Patents Issued in March 20, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030051985
    Abstract: A surgical footpedal includes a treadle size for receiving a user's foot and adapted for enabling depression thereof in order to activate signals for control of associated surgical apparatus. A vibrator is disposed on the treadle for vibrating the treadle at selected treadle depressions to provide sensory warning to the user that further treadle depression will cause a given event to occur. A bracket is provided for attaching the vibrator to the treadle for causing resonant vibration of the treadle and the vibrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Jerry S.J. Chen, Dung Ma
  • Publication number: 20030051986
    Abstract: A first fixed contact is mounted on an upper surface of a circuit substrate, and a second fixed contact is mounted on the upper surface of a circuit substrate around the first fixed contact. A movable contact having a semicircular sectional shape is mounted on the second fixed contact, and terminal electrodes are provided on an underside of the circuit substrate and connected to the first and second fixed contacts respectively. A spacer is mounted on the circuit substrate so as to surround the movable contact, and a cover is mounted on the spacer to cover the movable contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: Citizen Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Isao Miyashita
  • Publication number: 20030051987
    Abstract: This invention is a system for manufacturing char having a continuous operation and optimizing heat generation and retention elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Marshall L. Owen
  • Publication number: 20030051988
    Abstract: Crude oil fractions, fossil fuels, and organic liquids in general in which it is desirable to reduce the levels of fused-ring compounds, aromatics, and olefins are combined with an aqueous phase to form an emulsion and treated with ultrasound with the effect of opening rings in the fused-ring compounds, saturating aromatics, and converting the olefins to paraffins. In fossil fuels and crude oil fractions, the process raises the API gravity, and in diesel fuels, the process raises the cetane index and thereby improves performance. In fuels and fractions with sulfur-containing and nitrogen-containing components, the process reduces the level of these compounds. The process can be performed both with and without the added presence of hydrogen peroxide. The invention is performed either as a continuous process or a batch process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Rudolf W. Gunnerman, Paul S. Moote, Mark T. Cullen
  • Publication number: 20030051989
    Abstract: A method of liberating various existing hydrocarbon fractions from hydrocarbon mixtures without the need of additives, catalysts or heating using ultrasonic cavitation. Ultrasonic energy is provided at a rate sufficient to induce cavitation in the hydrocarbon mixture without causing cracking. The high temperatures and high pressures resulting from cavitation reduce intermolecular forces between hydrocarbons thereby liberating existing lighter hydrocarbons in the diesel range or lighter for recovery via more traditional separation technologies. The resulting upgraded petroleum product exhibits lower distillation curves and decreased pollution causing components. Further, a wide variety of feedstocks can be treated according to the method of this invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: Petronetics, LLC.
    Inventor: Douglas P. Austin
  • Publication number: 20030051990
    Abstract: An intense ultraviolet radiation source is disclosed that may be operated in substantially any arbitrary gas environment, without regard to a containment envelope for the ultraviolet radiation source. The intense ultraviolet radiation source can be generated by applying a pulsed or continuous electrical discharge to a partially ionized combustion flame via two electrodes. The combustion flame and electrical discharge can be focused, contained, or confined by gas pressure, electric fields, and/or magnetic fields. Optionally, the thermal energy in the flame and the electrical discharge power input may be augmented with an electromagnetic radiation source, such as a radio-frequency induction heater, a laser, or a microwave generator. Impurities may be placed in contact with or added to the fuel and/or the oxidizer to further alter the emitted ultraviolet radiation spectral brightness as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: CRT Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick B. Spielman, Jean-Francois Leon, Michael L. Fraim
  • Publication number: 20030051991
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel self-sustaining method for the clean production of energy based on supplying into a submerged electric arc between carbon-base electrodes or through a plasma created by an arc between carbon-base or metal-base electrodes the element which is missing for any given feedstock to achieve such a mixture of mostly ionized H, C and O atoms in the arc plasma and to contain equal moles of C and O as necessary to create CO and moles of H2, irrespective of whether the number of moles of H2 is larger, equal or smaller than that of CO. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Ruggero Maria Santilli
