge of metal around the opening. The grommet, formed by a pair of molded body elements joined by an integral hinge, includes a pair of passages receiving portions of the conduit. Resilient rings extend into the passages and engage the conduit to preclude escape of foam insulation through the passages. An outwardly diverging mandrel extends from the refrigerated compartment end of each passage. A sealing lip projects outwardly from the grommet body and inclines toward the housing wall. Resilient fingers extend from the grommet body and have distal ends which overlap the distal edge of the sealing lip. The distal ends of the fingers and distal edge of the sealing lip engage opposite sides of the peripheral wall so the lip seals against leakage of foam through the opening.

Abstract: In an installation including a superconducting solenoid coil in the form of an annulus having a vertical axis, a first vessel having an annular form and enclosing the coil for containing a primary cryogen at a temperature sufficient to maintain the coil superconductive, and at least one second vessel having an annular form and enclosing the first vessel for containing a secondary cryogen at a selected temperature, there are provided: cryogen storage containers spaced horizontally from the coil and the vessels for receiving the cryogens contained in the vessels; and conduit systems coupled between the vessels and the storage containers for permitting the flow of cryogens therebetween.

Abstract: The door-mounted water and ice cube dispenser of a refrigerator is supplied with chilled water and electrical power by a water conveying conduit and a plurality of electrical conductors which together pass through a hollow pintle and socket portion of a lower hinge assembly pivotally supporting the refrigerator door. To facilitate removal of the door from the associated refrigerator cabinet, the lower end of the conduit is connected to an end of a chilled water supply line by a union type coupling, the lower ends of the conductors being connected to a plug engageable with an associated power supplying socket fixed to the refrigerator cabinet. The conduit and conductors extend upwardly from the lower hinge assembly to the dispenser location via the interior of an elongated, rigid, tubelike member that isolates the conduit and conductors from any thermal insulating material or other obstructions filling the interior volume of the door.