Patents Issued in September 13, 2001
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Publication number: 20010020553Abstract: A combinatorial weighing or counting apparatus having a dispensing feeder and weighing hoppers is provided to achieve superior article transport by suitably controlling the operating parameter of the dispensing feeder. The combinatorial weighing or counting apparatus of the present invention includes a dispensing feeder 4, a plurality of weighing hoppers 7, a weighing device 11, and a DF operating parameter calculating unit 22. Articles to be weighed are supplied to the dispensing feeder 4. From the dispensing feeder 4 the articles are supplied to the weighing hoppers 7. The weighing device 11 is a means for detecting the weight of the articles on the dispensing feeder 4. The DF operating parameter calculating unit 22 is a means for controlling the amount of articles that are discharged from the dispensing feeder 4, based on weight information from the weighing device 11.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Yutaka Tamai, Kazufumi Naito, Toshiro Ono, Hirofumi Yamamori
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Publication number: 20010020554Abstract: A regeneration control device of a hybrid electric vehicle can sufficiently charge a battery with power regenerated as a result of the regenerative braking and effectively perform the regenerative braking, and which can also ease the burden of a friction brake. If chargeable power set by a chargeable power setting device according to an actual level of the battery becomes lower than regenerated power computed by a regenerated power computing unit during the regenerating operation of a motor, the power regenerated by the motor is supplied to a generator. This drives the generator to cause an engine to run an engine brake without the supply of fuel.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Takashi Yanase, Yuta Susuki
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Publication number: 20010020555Abstract: To provide a power transmission mechanism into which a driven flange is assembled, the power transmission mechanism producing no metal contact noises. A driven flange is divided into an engine side flange and a wheel side flange. The engine side flange may be formed of a steel forging and the wheel side flange may be formed of an aluminum forging. The engine side flange is spline-fitted in a final gear integrally rotated with a bevel gear. Furthermore, openings are formed in the wheel side flange at equal intervals and blocks having a threaded hole therein are pressed into the openings. In addition, the engine side flange, the wheel side flange, and the blocks are integrally connected together with bolts.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Toshiyuki Iwai, Shinji Ito
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Publication number: 20010020556Abstract: A safety mechanism for a personal vehicle that provides for separation of the motion of a body support from a ground contacting assembly of the vehicle in case of accident. In one embodiment, the body support is attached to the ground contacting module via a slide mechanism that permits the body support to continue upright motion despite overturning of the ground contacting assembly in order to prevent injury to the passenger. Another embodiment provides for coupling of the body support or the ground contacting assembly via either a real or virtual pivot located above the respective centers of mass of the body support and ground contacting assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Dean L. Kamen, Robert Ambrogi, John B. Morrell, Christopher C. Langenfeld, Stanley B. Smith lll, James H. Steenson
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Publication number: 20010020557Abstract: The invention concerns a method for emergency steering of a hydraulic steering arrangement (1) with a steering handwheel (2), in which a steering valve (5) is optionally operated via the steering handwheel (2) or via a control pressure generator (7), and a steering motor (4) is acted upon by a pump pressure of a pump (6) via the steering valve (5), as well as a hydraulic steering unit (3) for applying the method.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Svend Giversen, Johan van Beek, Lars Mortensen, Ole Vincentz Sorensen
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Publication number: 20010020558Abstract: The invention relates to a hydraulic steering device for the chassis of a vehicle, in particular of a crane or transport vehicle, with chassis axles steerable between longitudinal and transverse drive positions and in each case fixed to a shaft on the vehicle that is pivoted about a vertical swiveling axle, on which shaft a steering cylinder acts by way of at least one laterally projecting control arm for swiveling of the shaft. The steering cylinder acting on the projecting control arm and a further steering cylinder acting on a vehicle frame beam are articulated to a lever arm, coaxially pivoted on the shaft, in such a way that the torsional movement of the shaft resulting from the retracting and extending movement of the two steering cylinders adds up to at least ±90°.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Atecs Mannesmann AGInventors: Hermann Franzen, Joachim Kroll, Janis Moutsokapas
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Publication number: 20010020559Abstract: Equipment support systems and modular platforms provide an equipment support portion with lateral walkways and work areas. The platforms have a skeletal frame that supports a plurality of grates to form the work area. The frame of the platforms also has a number of support legs with circular bases at their lower ends to rest upon the roof or other support surface. The circular bases distribute the load of the supported equipment evenly upon the roof so that specific spots are not overloaded. Outriggers may be removably added to the platform to increase the dimensions of the platform thereby making the platform and supported equipment less prone to overturning from wind loading. Methods are described for providing a support platform designed to resist a specific design wind load. In some preferred embodiments, one or more of the support legs of the platforms are adjustable in length, to allow portions of the platform to be adjusted for differential settlement of the roof.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Ronald G. McCracken
