Patents Issued in January 2, 2003
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Publication number: 20030000451Abstract: A thermal indicator for indicating a specified temperature range of a liquid container within a beverage container. The thermal indicator is constructed of a thermochromic material and affixed to an inner wall of the beverage container. The thermal indicator senses the temperature of the liquid. The thermal indicator changes color upon sensing a selected temperature. The thermal indicator protrudes above the rim of the beverage container to provide an indication to a beverage drinker.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Iris Y. Wilcox
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Publication number: 20030000452Abstract: A rotatable dial, with first and second windows, mounted on top of a container closure cap; imprinted first set of information on top of the cap positioned to be sequentially viewable throughout its entire range through the first window upon indexed rotation of the dial; imprinted second set of information on top of the cap positioned to be sequentially viewable throughout its entire range through the second window when the first window is set to view a bit of the first set of information; and the second set of information is dependently related to the first set of information.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: David B. Zamjahn
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Publication number: 20030000453Abstract: An optical element and a manufacturing method therefor, an exposure apparatus, and a device manufacturing method that can reduce the effect of intrinsic birefringence under high NA conditions. According to an optical element as one aspect of the present invention, an angle between a [0 0 1] axis of an isometric crystal and an optical axis is less than 10°, and preferably 0°.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Yasuyuki Unno, Seiji Takeuchi
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Publication number: 20030000454Abstract: A method makes photodiodes by forming a HgCdTe protective, passivation layer with high Cd composition ratio on a HgCdTe semiconductor made of Group II-VI materials. The passivation layer is formed in a Cd/Hg mixed atmosphere via an annealing process wherein vaporized Cd is diffused onto the HgCdTe surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Sang-Hee Suh, Jin-Sang Kim
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Publication number: 20030000455Abstract: A method is provided for maintaining a planar surface as crystal grains are laterally grown in the fabrication of crystallized silicon films. The method comprises: forming a film of amorphous silicon with a surface and a plurality of areas; irradiating each adjacent areas of the silicon film with a first sequence of laser pulses; and, in response to the first sequence of laser pulses, controlling the planarization of the silicon film surface between adjacent areas of the silicon film as the crystal grains are laterally grown. By controlling the number of laser pulses in the sequence, the temporal separation between pulses, and the relative intensity of the pulses, the lateral growth length characteristics of the crystal grains can be traded against the silicon film flatness. A silicon film formed by a pulsed laser sequence crystallization process is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Apostolos Voutsas
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Publication number: 20030000456Abstract: The present invention has the following objectives:Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Alexandre M. Mayolet, Michael A. Pell
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Publication number: 20030000457Abstract: A cleaned pulling room installed with a plurality of single crystal pulling apparatuses, having a plurality of operation floors and supplied with clean air as a down flow from a ceiling or an upper position neighboring the ceiling, wherein at least three operation floors are provided depending on degrees of cleanness required for operations performed on each of the floors. Thus, there is provided a pulling room that can separate dusting operations such as operations of dismantlement and cleaning of the furnace body and structural members in the furnace body and operations requiring highly clean environment such as charging of raw material into the furnace body as preparation for starting running of the pulling apparatuses, and can secure safety of the operations even when the pulling apparatuses become larger.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Michiaki Oda, Kazuya Nakagawa, Hideaki Matsushima, Hidetoshi Seki, Toshiro Hayashi
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Publication number: 20030000458Abstract: Quartz member such as a quartz tube for semiconductor manufacturing equipment capable of heat treating a substrate to be treated without causing contamination, a manufacturing method of such quartz member, thermal treatment equipment furnished with such quartz member, and an analysis method of metal in quartz member are provided. A quartz specimen is immersed in hydrofluoric acid to expose a layer to be analyzed located at a prescribed depth. On an exposed surface, a decomposition liquid such as hydrofluoric acid or nitric acid is dripped to decompose only an extremely thin layer to be analyzed, followed by recovering of the decomposition liquid. The decomposition liquid is quantitatively analyzed by use of atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) or the like to measure an amount of metal contained in the decomposition liquid. From a difference of thicknesses before and after the decomposition and an area of dripped decomposition liquid, a volume of a decomposed layer to be analyzed is obtained.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Yoshinori Marumo, Kaname Suzuki, Teruyuki Hayashi, Takashi Tanahashi
