Patents Issued in February 6, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030024878
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the production of dispersions and is particularly suitable for making dispersions with a viscous or solid dispersed phase in a continuous phase with a lower viscosity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Jozef Johannes Maria Baltussen, Jan Visser
  • Publication number: 20030024879
    Abstract: Mediated electrochemical oxidation to treats, oxidizes and destroys biological waste, medical, infectious, pathological, animal, sanitary, mortuary, ship, veterinary, pharmaceutical and combined waste. Electrolytes contain oxidized forms of reversible redox couples produced. Oxidized forms of redox couples are produced by anodic oxidation or reaction with oxidized forms of other redox couples. Oxidized species of the redox couples oxidize the biological waste molecules and are reduced and reoxidized. The redox cycle continues until all oxidizable waste and intermediate reaction products have undergone oxidation. Temperatures between ambient and 100° C. avoid formation of dioxins or furans.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Roger W. Carson, Bruce W. Bremer
  • Publication number: 20030024880
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the preparation of solutions to be manufactured from at least two concentrates and a solvent. First and second concentrate holders are connected to a solvent source by respective feed lines and to a collection holder by respective discharge lines. The solvent source is connected to the first concentrate holder when a connector is in a first position and to the second concentrate holder when the connector is in a second position. Solvent flows through the first concentrate holder and the solution is led into the collection holder and, after the flushing of the concentrate from the first concentrate holder, the second concentrate holder is automatically connected through movement of the connector from the first to the second position, whereupon solvent flows through the second concentrate holder and the solution is likewise supplied to the collection holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Matthias Brandl, Peter Hilgers, Franz Kugelmann, Matthias Meisinger
  • Publication number: 20030024881
    Abstract: The present invention provides a composite membrane comprising a porous support layer and a selective layer comprising a vinylacetate polymer. The invention also provides a process for preparing a vinylacetate polymer selective layer on a porous support by depositing a colloidal dispersion having colloid particles of the vinylacetate polymer on the porous support followed by annealing the deposited colloids to form a selective layer. The membranes are useful for separation of gas or liquid or vapor mixtures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Dilip Gurudath Kalthod
  • Publication number: 20030024882
    Abstract: To make an inexpensive chromatographic column and perform chromatography with it, column walls and a column end with an inlet port are molded integrally from plastic and a snap-on end is molded integrally with an outlet port from plastic. A filter is placed in one end of the column and the column is filled with packing material up to the second end. A filter is placed on top of the packing and a snap-on end with a molded outlet port is snapped onto the body with linear motion until an interference fit is formed. As the body and snap-on end are moved together cantilever members formed integrally with the snap on end are bent outwardly by detent members until the detent members are captured by an opening in the cantilever members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Isco, Inc.
    Inventors: Delwin D. Hodgin, Dale A. Davison
  • Publication number: 20030024883
    Abstract: A chemical distribution system having improved organic solvent fluid purity and consistency includes a vessel containing ion-exchange media positioned within a fluid flow pathway such that the organic solvent fluid passes through the ion-exchange media, thereby effecting removal of undesired impurities. Different embodiments of the invention position the vessel at varying locations within the fluid flow pathway. The chemical distribution system also preferably includes a return chemical flow pathway that recirculates purified organic solvent fluid through the ion-exchange media-containing vessel and thereby enables the system operator to conduct incremental adjustment of the solvent purity until a desired overall purity is attained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: William H. Mullee
  • Publication number: 20030024884
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of ecology, in particular to the struggle against pollution of the environment with oil, petroleum products, cyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons, other chemical pollutants, i.e. to purification of a water area, waste waters, industrial machinery, polluted soil and grounds etc., and also to the field of objects used to satisfy the vital requirements of humans and to medicine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Viktor Ivanovich Petrik
  • Publication number: 20030024885
    Abstract: A distributor/collector system includes a distributor comprising an upper header having upper laterals carrying fluid away from the upper header and a collector comprising a lower header having lower laterals carrying fluid toward the lower header. Flow enters the distributor on one side of the vessel and exits the collector on an approximately opposite side of the vessel. The distance traveled by each fluid particle through the system is substantially the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Ekholm
  • Publication number: 20030024886