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Publication number: 20010020560Abstract: In a lubrication device of four-stroke-cycle engine, a front surface portion of a lower engine case is formed vertically, while mounting-bases for an oil filter is formed onto the front surface portion, and an oil passage extending to an oil entrance of an oil filter from an oil pump is formed in parallel with the matching surfaces of the engine case, as well as another oil passage connecting an oil exit of the oil filter and a main gallery is formed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: SUZUKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Nobuhiro Yasui, Osamu Kasuya
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Publication number: 20010020561Abstract: A parking brake mechanism in the duo-servo type drum brake includes a link type shoe drive mechanism for expanding a pair of brake shoes and an operating force generator for inputting a shoe operating force into an input lever of the shoe drive mechanism according to the brake operation. The parking brake mechanism also includes a parking brake lever pivotally supported by one brake shoe, wherein a shoe operating force is inputted into the input lever by swing of the parking brake lever, and the brake shoes are expanded via the shoe drive mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: AKEBONO BRAKE INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventor: Toshifumi Maehara
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Publication number: 20010020562Abstract: A method for the controlled power activation of an electromechanical braking system in a motor vehicle where the maximum power available is less than the nominal capacity includes the step of activating brake force-generating units of the braking system individually or in subgroups in succession to one another. The brake force-generating units are in each case activated with a power level corresponding to a portion of the maximum power available. The portion of the maximum power available is sufficient for the individual unit to function at least partially.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Stefan Hackl
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Publication number: 20010020563Abstract: A hydrodynamic coupling device comprises a casing arrangement and a turbine rotor which can be rotated about an axis of rotation (A) in the casing arrangement. The turbine rotor has a turbine rotor shell which supports a plurality of turbine rotor blades, and a turbine rotor hub which is coupled or can be coupled to a drive element for joint rotation. A lock-up clutch arrangement is provided for the optional production of a torque transmission connection between the turbine rotor and the casing arrangement, and a torsional vibration damper arrangement couples the turbine rotor for torque transmission to a coupling element of the lock-up clutch arrangement. A positive drive arrangement is provided on the torsional vibration damper arrangement, which positive drive arrangement is in drive engagement for torque transmission with a mating positive drive arrangement on the turbine rotor. The mating positive drive arrangement is formed integrally on the turbine rotor shell.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Mannesmann Sachs AGInventors: Christoph Sasse, Erwin Wack
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Publication number: 20010020564Abstract: A torque converter 1 is provided with a configuration that improves the ability to assemble a hydraulic torque transmitting device. The torque converter 1 serves to transmit torque from engine crankshaft 2 to a transmission. Torque converter 1 is equipped with a torque converter main body 5 that has a fluid chamber therein and a damper mechanism 6 that serves to elastically couple torque converter main body 5 directly to the crankshaft 2 such that the coupling is elastic in the rotational direction. The assembly operation of the crankshaft 2 and the clutch cover assembly 8 is accomplished only by axially moving the crankshaft 2 and the clutch cover assembly 8 toward each other without requiring any fastening elements, such as bolts, rivets or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Hirotaka Fukushima
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Publication number: 20010020565Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission for a self-propelled engine of the type comprising an endless transmission (1) with a belt (2) between a driving pulley (3) and a driven pulley (4) carried by the input shaft (5) of a clutch engaging mechanism (7) whose output shaft (6) is coupled to the wheels (20) of the machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2000Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Robert Blanchard
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Publication number: 20010020566Abstract: A modular power roller conveyor is described having a conveyor section for transporting a product unit. The conveyor section comprises a number of active zones, each active zone containing means for sensing the entry of a product unit into the active zone. A programmable controller generates activation signals to a drive roller in response to the means for sensing. A plurality of carrier rollers are slaved to the drive roller within the active zone such that activation of the drive roller actuates all of the carrier rollers to drive the product unit through the active zone and into the next active zone. The programmable controller also generates a deactuation signal to deactivate the active zone as a product unit exits the zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: W. Scott Kalm, Morteza Mortazi Langroodi, Keith Corrigan