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Publication number: 20030000459Abstract: A process chamber used in the manufacture of a semiconductor device for etching a material layer on a semiconductor wafer includes an electrostatic chuck for holding the semiconductor wafer, and an annular edge ring which surrounds the side of the semiconductor wafer on the electrostatic chuck to prevent the semiconductor wafer from departing from its original position. The annular edge ring has a first side which faces the side of the semiconductor wafer and contacts firmly with the side of the semiconductor wafer.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Jeong-hyuck Park, Hee-duk Kim, Jung-hun Cho, Jong-wook Choi, Sung-bum Cho, Young-koo Lee, Jin-sung Kim, Jang-eun Lee, Ju-hyuck Chung, Sun-hoo Park, Jae-hyun Lee, Shin-woo Nam
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Publication number: 20030000460Abstract: An improved seasoning system 10, 11, 13 uniformly coats a food product with the desired amount of seasoning, with the seasoning rate preferably being controlled as a function of the product volume signals from the sensors 26, 34, 108 and 110. The seasoning system preferably utilizes linear motion conveyors and either a rotating drum 36 or a deflector 98 and a second seasoning unit 112, 114 between linear conveyors 94, 96. Oil may be sprayed onto food products and tumbled in a drum 16 which both rotates and moves in a reciprocating manner with the conveyor tray 14. An improved seasoning tray 123, 144, 148 has a planar floor 122, 138, 162 with an angled discharge edge 124, 137, 182 for uniformly distributing seasoning on the product. The seasoning system minimizes damage to the food product and uniformly coats the product with a desired amount of seasoning.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: David I. Burke, Jonny Fitzgerald, Thomas G. Knodell, Kenneth C. Petri, P. Blake Svejkovsky, Paul S. Svejkovsky
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Publication number: 20030000461Abstract: The automated system includes a fluid dispenser having an applicator tip which is used to apply a fluid to an object. A compliance mechanism is utilized to assist in maintaining the applicator tip of the fluid dispenser in contact with the object during the coating operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Wallace F. Krueger
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Publication number: 20030000462Abstract: A dispensing system and method for dispensing material onto a substrate. The dispensing system includes a frame, a support, coupled to the frame, that supports the substrate at a dispensing position in the dispensing system, and a dispensing head, coupled to the frame, that dispenses the material onto the substrate. The dispensing head includes a motor unit having a first motor coupled to an output drive mechanism, and a dispensing unit, removably coupled to the motor unit, having a material outlet from which the dispensing material is dispensed, the dispensing unit having a dispensing mechanism coupled to the material outlet and coupled to the output drive mechanism of the motor unit such that operation of the first motor causes the dispensing mechanism to dispense material through the outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Thomas C. Prentice, Brian P. Prescott, Kenneth C. Crouch, Murray D. Scott
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Publication number: 20030000463Abstract: A paint injector for digital printing in which paint is deposited in metered amounts on a print medium comprises a wheel rotatable by a shaft of a motor, an idler disposed in a paint reservoir, and an endless cable disposed around the wheel and the idler. The motor is preferably computer controlled such that the rotation of the wheel and thus movement of the cable is selectively controlled. As the wheel is rotated, paint contained within the paint reservoir coats the cable and is thus drawn by the cable in front of an air stream. The air stream pulls the paint from the cable and carries it toward the print medium. By employing a plurality of such paint injectors into a single print head, each containing a different color of paint, and secured to a computer controlled, movable carriage positioned over the print medium, a digital image can be painted by the print head on the print medium.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Dean Robert Gary Anderson
