Abstract: The invention is directed to a portable inhalation device. This device is compact and portable and contains a compressor, an air filter and a power supply, and permits, together with an aerosol nebuliser, the mobile administration of drugs by inhalation.

Abstract: A ventilator device and system comprising a rotating compressor, preferably a drag compressor, which, at the beginning of each inspiratory ventilation phase, is accelerated to a sufficient speed to deliver the desired inspiratory gas flow, and is subsequently stopped or decelerated to a basal flow level to permit the expiratory ventilation phase to occur. The ventilator device is small and light weight enough to be utilized in portable applications. The ventilator device is power efficient enough to operate for extended periods of time on internal or external batteries. Also provided is an oxygen blending apparatus which utilizes solenoid valves having specific orifice sizes for blending desired amounts of oxygen into the inspiratory gas flow. Also provided is an exhalation valve having an exhalation flow transducer which incorporates a radio frequency data base to provide an attendant controller with specific calibration information for the exhalation flow transducer.

Abstract: A full-face cushion (30B) comprises a substantially triangularly shaped frame (32) from which extends a membrane (34). The frame (32) has a scalloped edge (36) by which the cushion (30B) is affixed to a mask body (46) to form a full-face mask (60B). The membrane (34) has an aperture (38) into which the wearer's nose is received. The member (34) is spaced away from the rim (40) of the frame (32), and its outer surface (41) is of substantially the same shape as the rim (40). Respective notches (42, 44) receive the bridge of the wearer's nose. The wearer's nose and lips are received through the aperture (38) into the chamber within the mask body (46). The seal forming portion (45) thus contacts both the surface of the wearer's nose and a portion of the wearer's face in the region between the bottom lip and the chin, and around the sides and over the bridge of the nose.

Abstract: This invention relates to a connecting part of a breathing mask for connecting components such as filter, speech diaphragm, or exhalation valve that is inserted directly into the eye-protecting lens and guarantees easy assembly and disassembly.

Abstract: A nasal cushion (30) comprises a substantially triangularly shaped frame (32) from which extends a membrane (34). The frame (32) has a scalloped edge (36) by which the cushion (30) is affixed to a mask body. The membrane (34) has an aperture (38) into which the wearer's nose is received. The membrane (34) is spaced away from the rim (40) of the frame (32), and its outer surface (41) is of substantially the same shape as the rim (40). Respective notches (42, 44) receive the bridge of the wearer's nose. The wearer's nose is received through the aperture (38) into the chamber within the mask body (46). The seal forming portion (45) thus contacts both the surface of the wearer's nose and a portion of the wearer's face in the region between the base of the nose and the upper lip, and around the sides and over the bridge of the nose.

Abstract: A improved nasal mask is disclosed for delivering CPAP therapy to patients. The nasal mask has a sliding engagement to the headgear. The sliding engagement allows substantial relative lateral movement eg: when face is distorted from sleeping on side, while still providing adequate compressive force to avoid side leakage. The sliding engagement also allows easy release from the headgear.

Abstract: An inflation indicator balloon for a cuffed tracheal tube is moulded directly onto an and of an inflation line. The inflation line is slipped on one end of a core pin and a parison is injection moulded in a first cavity with one end of the parison on top of the inflation line. The parison is then blow moulded to the desired shape of the inflation balloon in a second cavity. The balloon and line are removed from the core pin and a valve is inserted in the end oposite the inflation line.

Abstract: A contraceptive sheath can provide extra leak protection by forming at least one latex film over the bulbous closed end of a latex sheath liner. A transparent elastic covering overlies the sheath outer surface to seal the latex films against separation from the latex liner.

Abstract: The surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence is disclosed. The disclosed methods include: 1) a technique of probe passage to avoid injuring the bladder and to provide a more accurate and reproducible capture of the pubocervical fascia lateral to the bladder neck and urethra, 2) anchor fixation of the suspending sutures to the pubic bone to decrease the risk of suture pull through from above and to decrease post-operative pain and 3) a simple and reproducible technique to set a limited tension of the suspending sutures. A description of these methods and results of procedures with some of these methods are disclosed. Novel drill guides, suture passers, suture tensioners, and various related tools and devices for use in the surgical method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of repairing and/or stabilizing a joint by administering mesenchymal stem cells to the joint. Such a method provides for the regeneration of cartilaginous tissue in the joint, including meniscal tissue.