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Publication number: 20010020567Abstract: An apparatus for supplying chip parts comprises a chip part supplying apparatus whereby electronic parts in a chip form accumulated at random directions are being supplied in an orderly line and a chip part feeding means which works to transfer the forefront one of the aligned chip parts onto a circuit component such as a printed circuit board is being disclosed here. Chip parts housed at random directions in a hopper are taken into a discharge channel being organized to a prescribed direction and transferred through said discharge channel before being discharged through its bottom end onto a conveying belt before being carried by said belt toward a prescribed direction. A clearance is forcefully caused between the forefront chip part and the next chip part at the stage just before the forefront chip part is picked up, said clearance occurring between the two chip parts working to separate the two chip parts completely.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: TAIYO YUDEN CO., LTD.Inventors: Koji Saito, Kikuji Fukai, Taro Yasuda
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Publication number: 20010020568Abstract: A feeder system for feeding objects to object-carriers of a machine for processing the objects, in particular a printing machine, said system including a reciprocating finger (11) for pushing each object (10) directly towards an object-carrier to place the object (10) on said object-carrier: said finger (11) is carried by a reciprocating carriage (12) slidably mounted on a chassis (13) and is rotatably mounted on said carriage (12) so that it can occupy at least an operational position in which it can push an object (10) when it is moved and a retracted position in which it can avoid an object (10) when it is moved.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: SOCIETE D'EXPLOITATION DES MACHINES DUBUITInventors: Francois Dumenil, Gilles Marette
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Publication number: 20010020569Abstract: The present invention is a transfer device for transferring large blank materials through multi-stage processing by engaging and employing both a crossbar-type and a finger-type transfer device. The cross-bar type transfer device includes a blank attachment member, adaptable to specific blank shapes, that enables transfer of large blank materials without sufficient rigidity for quicker or simpler transport methods. The finger-type transfer includes multiple fingers suitable for rapid transport of blank materials that, after initial processing, have sufficient rigidity for rapid transport.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Toshihiko Arai, Nobuyoshi Maeda
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Publication number: 20010020570Abstract: In a toggle bar link (100) for conveyor pans of conveyors or guideway pans of extraction machine guideways, with toggle bar sockets (1) arranged at the sides of the pans in whose socket cut-outs (3) a toggle bar can be inserted and retained by securing elements (4), both the toggle bar (2) and the securing elements (4) as well as the toggle bar sockets (1) are constructed intrinsically symmetrically and the toggle bar sockets (1) are arranged symmetrical to a plane of symmetry (S) running through the joint between the pans. Owing to the symmetrical construction of the individual parts they can not only be produced simply but also no orientation problems are posed in the assembly of the individual parts.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Siegfried Schmidt, Jorg Wirtz
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Publication number: 20010020571Abstract: A feed roller for a recording medium 1 includes a roller shaft 2 supplied with rotating force for feeding the recording medium, a roller body 3 made of an elastic material and provided with a center bore extending in a longitudinal direction through which the roller shaft 2 is inserted, and a pair of holding members 5a, 5b which rotate in association with the roller shaft 2 and hold the roller body 3 in a longitudinally compressed state by clamping opposite ends of the roller body 3.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Shigeharu Furusawa, Michihiro Sato, Yoichi Munekata, Katsuhiko Abiko, Kazuo Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20010020572Abstract: An apparatus for retention and release of pallets used in a production line system comprising pallets, means for advancing pallets, latching means, rolling means, and a rail member, wherein the latching means are pivotally coupled to the advancing means to allow pivoting of the latching means about a horizontal axis, the rolling means are affixed to the latching means, and the rail member is adapted to exert an upward force on the rolling means during advancement of the pallet for causing pivotal rotation of the latching means for sequential release of each pallet when removal of the pallet is desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 1998Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: WILLIAM A. KOEGLER
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Publication number: 20010020573Abstract: A multidirectional input device is disclosed wherein one rotary electric part and two first and second push-switches are operated by one operating member. In comparison with the prior art, a larger number of electric parts can be operated and thus the multidirectional input device is suitable for use in a portable electronic device for which various functions are required.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kisaburo Takahashi, Jun Yashiro
