Abstract: A direct fuel injection engine includes a fuel injector so positioned and oriented as to produce a fuel spray whose upper segment reaches the vicinity of a spark plug by a penetrating force of the fuel spray in a low engine speed light load operating region to achieve stratified charge combustion without the aid of tumble. A tumble control valve is operated to strengthen the tumble in a combustion chamber to achieve stratified charge combustion with the aid of tumble in an engine operating region higher in engine speed and/or engine load.

Abstract: 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 internally of the manifold and swirl plate, for coordinated motion with the MVR and EGR valves.

Abstract: Traditional engine compression release brake systems include an engine brake that is associated with each cylinder of the engine. However, if the maximum braking horsepower required by the engine is less than that produced using all engine cylinders, the engine includes excess components. In an effort to reduce the number of engine components, and therefore increase engine robustness, the present invention includes an engine compression release brake system that provides a number of engine brakes that is less than the total number of engine cylinders.

Abstract: An electrically-controlled throttle valve apparatus includes a motor, a speed reducing mechanism for reducing rotation speed transmitted from the motor, a throttle valve connected to the speed reducing mechanism, and a force applying device applying force to the throttle valve in the direction of returning the valve to its initial position and adjusting the opening of the throttle valve by driving the motor. Parameters of the motor, the speed reducing mechanism, and the force applying device have values such that the operation time t from the minimum to the maximum throttle valve opening, which is determined by an evaluation equation obtained from equations of throttle valve motion, is less than a prescribed target throttle valve operation time t★. Furthermore, resistance and an induction voltage constant of the motor are determined to satisfy a constraint equation obtained based on Ohm's law.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to provide a controller for an internal combustion engine, capable of suppressing deterioration in drivability of an engine. A controller for an internal combustion engine has lean control means for calculating a torque margin from a reference engine speed and an actual engine speed and setting a combustion air-fuel ratio of an internal combustion engine to the lean side on the basis of the torque margin. In addition to correction of a fuel injection amount by the lean control means, the fuel injection amount is further corrected on the basis of a final correction value for reducing deterioration in drivability. The final correction value is set by selecting either a correction value which is set on the basis of an engine speed fluctuation amount or a final correction value of last time, which suppresses deterioration in drivability more. Thus, the operation of setting the air-fuel ratio to the lean side while considering deterioration in drivability can be performed.

Abstract: An outboard motor includes an internal combustion engine provided with a pair of intake valves. The opening and closing operation of one of the intake valves can be paused. The internal combustion engine comprises a vertical crankshaft, a cylinder head provided with an intake port having a pair of intake openings for one combustion chamber, and a fuel injection valve for injecting the fuel into the intake port. The intake port has an upper branch section and a lower branch section extended under the upper branch section. A valve train includes a valve-operation mode changing mechanism. The valve-operation mode changing mechanism pauses the opening and closing operation of the first intake valve and operates the second intake valve for opening and closing the lower intake opening of the lower branch section while the internal combustion engine is operating at engine speeds in a low-speed range.

Abstract: A fuel injection device, wherein a plurality of high-pressure fuel feed parts each comprising a supply pump part and fuel metering part are disposed, in parallel with each other, between a feed pump part sucking fuel from a fuel tank and a common rail so that the injection of a specified amount of fuel can be maintained even if one high-pressure pump fails, whereby, even if one high-pressure fuel feed parts stops, a common rail pressure can be maintained by the other high-pressure fuel feed part.

Abstract: In dual fuel engines, it is desirable to have injection of two distinct quantities of liquid fuel. Engines with these operating requirements have typically used two separate fuel injectors, or two separate nozzle assemblies, to satisfy this need. However, these systems can be rather complex and difficult to control. In addition, engineers have learned that fuel injectors having direct control have better performance which can increase engine efficiency. Therefore, the present invention addresses the needs of engines desiring injection of two distinct quantities of fuel, such as dual fuel engines, by utilizing a direct control fuel injector having a dual concentric check having separate orifices for the pilot and main injections.

Abstract: An air intake device for an internal combustion engine with crankcase ventilation in which crankcase gases are conducted via a duct structure (25) into the interior (18) of the air intake device (10). The duct structure ensures a quasi cylinder-selective feed through a plurality of feed inlets (27) into individual intake channels (20a). The duct structure is formed by the wall of the intake manifold and is sealed by a cover, so that the intake manifold can be produced cost-effectively. This construction has the advantage of ensuring uniform distribution of the crankcase gases among the cylinders while simultaneously enabling economically efficient manufacture.

