Patents Issued in February 20, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030033955
    Abstract: The running gear (1) for a rail vehicle comprises at least two wheel sets (3) mounted in wheel set bearings (2). The wheel sets have axles (4), wheels (5) and a chassis frame (6). The chassis frame (6) is provided with two longitudinal sole bars (7) and with at least one cross-member (8) located therebetween and connected to the sole bars (7) via at least two articulations (9). The sole bars (7) and the cross-member (8) are movable relative to one another on a plane which is parallel to the rail plane (&egr;), and the wheel set bearings (2) are connected to the cross-member (8) or to one respective cross-member (8) of the rail vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Teichmann Martin
  • Publication number: 20030033956
    Abstract: A paste for formation of ceramic capacitor electrode, composed of 10 to 14% by weight of an organic vehicle and 86 to 90% by weight of a platinum powder, wherein the platinum powder contains, in 100% by weight of the powder, 54 to 60% by weight of a spherical particle powder, 36 to 40% by weight of a flaky particle powder and 0 to 10% by weight of an indefinite particle powder. The electrode layer film of ceramic capacitor formed with the paste has a density, a surface roughness and an adhesion strength all of given values, can have improved adhesivity to the dielectric layer of the ceramic capacitor, and can make small the through holes generated in the electrode layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: NGK Insulators, Ltd. and Du Pont Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takashi Ohashi, Minoru Ohara, Kazunori Imai
  • Publication number: 20030033957
    Abstract: This invention provides water-based compositions which are essentially free of hydrocarbon solvents, particularly coating, ink, fountain solution, adhesive and agricultural compositions, manifesting reduced equilibrium and dynamic surface tension by the incorporation of a surface tension reducing amount of certain tartrate diester compounds of the structure 1
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Caroline Sassano Slone, Kevin Rodney Lassila
  • Publication number: 20030033958
    Abstract: The present invention relates to easily distributable pigment compositions consisting essentially of pigment and urea-aldehyde resin, wherein the weight ratio of pigment to urea-aldehyde resin is generally in the range of 40:60 to 90:10, a process for their production and their use in pigmenting high molecular weight organic materials. Due to the excellent dispersibility of the pigment compositions of this invention, uniform distribution of pigment particles throughout the entire application media and, therefore, excellent color consistency is readily achieved. Products, for example solvent paints, spread coatings and powder coatings, comprising the stir-in pigment compositions show high color strength, high gloss and low haze as well as very good light fastness and weathering fastness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Gerardus Lambertus Creusen, Leonardus Johannes Hubertus Erkens, Robertus Josef Mathijs Hermans, Nico Adelin Valentin Roox
  • Publication number: 20030033959
    Abstract: Provided is an oil based ink for a ball-point pen comprising at least an alcohol-soluble dye, carbon black, a resin and an organic solvent, wherein the carbon black described above has a DBP oil absorption of 80 cc/100 g or less. The carbon black has preferably a particle diameter of 30 m&mgr; or less and a content of 1 to 15 mass % based on the total amount of the ink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Masaaki Morita, Susumu Suzuki, Toshiaki Takayanagi, Kyoko Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20030033960
    Abstract: A flexible cutting member is provided for use with an associated line trimmer device. The cutting member is formed of a biodegradable plastic formed of a hydrophobic thermoplastic modified starch derived from corn, wheat, or a wheat/corn blend. A combination line trimmer and biodegradable trim line is further provided. Additionally, a method is provided for producing trim line for use in an associated line trimmer including providing a biodegradable plastic material and extruding the material through a die into an elongate cylindrical flexible cutting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Michael E. Hudzinski
  • Publication number: 20030033961
    Abstract: A crosslinking agent is provided which is an ungelled reaction product of (a) an aminoplast resin and (b) a compound having active hydrogen groups reactive with the aminoplast resin (a) such that the crosslinking agent is essentially free of functional groups reactive with aminoplast resin and has a glass transition temperature of at least 10° C. Also provided is a method for preparing the crosslinking agent. Further provided is a curable powder coating composition including (A) a polymer having a glass transition temperature of at least 30° C. containing reactive functional groups and (B) the previously described crosslinking agent. Additionally provided is a multilayer composite coating composition including a base coat deposited from a film-forming composition and a top coat over the base coat deposited from the previously described powder coating composition. Coated substrates are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Ronald R. Ambrose, Anthony M. Chasser, Shengkui Hu
  • Publication number: 20030033962
    Abstract: A number of stable mixtures are disclosed containing specific combinations and levels of extender pigments and thickeners. These stable mixtures may be employed, inter alia, as a mixture in a method of making paints using prepaints or as a conventional component in a coating, such as a paint, or other end-use where opacifying pigments are employed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Edwin Hugh Nungesser, Jerry William Washel, John Michael Friel