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Publication number: 20010020574Abstract: [Object] It is an object of the present invention to restrain the entire height of a multi-directional input apparatus called joystick.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Masahiko Nakamura
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Publication number: 20010020575Abstract: Change gear range positions of an automatic transmission are accurately detected, to perform a sophisticated control and to miniaturize the automatic transmission.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Niles Part Co., Ltd.Inventors: Syunichi Sato, Tsutomu Watada
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Publication number: 20010020576Abstract: Rotary switches, for example key switches, are switched on and off by the rotational movement of a rotary handle. They are intended for mounting on a front plate and are formed in at least two parts. They furthermore have a rotatable switching means and a rotary knob having a key which can be inserted into the switching means. However, the known key switches have no securing means for preventing overturning of the key. In extreme cases—especially with application of excessive force—this leads to the key bit breaking off, which then generally results in tedious and expensive changing of the entire switch. According to the invention, undesired overturning of the key is prevented by ribs which are arranged on the rotary knob and on the front plate or on the switch housing and can come into contact with one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Urs Campana, Otto Gut
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Publication number: 20010020577Abstract: A miniature electrical switch is closed when a pusher (44) is pushed forwardly (F) to snap down a snap dome tripping member (36) and push a contact blade (50) against a contact part (28). Forward sliding of the actuator is converted into downward movement of the snap dome, by a rigid lever (48) of generally T shape, with a rear branch (51) having laterally spaced trunnions (60) for pivoting and a center section (52) with a cam follower upper surface (76). A ramp (94) at the front of the push member depresses the cam follower as the actuator slides forward. The trunnions are of largely rectangular cross section and pivot on an edge (130).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2000Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Sylvain Rochon, Laurent Bouvier, Thierry Burnel
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Publication number: 20010020578Abstract: The invention provides an embodiment of a touch contact switch with a LC display or LCD (11, 26) having two parallel, superimposed glass plates (12, 13), between which are located conductive layers (15, 16; 27, 28) provided with terminals (29) for displaying individual segments (24, 25) of the LCD. According to the invention, below the surface (14) of the LCD is provided at least one sensor element (19; 21, 22) of the touch contact switch, which is operable by contacting the surface of the LCD above the sensor element. For this purpose on the one hand known sensor elements (19; 21, 22) of touch contact switches can be placed under the LCD and on the other portions of the conductive layers (27, 28) can be activated in interval operation both for displaying LCD symbols (24) and as sensor surfaces of capacitive touch contact switches.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Martin Baier
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Publication number: 20010020579Abstract: High-purity benzyl benzoate is recovered by distilling the residue remaining after removal of unreacted toluene and benzoic acid from a reaction mixture produced by the oxidation of toluene by molecular oxygen in the presence of a metal catalyst thereby separating a fraction of benzyl benzoate containing 80 wt % or more benzyl benzoate, 10 wt % or less benzoic acid and 10 wt % or less fluorenone, and purifying the fraction of benzyl benzoate by crystallization such as recrystallization. According to this process, it is possible to recover high-purity benzyl benzoate by a simple operation at low cost from the by-product formed in the manufacture of benzoic acid.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Noboru Daitou, Shingo Ueda, Ryouji Akamine, Kazuyoshi Horibe, Katsuhiko Sakura
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Publication number: 20010020580Abstract: Cyclopentane and/or cyclopentene and, if desired, isopentane can be obtained by distillative separation from a pre-benzene fraction or a C5 fraction which has in each case being partially hydrogenated to remove acetylene compounds and diolefins, whereinType: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: EC Erdolchemic GmbH, corporation of GermanyInventors: Arnd Stuwe, Rolf Dieter Wurtz, Helene Maria Wurtz, Peter Wurtz, Michael Muller, Jens Herwig, Christian Gabel, Joachim Grub
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Publication number: 20010020581Abstract: An aerosol delivery apparatus is used to deliver an aerosol into a reaction chamber for chemical reaction to produce reaction products such as nanoparticles. A variety of improved aerosol delivery approaches provide for the production of more uniform reaction products. In preferred embodiments, a reaction chamber is used that has a cross section perpendicular to the flow of reactant having a dimension along a major axis greater than a dimension along a minor axis. The aerosol preferably is elongated along the major axis of the reaction chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: James T. Gardner, Sujeet Kumar, Ronald M. Cornell, Ronald J. Mosso, Xiangxin Bi