Abstract: A drug and drug delivery system may be utilized in the treatment of vascular disease. A local delivery system is coated with rapamycin or other suitable drug, agent or compound and delivered intraluminally for the treatment and prevention of neointimal hyperplasia following percutaneous transluminal coronary angiography. The local delivery of the drugs or agents provides for increased effectiveness and lower systemic toxicity.

Abstract: An electrical smoking system comprising a cigarette and an electric lighter, wherein the cigarette comprises a tubular tobacco mat partially filled with material tobacco so as to define a filled tobacco rod portion and an unfilled tobacco rod portion. The cigarette and the lighter are mutually arranged so that when the cigarette is received in the lighter, the electrical heater element of the lighter at least partially superposes at least a portion of the filled tobacco rod portion. The cigarette and the lighter are also mutually arranged so that when the cigarette is received in the lighter, the free end of the cigarette is occluded. The cigarette includes a zone of perforations at a location along the filled tobacco rod portion, with the cigarette being free of perforations along the unfilled tobacco rod portion. An apparatus for perforating a cigarette which can be smoked in an electrical smoking device includes a drum link-up assembly and a laser perforating apparatus.

Abstract: In a system for coating human skin, a chemical composition, such as a cosmetic or medical formulation, is uniformly coated over the entire body or selected parts of the body of the person being coated. The system includes atomization of the coating composition, containment of the atomized spray, and residual recovery which together yield a novel method for applying chemical compositions.

Abstract: An applicator capable of applying a substance, in particular a cosmetic or care product, on the eyelashes or eyebrows, the applicator comprising an open support defining at least one opening situated between two opposite regions of the support, with protruding elements connected to at least one of said regions and extending towards the other region.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for regenerating spent pickling liquor from the acid pickling of a metal are disclosed. Acid pickling of a metal uses a first acid and forms a spent pickling liquor (SPL). A second acid added to the spent pickling liquor, under specific low temperatures produces a metal salt of the second acid. The metal salt of the second acid is crystallized and removed from a regenerated first acid. In one aspect, hydrochloric acid is regenerated from a pickling process for iron or steel, using sulfuric acid as the second acid, and ferrous sulfate heptahydrate crystals are produced. Regenerated hydrochloric acid is recycled to the acid pickling process.

Abstract: A process and apparatus are provided for active cleaning of windows in a vehicle, with a window wiping arm that has a wiping blade and devices for the application of cleaning fluid onto the window pane. The devices for the application of cleaning fluid are placed and/or are controllable in such a way that, in relation to the longitudinal direction of the wiping blade, the cleaning fluid is applied to a defined side of the wiping blade in the following steps: waiting for activation of the active cleaning switch, followed by application of a prescribed first quantity of cleaning fluid after the start of the activation of the active cleaning switch, fundamentally only when the window pane wiping arm is moving in a direction of the defined side.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of detecting the presence of a brush used in a semiconductor wafer cleaner for post-CMP processing is described. Semiconductor wafers are loaded into the wet environment of the wafer cleaner, affixed to a rotatable fixture and rotated at high speed. The rotatable fixture is effectuated by a servo motor linked to a servo controller and a torque monitor. A first torque on the rotating wafer is calculated prior to the start of the brush cleaning cycle. During the brush cleaning cycle, as the brush within the brush cleaner contacts the rotating wafer, the torque on the wafer increases and a second torque is calculated. If, during the brush cleaning cycle, the second torque calculation is substantially equal to the first torque calculation, the brush cleaner is not contacting the wafer and cleaning has not progressed. A tool user can be notified to reaffix the brush within the cleaner.

Abstract: A sintered silicon carbide has a high density and only small amounts of organic and inorganic impurities on the surface and in the vicinity of the surface, i.e., a density of 2.9 g/cm2 or more and an amount of each impurity smaller than 1.0×1011 atoms/cm2 on the surface and in the vicinity of the surface. A method for cleaning sintered silicon carbide in a wet condition comprises treating sintered silicon carbide in a step of dipping into a quasi-aqueous organic solvent, a step of dipping into an aqueous solution of an ammonium compound, a step of dipping into an aqueous solution of an inorganic acid and a step of dipping into pure water. Organic and inorganic impurities present on the surface and in the vicinity of the surface of the sintered silicon carbide are removed easily in accordance with the method.