  • Publication number: 20030033963
    Abstract: A table assembly has extruded motorized telescopic legs with an outer leg including adjustable feet which provide micro adjustment of the height of the table assembly. The combination of the telescopic support leg and adjustable feet provide macro and micro adjustment of the table to accommodate workers of different stature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: James E. Doyle
  • Publication number: 20030033964
    Abstract: A kit for modular shelf unit potentially including at least one support, at least one riser, at least one shelf, at least one interior corner, and at least one exterior corner, the supports and risers optionally providing connection between shelves, interior and exterior corners, the risers optionally providing support for multiple shelves, shelves of different elevations or both, interior and exterior corners optionally allowing continuation of the shelf unit around corners in and out of a room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew L. Wolven
  • Publication number: 20030033965
    Abstract: A device to be incorporated in a container for valuables comprises a first reservoir (3) containing a liquid colouring material or a noxious gas, preferably an ink, a second reservoir (14) containing a pressurized gas, and an actuator (13) connected to a detection system. The pressurized gas is liberated if required by the detection system. The first reservoir (3) is able to collapse under the sudden increase in pressure resulting from the release of the gas. The content of the first reservoir is ejected through a retaining valve and an elongated perforated pipe (10) for spraying the valuables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: GREGORY VAN LINT
  • Publication number: 20030033966
    Abstract: A heat recovery system for an air curtain incinerator includes a transportable box defined by a plurality of walls and has an open top and an open bottom. The walls are lined with a refractory material operatively associated with the open bottom to form a combustion chamber. The system also includes a source of high velocity air and a manifold for directing an effective curtain of high velocity air across the top opening and down into the combustion chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Brian M. O'Connor
  • Publication number: 20030033967
    Abstract: This is a displacement vessel shown configured for STOVL aircraft operations, providing multiple, into the wind launch positions. Widely separated port and starboard hulls carry transverse decks; this wide separation eliminates heeling and allows the vessel to maneuver without rudders. Pairs of torque tube legs connect the hulls; these round tubes would twist to absorb otherwise destructive stresses produced from grounding of a single hull. Within the hulls are ballast tanks so the vessel can be submerged to a small waterplane, creating a very stable platform; or to a heeled and lowered position to discharge amphibious vehicles. Motor driven propellers provide the propulsion for very high speed, made possible by narrow hulls. Combined with active fins to minimize pitching, this vessel will provide a stable platform in most seaways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: W. Zack Hayman
  • Publication number: 20030033968
    Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for lightning protection. The subject method and apparatus can be utilized to provide lightning protection for a marine vessel, other structures near water, and/or land-based structures. In a specific embodiment of the subject invention, an electrode design for allowing the electric current caused by a lightning strike to be grounded to water can be employed. The subject grounding electrodes can be employed such that the electrodes are not completely immersed in the water during normal operation of the marine vessel. In a specific embodiment of the subject invention, such grounding is not in contact with the water at all. The specific embodiment of the subject electrode is designed to enhance sparking initiation. In a specific embodiment, the subject electrode is designed to be at least partially, and in some embodiments substantially, insulate from the water, such that an area of the electrode used as a spark channel is exposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Ewen M. Thomson
  • Publication number: 20030033969
    Abstract: A marine steering system operable in either power steering or manual hydraulic modes. The system employs a modified helm pump having a single rotatable input shaft connectable to a steering wheel and dual hydraulic and electronic output. An encoder, such as an optical incremental encoder or hall effect device, is mechanically coupled to the input shaft for generating an electronic steering control signal representative of the change in position of the steering wheel. In the power steering mode, the electronic steering signal is processed by an amplifier controlling the operation of an auxiliary pumpset connected to the rudder steering cylinder. A bypass manifold disposed between the helm pump and the steering cylinder disables the hydraulic steering system in the power steering mode. In the event of power failure, the bypass manifold valves are opened and the system automatically switches to manual hydraulic steering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Peter Doetsch
  • Publication number: 20030033970