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Publication number: 20010020582Abstract: A method and an apparatus for plasma treatment of gas, particularly for transformation, passivation and stabilization of polluting and toxic admixtures is disclosed. A flowing gas (1) to be treated is passed through a hollow cathode (2) provided with a counter electrode (5) and a hollow cathode discharge plasma (3) is generated by a generator (4) connected to the hollow cathode (2). The flowing gas (1) undergoes interactions with oscillating electrons (6) in the hollow cathode discharge plasma being generated in the gas. The interaction of the hollow cathode discharge plasma with inner walls (8) of the hollow cathode is controlled and the inner walls should have a temperature below its melting point, whereby the inner walls can provide a catalytic effect. The inner walls may also release wall species (9) promoting plasma-chemical reactions in the hollow cathode discharge plasma. The flowing gas is then exhausted as a transformed gas (10) after being treated in the hollow cathode discharge plasma.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Hana Barankova, Ladislav Bardos
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Publication number: 20010020583Abstract: An improved anode, cup and conductor assembly for a reactor vessel includes an anode assembly supported within a cup which holds a supply of process fluid. The cup is supported around its perimeter within the reactor vessel. The anode assembly has an anode shield carrying an anode, the anode shield having upwardly extending brackets with radially extending members. A diffusion plate is supported above the anode by the anode brackets using first bayonet connections. The anode shield and the anode are supported from below by a delivery tube which also serves to deliver process fluid to the cup. A second bayonet connection is provided between a top portion of the delivery tube and the anode assembly. The fluid delivery tube has a fixed height within the vessel. The anode elevation is adjusted by the interposing of a spacer of desired thickness between the anode and the tube. An electrical conductor is connected to the anode, and passes through the tube to be electrically accessible outside the vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Daniel J. Woodruff, Kyle M. Hanson
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Publication number: 20010020584Abstract: The tube inner surface electropolishing device includes an electrolyte delivery system to cause electrolyte to flow through the tube whose inner surface must be electropolished. An electrical cable having an electrode engaged to its distal end is slowly moved through the tube while an electrical current from a power supply passes through the electrode and the tube wall and the electrolyte flowing therebetween. Several electrode embodiments are disclosed including electrodes that include a chain of elements having alternating insulator and electrode elements, an electrode including a quantity of metallic wool enclosed in a permeable insulating member, and a flexible insulating member formed from a cylindrical tubular section which is axially compressible to produce a series of projecting flexible arms, so that any one section can be compressed to enter a smaller opening than the tube to be polished. An electrolyte dam is coupled to the electrode and controls the flow rate of electrolyte through the tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Thomas A. Lorincz, Joseph P. Parisi
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Publication number: 20010020585Abstract: There is disclosed a removable electrode for electrolytic dressing grinding in which the electrode is disposed opposite to a processing surface of a conductive grinding wheel via a gap, a conductive liquid is passed through between the electrode and the conductive grinding wheel to apply a voltage thereto, the grinding wheel is dressed by electrolysis and a workpiece is simultaneously ground, the electrode comprising: an electrode support member 12 having a surface 12a disposed opposite to the processing surface of the grinding wheel via a constant gap; a conductive foil 14 detachably attached to and along the opposite surface of the electrode support member; and a conductive terminal 16 for contacting the conductive foil to apply the voltage to the conductive foil. Even when a deposit is built up on a cathode surface, the cathode surface can be cleaned in a short time. Even after repeated use, an electrode shape does not change.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Hitoshi Ohmori
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Publication number: 20010020586Abstract: A sputtering target comprising a substrate and a target material formed on the substrate, wherein the target material comprises a metal oxide of the chemical formula MOx as the main component, wherein MOx is a metal oxide which is deficient in oxygen as compared with the stoichiometric composition, and M is at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Ti, Nb, Ta, Mo, W Zr and Hf, a process for its production, and a method for forming a film having a high refractive index.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2000Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Asahi Glass Company, Ltd.Inventors: Otojiro Kida, Akira Mitsui, Eri Suzuki, Hisashi Osaki, Atsushi Hayashi, Takuji Oyama, Kenichi Sasaki
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Publication number: 20010020587Abstract: A circuit configuration for controlling a pump current includes a microcontroller, an analog circuit and a read-only memory. A pulse-width modulated signal, which is output by the micro-controller, is converted, by using the analog circuit, into the pump current for a pump cell of an exhaust probe which operates according to the principle of the galvanic oxygen concentration cell with a solid electrolyte. A pump current actual value is determined from a voltage drop across a measuring resistor, and a pump current setpoint value is determined from a voltage difference between an actual value of a Nernst voltage in the corresponding measuring cell and a predefined setpoint value. An exhaust probe configuration is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Markus Amtmann, Stephan Bolz, Jurgen Rossler