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Publication number: 20030000464Abstract: An application head 11 for the contact-free application of hot-melt adhesive to a width of material 22, having a housing 12, having a control slide chamber 20 in the housing 12, in which control slide chamber a cylinder control slide 13 is supported so as to be rotatingly drivable, having at least one supply aperture for introducing an adhesive into the control slide chamber 20, and having a slotted nozzle 18 for releasing the adhesive, which slotted nozzle is controllable by the cylinder control slide 13 and extends transversely to the direction of movement of the width of material 22.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Wolfgang Puffe
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Publication number: 20030000465Abstract: An application device for applying an application medium to at least one side of a moving product web, the web having a running direction. The application device includes at least one roll supporting the web, at least one pocket between at least one roll and at least one side, at least one pocket having a size and a shape, at least one feed apparatus including a metering element, the metering element having at least one discharge nozzle projecting into at least one pocket and at least one application chamber designed into the metering element, at least one discharge nozzle discharging the application medium onto the web in a first direction and proximate to at least one application chamber, the first direction approximately orthogonal to the running direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Kurt Eichinger
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Publication number: 20030000466Abstract: The invention relates to an intermediate component for protecting hangers associated with electrostatic coating processes. The component is an electrically conductive, pliable, tubular member, and inexpensive relative to the hanger which it serves to protect. The component lessens the cost associated with traditional hanger cleaning and preserves hanger life and integrity. The tubular member may have a longitudinal slit for installing the member over a cross bar of a hanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Charles R. DeWent
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Publication number: 20030000467Abstract: An apparatus forms a diamond film from a microwave plasma by controlling a manufacturing condition based on a spectroscopic measurement of the plasma light emission to obtain a large area of a high-quality diamond film. Using the apparatus, a gas mixture of hydrocarbon gas and hydrogen gas is introduced into a reactor, where the gas mixture is excited by microwave energy which is also introduced into the reactor to generate a plasma, and the light emitted from the plasma is spectroscopically measured using a spectroscope. Furthermore, a formation condition of the diamond film is controlled such that the spectrum of a carbon molecule (C2) falls within a predetermined range of requirement. A carbon molecule vibration temperature is determined from the spectrum, and the formation condition, such as the microwave input power, the reactor pressure, or the gas flow rate, is controlled so that the determined vibration temperature falls within a specified range, especially 2000 to 2800 K.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kiichi Meguro, Takashi Matsuura, Takahiro Imai
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Publication number: 20030000468Abstract: A factory interface for a multiple chamber semiconductor wafer processing cluster tool having a K-wafer load-lock (KWLL). The KWLL comprises a variable number of K+1 wafer slots assigned as inbound and outbound slots. Inbound slots are used to send up to K+1 wafers into the cluster tool and the same slots, denoted as outbound slots, are used for receiving up to K+1 wafers from the cluster tool. The K+1 slots are in the same volume that has to be pumped for wafers to enter the tool and vented for wafers that to leave the tool. These K+1 slots accommodate up to K wafers when accessed by a single blade robots from the tool or the factory interface, and up to K+1 wafers when the tool and factory interface are equipped with dual blade robots. Various KWLL loading methods can be selected to optimize the throughput of a wafer processing system using the KWLL. Such methods include wafer packing, reactive and gamma tolerant methods.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Dusan Jevtic, Raja Sunkara
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Publication number: 20030000469Abstract: A chemical enhancer (CE) treatment chamber and a Cu thin film deposition apparatus for a semiconductor device, wherein the CE treatment chamber includes a CE supplying line, a gas supplying line attached to the surface of the CE supplying line, a first showerhead connected to the CE supplying line and the gas supplying line, a second showerhead attached on a lower portion of the first showerhead, a showerhead injector attached to the lower portion of the second showerhead, a nozzle attached on a lower portion of the showerhead injector, having a plurality of holes, an edge beta sealing device, a heating device attached to the lower portion of the wafer, and a motion compensator for minimizing a gap formed between the first and second showerheads and the wafer due to the motions of the first and second showerheads.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Sung Gyu Pyo