Abstract: To realize a substrate cleaning method which enables effective cleaning of a wafer having a recess thereon without causing any increase in cleaning cost. Ozone gas and ammonia water are supplied right above a wafer 7 having a recess thereon, a gas-dissolving liquid is produced by dissolving the ozone gas in the ammonia water, and the gas-dissolving liquid is used to carry out contact and non-contact types physical cleaning on the wafer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for rinsing and drying semiconductor wafers. The apparatus includes side walls, end walls and a base. At least a portion of the wall descends relative to the base to facilitate the flow of liquid from the chamber. One embodiment of the apparatus includes a rigid side and end walls. In another embodiment of the apparatus, at least a portion of the side wall is collapsible. In yet another embodiment of the apparatus, at least a portion of the wall has a tambour configuration, facilitating bending or rolling of the wall beneath the base. The apparatus includes an assembly for injecting a rinse liquid into the chamber. The method includes placing a semiconductor wafer into a rinse/dry apparatus, directing rinse liquid over the semiconductor wafer, and lowering a side wall of the rinse/dry apparatus to remove rinse liquid therefrom. The apparatus also includes an assembly for injecting a drying fluid into the chamber.

Abstract: A new device is provided for controlling and maintaining the ambient air temperature within a remote telecommunications battery enclosure. A thermoelectric device located in intimate contact with heat exchangers and fans configured such that at least one heat exchanger is positioned within or spaced in thermal communication with the interior of the battery enclosure, and at least one heat exchanger is positioned outside of or spaced in thermal communication with a thermal dissipation arrangement exterior to the battery enclosure. The system further has a sensor or microprocessor connected to the thermoelectric device and configured to control the system to heat or cool the battery enclosure by responsively reversing polarity of the thermoelectric device as indicated by ambient air temperature or battery temperature to maintain the air temperature within predetermined limitations. A hydrogen vent is provided to maintain sub lower explosive levels of hydrogen gas within the battery enclosure.

Abstract: A flow control valve has a housing having a fluid inlet at one fitting end and fluid outlet at another fitting end, and a control body supported within the housing by support structure bridging between the control body and the housing such that for flow of fluid through the valve from the inlet to the outlet is along fluid paths symmetric with respect to an axis of the control body, the control body and support structure being streamlined so as not to interfere substantially with flow. At least one valve member is carried by the control body in an orientation for being shifted by driven movement along the axis relatively toward and away from the fitting end for control of fluid passing through the fitting end in response to an actuator within the control body. At least one port extends through the support structure for communicating with the actuator and providing for control of the actuator.

Abstract: The present invention provides an axially-rotated valve which permits increased flow rates and lower pressure drop (characterized by a lower loss coefficient) by using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. The axially-rotated valve typically may be designed to avoid flow separation and/or cavitation at full flow under a variety of conditions. Similarly, the valve is designed, in some embodiments, to produce streamlined flow within the valve. A typical cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be non-axisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity using the design of the present invention. Such a design can include applications for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves and may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation.

Abstract: A sliding ring non-return valve primarily for use with an injection molding machine utilizes a frame having cut therein one or more longitudinal grooves. Material flows around the outer edge of a flange surface, into an inlet area, and through the longitudinal grooves in the frame's outer surface before entering an accumulation volume. A ring, dimensioned to fit slidably around the frame, blocks material flow into the grooves while in an upstream position and allows material to pass through the grooves while in a downstream position. In an alternative embodiment, the non-return valve utilizes a frame that surrounds a central passage accessed by inlets. The outlet passage is located downstream of said inlet and connects the central passage with an accumulation volume. A ring is dimensioned to slidably fit around the frame. A flange surface limits the ring's upstream travel, while grooves in the flange surface throttle, or limit, material flow into the inlet area.

Abstract: A sewage system comprising a network of sewage sumps that temporarily store sewage produced in a dwelling or other structure, each of said sumps preferably comprising a computer controller for operating a pump in the sump such that the sewage collected in the sump may be pumped out of the sump and into the collection system in a controlled manner to regulate the flow of sewage material in the system. The regulation of the sewage flow permits the efficient operation of a sewage treatment facility that receives sewage from the network of sewage sumps by insulating the facility from the peak burdens that would be placed on it at certain times of day in the absence of a system that regulates sewage flow into the system at the source of the sewage.