  • Publication number: 20030051992
    Abstract: A method of obtaining a supply of a synthetic combustible gas having enhanced combustion properties by providing a fluid containing a carbonaceous material, creating an electric arc between spaced electrodes under the fluid to generate a combustible gas, and collecting the gas to obtain the supply of the combustible gas. An apparatus for obtaining a supply of a combustible gas having enhanced combustion properties includes a fluid containing a carbonaceous material, a vessel for retaining the fluid, spaced electrodes positioned in the vessel below the fluid, means for creating an electric arc between the spaced electrodes to generate a combustible gas, and means for collecting the gas for obtaining the supply of the gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: EarthFirst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip M. Rappa, Richard A. Lyons, Ruggero M. Santilli
  • Publication number: 20030051993
    Abstract: A method for activating chemical reactions using a non-thermal capillary discharge plasma (NT-CDP) unit or a non-thermal slot discharge plasma (NT-SDP) unit (collectively referred to as “NT-CDP/SDP”). The NT-CDP/SDP unit includes a first electrode disposed between two dielectric layers, wherein the first electrode and dielectric layers having at least one opening (e.g., capillary or a slot) defined therethrough. A dielectric sleeve inserted into the opening, and at least one second electrode (e.g., in the shape of a pin, ring, metal wire, or tapered metal blade) is disposed in fluid communication with an associated opening. A non-thermal plasma discharge is emitted from the opening when a voltage differential is applied between the first and second electrodes. Chemical feedstock to be treated is then exposed to the non-thermal plasma.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: PLASMASOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Pascal J. Ricatto, Edward J. Houston, Richard Crowe
  • Publication number: 20030051994
    Abstract: A partial turn coil disposed in a semiconductor fabrication chamber for generating a plasma and sputter depositing coil material onto a substrate can exhibit reduced RF voltages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Praburam Gopalraja, Bradley O. Stimson
  • Publication number: 20030051995
    Abstract: A plating apparatus and plating method for an electronic component substrate or the like which prevent the spread of metal contamination in and out of the plating apparatus, do not dissolve a seed layer, have no defects caused by scattering of a treating liquid and wash only the perimeter of the electronic component substrate or the like are provided. The plating apparatus is a plating apparatus for plating an object to be plated such as an electronic component substrate. The plating apparatus includes appropriate numbers of plating baths and baths used for washing or other purposes therein and carries out plating, edge etching, washing and drying continuously therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Hirotaka Nobata, Haruki Sonoda, Yoshihito Tatehaba, Tetsurou Ohtsubo, Yasuomi Morito, Kiyoshi Shimada, Yusuke Abe, Ei?apos;Ichi Ando, Tetsuji Oishi
  • Publication number: 20030051996
    Abstract: An electrowinning cell, having a tank with an opened upper end defined by a tank edge, electrolyte within the tank and a plurality of flat, metallic electrode plates disposed within the tank in side-by-side, spaced-apart, parallel relationship. Adjacent electrode plates define an electrode gap therebetween. An injector manifold is disposed at the bottom of the tank for feeding electrolyte into the tank at locations below the electrode plates. A collector grid, comprised of a plurality of collectors having ports, define an upper level of electrolyte by collecting the electrolyte from the tank. The ports are disposed in spaced-apart relationship within the open upper end defined by the tank edge. The collector grid and the injector creating a flow of electrolyte upward between the plates as the electrolyte flows from the manifold locations below the plates to the ports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: Phelps Dodge Corporation
    Inventors: Jean-Louis Huens, Peter Peckham
  • Publication number: 20030051997