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Publication number: 20030000470Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for forming a desired gas atmosphere in an inner space of a casing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Setsuji Shinoda, Toshiharu Nakazawa, Nobuharu Noji, Shunichi Aiyoshizawa
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Publication number: 20030000471Abstract: The present invention provides a thin film deposition apparatus that prevent a wafer from the thermal budget so as to form a thin film without any damages. The thin film deposition apparatus includes a chamber where a wafer is loaded; a gas supplier containing a plurality of gases, the gas supplier connected with the chamber through at least a gas inflow pipe so as to supplying the plurality of gases into the chamber; an airtight reaction room in the chamber where the plurality of gases are reaction with one another so as to form a thin film on the wafer; and a gas pre-treatment device in the gas supplier, the gas pre-treatment device thermal-treating at least one of the plurality of gases at a temperature in the range of more than 300 to less than 2000 degrees centigrade; wherein the gas pre-treatment device is connected to at least a connecting pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Soo-Sik Yoon, Seung-Dong Kang, Yu-Dong Lim, Yong-Kyu Lee
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Publication number: 20030000472Abstract: A vacuum plate for a fabricating apparatus of a semiconductor device, the vacuum plate includes: a first vacuum panel having a plurality of exhaust holes, the plurality of exhaust holes having same area and same distance from a center of the first vacuum panel, the plurality of exhaust holes being symmetrical and spaced apart from each other; and a second vacuum panel having a sidewall, a pumping hole and an air-load block, the sidewall being vertically protruded along an edge of the second vacuum panel, the air-load block being vertically protruded and symmetrical, a bottom surface of the first vacuum panel contacting a top surface of the sidewall and a top surface of the air-load block, thereby the first and second vacuum panels being combined.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Yu-Dong Lim, Seung-Hoon Lee, Hae-Jin Park
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Publication number: 20030000473Abstract: A method of delivering two or more mutually-reactive reaction gases when a predetermined film is deposited on a substrate, and a shower head used in the gas delivery method, function to increase the film deposition rate while preventing formation of contaminating particles. In this method, one reaction gas is delivered toward the edge of the substrate, and the other reaction gases are delivered toward the central portion of the substrate, each of the reaction gases being delivered via an independent gas outlet to prevent the reaction gases from being mixed. In the shower head, separate passages are provided to prevent the first reaction gas from mixing with the other reaction gases by delivering the first reaction gas from outlets formed around the edge of the bottom surface of the shower head. The other reaction gases are delivered from outlets formed in the central portion of the bottom surface of the shower head.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Yun-Sook Chae, In-Sang Jeon, Sang-Bom Kang, Sang-In Lee, Kyu-Wan Ryu
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Publication number: 20030000474Abstract: A method of physical vapor deposition includes selecting a target material; mixing at least two gases to form a sputtering gas mixture, wherein a first sputtering gas is helium and a second sputtering gas is taken from the gases consisting of neon, argon krypton, xenon and radon; forming a plasma in the sputtering gas mixture atmosphere to sputter atoms from the target material to the substrate thereby forming a layer of target material on the substrate; and annealing the substrate and the deposited layer thereon. An improved physical vapor deposition vacuum chamber includes a target held in a target holder, a substrate held in a substrate holder, a plasma arc generator, and heating rods. A sputtering gas feed system is provided for introducing a mixture of sputtering gases into the chamber; as is a vacuum mechanism comprising at least one turbomolecular pump for evacuating the chamber to a pressure of less than 16 mTorr during deposition.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Apostolos Voutsas, Yukihiko Nakata
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Publication number: 20030000475Abstract: A method of physical vapor deposition includes selecting a target material; mixing at least two gases to form a sputtering gas mixture, wherein a first sputtering gas is helium and a second sputtering gas is taken from the gases consisting of neon, argon krypton, xenon and radon; forming a plasma in the sputtering gas mixture atmosphere to sputter atoms from the target material to the substrate thereby forming a layer of target material on the substrate; and annealing the substrate and the deposited layer thereon. An improved physical vapor deposition vacuum chamber includes a target held in a target holder, a substrate held in a substrate holder, a plasma arc generator, and heating rods. A sputtering gas feed system is provided for introducing a mixture of sputtering gases into the chamber; as is a vacuum mechanism comprising at least one turbomolecular pump for evacuating the chamber to a pressure of less than 16 mTorr during deposition.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Apostolos Voutsas, Yukihiko Nakata
