Abstract: Valves may include an opening sized and shaped to permit a subject fluid to flow through the opening when the opening is unobstructed. A heat exchange element may be located proximate to the opening, the heat exchange element positioned and configured to induce a localized phase change in the subject fluid to form and unform a solid plug from the subject fluid around at least a portion of the heat exchange element. A heat transfer rate of the heat exchange element may be variable to control a rate of flow of the subject fluid through the valve by controlling a size of the solid plug from the subject fluid.

Abstract: A fluid flow simulation device may include a heating chamber configured to heat a conductive fluid with one or more electrodes. The fluid flow simulation device may also include a heat exchanger positioned over the heating chamber and a downcomer coupled between an outlet of the heat exchanger and a bottom of the heating chamber.

Abstract: Valves may include an opening sized and shaped to permit a subject fluid to flow through the opening when the opening is unobstructed. A heat exchange element may be located proximate to the opening, the heat exchange element positioned and configured to induce a localized phase change in the subject fluid to form and unform a solid plug from the subject fluid around at least a portion of the heat exchange element. A heat transfer rate of the heat exchange element may be variable to control a rate of flow of the subject fluid through the valve by controlling a size of the solid plug from the subject fluid.

Abstract: Flow meters may include a body defining a fluid channel therein. At least one structure may be positioned within the fluid channel, and fixed relative to the body, that is shaped and positioned to produce a flow induced vibration that varies according to a rate of fluid flow through the fluid channel. A method of measuring a fluid flow rate may include directing a fluid over a first structure located in a first channel, and producing a first flow induced vibration that varies according to a rate of fluid flow in a first channel with the first structure. The method may further include measuring the vibration of a remote structure coupled to the first channel, and determining the rate of fluid flow in the first channel from the measured vibration.

Abstract: The invention pertains to topical, wax-based compositions comprising one or more flower waxes and candelilla wax, in the ratio of about 20:1 to about 1:20. Such compositions may have improved shear resistance or be substantially plasticizer free. Stick-type and stay-in-place topical preparations are contemplated.

Abstract: The invention pertains to topical, wax-based compositions comprising one or more flower waxes and candelilla wax, in the ratio of about 20:1 to about 1:20. Such compositions may have improved shear resistance or be substantially plasticizer free. Stick-type and stay-in-place topical preparations are contemplated.

Abstract: The present invention is mascara applicator with vibrating applicator head. The head is caused to vibrate in a controlled manner through electromechanical urging. The frequency, amplitude and geometry of the vibrating head are sufficient to significantly alter the rheological properties of thixotropic and anti-thixotropic mascara compositions, including an effect that persists after the vibration has stopped. The present invention allows the mascara to be manipulated for improved results, greater flexibility in formulation, benefits in manufacture, as well as other benefits.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gelled cosmetic emulsion comprising an oil phase, an aqueous phase and a gelling system which contains at least one non-siloxane based polyamide in a sufficient amount to gel the emulsion. The polyamide can have an tertiary amide, ester, acid, or amine terminal end group. The emulsion is stabilized with an alkylene oxide containing emulsion stabilizer. The polyamide resin is stabilized with a resin stabilizer containing an atom with a certain electronegativity. The emulsions of the present invention are substantially transparent and when colorants are added the color is especially bright and clear. The emulsions are used in lipstick and mascara products as well as other gel and stick products.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gelled cosmetic emulsion comprising an oil phase, an aqueous phase and a gelling system which contains at least one non-siloxane based polyamide in a sufficient amount to gel the emulsion. The polyamide can have an ester, acid, tertiary amide, or amine terminal end group. The emulsion is stabilized with a sugar-based emulsion stabilizer. The emulsions of the present invention are substantially transparent and when colorants are added the color is especially bright and clear. The emulsions are used in lipstick and mascara products as well as other gel and stick products.