Abstract: To provide a fuel injection control device for an internal combustion engine which can suppress body vibrations, shocks, etc. and can control the fuel injection quantities during transitional periods easily and effectively in a simple manner.

Abstract: A fuel injection control device for an internal combustion engine is provided, which comprises: a rpm sensor for detecting an engine speed; an intake pressure sensor for detecting an intake pressure; a throttle sensor for detecting the throttle opening degree; a first basic fuel injection volume calculating device for calculating a first basic fuel injection volume according to a fuel volume calculated by using the engine speed and the intake pressure as parameters; a second basic fuel injection volume calculating device for calculating a second basic fuel injection volume according to a fuel volume calculated by using the engine speed and the throttle opening degree as parameters; and a ratio calculating device for performing arithmetic operations on the first basic fuel injection volume and the second basic fuel injection volume at a desired mixture ratio, and the ratio calculating device gradually changes the mixture ratio at regular time intervals.

Abstract: In the case of a method for operating an internal combustion engine (10), in particular of a motor vehicle, fuel is supplied under pressure via at least one injection valve (18). The injected fuel quantity is influenced by the injection time of injection valve (18). In order to be able to provide optimum operating comfort and good component reliability even in the event of an incorrect fuel pressure (pr), it is proposed to determine a maximum allowable torque (mimxth) of the internal combustion engine (10) that is dependent on the instantaneous fuel pressure (pr).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for triggering a solenoid valve for injecting fuel into an internal combustion engine, the triggering phase of the solenoid valve being subdivided into a pull-up phase (TA), during which a valve needle of the solenoid valve is caused to open by a first current intensity (IA) flowing through a magnetic coil of the solenoid valve, and into a holding phase (TH) during which the valve needle is held in the open state by a second, lower current intensity (IH) flowing through the magnetic coil, and at least once at the beginning of the pull-up phase (TA), a booster phase (B1) being activated during which a pulse-shaped booster current (IBOOST) from a booster capacitor charged to a high voltage (UBOOST) flows through the magnetic coil; and is characterized in that during the triggering phase of the solenoid valve, a plurality of booster pulses (B1, B21, B22) are activated in succession, whose time position within the triggering phase is freely selectable (FIGS.

Abstract: A fuel conditioner adapted to be placed in-line in a fuel delivery system of an internal combustion engine system. The fuel conditioner include a metallic housing containing a plurality of reactive anti-biological elements. The fuel conditioner also includes a high Gauss magnet. The fuel passes over the anti-biological elements and adjacent the magnet such that growth of biological agents entrained within the fuels is inhibited. The fuel also passes adjacent the magnet such that ferrous particles entrained within the fuel are retained with the fuel conditioner and removed from the fuel flow.

Abstract: An exhaust gas recirculation and processing device for a turbocharged diesel engine. A reactor comprises an inner chamber substantially surrounded by an outer chamber. Within the inner chamber, compressed air from the turbocharger mixes with engine exhaust gases discharged through the turbocharger. The mixture is heated and reacts to combust pollutants as it passes by a copper tube and baffle within the inner chamber. The reacted mixture exits the inner chamber and enters the outer chamber with which it communicates through apertures in a separating wall; from the outer chamber the reacted mixture is conducted to the engine intake. The copper tube and baffle are heated to within an optimal temperature range by directing gaseous engine combustion products through the copper tube. A heat exchanger thermally coupled to the reactor exchanges heat between the reactor and the engine cooling system to maintain reactor temperature.

Abstract: An exhaust gas recirculation system for an internal combustion engine by which a portion of exhaust gas from the engine is recirculated from an exhaust line of the engine into an intake line of the engine, introducing the exhaust gas flow into the intake port around the intake valve seat region. The present invention provides a unique means of introducing EGR/Crankcase gas into the combustion chamber of an engine. The location for introducing EGR/Crankacse gas is above the intake valve seat region. The system does not require any pumping arrangement either through the use of external pumps or by raising the exhaust back presssure in the system. This system does not penalize airflow into the system as the flow passage does not require reduction in size to the air passage. Introducing the EGR just during the air induction process means the quantity of exhaust gas in the system is minimal. This results in improved transient response. Use of minimal EGR also results in smaller EGR cooling system.