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Publication number: 20030000476Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus includes a process chamber, a sealed chamber arranged, a movable member disposed inside the sealed chamber, an extendable/contractible structure having a first and a second extendable/contractible member respectively disposed on both opposing sides of the movable member, and a driving mechanism, disposed in the extendable/contractible structure, for driving the movable member. The driving mechanism is isolated from an inner surface of the sealed chamber. The interiors of the first and the second extendable/contractible member communicate with an exterior of the sealed chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: Hitachi Kokusai Electric Inc.Inventors: Tatsuhisa Matsunaga, Hiroshi Sekiyama
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Publication number: 20030000477Abstract: A method is provided for improving the flavor, tenderness and/or consumer acceptability of the meat of domestic fowl. The method includes feeding low levels of long chain omega-3 and/or omega-6 HUFAs to the fowl, preferably during the later stages of the production cycle. The method can also result in improved nutrition value in the meat of the fowl.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Jesus Ruben Abril
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Publication number: 20030000478Abstract: A device for indicating the presence of an electrical path on a pet accessory includes a first contact disposed on a probe, and a second contact disposed in a spaced apart arrangement relative to the first contact. An activation device is responsive to the presence of an electrical path or lack thereof between the first and second contacts. The activation device provides an indication of the state of the electrical path between the first and second contacts. The device preferably includes a pet dish and the probe extends into the dish to indicate a desired level for liquid in the dish, and the indication of state is performed by at least one of an audio message, a visual effect and a mechanical motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Kris Lynch
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Publication number: 20030000479Abstract: This invention is an automated livestock counting system utilizing a computer-controlled transponder interrogating RFID eartags to display to determine and display a highwater mark of initial occurrences each 24 hours. As counting livestock or other entities is it's only function, a uniquely written program is the core of the invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Jerry L. Starr
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Publication number: 20030000480Abstract: An aquatic habitat made up of thin walled, symmetrically spaced plastic tubes vertically projecting from a thick walled base. The length of the tubes are pre-determined by the size of the base. Weep holes at the bottom of the tubes and between the tubes allow air to escape during installation into the marine environment. The vertical tubes, by design, act as a rudder to right the structure during its descent to the marine floor, thus allowing the installer to install the structure from above the waters surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Jeffrey Dale Jenkins
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Publication number: 20030000481Abstract: The head gate element comprises a frame (1), a movable bar (10) able to adopt three positions—open (O), closed (F) or released (D)—and receiving a locking fork joint (11), and a control bar (13) intended for locking the movable bar in the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Jose Fornes
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Publication number: 20030000482Abstract: A veterinary bathing station for washing animals is shown which includes a stall having a bottom wall and enclosing sidewalls. One of the sidewalls has a door opening for ingress and egress of an animal to be bathed or groomed. A ramp is connected to the stall bottom wall by a rotatable coupling and can be rotated between a retracted and extended positions which allow the ramp to easily rotate in and out of the open space created under the bottom wall of the washing stall to thereby allow the animal ingress and egress through the wall opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Richard Batterton
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Publication number: 20030000483Abstract: A cat scratching post design that incorporates a clamping mechanism for secure and stable attachment to a receiving object like a doorjamb. A resilient main superstructure has an adhesive interface that provides a means for securing a surface material that is appropriate for cats to scratch or climb. A user of the scratching post can either pry open the superstructure and clamp it onto a receiving object, or use a mechanical clamping device that can be incorporated into the design to provide a secure and stable means of attachment. The device is an improvement over other scratching posts in terms of its space saving implications, as virtually no floor area is required for application. No base is required to stabilize the device; stability is derived from the receiving object combined with the clamping force provided by the scratching post itself. A detachable base element may be incorporated for freestanding use.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Jason Bernard Haber