    Abstract: An oxyhydrogen fuel producing device with a plug-in electrobath. The oxyhydrogen fuel producing device has the plug-in electrobath, a water replenishing system, a cooling system, and a DC switching power supply. The plug-in electrobath has a casing filled with the electrolyte, an insulating plug-in slot module provided with a plurality of slots, a plurality of electrode boards respectively inserted in the slots to form an electrode voltage dividing structure in the casing, a gas outlet, a heat dissipation outlet sending out the electrolyte in the casing, and a heat dissipation inlet receiving the electrolyte to the casing. The cooling system cools the electrolyte sent out from the heat dissipation outlet and recycling the electrolyte to the heat dissipation inlet. The DC switching power supply supplies voltage required in electrolysis performed in the plug-in electrobath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Shun-Yi Lin, Show-Yih Ko, Shui-Yuan Lee, Kung-Yu Lu, Jiunn-Yan Lee
  • Publication number: 20030051998
    Abstract: A security control system for an oxyhydrogen fuel producing apparatus. The security control system includes a system control device, a first pressure control device, a second pressure control device, a temperature control device, a water level control device and a catalyst level control device to improve and ensure the security of the oxyhydrogen fuel producing apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Shun-Yi Lin, Show-Yih Ko, Shui-Yuan Lee, Kung-Yu Lu, Jiunn-Yan Lee
  • Publication number: 20030051999
    Abstract: For manufacturing printed circuit boards and films 7 with little variations in the layer thickness of the circuit structures without damaging the surfaces of the boards and films, a rotatory element 9, 10, more specifically a contact roll, is used for placing the printed circuit boards and films in electric contact, an elastic, electrically conductive material 2, 5, 6 being at least partially applied on the running tread unreeling on the printed circuit boards and films.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Egon Hubel
  • Publication number: 20030052000
    Abstract: A material may include grains of sizes such that at least 99% of a measured area contains grains that exhibit grain areas less than 10 times an area of a mean grain size of the measured area. As examples, at least 99% of the measured area may contain grains with grain areas less than 8, 6, or 3 times the area of the mean grain size. The grains may also have a mean grain size of less than 3 times a minimum statically recrystallized grain size, for example, a mean grain size of less than about 50 microns, 10 microns, or 1 micron. The material may be comprised by a sputtering target and a thin film may be deposited on a substrate from such a sputtering target. A micro-arc reduction method may include sputtering a film from a sputtering target comprising grains of sizes as described. A sputtering target forming method may include deforming a sputtering material. After the deforming, the sputtering material may be shaped into at least a portion of a sputtering target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Vladimir Segal, Michael E. Thomas, Jianxing Li, Stephane Ferrasse, Frank Alford, Tim Scott, Stephen Turner
  • Publication number: 20030052001
    Abstract: A sputtering apparatus includes a sputtering chamber, a target disposed in the sputtering chamber, and a magnetic field generator for generating a rotating magnetic field at the front of the target. The magnetic field generator includes a main magnetic field-generating part that faces the back of the target and is horizontally (laterally) offset from a vertical line passing through the center of the target. A magnetic annule of the main magnetic field-generating part forms a magnetic enclosure having openings therethrough at locations faced in the directions of the central and peripheral portions of the target. The magnetic field-generating part thus produces a magnetic field having a non-uniform distribution at the front of the target. A substrate is positioned within the sputtering chamber facing the front of the target. A metal layer is formed by sputtering atoms from the front of the target onto the substrate. The behavior of the sputtered atoms can be effectively controlled by the magnetic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Young-Kyou Park, Hyeon-Ill Um, Jai-Kwang Shin, Seong-Gu Kim
  • Publication number: 20030052002
    Abstract: Systems for positioning and/or analyzing samples such as cells, vesicles, cellular organelles, and fragments, derivatives, and mixtures thereof, for electrical and/or optical analysis, especially relating to the presence and/or activity of ion channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Horst Vogel, Christian Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20030052003
    Abstract: The present invention provides a diffusion limiting membrane system for filtering an analyte from a fluid, comprising: a) a first layer comprising an analyte responsive enzyme; and b) a second layer comprising a water-soluble monomer composition, wherein the first layer is in direct contact with one or more sensor electrodes and the second layer is in direct contact with the first layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Kelly Patrick, Jarad Schiffner
  • Publication number: 20030052004