    Abstract: A collapsible tire stand is comprised of a frame and said frame preferably made up of a pair of U-shaped members each comprised of a base segment and toward each ends of the base segment extends a supporting member extending perpendicularity therefrom and between each pairs of supporting members are nesting strips into which tires are meant to nest and each of the nesting strips are positioned in pair, one pair being located adjacent the distal tip of the supporting members and a second pair positioned in a spaced relationship proximal to the base segment to allow the tire mounted thereon to remain in a spaced relationship relative to the ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Luce Belle
  • Publication number: 20030024887
    Abstract: A carrier for storing and transporting disks, includes grooves in the sidewalls of the carrier for aligning disks. A top cover used with the carrier includes at least one longitudinal, downward extending support, which contacts the outside diameter of any disks held in the grooves in the carrier when the top cover is attached to the carrier. A bottom cover similarly includes at least one longitudinal, upward extending support that contacts the outside diameter of any disks held in the grooves in the carrier when the bottom cover is attached to the carrier. The top cover and the bottom cover apply minimal pressure to the disks, but advantageously serve to secure the disks within the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: William W.A. Dunford, Rene D. Kumar, David L. Blankenbeckler, Brian S. Medower
  • Publication number: 20030024888
    Abstract: A wafer holding apparatus composed of a plurality of rods joined at opposite ends by endplates. Each rod at each end is secured to the endplates by a mechanical dovetail joint. The dovetail joint secures the rods to the endplates without the need for sealing or coating agents. Also , auxiliary mechanical components such as nuts and bolts to secure the joint components need not be employed to secure the joint. Each rod has multiple grooves or slits for placing multiple semiconductor wafers that are to be processed in processing chambers. The wafer holding apparatus is oxidation resistant, chemical resistant and thermal shock resistant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Thomas Payne, Jitendra S. Goela, Lee E. Burns, Michael A. Pickering
  • Publication number: 20030024889
    Abstract: A device for moving forward in an easy and efficient manner, articles such as canned goods, that are placed on a store shelf in order to facilitate their frontal display. The device makes use of positioning rods that are installed on the shelf so as to extend in parallel relationship with respect to the edge of the shelf. Two parallel side rails act as a support for the articles. These side rails extend on both sides of a central rail supporting a puller member and a backstop assembly. The side rails and the central rail are perpendicular to the edge of the shelf and are detachably fastened to the positioning rods, preferably by snapping. As a result, one may easily adjust their spacing as a function of the size of the articles. The backstop assembly is located at the back end of the puller member. It extends vertically and moves the articles closer to the front of the shelf when the puller member is pulled forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: TABLEX INC.
    Inventor: Ronald Dumontet
  • Publication number: 20030024890
    Abstract: A toothbrush holder that can hold many different styles of toothbrushes in a sanitary manner. A toothbrush holder consisting of at least one (11) V-shaped aperture comprised of (9) leads that flex to hold a toothbrush securely at the neck portion of the toothbrush. The conical shaped (9) receiving-leads angle upward slightly and have a (8) flat inner contact surface that engages with the neck portion of the toothbrush. The design is such that the toothbrush can be easily retrieved and reapplied back to the holder by contact with the handle portion of the toothbrush solely. The contoured design and high polished surface finish enables easy cleaning as well as a deterrent to bacteria. The design of the invention is such that it can be mounted to any vertical surface that accommodates the length of a toothbrush. The ability to depress the toothbrush into the aperture of the invention holds it secure from dislodgment due to vibration or accidental contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Eric John Vollmer
  • Publication number: 20030024891
    Abstract: A holder for releasedly retaining a sharps instrument repeatedly used during a medical procedure. The holder has a support component to support the sharps instrument and a guard component to isolate a sharp tip of the instrument and thereby prevent an inadvertent invasive contact to a care provider. Preferably, at least a portion of the support component is generally complimentary in shape to the sharps instrument, and non-limitedly can be chosen from a generally U-shape cradle or a diametrically diminishing hollow tube wherein the instrument is accommodated during retention. Guard component choices non-limitedly include a replaceable non-coreable wall penetrable by a sharp tip and situated to accept a sharp tip when the sharps instrument is stored, or a holder-housing portion disposed distally from and proximate the instrument support component and within which the sharp tip resides when the instrument is stored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Richard B. Diamond
  • Publication number: 20030024892
    Abstract: A banner display device includes an elongated housing containing a gripper roller which is used to grip and retain the edge of a banner in the housing. The housing includes tapered front and rear walls defining a chamber for the roller which is open at its lower end. When an edge of the banner is inserted into the chamber via the lower opening, the gripper roller presses the banner edge against the rear surface of the front wall to suspend the banner from the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald Macsenti