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Publication number: 20030000484Abstract: A gas-fired water heater has a combustion chamber with a bottom wall defined by a perforated flame arrestor plate forming a portion of a flow path through which combustion air may be supplied to a burner structure within the combustion chamber. During firing of the water heater a combustion air shutoff system having a heat-frangible temperature sensing structure disposed within the combustion chamber senses an undesirable temperature increase in the combustion chamber, caused by for example a partial blockage of the flow path, and responsively terminates further air flow into the combustion chamber, thereby shutting down the burner, prior to the creation in the combustion chamber of a predetermined elevated concentration of carbon monoxide.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Gordon W. Stretch, Bruce A. Hotton, John H. Scanlon, Gary A. Elder, James T. Campbell, Larry D. Kidd, Eric M. Lannes, James M. Martin, James W. Mears, Thomas E. Archibald
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Publication number: 20030000485Abstract: A method of controlling an engine-operating-characteristic changing device operable between a first and a second operating state and including a locking device for locking the changing device in the first operating state in which a compression ratio of an intake air of an internal combustion engine is maintained at a value higher than that in the second operating state, the method including steps of determining whether there is a possibility that the engine-operating-characteristic changing device is locked in the first operating state by the locking device, where the changing device should not be placed in the first operating state, and if it is determined that there is the possibility, implementing a preventive operation to prevent the locking unit from locking the changing device in the first operating state.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Mamoru Tomatsuri, Toshifumi Takaoka, Naoto Suzuki
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Publication number: 20030000486Abstract: A temperature regulator includes at least one electrically conductive carbon foam element. The foam element includes at least two locations adapted for receiving electrical connectors thereto for heating a fluid, such as engine oil. A combustion engine includes an engine block and at least one carbon foam element, the foam element extending into the engine block or disposed in thermal contact with at least one engine fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Ronald D. Ott, April D. McMillan, Ashok Choudhury
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Publication number: 20030000487Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (10) for cooling an internal combustion engine (11), preferably a 4-cylinder in-line engine, having coolant connections (13, 13′, 14, 14′; 17, 17′-24, 24′) to a cooling loop, the coolant connections being connected to at least one cooling jacket region (12′, 12″, 12′″) of the engine (11). The invention provides that as the coolant connections, a group of inflow lines (17-24) and outflow lines (17′-24′), paired with one another, is provided, and each pair of inflow and outflow lines, because of its respective flow direction, defines a flow path, and each cylinder (15, 15′, 15″, 15′″) is assigned at least one flow path supplying it. The flow directions of these flow paths extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the crankshaft defined by the in-line arrangement of individual cylinders (15, 15, 15″, 15′″).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Manfred Schmitt
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Publication number: 20030000488Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for operating a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine having gas exchange valves which are variably adjustable with respect to the valve opening characteristics either directly electromag-netically or by means of an electrohydraulic valve actuation system which includes several electromagnetic valves. For adaptation of all gas exchange valves to a desired valve opening characteristics, the electromagnetic valves are operated cylinder-selectively in the operation of the internal combustion engine by means of variable actuating voltages and/or actuating currents.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Jochen Burgdorf, Bernhard Giers, Peter Volz