    Abstract: A whistle has a mouthpiece which is cushioned to minimize damage to the whistle and improve the comfort and safety of a user. The cushioning material is preferably injection moulded into a sleeve which locates between ridges integrally moulded with the whistle body. The body also has a plurality of projections for mating with the cushioning material. A web in an air inlet passage strengthens the mouthpiece to prevent collapse or fracture of the mouthpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Graham Hills, Kirk Mosna, Steve Orzel, Ronald Foxcroft
  • Publication number: 20030033971
    Abstract: A flow indicating device including a tube, a turbine wheel, and a cylinder is described. The tube defines a flow path. The turbine wheel is mounted in the tube for rotation alongside an inside wall of the tube. The turbine wheel has a plurality of turbine blades. The cylinder is mounted outside the tube for rotation alongside an outside wall of the tube. The cylinder is magnetically coupled to the turbine wheel through the sidewall of the tube so that rotation of the turbine wheel causes rotation of the cylinder. A visually observable pattern is provided on an outside surface of the cylinder so that rotation of the cylinder can be visually ascertained. The device is easy to install and provides an indication of flow within the pipe which is highly visible, easy to read, and viewable from any location around the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Wade L. Donehue
  • Publication number: 20030033972
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for preparing a single crystal silicon ingot wherein controlled growth of the crown or taper is used to establish a desired vacancy-interstitial boundary position in the main body of the ingot early in the growth process, such that the overall yield of the desired type of silicon is increased. Controlled growth is achieved in a first embodiment by actually increasing the pull rate during growth of the crown or taper, prior to the roll or growth of the shoulder of the ingot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Massoud Javidi
  • Publication number: 20030033973
    Abstract: Ammonia for use in the manufacture of a GaN-type compound semiconductor, filled in a charging container 18 such that at least a part of the ammonia is liquid and the liquid phase ammonia has a water concentration determined by a Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) of 0.5 vol ppm or less, is introduced in the gaseous state into a reaction chamber 11 housing therein a substrate 1, and a layer comprising a GaN-type compound started from this ammonia is formed on the substrate 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: HIDEKI HAYASHIDA, TAIZO ITO, YASUYUKI SAKAGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20030033974
    Abstract: A substrate comprising at least two layers which have different thermal expansion coefficients (TECs) is used for subsequent epitaxial growth of semiconductors. A typical example is an epitaxial growth of III-V Nitride (InGaAlBNAsP alloy semiconductor) on sapphire. Due to the thermal mismatch between III-V Nitrides and sapphire, epitaxially-processed wafers bow in a convex manner during cool down after the growth. A layered substrate compensates for the thermal mismatch between the epitaxial layered the top layer of the substrate, resulting in a flat wafer suitable for subsequent processing at high yields. The layered substrate is achieved by attaching to the back side of the substrate a material which has a lower TEC, for example silicon on the backside of the sapphire, to reduce or eliminate the bowing. Silicon is attached or grown on a sapphire wafer by such as wafer bonding or epitaxial growth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Tetsuzo Ueda
  • Publication number: 20030033975
    Abstract: A method of depositing a waveguide core in a trench formed between opposed sidewalls of adjacent first and second cladding structures of a planar substrate. The method comprises the steps of depositing a waveguide material in the trench, preferentially etching the deposited waveguide material at or near upper regions of the opposed sidewalls, and controlling at least one parameter of the deposition process so as to form a waveguide core in the trench from the deposited waveguide material. The preferential etching step may be conducted in a manner which increases optical confinement in the deposited waveguide core in the trench, or in a manner which reduces shadowing effects in the trench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Bazylenko
  • Publication number: 20030033976
    Abstract: Methods of growing silicon carbide are provided in which an electric arc is used to sublime a silicon carbide source material. In these embodiments, a silicon carbide seed crystal is introduced into a sublimation system, along with first and second electrodes that are separated by a gap. A power supply is coupled to at least one of the electrodes and used to create an electric arc across the gap between the two electrodes. This electric arc is used to sublime at least a portion of a silicon carbide source material. The vaporized silicon carbide material may then be encouraged to condense onto a seed material to produce monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon carbide. In embodiments of the present invention, at least one of the electrodes is comprised of silicon carbide and serves as the silicon carbide source material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas G. Coleman
  • Publication number: 20030033977
    Abstract: In a coating apparatus, a nozzle connects a feed pipe for feeding a coat solution to a manifold of a die with an opening of the manifold. The nozzle satisfies conditions: 1.5≦B/A≦5.0 and 0.8≦C/B≦8.0, when A is an equivalent diameter of an end of the nozzle to be connected with the tube, B is an equivalent diameter of another end of the nozzle to be connected with the opening, and C is a length of the nozzle. The coat solution fed from the feed pipe enters in the nozzle. In the nozzle, the coating solution diverges along with an inner wall of the nozzle to enter into the manifold. In the manifold the coating solution flows in a widthwise direction and flows out through a slit extending from the manifold to a lip of the die, such that a moving web is coated with the coating solution uniformly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Oki, Yoshinobu Katagiri, Masahiro Morikawa