Abstract: An ignition device for a personal watercraft engine, which allows mounting of a four-cycle engine on the personal watercraft and prevents occurrence of leakage of current. The engine for driving a jet propelling pump is provided in a watercraft body surrounded by a hull and a deck. A spark plug for spark ignition is provided in a cylinder head of the engine, and an integral cap ignition coil having a water-proof structure is water-tightly provided in the cylinder head in such a manner as to be located on the spark plug at an uppermost portion of the engine. A water-escape groove continuous to a recess for receiving a cap is formed in an upper surface of the cylinder head. A bottom surface of the escape groove is formed into a shape tilted downwardly.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to a loader apparatus for use with a paintball marker including a base attachable to the marker, a cartridge removably attachable to the base and a delivery conduit. The base includes a motor, which drives a driven means ending in a first gear. The cartridge includes a paintball chamber with an outlet, and a flow assistor driven by a second gear that meshes with the first gear on the base. The chamber includes a pressure plate and spring assembly which pushes the paintballs in the chamber towards the outlet. The flow assistor includes a rotating generally funnel-shaped surface having bosses and dimples to enhance the agitation of paintballs and to assist the flow of paintballs from the chamber. The operation of the flow assistor is controlled by a controller. The controller receives input from an on/off switch on the base, a second switch which senses the presence of a cartridge on the base, and a plurality of paintball sensors located in the delivery conduit.

Abstract: This invention refers to a new safety that is incorporated to a sporting pellet or air gun by which the accidental firing of the gun is prevented even when the gun is loaded, making it necessary to remove it in order to fire the gun.

Abstract: A collapsible portable stove may include a chassis, side tables, a shelf assembly, leg assemblies, a fuel delivery system, a burner system, a windscreen assembly, and a hoist assembly. The side tables may slide outward to reveal the burner system and provide workspace. The shelf assembly may attach to an underside of the chassis for storage, to a topside of the chassis between the outward-slid side tables for table space, or beneath the chassis between the leg assemblies for shelf space. The leg assemblies may fold for storage and unfold to raise the stove to a low- or high-profile. In a collapsed position, the stove and its self-contained components resemble a rectangular suitcase. The stove may be expanded from the collapsed position to several possible configurations, optionally having high- or low-profiles, exposed and/or covered burners, side tables, a hoist assembly, and a middle shelf or a middle table.

Abstract: A smoke exhauster comprises a housing with a back side which has a left wall contact surface and a right wall contact surface for making contact with two wall surfaces of a corner, thereby enabling the smoke exhauster to be mounted in the corner to exhaust the fumes and to facilitate the user to stand in front of the smoke exhauster to cook, without having to modify the kitchen furniture to coordinate with the smoke exhauster. The housing of the smoke exhauster is economical and capable of keeping the beauty and the function of kitchen.

Abstract: The Snomeltr #1 is a new concept developed to replace an old method of removing and disposing of snow on streets and hiways where it poses a hazard to people or traffic by melting it and letting it run out through the existing underground waste lines. The burners could be directed straight down at the surface of the street or hiway to melt the snow in place which would then run to the inlet to the waste line and out to a disposal area. This would eliminate the need for a loader to load and trucks to haul the snow. This second method could be used before the snow level became too high.

Abstract: A solar collector has a distribution and collecting unit having a housing and a distribution channel and a connecting channel arranged in the housing. Collector tubes for heating a fluid medium are connected to the housing. The collector tubes have an adaptor, respectively, with a rotary closure for connecting the collector tubes to the distribution channel and the collecting channel of the housing. The adaptor is rotatably adjustable for aligning the collector tubes relative to the solar radiation in order to improve thermal output of the solar collector.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a metered dosage inhaler device having a first member for receiving and dispensing inhalation medication. There is a first member which is hollow, and has an aerosol medication container insertion end and having a nozzle end for spraying medication into a mouth of a user, wherein the nozzle end has a defined length and has an orifice with a defined cross-sectional area outlet surfaces, inner surfaces and a defined outer perimeter at its termination. This is a second member, the second member which is a spacer fitted on the nozzle and adapted to move outwardly and inwardly relatively to the nozzle, the spacer being hollow and being located about either outer surfaces or within the inner surfaces of the nozzle, the spacer having a total length about equal to or less than the nozzle so as to preserve significant compactness when the spacer is moved inwardly relative to the nozzle.