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Methods and apparatus for processing a sample of biomolecular analyte using a microfabricated device
Publication number: 20010020588Abstract: A technique processes a sample of biomolecular analyte. The technique uses an apparatus having a support assembly that receives and supports a test module, a load assembly that loads the sample of biomolecular analyte onto the test module, an electrophoresis assembly that applies a current to the test module such that components within the sample separate by electrophoresis, and a controller that controls operations of the load assembly and the electrophoresis assembly. The load assembly and the electrophoresis assembly are coupled to the support assembly. The controller controls the operation of the load assembly in an automated manner. Preferably, the test module includes a dielectric plate member having an upper planar surface and a lower planar surface that is spaced apart from and coplanar with the upper planar surface. The dielectric plate member has at least one set of channels that includes an injection channel and a separation channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Whitehead Institute for Biomedical ResearchInventors: Aram S. Adourian, Daniel J. Ehrlich, Lance B. Koutny, Paul T. Matsudaira, Dieter R. Schmalzing -
Publication number: 20010020589Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and systems for monitoring and controlling electroosmotic flow rates in microfluidic systems. Generally, such methods and systems monitor flow rates in electroosmotically driven microfluidic systems by flowing signaling elements within these channels and measuring the flow rate of these signals. The methods of monitoring flow rates are also applied to methods and systems for continuously monitoring and controlling these flow rates in electroosmotically driven microfluidic systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Anne R. Kopf-Sill
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Publication number: 20010020590Abstract: A cell for the electrowinning of aluminium comprising one or more anodes (10), each having a metal-based anode substrate, for instance comprising a metal core (11) covered with an metal layer 12, an oxygen barrier layer (13), one or more intermediate layers (14; 14A, 14B) and an iron layer (15). The anode substrate is covered with an electrochemically active transition metal oxide layer, in particular an iron oxide-based outside layer (16) such as a hematite-based layer, which remains dimensionally stable during operation in a cell by maintaining in the electrolyte a sufficient concentration of iron species and dissolved alumina. The cell operating temperature is sufficiently low so species and dissolved alumina.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Jean-Jacques Duruz, Vittorio de Nora, Olivier Crottaz
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Publication number: 20010020591Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor that has a reaction reagent system easily dissolved even in a sample solution containing a high concentration of a substrate and ensures rapid and highly accurate measurement. The method of forming a target reaction layer according to the present invention dissolves a material constituting the target reaction layer in a solvent of a sublimable substance to prepare a solution, applies the solution in a desired area to form the target reaction layer, freezes the applied solution, and sublimates the solvent included in a solid matter of the frozen solution under reduced pressure for removal. The resultant reaction layer has a large surface area and is easily dissolved in the sample solution to enable rapid measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Miwa Hasegawa, Tomohiro Yamamoto, Motokazu Watanabe, Shin Ikeda, Shiro Nankai
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Publication number: 20010020592Abstract: A method is provided for determining the oxygen content of a measurement gas using a sensor, as well as the use of the sensor according to the method. The problem presents itself of making available a method by which lambda can be determined as accurately and as simply as possible in a broad range of 0.8 to about 20. The problem is solved for the method in that the determination of the oxygen content of the measurement gas is performed by the first and the second measuring cells in a serial manner, wherein the oxygen content of the measurement gas is determined by the second measuring cell in a lambda range of 0.8 to 1.4 and by the first measuring cell in a lambda range of ≧1 to 20.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Heraeus Electro-Nite International N.V.Inventors: Klaus-Peter Sandow, Silvia Lenaerts
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Publication number: 20010020593Abstract: A folded paper board compact disc carrier for carrying a plurality of compact discs. A compact disc carrier formed from a single piece of stock comprises a paper board blank having a central portion divided by a fold line into first and second planar portions. Each portion includes a side edge having a tab and a pair of opposing flaps foldable along a fold line lying perpendicular to the central portion fold line. Each flap is foldable to an inward position wherein the flaps define with their corresponding planar half an enclosure adapted to receive a compact disc. Upon folding the first and second planar portions along the central portion fold line the enclosures are placed in spaced apart parallel relationship with the side edge tabs of each planar half disposed adjacent each other. The compact disc carrier so formed requires no glue or other adhesives and will hold a plurality of compact discs.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: R.R. Donnelley & SonsInventor: Annalee Koehn