  • Publication number: 20030033978
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides a deposition chamber for depositing materials which require vaporization, especially low volatility precursors, which are transported as a liquid to a vaporizer to be converted to vapor phase through one or more vaporizing elements and which must be transported at elevated temperatures to prevent unwanted condensation on chamber components. In one aspect, the chamber comprises a series of heated temperature controlled internal liners as vaporizing surfaces which are configured for rapid removal, cleaning and/or replacement and preferably are made of a material having a thermal coefficient of expansion close to that of the deposition material. The vaporizing surfaces “flash” sprayed liquid precursors on the surface of the vaporizing surfaces and then purify the flashed precursors before flowing further into the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: JUN ZHAO, CHARLES DORNFEST, FRANK CHANG, XIAOLIANG JIN, PO TANG
  • Publication number: 20030033979
    Abstract: A substrate processing chamber has a substrate support to support a substrate, and an exhaust conduit about the substrate support. A first process gas distributor directs a first process gas, such as a non-reactive gas, about the substrate perimeter and toward the exhaust conduit at a first flow rate to form a curtain of non-reactive gas about the substrate. A second process gas distributor directs a second process gas, such as reactive CVD or etchant gas, toward a central portion of the substrate at a second flow rate which is lower than the first flow rate. A gas energizer energizes the first and second process gases in the chamber. A controller operates the substrate support, gas flow meters, gas energizer, and throttle valve, to process the substrate in the energized gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold V. Kholodenko, Dan Katz, Wing L. Cheng
  • Publication number: 20030033980
    Abstract: The invention includes a method of forming a layer on a semiconductor substrate that is provided within a reaction chamber. The chamber has at least two inlet ports that terminate in openings. A first material is flowed into the reaction chamber through the opening of a first of the inlet ports. At least a portion of the first material is deposited onto the substrate. The reaction chamber is purged by flowing an inert material into the reaction chamber through the opening of a second of the inlet ports. The inert material passes from the opening and through a distribution head that is positioned within the reaction chamber between the first and second openings. A second material can then be flowed into the chamber through an opening in a third inlet port and deposited onto the substrate. The invention also includes a chemical vapor deposition apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Philip H. Campbell, Craig M. Carpenter, Ross S. Dando, Kevin T. Hamer
  • Publication number: 20030033981
    Abstract: The present invention provides a wafer handling device having a base plate (G; G′), which has a first and a second supporting surface for a respective wafer (W1, W2) to be laid on; and a fixing device (K1, K2, S; K1′, K2′, S′) for the detachable fixing of the respective wafer (W1, W2) on the first and second supporting surface; the fixing device (K1, K2, S; K1′, K2′, S′) being configured in such a way that it contacts the respective wafer (W1, W2) only in the outer edge region of the side facing away from the supporting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Andre Schaefer, Andrea Zuckerstaetter
  • Publication number: 20030033982
    Abstract: A chemical vapor deposition system (10) includes a housing (12) having an entry (30) and an exit (32) through which glass sheet substrates (G) to be coated are introduced and exited from a deposition chamber (14) defined by lower and upper housing portions (16, 18) having a seal assembly (22) at their horizontal junction which is higher than both the entry and the exit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: First Solar, LLC
    Inventors: Gary T. Faykosh, James B. Foote, James E. Hinkle
  • Publication number: 20030033983
    Abstract: An in-line sputtering system for depositing a thin film on a substrate includes a buffer heating module, an entry transfer module adjacent to the buffer heating module and having an expedited conveyor device for moving the substrate therein and a first sputtering module for depositing the thin film on the substrate, which is adjacent to the entry transfer module. The entry transfer module serves as a buffer zone which mitigates fluctuations in temperature and pressure in the first sputtering module when the substrate is unloaded from the buffer heating module. The substrate in the entry transfer module is moved by the expedited conveyor device at a speed greater than that in the first sputtering module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Hee Soo Song, Sung Wan Park
  • Publication number: 20030033984