Abstract: There is provided a dispenser comprising a body for receipt of a carrier for a composition; an exit channel definable by the body for passage of the composition to a user; a cover for the exit channel reversibly movable between a storage position in which the cover fully protects the exit channel, to an in-use position wherein the exit channel is exposed. Biasing means act on the cover when the cover is not in the in-use or storage positions, to bias the cover towards either the in-use position or the storage position.

Abstract: A method and a device involving an electric iris diaphragm/shutter for controlling particle transfer of electrically charged medication powder particles from a source to a defined target area or areas, of a chuck member. Spatial distribution of particles onto the target area or areas is achieved by an electro-dynamic field technique applied to the distribution and deposition of particles in a dose forming process. An electric iris diaphragm/shutter is located between a particle generator and the electrostatic chuck member such that all particles must pass the iris diaphragm for being transferred to the electrostatic chuck. By adjusting amplitude and frequency of a superimposed AC potential charged particles will oscillate in the created AC field such that only small light particles will emerge from the iris diaphragm/shutter for further transfer in the dose forming process.

Abstract: A method and corresponding medical ventilator for nullifying the work of breathing imposed by the ventilation breathing apparatus during ventilation support of a patient having a source of breathing gas, a pressure sensor, a microprocessor, at least one actuator of a pneumatic system, and driver circuits. The medical ventilator is in fluid communication with the source of breathing and an endotracheal tube which is in fluid communication with the lungs of the patient. At least one driver circuit adjusts at least one actuator to change the supply of the breathing gas. The pressure sensor measures the pressure of the gas proximate the distal end of the endotracheal tube and generates an output based on the sensed pressure. The microprocessor controls the supply of the breathing gas exiting the pneumatic system of the ventilator and is electrically coupled to the output of the pressure sensor.

Abstract: A demand regulator with air dilution for regulating the pressure and flow of a respiratory gas comprises an inlet for additional gas and an outlet leading to a respiratory mask, and also dilution means. Control means switch a supply of pressurized additional gas between at least two passages. At least one of these passages corresponds to an economy flow and has a restricted cross section for limiting the flow of additional gas transmitted to the inlet. The other passage has a cross section which is such that the additional gas has a maximum flow in order to supply the user with additional gas in a physiologically sufficient manner.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus for an aircraft crew member has a breathing mask provided with a demand regulator and connected to a source of breathing gas, such as a pressurized oxygen cylinder or preferably an OBOGS. The apparatus includes an individual buffer plenum specific to the mask on a line for feeding the regulator of the mask from the source. The volume of the plenum is sufficient to provide for at least two typical breaths of the mask wearer in succession. A non-return check valve is located between the plenum and the source.

Abstract: The invention refers to a device for collecting liquid from exhalation gas from a patient. The device includes a first pipe conduit (5, 8) for the supply of inhalation gas to the patient, a second pipe conduit (6, 9) for the removal of exhalation gas from the patient and a container device (1) for collecting liquid from the exhalation gas. The container device includes a first space (2), which forms a portion of the first pipe conduit (5, 8) and through which the inhalation gas thus flows, and a second space (3), which forms a portion of the second pipe conduit (6, 9) and through which the exhalation gas thus flows. The second space (3) is arranged to receive the collected liquid. The first space (2) is separated from the second space (3) by means of a wall member (4), which has a good thermal conductivity and permits transfer of heat from the exhalation gas to the inhalation gas.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus and method therefor having a frame capable of carrying a primary air storage tank and an emergency air storage tank, where the emergency air storage tank can either be released from the frame to replace a disabled person's tank, or the emergency air storage tank can remain on the frame and be coupled to a disabled person's face-mask by a hose thus allowing a rescuer to have both hands free in order to carry or drag a disabled person to safety

Abstract: Interface apparatus for use by a patient having a patient airway and for use with a mechanical ventilator having inspiratory and expiratory tubing. An intrapulmonary percussive ventilator having an output and an injection device coupled to the output of the intrapulmonary percussive ventilator and having an output. The interface apparatus comprises a mixing device having a mixing chamber therein and having an outlet adapted to be connected to the patient airway. The body has fittings in communication with the mixing chamber adapted to be connected to the inspiratory tubing and to the expiratory tubing of the mechanical ventilator. The body also has an injection port in communication with the mixing chamber adapted to be connected to the output of the injection device.

Abstract: The device features one or more video cameras (13, 14, 15) linked to a computer (16) which analyses the output of the cameras to distinguish between normal movement and falls. Upward or similar movements, normally associated with a patient attempting to get out of bed are also identified. An alarm is activated at a remote attendant station when a fall movement is determined to have occured. The cameras and computer are situated as a bedside unit (11).