Abstract: A four port reversing valve for a reversible-cycle refrigeration system having a compressor is constructed with the reversing valve having a first inlet port adapted to be connected to the compressor and second, third, and fourth ports. The four port reversing valve is further provided with a valve member operable between first and second positions. The valve member in its first position connects the first inlet port with the second port and the third port with the fourth port, and the valve member in its second position connects the first inlet port with the fourth port, and the second port with the third ports. The second and third ports and the third and fourth ports are arranged so that the angle between the ports is about 135°. In one embodiment the valve member rotates, and in another it translates linearly. Several means are disclosed for actuating the valve member.

Abstract: A pipe bend for a pipeline for transporting abrasive materials, includes a pair of coupling collars having an outer ring, which has an outer circumferential anchoring groove, and an inner ring secured in the outer ring against axial displacement and made of a more wear-resistant material than the outer ring. Extending between the coupling collars is an arcuate outer pipe portion which is welded at both its ends to the outer rings of the coupling collars, and has a greater inner diameter than the outer rings. Extending at a radial distance to the outer pipe portion between the inner rings of the coupling collars is an arcuate inner pipe portion made of more wear-resistant material than the outer pipe portion and having opposite ends of an inner cross section in coaxial alignment to an inner cross section of the inner rings, for radial support upon the outer pipe portion.

Abstract: A corrosion resistant multi-layer tube comprises a metal tube; a zinc layer bonded to the metal tube outer surface; a surface treatment layer bonded to the zinc layer; a priming layer; a first polymeric layer bonded to the priming layer; a second polymeric layer bonded to the first polymeric layer. A process for manufacturing the tube comprises the step of extruding multiple layers of a melt-processible thermoplastic to a pretreated metal tube having an external surface with at least a zinc based coating, a sealant coating on top of the zinc based coating, and a primer coating on top of the sealant coating. The primer coating is preferably applied by an airless spray system in a closed atmosphere, wherein substantially no volatile organic compounds escape into the atmosphere. The polymeric layer(s) remain adhered to the metal tube, even when exposed for prolonged periods to aggressively corrosive environments.

Abstract: A valve arrangement of a loom includes valve modules held between flange plates and sharing a common inlet feeding into a common inner valve space. A valve outlet of each valve module leads to an insertion nozzle or nozzle group, and is controlled by a valve disk actuated by a piezoelectric actuator to rapidly dynamically adjust the pressure profile. A quality parameter, characteristic of the thread insertion flight time of each weft thread, is stored in a data bank and has a nominal pressure profile for achieving a nominal thread flight time allocated thereto. The actual thread flight time of each weft thread is measured and compared with the stored nominal thread flight time. A control signal responsive to the time difference is provided to the valve arrangement to control the piezoelectric actuator so as to adjust the pressure and/or the quantity of the pressure medium provided through the valve module to the connected insertion nozzle.

Abstract: A secondary containment cap apparatus is provided for securing to a primary container containing a hazardous fluid, the primary container having a primary container wall with a primary container hazardous fluid passing port and a primary container wall exterior surface, the secondary containment cap apparatus including a cap wall defining a concave cap interior and a cap abutment port, the cap abutment port having a cap port rim, the cap abutment port and cap port rim being configured to fit closely against and follow the primary container wall in sealing relation with the primary container wall exterior surface and thereby to enclose a region of the primary container wall exterior surface to provide secondary containment over the region of the primary container wall exterior surface; a mechanism for controlled release of the fluid through the cap wall; and a mechanism for securing the cap wall to the primary container so that the cap port rim sealingly abuts the primary container wall exterior surface, such

Abstract: A filling nozzle with interception of supply liquids for filling machines, alignable with a container to be filled by liquid, comprising a shutter member (21) and an opening (18) in a hollow body (16), wherein the hollow body (16) is associated on the upper side with a supply system (12) for a liquid to be delivered into the container, the hollow body (16) being displaceable at least between an engaging position, wherein its opening (18) is closed by the shutter member (21), and a disengaging position, wherein the opening (21) is open and the liquid flows into the container, control members (33, 35, 36) being provided for the displacement of the hollow body (16).

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a filler neck of a vehicle includes a filler neck access door adapted to be coupled to a side wall of the vehicle, a filler neck closure that is adapted to be coupled to an open mouth of the filler neck to close the open mouth and includes a first seal configured to block fuel and fuel vapor from flowing from the filler neck to atmosphere, and a cover configured to cover the filler neck closure upon closure of the filler neck access door. The cover includes a second seal and a seal support coupled to the second seal and the filler neck access door. The seal support yieldably biases the second seal into engagement with the filler neck closure upon closure of the filler neck access door.