    Abstract: A feedthrough device for use in deposition chambers such as chemical vapor deposition chambers and atomic layer deposition chambers and methods using the same in association with such chambers as well as chambers so equipped. The feedthrough device includes an associated heating device to maintain the temperature of the feedthrough device above a predetermined level and thus maintain a temperature differential between the deposition chamber body and a vaporize organometallic precursor as it passes therethrough. The feedthrough device may include a helical groove formed along the surface of a longitudinal body portion thereof to complementarily receive a resistance type cable heater. The heater may further include a temperature sensing device to assist in monitoring and controlling the temperature of the feedthrough device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Craig M. Carpenter, Raynald B. Cantin
  • Publication number: 20030033985
    Abstract: A bird feeder which utilizes a shielding collar that behaves substantially like a universal-joint. The hollow, generally-cylindrical collar surrounds an annular food tray. The collar has a plurality of openings to provide access to the food tray, with a perch rod adjacent each opening. The collar is suspended by a spring means operative to allow the collar to simultaneously tilt, move downwardly and rotate, thus occluding the passage to food whenever the weight and agitated movements of a squirrel are brought to bear upon the collar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Stewart Hardison
  • Publication number: 20030033986
    Abstract: A pet dish apparatus includes a dish-shaped base unit which has a first dish lock portion in the form of an annular groove on an inside surface of the dish-shaped base unit and includes a dish member received in the dish-shaped base unit. The dish member includes a second dish lock portion in the form of an annular tongue on the outside surface of the dish member which is engageable with the first dish lock portion annular groove. The dish member is received in the dish-shaped base unit in a nesting manner. An annular peripheral top ring extends outward from a dish wall of the dish member. Two dish-shaped base units can be connected together with an annular peripheral top ring in a form of a figure-eight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Karen M. Brown
  • Publication number: 20030033987
    Abstract: A livestock feeder particularly suited as a horse feeder. This feeder has a grille on a front face and hangs on an outside of an enclosure with the front face resting on horizontal bars of the enclosure. The animal is able to pull feed through the vertically disposed grille on the front face. With the feeder on the outside of the enclosure, it is easily accessible for cleaning, filling with feed, or relocation while providing safe access on the outside of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Elliott
  • Publication number: 20030033988
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a bird feeder that is formed of two vessels with detachable connectors between. The two vessels include a reservoir that stores feeding material and a feeding vessel with openings allowing birds to feed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Sasso
  • Publication number: 20030033989
    Abstract: An animal restraint apparatus for a horse has a pair of attachment members which attach around an animal's front legs, at least one elongate member which is attached relative to each attachment member, and an biasing portion, the elongate member being supported by a portion of the animal which is behind the front legs of the animal, the biasing portion functioning to pull the animal's leg back into a rest position should the animal push its leg forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Geoffrey J. Kreutzer
  • Publication number: 20030033990
    Abstract: The objective of this invention is to provide a support fitting for a heat-resistant block to protect boiler tubes which can be easily and reliably stud-welded without losing any of its function as a support fitting. The support fitting according to this invention is used to attach to the heat-resistant block to protect boiler tubes. It protrudes upward at a right angle from the surface of the rib between two boiler tubes, and it is welded on the rib. The support fitting has a catch to engage with the heat-resistant block on its end. The support fitting according to this invention is distinguished by the fact that the welding surface of the support fitting to the rib is shaped narrower, and by the fact that a single globule of a deoxidizing conductive material used as flux is attached to the narrowed welding surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Keita Inoue, Ryuta Maruyama, Minoru Ike, Kenshi Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20030033991
    Abstract: A portable hydrogen generation system for operating a vehicle powered by either the hydrogen internal combustion engine or a fuel cell using active metals such as sodium potassium, magnesium, aluminum or iron in the form of an emulsion. In the case of sodium, potassium and magnesium, the metal is reacting with water. However, in the case of aluminum and iron, the metal is reacting with alkali hydroxide solutions. The system is orchestrated by a microprocessor in order to generate hydrogen on demand with a very high efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher T. Cheng
  • Publication number: 20030033992
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an internal combustion engine and a fuel cell for supplying electric vehicle systems. The fuel cell is thermally “coupled” with the internal combustion engine. The waste heat of the internal combustion engine is used for heating the fuel cell, that is, for maintaining the operating temperature of the fuel cell. The fuel cell is arranged directly on the engine where, in the case of conventional vehicles, the transmission is arranged. The transmission is arranged in the area of the rear axle in front of the rear-axle divider transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: BAYERISCHE MOTOR WERKE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT.