    Abstract: The invention relates to an air/fuel ratio detection apparatus. This apparatus includes (a) a heater portion having an elongate cylindrical shape and heating by applying electricity thereto from outside; (b) a solid electrolyte layer surrounding the heater portion and being activated by heat to conduct oxygen ions therethrough; (c) first and second electrodes in contact with the solid electrolyte layer and being away from each other such that pumping voltage is applied by the first and second electrodes to the solid electrolyte layer; (d) a reference electrode for outputting an air/fuel ratio detection signal, the reference electrode being formed on the solid electrolyte layer and being away from the first and second electrodes; and (e) a diffusion layer made of a porous material and surrounding periphery of the solid electrolyte layer to cover the first and second electrodes and the reference electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: UNISIA JECS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeo Isitani, Yasuji Orimo, Chiharu Katsuyama, Futoshi Ichiyanagi
  • Publication number: 20030052005
    Abstract: A hydrogen gas sensor is configured such that an O-ring 21 is disposed within a measurement chamber 11a in order to seal against a first support element 9a and against a proton conduction layer 1. This O-ring 21 assumes the form of a rectangular frame that surrounds a first electrode 3, and a substantially circular cross section, and is elastic, heat resistant, and durable. A first metal plate 23a and a second metal plate 23b are disposed from the outside on opposite support elements 9a and 9b, respectively. The hydrogen gas sensor of the present embodiment has a pair of right-hand and left-hand through-holes 29 formed therein so as to extend along the thickness direction thereof. Bolts 31 are inserted into the corresponding through-holes 29. By fastening the metal plates 23a and 23b from the outside by means of the bolts 31 and nuts 33, the opposite support elements 9a and 9b are fastened, thereby clamping the entire hydrogen sensor in a unitary condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: NGK SPARK PLUG CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shoji Kitanoya, Norihiko Nadanami, Tomonori Kondo, Masaya Watanabe, Noboru Ishida
  • Publication number: 20030052006
    Abstract: A device for utilizing a non-gel self-assembled nano-feature array molecular sieve for analyzing molecules is provided. The molecular sieve device comprises an ordered array of self-assembled nano-features which function as a molecular sieve to separate molecules based on a suitable characteristic. A system for integrating the non-gel ordered self-assembled nano-feature array molecular sieve of this invention into a device for separating molecules based on a characteristic and a method for separating a wide range of molecules using the non-gel ordered self-assembled nano-feature array molecular sieve of the invention are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Flavio Noca, Jingming Xu, Daniel S. Choi, Brian D. Hunt, Michael E. Hoenk, Robert S. Kowalczyk
  • Publication number: 20030052007
    Abstract: A precision flow controller is capable of providing a flow rate less than 100 microliters/minute and varying the flow rate in a prescribed manner that is both predictable and reproducible where the accuracy and precision of the flowrate is less than 5% of the flow rate. A plurality of variable pressure fluid supplies pump fluid through a single outlet. Flowmeters measure the flow rates and a controller compares the flow rates to desired flowrates and, if necessary, adjusts the plurality of variable pressure fluid supplies so that the variable pressure fluid supplies pump fluid at the desired flow rate. The variable pressure fluid supplies can be pneumatically driven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Phillip H. Paul, Jason E. Rehm, Don W. Arnold
  • Publication number: 20030052008
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems are provided for efficient separation of various small and large molecules, especially biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids and polysaccharides. In particular, an electrophoresis apparatus is employed in a wide bore electrophoresis of samples in larger amounts than those in conventional capillary electrophoresis. The electrophoresis apparatus comprises: an electrophoresis chamber comprising a cathode, an anode and a housing; and a separation chamber positioned within the housing and comprising an inlet end, an outlet end, and one or more cooling capillaries positioned inside the separation chamber such that the longitudinal axis of at least one of the cooling capillaries is parallel to the direction of electric current flow from the anode to the cathode, wherein the end of the cooling capillary (or capillaries) is adapted to be coupled to a cooling device that allows cooling medium to pass through the cooling capillary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Yaoqing Diana Liu, James Jianmin Bao
  • Publication number: 20030052009