Abstract: A proximal end of a coolant nozzle is inserted into a large-diameter portion provided at an end of a shaft's coolant passage. The coolant nozzle is urged toward the distal end thereof, by a coil spring, and is prevented from coming out, by a stopper screw. Provided at the distal end face of the coolant nozzle is an O-ring, as a sealing member, that contacts to the periphery of an opening to a coolant passage of a tool holder. The O-ring may be easily replaced because the O-ring can be removed together with the coolant nozzle after the removal of the stopper screw.

Abstract: A wood product includes a composite substrate, such as LVL, that includes treated paper wrapped around and glued to the substrate. The paper seals both the face and the edges of the substrate. As a result, in the case of an LVL substrate, the veneer edges, which are less finished and moisture resistant than the face, are sealed.

Abstract: A flux-containing composition for brazing aluminum comprising:

Abstract: Method of making a grain oriented electromagnetic steel sheet having excellent magnetic properties, by a series of steps ranging from hot rolling to final finishing annealing for a silicon steel slab containing from about 0.001 to 0.07 wt % bismuth, wherein the average cooling rate for about five seconds measured immediately after the end of hot rolling is controlled within a range of from about 30 to 120° C./second; the value of the ratio PH2O/PH2 of the atmosphere for the soaking step in decarburization annealing is adjusted within a range of from about 0.45 to 0.70; and a treatment is provided for inhibiting decomposition of the surface inhibitor during final finishing annealing.

Abstract: An Al—Mg—Si—Cu aluminum alloy plate excelling in strength and formability and exhibiting improved filiform corrosion resistance which is suitably used for automotive body panels. The aluminum alloy plate contains 0.25-0.6% of Mg (mass %, hereinafter the same), 0.9-1.1% of Si, 0.6-1.0% of Cu, and at least one of 0.20% or less of Mn and 0.10% or less of Cr, with the balance consisting of Al and impurities, wherein the number of Q phases (Cu—Mg—Si—Al phases) with a size of 2 &mgr;m or more in diameter present in a matrix is 150 per mm2 or more. The aluminum alloy plate is fabricated by homogenizing an ingot of an aluminum alloy having the above composition at 530° C. or more, cooling the ingot to 450° C. or less at a cooling rate of 30° C./hour or less, hot-rolling the ingot, cold-rolling the hot-rolled product, and providing the cold-rolled product with a solution heat treatment.

Abstract: A die cast article such is composed of nickel base superaloy IN 718 is disclosed. The microstructure is characterized by an absence of flowlines and includes a fine average grain size, e.g., ASTM 3 or smaller. Exemplary articles include gas turbine engine components, such as blades, vanes, cases and seals.

Abstract: The present invention describes an ultra-low carbon bake hardenable galvanized or galvannealed steel product, having a higher yield strength at the temperature of the molten zinc bath while maintaining a low yield strength and excellent bake hardening properties in a skinpassed condition, BH0 being higher than 35 MPa and BH2 higher than 40 MPa (GI) and BH0>20 MPa and BH2>30 MPa (GA), as well as having a superior paint appearance after stamping and painting. The content in the steel composition of the Ti is comprised between 3,42 N and 3,42 N+60 ppm for a fixed nitrogen content (N), and the Nb-content, comprised between 50 ppm and 100 ppm, is fixed so that no substantial precipitation of niobium carbides will occur during the process.

Abstract: A material for manufacturing containers to hold metallic melts, such as a crucible for melting and remelting installations, which has both favorable thermomechanical properties as well as outstanding weldability. The material is a copper alloy in the non-hardened condition, consisting of 0.2 to 1.5% nickel, 0.002 to 0.12% of at least one element of the group including phosphorus, aluminum, manganese, lithium, calcium, silicon and boron, the balance being copper and impurities resulting from the production process. For a targeted increase in strength, the copper alloy can also contain up to 0.3% zirconium.