    Inventor: Ulrich Ohnemus
  • Publication number: 20030033993
    Abstract: In a cooling device for cooling charge air from a compressor (3) in an engine (9) and hydraulic oil from a retarder (14), a first coolant flow (m1) is provided in a coolant conduit (20). The engine (9) is cooled by the whole first coolant flow (m1). The cooling device comprises a first a first charge-air cooler (4), which is cooled by means of a second coolant flow (m2), and a second charge-air cooler (5), which is cooled by means of a low-temperature fluid (32). The cooling device further comprises a retarder cooler (17) for cooling hydraulic oil from the retarder (14), said retarder cooler (17) being cooled by means of a third coolant flow (m3). Both the second coolant flow (m2) and the third coolant flow (m3) are subflows of the first coolant flow (m1). In a method utilizing the cooling device for cooling charge air as well as hydraulic oil from a retarder (14), a second coolant flow (m2) and a third coolant flow (m3) are used, both of which are subflows of the first coolant flow (m1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Laszlo Valaszkai, Bruno Jouannet, Marcus Karlsson
  • Publication number: 20030033994
    Abstract: Air provision systems for portable power modules trailerable over public roads and capable of providing at least approximately one megawatt of electrical power. In one embodiment, the portable power module includes a container housing a gaseous fuel motor, an electrical generator drivably connected to the motor, and a motor coolant radiator. In one aspect of this embodiment, the air provision system includes a first air circuit having a first air inlet to provide an ambient first air portion to the motor and the generator to the exclusion of the radiator, and a second air circuit including a second air inlet to provide an ambient second air portion to the radiator to the exclusion of the motor and the generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Edmund Campion
  • Publication number: 20030033995
    Abstract: The invention relates to an internal combustion engine with at least one control element (6, 14) for variation of the flow cross-section of a charge exchange passage, which control element (6, 14) is automatically adjustable in accordance with the engine mode by means of an actuating member (8) and a connecting element (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Franz Laimbock
  • Publication number: 20030033996
    Abstract: An internal combustion cylinder head is comprised of a housing formed from three sections horizontally divided along the axis of two parallel horizontal gear shafts and a horizontal parallel camshaft located above them. The valve stems pass between the gear shafts and the valve faces are located below the gear shafts. Meshing the gear shafts together and driving them from the crankshaft form the gear compressor. Internal combustion passages are formed in the housing between the air compressor and an exhaust valve. The compressor is divided into four pumps, two outer oil pumps and two middle air pumps that pump air into the combustion passages. Two internal air intake passages surround the housing enclosing the air compressor and serve to cool the cylinder head as air is drawn through them into the air compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: William Delaplaine Green
  • Publication number: 20030033997
    Abstract: There is provided a valve timing control system for an internal combustion engine, which is capable of properly controlling valve timing while maintaining the accuracy of degradation determination of an oxygen concentration sensor or an exhaust gas-purifying device. The valve timing control system for an internal combustion engine includes a degradation-determining system that performs degradation determination of at least one of the oxygen concentration sensor and the exhaust gas-purifying device in a state in which the air-fuel ratio of a mixture supplied to the engine is controlled to a predetermined state, and controls valve timing by changing the cam phase. An ECU determines whether or not executing conditions for the degradation determination by the degradation-determining system are satisfied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Koichi Yoshiki, Tomoya Furukawa
  • Publication number: 20030033998
    Abstract: An infinitely variable cam indexer utilizes engine oil pressure to actuate a cam and preferably uses an inlet check valve in the oil source to minimize back flow during a torque reversal. The control system is in the center of the rotor and uses an electromechanical actuator, preferably a variable force solenoid, acting directly on the spool to control oil flow. This design reduces leakage and improves the response of the phaser. There are shorter oil passages as compared to a control system mounted at the cam bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Marty Gardner, Michael Duffield