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the electrocoating of relatively small components is disclosed. The apparatus includes a coating process unit, which is comprised of three component parts, which are defined as the process tank, the transfer system, and the electrode system. Each of the three component parts is integrated with a support structure. The process tank is a fluid-tight, open-top receptacle that holds the coating solution through which the parts are passed. The transfer system generally includes a conveyor chain and transfer media connected with the conveyor chain. The conveyor chain may be electrically insulated. The transfer media connects to the conveyor chain to form the continuous moving support surface onto which the parts are loaded, coated and are unloaded. The transfer media includes a support surface and electrical contact. The electrode system includes both an electrode and an electrode contact of opposite polarity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Leo L. Case, Michael R. Morin, James G. Weslosky, Michael A. Weslosky
  • Publication number: 20030052010
    Abstract: A micro-reactor is provided with a mixture of channels having larger cross-sectional areas (17′,22′,25′,27′,31′,33′) and channels having smaller cross-sectional areas (40a′,40b′,40c′). The smaller channels (40a′,40b′,40c′) resist liquid movement driven by hydrostatic force but allow liquid movement driven by electro-osmotic force. Accordingly liquid flow is almost entirely driven by electro-osmotic force. The smaller channels (40a′,40b′,40c′) are formed by etched grooves which are closed by a planar surface 13. This allows the cross-sectional areas of the smaller channels to be closely and reproducibly controlled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: Micro Chemical Systems Limited
    Inventors: Stephen John Haswell, Thomas McCreedy, Victoria Skelton, Christine Jane Clive, Paul David Ian Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20030052011
    Abstract: A method for depositing a film of an advanced material on a surface of an article is disclosed. The method comprises placing the article within a bath having a pair of spaced electrodes one of which is formed by said article and an electrolyte containing a source of the material to be deposited. A stream of bubbles is generated within the electrolyte adjacent to the cathode. There are a number of techniques for generating the stream of bubbles, e.g. electrolysis, ebullition, cavitation, entrainment and sparging. The method also includes applying a potential difference across the cathode and anode such that a glow discharge is formed in the bubble region so as form a plasma of ionised gaseous molecules within the bubble. This highly energised gaseous plasma then acts to deposit a film of material on the surface of the article. The method may be carried out at atmospheric pressure and does not require a vacuum apparatus. The body of electrolyte liquid acts as a source of containment for the plasma.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Zhuping Chen
  • Publication number: 20030052012
    Abstract: A housing made of a magnesium material is colored by a non-painting process. In this process, an anode oxide film is grown on the surface of the housing by subjecting the housing to anodization. The anode oxide film is colored without a paint being applied to the surface of the film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Yasuo Naganuma, Masami Tsutsumi
  • Publication number: 20030052013
    Abstract: An R—T—B magnet (R is at least one kind of rare-earth elements including Y, and T is Fe or Fe and Co.) has an electrolytic copper-plating film where the ratio [I(200)/I(111)] of the X-ray diffraction peak intensity I(200) from the (200) plane to the X-ray diffraction peak intensity I(111) from the (111) plane is 0.1-0.45 in the X-ray diffraction by CuKal rays. This electrolytic copper-plating film is formed by an electrolytic copper-plating method using an electrolytic copper-plating solution which contains 20-150 g/L of copper sulphate and 30-250 g/L of chelating agent and contains no agent for reducing copper ions and has a pH adjusted to 10.5-13.5.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Setsuo Ando, Minoru Endoh, Tsutomu Nakamura, Toru Fukushi
  • Publication number: 20030052014
    Abstract: A method for plating electrodes of ceramic chip electronic components includes performing electroplating in a plating bath. The plating bath contains tin (II) sulfamate, acting as a tin (II) salt; a complexing agent including at least one selected from the group consisting of citric acid, gluconic acid, pyrophosphoric acid, heptoic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, salts of these acids, and gluconic lactone; and a brightener including at least one surfactant having an HLB value of about 10 or more. The tin plating adhesion of the resulting ceramic chip electronic components can be limited to a certain level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Akihiro Motoki, Shoichi Higuchi, Yoshihiko Takano, Kunihiko Hamada