  • Publication number: 20030024893
    Abstract: A multiple drapery rod supporting structure, comprising mounting brackets having cantilevered posts extending from the wall, and rod mounting clips which have extending tongue portions which are engaged within the ends of the rod to provide support and have a clip portion which easily snaps onto the support mounting posts. The rod is therefore supported between the posts of the mounting brackets. Several rods are able to be simultaneously supported, and alternate rod mounting clips permit rear rods or blinds to be located below the level of the front rod, such that the tops of rear curtains or blinds are hidden from view from within the room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Ian Ellbogen, Howard Sirkin
  • Publication number: 20030024894
    Abstract: A train collision attenuator mounted on a leading end of a train for attenuating the force of impact between a moving train and a pedestrian or motor vehicle. The train collision attenuator includes an energy absorbing assembly and a mounting assembly. The energy absorbing assembly includes a leading surface and the energy absorbing assembly is dimensioned and configured for attenuating the force of impact between the moving train and the pedestrian located in the path of the moving train as the pedestrian impacts against the leading surface. The mounting assembly secures the energy absorbing assembly to the leading end of the train. A lifting mechanism for moving the energy absorbing assembly between a deployed position to a retracted position is also provided. A selectively-inflatable, externally-mounted airbag including an upper pedestrian cushioning portion and a lower pedestrian support portion is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas S. Payne, James M. Payne
  • Publication number: 20030024895
    Abstract: The invention is an improved nursing bottle, providing a new valve within its bottom structure. A flexible disk is disposed within the bottom end cap of the nursing bottle, clamped at its periphery to the periphery of the base when the bottle is assembled. The disk has a ring of slits near its periphery which are closed when pressure inside the bottle equals ambient pressure. The slits are further sealed by contact with the base. Holes, which are sealed closed by contact with the disk, are provided in the base within a central portion which does not contact the slits in the disk. When pressure within the bottle drops, the disk bows upwardly in its center, opening the valve and allowing air to enter the bottle. When pressure within the bottle increases, the valve again closes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Brenda J. Meyers, David C. Brown, Mark P. Slaven
  • Publication number: 20030024896
    Abstract: The invention encompasses a method of enhancing selectivity of etching silicon dioxide relative to one or more organic substances. A material comprising one or more elements selected from Group VIII of the periodic table is provided within a reaction chamber; and a substrate is provided within the reaction chamber. The substrate has both a silicon-oxide-containing composition and at least one organic substance thereover. The silicon-oxide-containing composition is plasma etched within the reaction chamber. The plasma etching of the silicon-oxide-containing composition has increased selectivity for the silicon oxide of the composition relative to the at least one organic substance than would plasma etching conducted without the material in the chamber. The invention also encompasses a plasma reaction chamber assembly. The assembly comprises at least one interior wall, and at least one liner along the at least one interior wall. The liner comprises one or more of Ru, Fe, Co, Ni, Rh, Pd, Os, W, Ir, Pt and Ti.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Max F. Hineman, Li Li
  • Publication number: 20030024897
    Abstract: A method of forming a fluid ejecting device such as an ink jet printing device that includes forming a plurality of fluid drop generators on a first surface of a silicon substrate, forming a partial fluid feed slot in the silicon substrate by deep reactive ion etching, and forming a fluid feed slot by wet etching the partial fluid feed slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Donald J. Milligan, Timothy L. Weber
  • Publication number: 20030024898
    Abstract: A sacrificial film is formed on a substrate and a mask layer is formed on the sacrificial film. An opening having a predetermined pattern is formed through the mask layer. The sacrificial film exposed in the opening is removed to form a cave broader than the opening on the substrate. A noble metal thin film is deposited on the whole substrate surface. The sacrificial film 12 is dissolved and removed to form a noble metal thin film pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Natsume, Hiroshi Naito
  • Publication number: 20030024899
    Abstract: In the exposure method which carries out optical proximity correction processing for exposure data having a plurality of exposure patterns and exposes a sample in accordance with such corrected exposure data, the exposure patterns to be corrected are converted, in the optical proximity correction processing, into a minus objective pattern and a minus pattern to be deleted from the minus objective pattern, to form corrected exposure data. And, the minus pattern is deleted from the minus objective pattern of the corrected exposure data to bitmap a corrected exposure pattern, to expose a sample in accordance with such bitmapped corrected exposure pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Iiduka, Ryuji Kobayashi, Takahisa Ito
  • Publication number: 20030024900