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Publication number: 20030000489Abstract: A control unit employed in a variable valve timing apparatus vibrates a control signal for controlling an oil-pressure control valve. If the vibration center of the duty value of the control signal for driving the oil-pressure control valve lies in a dead band, the vibration takes the duty value to the outside of the dead center temporarily. Thus, even if the center value of the control signal lies in the dead band, the valve timing of the oil-pressure control valve changes with variations in control signal. As a result, the width of the dead band appears small or to have a value of zero. Accordingly, the response characteristic of variations in valve timing to the variations in control signal is improved. The vibration of the control signal is also effective for detection of a width of the dead band.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Yoshihiro Majima, Jun Hasegawa, Hisashi Iida, Masaomi Inoue, Hideyuki Maeji, Haruyuki Urushihata, Noriaki Iwase
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Publication number: 20030000490Abstract: An engine for a marine drive has a combustion chamber. An engine body of the engine defines an air intake port communicating with the combustion chamber. An air induction device communicates with the air intake port to introduce air to the combustion chamber through the air intake port. The air induction device includes a throttle valve to regulate an amount of the air. An air intake valve moves between an opening position and a closing position of the intake port. A camshaft actuates the intake valve. A VVT mechanism changes an actuating timing of the camshaft at which the camshaft actuates the intake valve. A control device controls the change mechanism. A throttle position sensor, an intake pressure or other sensors sends respective signals to the control device. The control device determines a sudden acceleration state of the engine based upon at least one of the signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Goichi Katayama, Yoshibumi Iwata
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Publication number: 20030000491Abstract: The present invention relates to a variable valve lift system that varies a valve lift in two stages by selectively rigidly engaging a tappet shim.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Jin-Kook Kong
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Publication number: 20030000492Abstract: A hydraulic engine-starting system for cranking and starting an engine for a vehicle having automatically stopping and starting functions by a hydraulic motor. A hydraulic pressure that operates a hydraulic clutch of a transmission is raised promptly by using a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor is driven by a hydraulic pressure supplied thereto through a first oil passage from a hydraulic motor-driving device including an oil pump, an accumulator and a solenoid valve, thereby starting the engine. A transmission is disposed in the middle of a second oil passage for returning an oil discharged from the hydraulic motor to the hydraulic motor-driving device. Thus, the hydraulic pressure in the transmission can be raised simultaneously with the start of the engine to enable the engagement of a hydraulic clutch, thereby starting the vehicle promptly, while avoiding generating a shock from the engagement of the hydraulic clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Ryuichi Mori, Junya Tachikawa, Koichi Fushimi
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Publication number: 20030000493Abstract: A retainer retains a release member for engine valves of an internal combustion engine. The release member causes an engine valve to be actuated depending on various operating conditions of the engine, such as engine speed or oil level. The retainer retains the release member to at least one of a cam lobe and a cam gear. The release member may be substantially L-shaped and centrifugally responsive. Alternatively, the release member may be a substantially U-shaped yoke that at least partially surrounds a cam shaft. The retainer includes a pin that is substantially transverse and non-intersecting to the cam shaft. The pin may be substantially straight and interconnect to bosses that project from the cam gear. Alternatively, the pin may be substantially C-shaped and extend into apertures in the cam gear that extend in the axial direction of the cam gear.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Gary J. Gracyalny, John H. Thiermann
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Publication number: 20030000494Abstract: An internal combustion aircraft engine comprising a cylinder head having a cylindrical head bore formed therein, a piston, and spark plugs, the cylinder head bore and piston designed to reduce engine knock. The cylinder head is fixedly attached to a top end of a cylinder barrel formed with cylindrical walls, the cylinder head bore and the cylindrical walls defining a cylinder. The cylinder head bore has formed therein an outwardly protruding cavity with respect to the top end of the cylinder barrel. The piston has a piston crown, and the piston contained within the cylinder, the piston crown, the cylinder walls, and the cylinder head bore define a combustion chamber. The piston crown has a concavity formed therein, and the piston is constructed and arranged to reciprocate within the cylinder. The concavity of the piston crown and the cavity cooperate at a top dead center position of the piston to form a swirl chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: Textron Lycoming, A division of Avco CorporationInventors: Ken Kremer, Hiroshi Arisawa