  • Publication number: 20030052015
    Abstract: A two-layered anode (1′) is used for the electrochemical polymerisation. The lower layer (2) consists of a non-conductive carrier material to which a conductive electrode layer (3′) is applied, the electrode layer being removed in part-areas in order to form non-conductive areas. the non-conductive areas have a predetermined structure which corresponds to the structure of the structured polymer film (11) to be formed. the anode (1′) is held together with a platinum cathode in an electrolyte into which compounds of low molecular weight, preferably monomers of the polymer film (11) to be formed, are introduced. A current flow is produced through the electrolyte via the anode (1′) and cathode. In the course of this a conductive polymer film (11) of the predetermined structure is formed on the conductive areas which are brought into contact with the electrolyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: Technische Universitat Braunschweig
    Inventors: Eike Becker, Hans-Hermann Johannes, Wolfgang Kowalsky
  • Publication number: 20030052016
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling the temperature of an oxygen sensor is provided wherein the method includes obtaining an oxygen sensor, a heating device, heating control device and a signal generator, wherein the oxygen sensor includes a reference cell and wherein the heating device is communicated with the oxygen sensor and the heating control device, introducing a fixed frequency sinusoidal signal to the reference cell through a voltage divider resistor so as to create a response signal, wherein the response signal is responsive to the temperature of the reference cell, buffering the response signal so as to create a buffered signal, applying the buffered signal to a high pass filter so as to create a filtered signal having a filtered signal magnitude, wherein the filtered signal magnitude is inversely proportional to the temperature of the reference cell, measuring the filtered signal so as to create a temperature signal responsive to the filtered signal magnitude and communicating the temperature sign
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Yingjie Lin, Da Yu Wang, Eric Detwiler, Paul Kikuchi
  • Publication number: 20030052017
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a paint box (1) with replaceable color pans (6), having at the bottom of the paint box (1) a holding rail (4) which engages in a downwardly open groove (17) formed on the underside of a protruding rim (15) of the color pans (6), said rail forming a swivel bearing with a swivel axis parallel to the box bottom (2). The groove (17) has a cross section widening in downward direction and the color pans (6) rest loosely on the holding rail (4). Furthermore, on the side of the holding rail (4) close to the color pans (6) provision is made for holding elements (7, 8) extending up from the box bottom (2) and enabling the individual color pans (6) to be securely fixed by frictional engagement with the box bottom (2). Provision is made for a respective push-button (16) on the protruding rim (15) of the color pans (6) on the side of the holding rail (4) remote from the color pans (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Gunter Scholz
  • Publication number: 20030052018
    Abstract: A beverage cup having a detachable saliva reservoir so that a user may enjoy a beverage and smokeless tobacco products simultaneously. The cup has a saliva conduit running from its upper extremity down to a saliva reservoir which screws on the bottom. The upper portion of the conduit is formed into a mouthpiece which allows the user to easily deposit the saliva without the risk of it contaminating the contents of the cup. The beverage within the cup and the saliva reservoir are separated by an internal bulkhead. Cleaning is facilitated by the fact that the reservoir screws off the bottom. Both the cup and the reservoir can then be placed in a dishwasher or washed by hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher A. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20030052019
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a container capable of separately storing two substances as well as mixing them together. The container includes a liquid storing chamber, a powder storing cup, a cover unit, and a rotary cap. The liquid storing chamber is provided with an outlet port and a lower opening. A locking ring is formed around the outer surface of a sidewall defining the opening. The powder storing cup is provided at a lower position on its outer surface with at least one projection. The cover unit consists of a cover plate provided on its top portion, an annular sidewall fitted into the lower opening of the storing chamber, and a leg downwardly extending from the lower end of the annular sidewall and provided with a slit engaging with the projection of the storing cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: JOYCOS, LTD.