    Abstract: A method and system for adjusting a height-to-diameter ratio of a plasma processing chamber, either dynamically or before substrate processing, to control a uniformity of a plasma and/or match a uniformity of a plasma to at least one of a process type and a wafer configuration and/or type. By adjusting the height of the chamber, the position of electrons near a chamber wall can be moved toward a center of the chamber and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: Wayne L. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030024901
    Abstract: A method is provided for depositing a thin film on a substrate in a process chamber with reduced incidence of plasma charge damage. A process gas containing a precursor gases suitable for forming a plasma is flowed into a process chamber, and a plasma is generated from the process gas to deposit the thin film on the substrate. The precursor gases are flowed into the process chamber such that the thin film is deposited at the center of the substrate more rapidly than at an edge of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Ishikawa, Alexandros T. Demos, Seon-Mee Cho, Feng Gao, Kaveh F. Niazi, Michio Aruga
  • Publication number: 20030024902
    Abstract: A semiconductor manufacturing process wherein a low-k dielectric layer is plasma etched with selectivity to an overlying mask layer. The etchant gas can be oxygen-free and include a fluorocarbon reactant, a nitrogen reactant and an optional carrier gas, the fluorocarbon reactant and nitrogen reactant being supplied to a chamber of a plasma etch reactor at flow rates such that the fluorocarbon reactant flow rate is less than the nitrogen reactant flow rate. The etch rate of the low-k dielectric layer can be at least 5 times higher than that of a silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride or silicon carbide mask layer. The process is useful for etching 0.25 micron and smaller contact or via openings in forming structures such as damascene structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Si Yi Li, Helen H. Zhu, S. M. Reza Sadjadi, James V. Tietz, Bryan A. Helmer
  • Publication number: 20030024903
    Abstract: A method of laminating a pre-press proof (200) is disclosed comprising the steps of treating a sheet of plastic material (330) with a corona discharge. Laminating a pre-laminate sheet (240) comprising a first thermoplastic layer (304) and a first support layer (150) to the sheet of corona discharged treated plastic material (330). Removing the first support layer (150) to form a pre-laminated receiver stock (230). Creating an imaged receiver sheet (140) with a second support layer (170). Laminating the imaged receiver sheet (140) to the pre-laminated receiver stock (230) thereby encapsulating the image. Removing the second support layer (170) thereby forming the pre-press proof (200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Roger S. Kerr, David A. Niemeyer, Larry R. Gartz
  • Publication number: 20030024904
    Abstract: Various laser shock processing systems are provided to establish selective compressive residual stress distribution profiles within a workpiece. An asymmetrical stress profile may be formed through the thickness of a thin section of a gas turbine engine airfoil. One system is configured to simultaneously irradiate a workpiece with a set of laser beams to form a corresponding set of adjacent non-overlapping laser shock peened surfaces, enabling the shockwaves to encounter one another. Another system irradiates opposite sides of the workpiece at different times to form opposing laser shock peened surfaces, enabling the shockwaves to meet at a location apart from the mid-plane. Another system simultaneously irradiates opposite sides of the workpiece using laser beams having different pulse lengths to form opposing laser shock peened surfaces. Another system simultaneously irradiates opposite sides of the workpiece to form a set of laterally offset laser shock peened surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Allan H. Clauer, David F. Lahrman, Jeff L. Dulaney, Steve M. Toller
  • Publication number: 20030024905
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a method and a device for constantly setting the energy distribution of a laser beam on an irradiating face, and uniformly irradiating the laser beam to the entire irradiating face. Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a manufacturing method of a semiconductor device including this laser irradiating method in a process. Therefore, the present invention is characterized in that the shapes of plural laser beams on the irradiating face are formed by an optical system in an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape, and the plural laser beams are irradiated while the irradiating face is moved in a first direction, and the plural laser beams are irradiated while the irradiating face is moved in a second direction and is moved in a direction reverse to the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koichiro Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20030024906
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for forming chamfers in an orifice of a workpiece. The orifice has an axis, which extends between a first surface and second surface of the workpiece, where the first and second surfaces are parallel to each other. The chamfers are disposed between the first surface and the second surface. The method includes forming an orifice in a workpiece with a source of non-collimated light directed at the workpiece at a predetermined first time interval, and forming a chamfer with a source of collimated light at a second time interval during the first time interval. The apparatus includes at least one source of collimated and non-collimated light, various spatial filters that can be used with the laser light source, a non-collimated light generating arrangement, and at least one shutter and at least one iris that direct collimated and non-collimated light at the workpiece to form the orifice. The apparatus is configured such that the orifice has a surface roughness of between approximately 0.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: John James Horsting, Christoph Hamann