  • Publication number: 20030033999
    Abstract: An infinitely variable camshaft timing device (phaser) has a control valve located in the rotor. Since the control valve is in the rotor, the camshaft need only provide a single passage for supplying engine oil or hydraulic fluid, and does not need multiple passageways for controlling the phaser, as in the prior art. Two check valves, an advance chamber check valve and a retard chamber check valve, are also located in the rotor. The check valves are located in the control passages for each chamber. The main advantage of putting the check valves in the advance and retard chambers instead of having a single check valve in the supply is to reduce leakage. This design also eliminates high pressure oil flow across the spool valve and improves the response time of the check valve to the torque reversals due to a shorter oil path. In addition, the phaser of the present invention outperforms an oil pressure actuated device and consumes less oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Marty Gardner, Michael Duffield
  • Publication number: 20030034000
    Abstract: A valve timing control system includes a driving plate coupled to a crankshaft, a lever shaft coupled to a camshaft, a VTC housing, and an electromagnetic coil mounted to the VTC housing for producing a magnetic field to control a mounting angle formed between the driving plate and the lever shaft. The electromagnetic coil has rotation restricted and axial displacement allowed by the VTC housing, and is engaged with the lever shaft to enable rotation with respect thereto and axial displacement together therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: UNISIA JECS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Kobayashi, Shigeaki Yamamuro, Naotaka Nakura
  • Publication number: 20030034001
    Abstract: In an intake system for an internal combustion engine having a cylinder head with at least one inlet duct per cylinder, an essentially flat control flap is supported in the inlet duct on a pivot shaft pivotally about an axis which is disposed in spaced relationship upstream from the control flap by way of side support arms such that, in an open position, the control flap rests against a wall portion of the inlet duct from where it can be swiveled into the intake duct into a flow directing turbulence generating position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Armin Herold, Joerg Miroll, Berndt Schuetz
  • Publication number: 20030034002
    Abstract: A powertrain system includes a cylinder deactivation system mechanically coupled to an internal combustion engine, and electrically coupled to an engine management system. The engine management system signals the cylinder deactivation system to selectively deactivate one or more engine cylinders. The engine continues to operate using the remaining available active engine cylinders, and generates an inconsistent torque output. A torque-smoothing device mechanically coupled to the engine, and electrically or hydraulically coupled to an energy storage device, removes and releases energy periodically to compensate for the inconsistent torque output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Donald J. Armstrong, Harold E. Durling
  • Publication number: 20030034003
    Abstract: A method and system for introduction of nitrogen enriched air into the crankcase of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The introduction of the nitrogen-enriched air operates to extend the oil life of the oil present in the engine crankcase due to decreased oxidation of the engine oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: William L. Brown
  • Publication number: 20030034004
    Abstract: An air intake system for intake air of an internal combustion engine comprising a filter insert (19) in a housing (10) connected to the air conducting system by a plurality of inlets (13) and an outlet (22). The air inlets are provided with individual intake nozzles or fittings and lead to a single common air chamber (20) in the filter housing. The inlets (13) can be individually opened and closed by flap valves (24), thereby allowing the acoustics to be influenced favorably and enabling, for example, the respective intake fittings to be connected or disconnected depending on the temperature. The intake system requires only a limited number of components, and the design of the preferably wedge-shaped air chamber minimizes flow losses in the housing, which in turn decreases the intake noise. Shunt resonators (28) can also be formed using cover elements (29) and (30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Rudolf Leipelt, Rolf Fuesser, Robert Vaculik, Thomas Haubold