Abstract: A vehicle tire comprises a central tread portion divided into central blocks B0 by central oblique grooves (g); a lateral tread portion divided into four kinds of blocks B1, B2, B3 and B4 by first and second oblique grooves (ga and gb) extending from a circumferential groove (G) to a tread edge, and cross oblique grooves (gc) extending between the first oblique grooves (ga1) while crossing the second oblique groove (gb); the central oblique grooves (g) and the cross oblique grooves (gc) inclined reversely to the first and second oblique grooves (ga and gb); the number of each of the first to fourth lateral blocks B1 to B4 in each of the lateral land portions being equal to the number of the central blocks B0; and each of the first oblique grooves (ga) and two of the cross oblique grooves (gc) meeting with at axially different positions (P1 and P2).

Abstract: A tire having a tread comprises a central raised rib having first and second lateral edges and extends about the tire and in generally circumferential manner. The central raised rib is substantially disposed on an equatorial plane of the tire. A plurality of transverse raised ribs has first and second radial edges and is axially disposed along a tread section width. Each of said transverse raised ribs is substantially V-shaped and connected to central raised rib.

Abstract: A tread for motor-vehicle tires has a raised pattern formed of a plurality of shaped blocks 7 distributed in circumferential rows 3, 4, 5, 6 disposed in parallel and in side by side relation. The number of the shaped blocks 7 arranged in each row gradually increases while moving from the equatorial plane X-X to the axial outer side edges 1a of the tread 1. Thus a gradual increase in the longitudinal stiffness of the shaped blocks 7 is achieved on passing from the side edges 1a of the tread 1 to the equatorial plane X-X, which brings about a reduction in the mobility of said blocks on the road contact patch and lower rolling noise.

Abstract: An aircraft tire, having a radial carcass reinforcement surmounted radially to the outside by a crown reinforcement and a tread, said crown reinforcement including:

Abstract: The method and the device of the present invention are capable of uniformly using whole surface of a carrying plate, improving the polishing accuracy of wafers and extending span of life of the carrying plate. The method of adhering a plurality of wafers onto a surface of a carrying plate with predetermined spaces is characterized by regularly shifting wafer adhering positions, at which the wafers are respectively adhered, with respect to a standard position of the carrying plate, in the surface of the carrying plate. The wafer adhering position is regularly shifted when the carrying plate is exchanged or predetermined time elapses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly including a pouch, a product filled in the pouch, and a fitment that is applied to the pouch through the method of ultrasonic sealing. The pouch may be produced without any fitment or opening device and completely sealed after the filling. The fitment may be applied through the method of ultrasonic sealing after the filling and sealing of the pouch. The pouch may include a film material specially treated on the inside surface through the addition of a special lacquer or film layer to avoid a sealing at this position. The fitment includes one or more of any thermoplastic polymer, or a special blended polymer, such as metallocene.

Abstract: A device for gluing together two disc halves which are each provided with a central hole, to produce a disc, for example an optical data carrier, such as a DVD, comprises a rotatable carrier provided with a mandrel on which the disc halves can be accommodated, in such a manner that the mandrel fits through their central holes. Furthermore, there is a light radiation source which emits a light beam which can be displaced in the radial direction with respect to the mandrel.

Abstract: A tread band applicator device is provided for building a tread band on a tire carcass and includes a press applicator head for applying a tread band raw material mass onto the tire carcass as the tire carcass is rotated. The press applicator head is movable along the direction of the axis of rotation of the tire carcass in correspondence with the curvature of the outer surface of the tire carcass and is operable to apply the tread band raw material in a width which is less than the width of the tire carcass.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a plastic liner for use in containers which are typically used in the meat packing industry to hold the meat portion of an animal carcass after it has been subjected to a slaughtering process. The liner is designed so that its bottom seal is able to withstand the stress placed thereupon by accumulation of blood and other liquids from the meat. In other words, the bottom seal is a leak-proof seal due to it having a substantially uniform thickness.

Abstract: A method for bonding heat sinks to packaged electronic components comprises the steps of: (a) exposing to a plasma a surface of a molded polymer formed on a substrate; (b) allowing the plasma to at least partially convert silicon-containing residue on the surface to silica; and (c) bonding an article to the surface by applying an adherent between the article and the surface. Often, the silicon-containing residue is silicone oil, a mold release compound, which may prevent the formation of a bond when using conventional bonding methods and materials. The silica layer formed on the surface of the molded polymer assists in formation of a proper bond. The plasma may be an oxygen plasma and the adherent may be selected from either a heat cured silicone-based paste adhesive with a metal oxide filler or a heat cured porous polymer film impregnated with adhesive.