    Inventor: Gam-Seob Song
  • Publication number: 20030052020
    Abstract: A packet (2) of cigarettes and relative production method, wherein a label (7), defined at least partly by a portion (8) of magnetic tape, is applied to a component (3a, 16, 20) of the packet (2) so as to be visible on the outside of the finished packet (2); the label (7) being printed, on the machine and by means of a printing device (34), with data relating to the packet (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Fiorenzo Draghetti, Angelo Li Vigni
  • Publication number: 20030052021
    Abstract: The device provides for the formation of a CD jacket using conventional or custom dimensioned paper by imparting a diagonal folding pattern to the paper to be used for the CD jacket. The folding pattern is imparted to the paper and a defined series of folding steps followed to yield the CD jacket. Reversing the last step in the folding sequence provides access to the internal pocket formed by folding the paper through an aperture in a top flap. Completing the last step in the sequence seals the internal pocket. The folding sequence may be imparted to the paper using printing or scoring or both to yield the diagonal lines on which folds are made.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Paul M. Mc Kenzie
  • Publication number: 20030052022
    Abstract: A media disk case is disclosed, of a type having two covers joined along rear edges in a book-like fashion, and a spine interposed between the rear edges of the two covers. The two covers may be closed together to form an enclosed case having an interior compartment with walls comprised of surfaces of the covers and of the spine, and opened in book-like fashion to reveal the interior compartment. The media disk case includes an edge retention bracket secured to the spine. The edge retention bracket includes a channel extending from the spine in a semi-circular direction. The channel is configured to retain a media disk by contact around a portion of a perimeter thereof. In particular, the channel is configured to retain the media disk solely by contact around the portion its perimeter, whereby the use of a center rosette along with the associated disadvantages may be eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: David V. Tempongko
  • Publication number: 20030052023
    Abstract: Media disk packages having a retail security lock feature. The lock feature comprises a locking dagger having a head portion and a dagger section, which is engageable with an inner disk tray that overlays the media disk within the package. The package may house multiple disks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: John A. Gelardi
  • Publication number: 20030052024
    Abstract: The apparatus comprises: a base portion (1); inwardly extending radial arms (2) resiliently cantilevered from the base portion (1); disk-engaging means (3) at the inner ends of the arms (2) for releasably engaging the central hole of a disk (11) and supporting the center of the disk (11) away from the base portion (1). Each arm (2) has first pivot means (9) in the region where the arm (2) joins the base portion (1) and second pivot means (10) radially inward thereof. Depression of the disk-engaging means (3) towards the base portion (1) causes the inner ends of the arms (2) and the center of the disk (11), to be depressed towards the base portion (1), the arms (2) initially pivoting about the first pivot means (9) and subsequently pivoting about the second pivot means (10) until retention of the disk (11) by the disk-engaging means (3) is released. This enables the thickness of the apparatus to be reduced, e.g. to 4 mm or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Peter Anthony Farrar, Anthony Henry Joseph Fraser, Stefan Alexander Pijanowski
  • Publication number: 20030052025
    Abstract: The present invention provides a holding apparatus for fishing lures comprising a plurality of hollow canisters having an open top end and an open bottom end. The canisters are removably secured in the tray via an recessed attaching portion that receives the bottom end of the canisters, and a restraining cap is removably secured to the hollow canisters and includes access to a hollow area of said hollow canisters. The assembled canisters, tray, and restraining cap may be placed in a carrying case for holding a plurality of fishing lures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: John M. Maddox
  • Publication number: 20030052026
    Abstract: A paint brush protecting cover using a series of folding flaps. The flaps are connected in such a way that, when folded, they force the bristles into the desired tapered configuration. The invention's primary advantage lies in its method of closure: Two elastic bands are affixed to one of the flaps. The user simply passes these bands around the folded device, thereby securing it to the paint brush. The elastic bands place a small compressive force on the brush and bristles, helping to keep the bristles in the proper orientation. The elastic nature of the closure method also allows the device to accommodate a wide variety of brushes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Marlon E. Mayfield
  • Publication number: 20030052027
    Abstract: A lid for a medical waste container which receives sharps waste such as hypodermic needles. The lid has a closure hinged to the lid by a flexible strap and movable between first and second recesses in the lid. The first recess is closed and simply receives and retains the closure when the lid is open for depositing waste. The second recess has an opening through which waste can be deposited into the container. A temporary locking mechanism retains the closure in the second recess by a snap fit but allows the closure to be lifted from the second recess to open the container. A permanent locking mechanism, when actuated, locks the closure in the second recess permanently so that the container is sealed for autoclaving and cannot be reopened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Daniel Kennedy, Istvan Vaskuthy
  • Publication number: 20030052028
    Abstract: The present creation provides a flat package for fiber made of a transparent material, in which a lateral groove is provided for accepting a fiber tube, and two ring grooves are provided for accepting the winding fiber; the end of the fiber can be put in another lateral groove for preventing from being cut when the package is closed; a specification sheet can be put in the center of the package before the package is closed; a flange and a groove are provided respectively on the upper cover and the lower cover for closing of the package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: FiberCom Optics Communication Corp.