Abstract: An intervention is performed on a target anatomic structure of a patient body by first altering the configuration of the diaphragm through displacement or puncturing of the latter, in order to create a passageway leading into the thoracic cavity. An implement is introduced into the thoracic cavity through the passageway. The implement is then used while extending through the passageway to alter a biological tissue of the target structure or manipulate the latter. Optionally, a separating component having a peripheral wall encompassing a component channel is introduced into the passageway for receiving the implement and separating the latter from the non-target anatomic structure.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlled removal of surplus material from one or more tows of tobacco particles, filter material for tobacco smoke or the like employs at least one belt conveyor for each stream. The outer side of such belt conveyor is provided with recesses which receive particulate material at the stream forming station or stations. Each stream is equalized by a discrete trimming device which employs a pair of cooperating rotary knives having circular cutting edges and serving to remove the surplus prior to compacting and wrapping of the thus obtained rod-like filler or fillers into web(s) of cigarette paper of the like. The material which has entered the recesses of the belt conveyor(s) contributes to greater density of the corresponding portions of the fillers or fillers, and such densified portions are severed by a cutoff to be located at the ends of plain cigarettes or at the tobacco-containing ends of filter cigarettes.

Abstract: In a manufacturing method and a manufacturing system for cut tobacco, a first additive mainly containing a humectant is added to laminar tobacco, the laminar tobacco provided with the first additive is shredded to form cut tobacco, a second additive containing a perfume is added to the cut tobacco, the cut tobacco is dried thereafter, and a top flavoring as a third additive is added to the dried cut tobacco.

Abstract: A device for retaining nail clippings within a nail clipper includes a housing adapted to cover the openings between the clippers elongate members, on both sides, from the first ends to the second ends thereof, thereby forming an enclosed region within the nail clipper. In addition, the device includes a valve element, adapted to be located between the elongate members, for blocking the passage of the nail clippings from the region of the jaw to the tail of the nail clipper when the jaw is opened and for allowing passage of the nail clippings when the jaw is closed. This allows nail clippings to pass to the region between the elongate members when the nails are being clipped and thereafter to be retained in this region when the jaw is opened. Thus, in effect, the valve works as a one way valve, permitting passage of the nail clippings into, but not out of, the nail clipper.

Abstract: A cosmetic product may include a base formed at least partially of foam and a cover also formed at least partially of foam. A hinge may connect the base and the cover, and the hinge may also be formed of foam. At least one recess may be formed in the base, the recess for surrounding and containing a cosmetic composition. Portions of the foam may be covered with a fabric, facsimile of fabric, animal skin, or imitation animal skin.

Abstract: A method involves making available a cosmetic product and a non-cosmetic product and offering one or more of the products for sale. The non-cosmetic product may have a visible portion including a first material chosen from fabric, facsimile of fabric, animal skin, and imitation animal skin. The cosmetic product may define at least one internal region configured to surround and contain least one cosmetic composition. A visible portion of the cosmetic product may include a second material chosen from fabric, facsimile of fabric, animal skin, and imitation animal skin. The first material may have an appearance resembling an appearance of the second material.

Abstract: A system for processing a workpiece includes an inner chamber pivotably supported within an outer chamber. The inner chamber has an opening to allow liquid to drain out. A motor pivots the inner chamber to bring the opening at or below the level of liquid in the inner chamber. As the inner chamber turns, liquid drains out. Workpieces within the inner chamber are supported on a holder or a rotor, which may be fixed or rotating. Multi processes may be performed within the inner chamber, reducing the need to move the workpieces between various apparatus and reducing risk of contamination.

Abstract: An ultrasonic cleaning method for cleaning semiconductor manufacturing equipment with which a blast treated surface of a component of a sputtering equipment is cleaned, wherein de-aerated cleaning water in which the component is immersed has concentration of dissolved gasses of not more than 10 ppm, and ultrasonic power of the ultrasonic vibrator applying ultrasonic to the cleaning water is 50 W or more.