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Publication number: 20010020594Abstract: A method of forming blister pack packaging is provided including providing a thermoplastic material and placing the thermoplastic material between a pair of opposed male and female thermoforming dies, while cooling a portion of at least one of the dies. The cooled portion of the die is positioned to contact the area of the thermoplastic material in which it is desired to avoid distortion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Gillette Canada Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Hicks, Lawrence H. Luebbert, Gary L. Konop
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Publication number: 20010020595Abstract: The invention provides a packing method using pulp mold which can be easily disposed of and recycled, and which has high mechanical strength. A packing method, wherein a top pad 1, with a recess and a protrusion, and a bottom pad, with a recess and a protrusion, are positioned so as to oppose each other in order to accommodate a delicate item to be protected therebetween. A reinforcing pad, with a protrusion which is brought into contact with the bottom pad, is also used.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Motomu Koike
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Publication number: 20010020596Abstract: A two step sulfur removal for treatment of hydrocarbonaceous fuel intended for use in a fuel cell comprising a mild hydrotreating step followed by an extraction step reduces the sulfur content in fuel to 5 ppm total sulfur or less and a fuel processor suitable for carrying out the process.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.Inventors: Lawrence W. Jossens, Curtis L. Munson, Gunther H. Dieckmann
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Publication number: 20010020597Abstract: Centrifugal action type pneumatic separator comprising a rotor with a vertical axis provided with vanes regularly distributed over its periphery, guide blades disposed about the rotor and a housing containing the rotor and the guide blades and provided with inputs for the air and for the material to be graded, with an evacuation conduit for the air laden with the fine fraction of the material and with an output for the coarse fraction, with the air penetrating the rotor at its periphery via the channels (15) formed between the vanes, and flowing inside the rotor towards the evacuation conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: FCB Societe AnonymeInventors: Cordonnier Alain, Lemaire Danielle
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Publication number: 20010020598Abstract: A method and device for removing pollution from polluted water, consisting of a rod on which are mounted an array of spaced magnesium plates and an array of spaced copper plates. The copper plates are in contact with the magnesium plates. Polluted water passing through the plates results in precipitates of the pollutants which can be mechanically removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Alan Marsden
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Publication number: 20010020599Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for use within a microwave radiation field which enables the operator to perform successively a plurality of chemical or physical processes while the apparatus remains in the microwave cavity. The apparatus according to the invention can be used to perform a total microwave solvent extraction including the steps of drying, extraction, filtration, and concentration. Other examples of processes, which are carried out with this apparatus are digestions, hydrolyses, separations, agitations, and precipitations.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Werner Lautenschlager
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Publication number: 20010020600Abstract: A flat or cylindrical screen includes rods and rod-bearing supporting elements. The rods have protrusions in the side walls which are received into inversely shaped recesses in a supporting element. The screen is manufactured by bending the supporting elements open elastically and inserting the rods, whereupon the supporting elements spring back, encircle the rods positively and form a screen mat.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Helmuth Gabl, Axel Pichler
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Publication number: 20010020601Abstract: In order to prevent undesirable deformations in a plate-shaped filter holder for a sterilising container, including a peripheral outer pressure rim, a central pressure region, a mounting device for fixing the filter holder on the sterilising container, and including webs between the outer pressure rim and the central pressure region which leave open breakthroughs therebetween, it is proposed that the webs extend at least partially in a direction which comprises a component in the peripheral direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Applicant: Aesculap AG & Co. KG AM Aesculap-PlatzInventors: Lorenz Gabele, Wolfgang Schwanke
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Publication number: 20010020602Abstract: A method for the extraction of hydrophobic constituents, such as benzene, toluene, xylene and/or chlorinated hydrocarbons, from an aqueous solution, involving the steps of contacting said solution with a porous, preferably dimensionally stable granular or powdery material, of which the pores have a size of from 0.1 to 50 &mgr;m and contain a hydrophobic substance with affinity for the hydrophobic constituents to be extracted, which granular or powdery material has a particle size of from 0.1 to 10 mm, and is wetted more readily by the hydrophobic substance immobilized in the pores than by the aqueous solution to be treated, and regenerating the product of step a), essentially without the granular or powdery material being freed from the hydrophobic substance, by removal of the hydrophobic constituents.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventors: Frederik Albert Buijtenhuijs, Johanne Josef Pragt, Elwin Schomaker