  • Publication number: 20030024907
    Abstract: A method of controlling an output of a generator is provided. The output provides an output signal having a settling time to a load having an impedance. The settling time of the output signal is determined. The output signal is amplitude modulated with a modulation waveform. A sense signal is generated that is representative of the modulated output signal. The sense signal is sampled at a sampling time based upon the settling time of the output signal. A digital representation of the sampled sense signal is generated. The amplitude modulation of the output is controlled based upon the digital representation of the sampled sense signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Daniel J. Vona, Aaron T. Radomski, Kevin P. Nasman, William R. Pulhamus
  • Publication number: 20030024908
    Abstract: A substrate is marked by applying a high melting point material over a lower surface of the substrate, and then heating the material layer. Indicia are formed by directing a source of radiant energy through the substrate for impingement on the material layer, and by moving the source and/or the substrate relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: David Benderly
  • Publication number: 20030024909
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for splitting non-metallic substrates includes a laser for generating a laser beam. An integrated cracking devices receives the laser beam and directs the laser beam onto a non-metallic substrate to define the heat affected zone and quench the substrate at a quenching region contained within the heat affected zone. This integrated cracking device includes a housing and optics fitted within the housing for receiving and directing the laser beam onto the substrate. A quenching nozzle is mounted on the housing for quenching the substrate at a quenching region defined within the heat affected zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: APPLIED PHOTONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Hoekstra, Roger Flannigan, Daniel Wegerif
  • Publication number: 20030024910
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for forming chamfers in an orifice of a workpiece. The orifice has an axis, which extends between a first surface and second surface of the workpiece, where the first and second surfaces are parallel to each other. The chamfers are disposed between the first surface and the second surface. The method includes forming an orifice in a workpiece with a source of non-collimated light directed at the workpiece at a predetermined first time interval, and forming a chamfer with a source of collimated light at a second time interval during the first time interval. The apparatus includes at least one source of collimated and non-collimated light, a collimated light filter, and a non-collimated light generating arrangement, and at least one shutter and at least one iris that direct collimated and non-collimated light at the workpiece to form the orifice. The apparatus is configured such that the orifice has a surface roughness of between approximately 0.05 micron and approximately 0.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: John James Horsting
  • Publication number: 20030024911
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for forming chamfers in an orifice of a workpiece. The orifice has an axis, which extends between a first surface and second surface of the workpiece, where the first and second surfaces are parallel to each other. The chamfers are disposed between the first surface and the second surface. The method includes forming an orifice in a workpiece with a source of non-collimated light directed at the workpiece at a predetermined first time interval, and forming a chamfer with a source of collimated light at a second time interval simultaneously with the first time interval. The apparatus includes at least a source of collimated and non-collimated light, a collimated light filter, and a non-collimated light generating arrangement, and at least one shutter and at least one iris that direct collimated and non-collimated light at the workpiece to form the orifice. The apparatus is configured such that the orifice has a surface roughness of between approximately 0.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: John James Horsting, Mool Chand Gupta
  • Publication number: 20030024912
    Abstract: A system for delivering energy to a substrate including a dynamically directable source of radiant energy providing a plurality of beams of radiation, each propagating in a dynamically selectable direction. Independently positionable beam steering elements in a plurality of beam steering elements are operative to receive the beams and direct them to selectable locations on the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: ORBOTECH LTD
    Inventors: Abraham Gross, Zvi Kotler, Eliezer Lipman
  • Publication number: 20030024913
    Abstract: A laser scanning method and system for marking articles is provided wherein control is provided by a single central controller. The system includes a conveyor for conveying the articles in a first direction at a marking station. A conveyor controller controls the conveyor in response to conveyor control signals. A laser and an optical subsystem are optically coupled to the laser for generating a focused laser beam in response to laser control signals. A scan head includes a laser beam deflector for steering the focused laser beam along two substantially orthogonal intersecting axes at the marking station to mark a first predetermined region on at least one of the articles in response to deflection control signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Joseph P. Downes, J Miles Kane, Frank B Hunt, Jr., Rainer Schramm, Donald J Svetkoff
  • Publication number: 20030024914