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Publication number: 20030000495Abstract: The invention relates to a cover plate (2) for a crankcase (1) of an internal combustion engine. Said cover plate (2) extends over the entire surface area of the crankcase (1). The auxiliary aggregates (6, 7) and filters are mounted on the cover plate (2). In addition, the cover plate (2) comprises channels for guiding media. The invention is advantageous in that it facilitates mounting.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Michael Groddeck, Michael Hartmann, Franz Edmaier, Juergen Giesselmann
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Publication number: 20030000496Abstract: A rotary engine utilizes an expansion chamber and crescent piston to capture the energy of expanding combustion gases through out substantially all of each revolution of the piston. The rotary engine uses a crescent piston, the movement of which is guided by the combined action of a hub having a saddle supporting the piston and a can track. The invention burns fuel in a separate combustion chamber charged from a coaxially mounted compressor and controlled by a pass gate sentry valve. The rotary engine of the invention is cooled by an internal coolant injection system. The coolant solution may contain a alkaline reagent to react with and neutralize acidic components of the combustion gases which would otherwise remain in the exhaust and contribute to air pollution. The rotary engine of the present invention is adaptable to compression ignition fuels and spark ignition fuels. The invention may be constructed of conventional metallic materials as well as composites and ceramics.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventor: Cordell R. Moe
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Publication number: 20030000497Abstract: An integrated intake manifold assembly including a first poppet valve assembly disposed at the air inlet to the manifold to regulate air flow into the manifold; a second poppet valve assembly disposed on the manifold to regulate exhaust gas flow into the air intake system; and a bi-directional camshaft with cams for operating simultaneously the manifold vacuum regulating (MVR) valve and the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. The valve bodies are integrally formed in the wall of the intake manifold. The camshaft is driven by a DC motor and gear train. The cams are arranged on the shaft to provide optimum synchronized opening and closing of the related valves. When used on a diesel engine, the manifold assembly may further include a swirl valve plate disposed between the manifold and the engine head and having a plurality of ganged swirl valves actuated by levers connected to the camshaft for coordinated motion with the MVR and EGR valves.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Michael R. Brosseau, Roger M. Brisbane
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Publication number: 20030000498Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the switching states of a target wheel used in an internal combustion engine, the method including providing a camshaft, providing a target wheel having teeth coupled to the camshaft, providing a sensor to detect the teeth of the target wheel, providing a cam phaser to phase the camshaft relative to a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine, homing the cam phaser to a known position relative to the crankshaft, rotating the crankshaft and camshaft, detecting the switching of the teeth by the sensor, referencing switching information detected by the teeth to crankshaft position information to produce a calibration for the target wheel, and storing the calibration in a controller to be use for control of the internal combustion engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: David Stewart Mathews, Donald Clayton Warner, Jason Thomas Davis
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Publication number: 20030000499Abstract: The invention relates to a system for regulating an internal combustion engine (1). Said system regulates the maximum combustion pressure by modifying the start of the injection process. The aim of the invention is to improve the operational reliability of the internal combustion engine (1) To this end, the invention provides that the maximum combustion pressure (pMAX(i)) is diagnosed by the detection of a freak value. This then determines a first or second mode and sets a diagnosis value depending on the modi.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Armin Doelker, Thomas Spaegele, Klaus Wehler
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Publication number: 20030000500Abstract: An apparatus and method for adjusting a quantity of fuel delivered to an engine when an engine operating state transitions is provided. The apparatus and method includes determining a current steady-state quantity of fuel to be delivered to the engine and add a transitory quantity of fuel, based on a difference between a previous steady-state quantity of fuel delivered and the current steady-state quantity of fuel to be delivered, to the current steady-state quantity of fuel for a period of time following initiation of the transition. The invention also provides an apparatus and method by which an operator may adjust the amount of fuel delivered during an engine operating state transition.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2001Publication date: January 2, 2003Applicant: Optimum Power L.P.Inventor: Glen F. Chatfield