Abstract: A process for removing residue from the interior of a semiconductor process chamber using molecular fluorine gas (F2) as the principal precursor reagent. In one embodiment a portion of the molecular fluorine is decomposed in a plasma to produce atomic fluorine, and the resulting mixture of atomic fluorine and molecular fluorine is supplied to the chamber whose interior is to be cleaned. In another embodiment the molecular fluorine gas cleans the semiconductor process chamber without any plasma excitation. Molecular fluorine gas has the advantage of not being a global warming gas, unlike fluorine-containing gas compounds conventionally used for chamber cleaning such as NF3, C2F6 and SF6.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning semiconductor processing equipment. The apparatus include both local and remote gas dissociators coupled to a semiconductor processing chamber to be cleaned. The methods include introducing a precursor gas into the remote dissociator where the gas is dissociated and introducing a portion of the dissociated gas into the chamber. Another portion of the dissociated gas which re-associates before introduction into the chamber is also introduced into the chamber where it is again dissociated. The dissociated gas combines with contaminants in the chamber and is exhausted from the chamber along with the contaminants.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method, system, and apparatus for applying megasonic energy to the surface of a workpiece for the removal of contaminants. A nozzle dispenses a stream of deionized water or other cleaning fluid at a radial position on the surface. A stepping motor moves the arm over the surface, in a step-wise manner, allowing megasonic energy to be applied in a uniform manner. The workpiece is rotated at low speeds to provide a more uniform application. Chemical solutions may optionally be added to dissolve contaminants or change the Zeta potential of the contaminants to make particles easier to detach and suspend. A high-RPM dry spin cycle further removes cleaning fluid and suspended contaminants, preventing them from reattaching. The present invention is compatible with numerous types of workpieces including 12″ semiconductor wafers.

Abstract: Semiconductor wafers are cleaned using megasonic energy to agitate cleaning fluid applied to the wafer. A source of energy vibrates an elongated probe which transmits the acoustic energy into the fluid. The probe has a solid cleaning rod and a flared or stepped rear base. In one form, the probe is made of one piece, and in another, the rod fits into a socket in the base. This enables a rod to be made of material which is compatible with the cleaning solution, while the base may be of a different material. A heat transfer member acoustically coupled to the probe base and to a transducer conducts heat away from the transducer. A housing for the heat transfer member and the transducer supports those components and provides means for conducting coolant through the housing to control the temperature of the transducer. In another arrangement, an end of the housing is coupled between the transducer and the probe.

Abstract: A system for preventing contaminants and particulates from coming into contact with a back side of a workpiece as the workpiece is vacuum held on a chuck or robotic end effector.

Abstract: A method and device for cleaning small volume pharmaceutical containers, comprising the simultaneous introduction of air and cleaning fluid as a moving film on the interior of said container, particularly in a neck region, to prevent re-deposit of contaminants thereon. The device comprises a nozzle for introduction of fluid such as water into the container and a tube within or otherwise juxtaposed with said nozzle for the simultaneous introduction of air. Cleaning is effected before initial medical application use.

Abstract: In a process for the recycling of PET flakes from comminuted PET bottles, wherein the flakes are subjected to a washing treatment, the flakes are treated for at least 20 minutes in at least one washer at an elevated temperature higher than 70° C., with a cleaning solution which contains caustic soda, and at the same time are also mechanically and hydraulically treated.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling galvanic corrosion effects on a single-wafer cleaning system are provided. In one embodiment, a method for minimizing galvanic corrosion effects in a single-wafer cleaning system is provided. The method initiates with applying a cleaning chemistry containing corrosion inhibitors to a surface of a wafer. Then, the surface of the wafer is exposed to the cleaning chemistry for a period of time. Next, a concentration gradient at an interface of the cleaning chemistry and the surface of the wafer is refreshed. Then, a rinsing agent and a drying agent are applied simultaneously to remove the cleaning chemistry, wherein the drying agent dries the surface of the wafer prior to a concentration of the corrosion inhibitors being diluted to a level insufficient to provide corrosion protection.

Abstract: Workpieces requiring low levels of contamination, such as semiconductor wafers, are loaded into a rotor within a process chamber. The process chamber has a horizontal drain opening in its cylindrical wall. The chamber is closed via a door. A process or rinsing liquid is introduced into the chamber. The liquid rises to a level so that the workpieces are immersed in the liquid. The chamber slowly pivots or rotates to move the drain opening down to the level of the liquid. The liquid drains out through the drain opening. The drain opening is kept near the surface of the liquid to drain off liquid at a uniform rate. An organic solvent vapor is introduced above the liquid to help prevent droplets of liquid from remaining on the workpieces as the liquid drains off. The rotor spins the workpieces to help to remove any remaining droplets by centrifugal force.