    Abstract: A method for safeguarding regions of an airfoil adjacent to a work area from collateral damage as a result of laser operations. The method utilizes apparatus that includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly is fixedly attached to the laser nozzle assembly and moves with the laser nozzle assembly. The laser operations are controlled by a preprogrammed CNC controller. A fixture is used to position the workpiece in relationship to the nozzle on a laser table, the table movable in response to instructions from the controller. A beam stop material is placed over the regions of the airfoil adjacent to the work area to prevent back wall burn or to absorb reflected laser beam energy and to protect the region from other collateral damage such as stray material. The beam stop material is held in place on the workpiece and the workpiece is held in position on the fixture by elastomeric bands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen Aleshin
  • Publication number: 20030024915
    Abstract: Various laser shock processing methods are provided to establish selective compressive residual stress distribution profiles within a workpiece. An asymmetrical stress distribution profile may be formed through the thickness of a thin section of a gas turbine engine airfoil. One method involves simultaneously irradiating a workpiece with a set of laser beams to form a corresponding set of adjacent non-overlapping laser shock peened surfaces, enabling the shockwaves to encounter one another. Additionally, opposite sides of the workpiece may be irradiated at different times to form opposing laser shock peened surfaces, enabling the shockwaves to meet at a location apart from the midplane. Furthermore, opposite sides of the workpiece may be irradiated simultaneously using laser beams having different pulse lengths to form opposing laser shock peened surfaces. Moreover, opposite sides of the workpiece may be irradiated simultaneously to form a set of laterally offset laser shock peened surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Allan H. Clauer, David F. Lahrman, Jeff L. Dulaney, Steve M. Troller
  • Publication number: 20030024916
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a component, for example for an aerospace engine, includes a welding head 12 which supplies a weld material 24 to be deposited on a substrate 56 in order to build up the component. A flow of current is provided between the welding head 12 and the substrate 56 thereby melting the weld material and forming a molten weld pool in the substrate. A coil 50 is located above the weld pool and is provided with an alternating current thereby inducing an alternating magnetic field in the region of the weld pool to exert a force upon the molten substrate of the weld pool. This improves the crystal structure and therefore the properties of the resulting component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Iain W. Wright, Steven A. Jones
  • Publication number: 20030024917
    Abstract: A cleaning system process and apparatus for welding torches performs the cleaning by subjecting the welding torch, including the weld tip, nozzle and gas diffusers, to cooling. The cooling provides a temperature shock sufficient to loosen the weld spatter from the torch. In one embodiment the loosened spatter may then be carried away from the torch by either or both of positive or negative fluid pressure, for example an air blast or a vacuum line, respectively. The cooling may be done by subjecting the torch to a pressurized flow of coolant medium such as dry ice pellets or the like. The system may further cleanse the torch with an anti-spatter compound which can be applied by mixture with the coolant medium if desired. The cleaning system process is thorough, quick, subjects the torch to little stress, and improves performance of the nozzle including operation time between cleanings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Friedolin Thielmann
  • Publication number: 20030024918
    Abstract: Method for fabricating a vessel, comprising the steps of arranging at least two components of the vessel in a generally vertical disposition and welding the components together essentially simultaneously. The method is particularly suitable for fabrication on site of large pressure vessels used in nuclear reactors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Henry P. Offer, David W. Sandusky
  • Publication number: 20030024919
    Abstract: A holder for a dispenser package having a resealable cap assembly with an outer perimeter includes a front wall, a rear wall and a bottom wall interconnecting lower ends of the front and rear walls, the front, rear and bottom walls defining a receiving area for the dispenser package, the front wall including an aperture defined by inner peripheral edges of the front wall. The holder also includes a heating element in thermal communication with at least one of the front, rear and bottom walls, a power source connected with the heating element, and at least one actuator provided at the inner peripheral edges of the front wall aperture, the at least one actuator being in communication with the heating element. The at least one actuator is movable between a first position for activating the heating element and a second position for deactivating the heating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Nice-Pak Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert P. Julius
  • Publication number: 20030024920
    Abstract: An apparatus for heat treatment of a wafer is disclosed. The apparatus includes a heating chamber having a heat source. A cooling chamber is positioned adjacent to the heating chamber and includes a cooling source. A wafer holder is configured to move between the cooling chamber and the heating chamber through a passageway and one or more shutters defines the size of the passageway. The one or more shutters are movable between an open position where the wafer holder can pass through the passageway and an obstructing position which defines a passageway which is smaller than the passageway defined when the shutter is in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: ASML US, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher T. Ratliff, Jeffrey M. Kowalski, Taiqing Qiu
