Abstract: An apparatus and system for driving an appliance knob to a predetermined position once a timer reaches zero. Variations of this disclosure include but are not limited to embodiments where the device has clamps which clasp the appliance knob and drive it to zero after a spring is depressed or motor activated, where the device includes a dial which can be turned so the user decides where to block the spring from turning further or deactivate the motor such that the appliance remains on at a different setting, where the device includes a plurality of dials and related blocks so that the spring can be stopped or motor deactivated once the timer reaches a position and then released or reactivated respectively once the timer reaches a new position repeatedly. A preferred embodiment of this disclosure comprises an interchangeable cover for an oven or stove knob with installable and removable features.

Abstract: Embodiments of a compact pressure swing reformer are disclosed. Certain embodiments have a construction comprising multiple rotating reformer beds, high temperature rotary valves at the bed ends, and E-seals to seal the beds to the valves. Several possible designs for introducing reactants into the beds also are disclosed. The multiple reformer beds are configured to provide for pressure equalization and ‘steam push’. The compact pressure swing reformer is suitable for use in fuel cell vehicle applications.

Abstract: One or more wedges may be introduced into the bevel of a surgical knife near its tip, to thereby increase the bevel surface area of the knife, and thus increase the cutting edges of the knife, and render the knife more effective and/or easier to use in surgical applications such as ophthalmic procedures.

Abstract: Embodiments of a compact pressure swing reformer are disclosed. Certain embodiments have a construction comprising multiple rotating reformer beds, high temperature rotary valves at the bed ends, and E-seals to seal the beds to the valves. Several possible designs for introducing reactants into the beds also are disclosed. The multiple reformer beds are configured to provide for pressure equalization and ‘steam push’. The compact pressure swing reformer is suitable for use in fuel cell vehicle applications.

Abstract: A fastener device for fastening two or more objects together, and more particularly a fastener device of the type that incorporates a pin having an undulating section and a corresponding mating housing having a resilient biasing member for fixing the mating housing along a desired position on the pin. The mating housing can be caused to permanently lock onto the pin or can be removable from the pin.

Abstract: Embodiments of a compact pressure swing reformer are disclosed. Certain embodiments have a construction comprising multiple rotating reformer beds, high temperature rotary valves at the bed ends, and E-seals to seal the beds to the valves. Several possible designs for introducing reactants into the beds also are disclosed. The multiple reformer beds are configured to provide for pressure equalization and ‘steam push’. The compact pressure swing reformer is suitable for use in fuel cell vehicle applications.

Abstract: A fuel cell system is provided which includes a hydrocarbon fuel processor for generating hydrogen for use in a fuel cell. The system further includes a hydrogen buffer for storing a portion of the hydrogen generated by the fuel processor. The system further includes a staged hydrogen selective membrane providing pressurized hydrogen to the buffer. This stored hydrogen may then be used during start-up of the system in a number of ways, such as feed for the fuel cell, or when the fuel processor output is temporarily less than that required by the operating demand of the fuel cell.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for the manufacture of acetylene and other higher hydrocarbons from methane feed using a reverse-flow reactor system, wherein the reactor system includes (i) a first reactor and (ii) a second reactor, the first and second reactors oriented in a series relationship with respect to each other, the process comprising supplying each of first and second reactant through separate channels in the first reactor bed of a reverse-flow reactor such that both of the first and second reactants serve to quench the first reactor bed, without the first and second reactants substantially reacting with each other until reaching the core of the reactor system.

Abstract: A method for producing a hydrogen containing gas for use in an internal combustion engine system is provided. The method includes cyclically operating at least two pressure swing reformer reactors such that one is reforming while another is regenerating, thereby producing a continuous stream of hydrogen containing gas. During engine operation exhaust gas is fed to the pressure swing reformer reactor that is undergoing regeneration, thereby supplying at least part of the heat for regeneration. Also, the hydrogen gas produced is used in at least one of (i) the engine; (ii) an engine exhaust treatment device; and (iii) a fuel cell.

Abstract: A golf ball having a cover comprised of a single ionomeric resin. The resin has an acid content no greater than about 10% and is preferably 100% neutralized and has a flex modulus of at least 31,000 psi. The ball has a Shore D hardness of about 55, a PGA compression of about 85, a COR of at least 0.700 and exhibits superior cut and abrasion resistance while providing a soft feel and a high spin rate.

Abstract: A fuel cell system is provided which includes a hydrocarbon fuel processor for generating hydrogen for use in a fuel cell. The system further includes a hydrogen buffer for storing a portion of the hydrogen generated by the fuel processor. This stored hydrogen may then be used during start-up of the system was number of ways such as feed for the fuel cell, or when the fuel processor output is temporarily less than that required by the operating demand of the fuel cell.

Abstract: A golf ball having a cover comprised of a single ionomeric resin. The resin has an acid content no greater than about 10% and is preferably 100% neutralized and has a flex modulus of at least 31,000 psi. The ball has a Shore D hardness of about 55, a PGA compression of about 85, a COR of at least 0.700 and exhibits superior cut and abrasion resistance while providing a soft feel and a high spin rate.