    Inventor: I-Shun Lei
  • Publication number: 20030052029
    Abstract: A sealed case includes a cylindrical trunk member including an overlapped part made by overlapping parts of an inside end portion and an outside end portion apart from each other in a vertical axis direction of a sheet material and first and second end portions each provided with an opening and apart from each other. The overlapped part has a fixing area to fix the inside and outside end portions. First and second cover members are fixed to the first and second open end portions of the trunk member, closing the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: FUJI PHOTO FILM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Taro Yamamoto, Kozo Tanaka, Taro Shimokochi, Jun Sada, Makoto Yamaguchi, Hiroyuki Mizuma
  • Publication number: 20030052030
    Abstract: A container for welding wire comprises a box-like body having a bottom and a side wall, the side wall having a polygonal cross section with corners, and stabilising elements arranged at at least some of the corners. The stabilising elements extend upwardly from the bottom and have an outer shell portion comprising a corner portion facing the adjacent side wall and an inner portion facing an interior of the container for housing welding wire. The corner portion has a shape adapted to the shape of the adjacent corner. The inner portion defines a continuous inner wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: SIDERGAS SpA
    Inventor: Carlo Gelmetti
  • Publication number: 20030052031
    Abstract: The present invention provides a storage system for protecting a detachable motorcycle windshield assembly from damage when said windshield assembly is detached from a motorcycle. A storage system according to the invention includes a rigid base and a plurality of mounting bosses connected to said rigid base. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rigid base is fastened to a wall. In an alternative embodiment, the rigid base is affixed to an inside portion of a hinged protective case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Dwayne S. Poore
  • Publication number: 20030052032
    Abstract: A reusable container and method for a shipping system includes a container body, a closure, a removable label and a label panel. The label has an area to receive shipping information and a layer of an adhesive material. The label panel has an exposed surface to which the adhesive adheres but from which the label may be removed without tearing. A locking structure may be provided. A locking member can engage the locking structure to secure contents during shipment. The container may be a flexible pouch that may include an inner cushioning layer and an outer fabric layer. The pouch may be formed of two panels that have a zippered mouth and a grommet allows a cable tie to lockably secure the zipper in a closed position. A signal transmitter can be included with the container. The system includes special cartons and pallets for a plurality of containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Kent H. Dickinson
  • Publication number: 20030052033
    Abstract: The invention provides a retail sales package adapted for mounting on a peg display. The package is formed of two opposed sheets of plastic. At least one of the sheets of plastic is formed with a cavity into which a card and a product are placed. One of the sheets is printed on its inside surface. The two sheets of plastic are brought into contact and sealed together at their peripheral edges. A hang hole is formed during sealing and has its periphery sealed to form a fused edge. The printed card or paper is placed into the cavity with the product prior to the second sheet being sealed to the first sheet. The invention further provides a method for assembling the opposed sheets of plastic by placing them sequentially on a tool having protruding pins adapted for only allowing selected sheets to be mated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Charles P. Schwester
  • Publication number: 20030052034
    Abstract: A packaging wrapper, for handkerchiefs, baby care, household or other hygiene paper tissues and comprising a front wall, a rear wall, a first side wall and a second side wall and two end walls, with a reclosable opening in the area of the front wall, a lid mainly comprising at least part of the front wall covering the reclosable opening, with said lid having an outer side and an inner side, where the lid on its inner side is equipped with a fastening means adapted to successively engage the upper-most lying paper tissue as one after the other of the paper tissues is taken out of the wrapper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Gunnar Bredahl