  • Publication number: 20030024921
    Abstract: A merchandiser system and method for thawing, displaying, and warming previously baked dough products, such as cookies, under controlled drying conditions, including a warming compartment and a merchandiser. The merchandiser controls the drying of moisture in the thawed, baked products to maintain the organoleptic and/or texture properties of the products at essentially the same level as those of freshly baked products for a period of at least about 2 hours.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Balakrishna Reddy, Eileen Roehr, Antonio Gutierrez, Hua Zhang, Mark O. Foster, Mark A. Gaj, Giinping I. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20030024922
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a system and method for a table top food warming system for applying steam to various sized portions of food for cooking of the food, as well as injecting steam into the food itself to increase its internal temperature. A preselected amount of water is transported via a pump to a preheated steam chamber. Upon contact with the preheated steam chamber, the water is vaporized and exits as steam through holes in a portion plate holding the food serving.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Cleveland Range
    Inventors: Keith A. Stanger, David S. Schwerzler, Victor D. Saltenis
  • Publication number: 20030024923
    Abstract: In a cooktop having a cooktop panel, beneath which at least one heating element is disposed for heating up a vessel to be placed on the panel, and a temperature sensor sensing temperature of the underside of the panel within the heating element and connected to a control unit for controlling heating power of the heating element, to make assembly/fitting of the unit easier, the temperature sensor is fastened to an element extending from a region inside the heating element into a region outside the heating element, the element having a receiving portion inside the heating element for the temperature sensor and a fitting portion for fastening of the element, in particular, to the heating element, and/or a connection portion for connecting at least an electrical line from outside the heating element, which receiving portion lies radially offset laterally with respect to the fitting portion or connection portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Franz Gratz, Uwe Has, Dan Neumayer, Markus Theine, Peter Vetterl, Monika Zeraschi
  • Publication number: 20030024924
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for heating a vehicle seat including a heating element for heating the vehicle seat, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature created by the heating element, a control unit connected to the heating element and including a feed line for feeding a current to the heating element if the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is below a predetermined desired temperature, a communicator for receiving information from an external source, an external operating unit separated from the control unit, at least one functioning unit connected to the external operating unit, the external operating unit including programmed logic for generating information based on the state of the functional unit and a programmed function transmitting the information, and a transmission channel for transmitting the information from the external operating unit to the control unit whereby the control unit can be operated by means of that information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Kongsberg Automotive AB
    Inventor: Tommy Fristedt
  • Publication number: 20030024925
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an oven that includes radiant cooking elements, a microwave cooking element, as well as convection cooking heating elements. The cooking elements are controlled to provide reduced cooking time as compared to known radiant ovens, yet a wide variety of foods can be cooked in the oven. The oven is operable in a speedcooking mode wherein both radiant and microwave cooking elements are utilized, a microwave only cooking mode wherein only the magnetron is utilized, and a convection/bake mode wherein radiant and convection cooking elements are utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Todd Vincent Graves, Kevin Farrelly Nolan, Brian Robert Goodrich
  • Publication number: 20030024926
    Abstract: A container (1) comprising a base (2) and four panels (3, 4, 5, 6) adapted to be coupled to the base (2) so as to be upstanding from the base (2). There is an upstanding plinth (21) along one edge the base (2) and at the top of the plinth (21) there is a coupling member (23) to engage with a cooperating coupling member (7) on the rear panel (5). The rear panel (5) sits on the plinth (21) when coupled thereto and when so coupled is sufficiently raised above the support surface (10) of the base (2) as to allow uncoupling of the rear panel (5) from the base (2) without interference from a cover panel (14) over the base support surface (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Ladislav Stephan Karpisek
  • Publication number: 20030024927
    Abstract: An electrical receptacle has at least one side wall defining a receptacle interior, wherein the side wall includes an edge defining a receptacle opening and further includes at least one raised protrusion formed thereon and an aperture formed therein as a result of forming the protrusion. The protrusion has a banking surface substantially parallel with the opening edge for positioning the receptacle and the protrusion substantially occludes access to the receptacle interior through the aperture of the side wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian MacDonald