Patents Issued in May 8, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030084896
    Abstract: A compact, highly flexible and efficient, multi-positionable, multi-dimensional and multi-stage gas-fired heat exchanger system as described. The system is connectable in a forced air duct regardless of the angular position and size of the duct. The heat exchanger comprises one or more heat transfer tubes which are shaped and dimensioned as dictated by the customized use of the heat exchanger. The tubes are secured to a support panel as well as the gas burner associated with each of the inlet openings of the tubes. A position orientable gas valve is secured to a gas distribution manifold. A turbulator may be associated with at least some of the tubes to cause turbulence in the hot combustion flow in each of the tubes to modify the efficiency in heat transfer along one or more sections of the tubes by directing hot combustion gas along an inner circumferential wall of the tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Laurent Gierula, Michel Andre Lamarche
  • Publication number: 20030084897
    Abstract: A fireplace including a fire box having a means for producing flames, a trough positioned in front of or around the fire box, and a hood positioned above the fire box and extending out from the fireplace beyond a front opening in the fire box. Positioned in the trough is a plumbing assembly having a pump and piping for transporting water from the trough upward and through an opening in the hood positioned above the fire box. The hood extends outward beyond the fire box such that water will fall freely in front of the fire box containing the flames and into the trough. One or more nozzles may be connected to the piping near one or more openings in the hood to adjust the trajectory of the water as it falls from the hood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: David P. Coughlin
  • Publication number: 20030084898
    Abstract: A process for preparing crystalline sugar by providing a solution of a solvent and sugar, exposing the solution to a magentic field having a strength which is sufficient to impart improvements in the processing of the sugar or the properties of the resulting crystalline sugar product, and providing conditions suitable for crystallization to obtain a substantially crystalline sugar product. The magnetic field strength is sufficient to influence at least one of morphology, size, nucleation rate or, crystallinity of the crystalline sugar product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Stephen Thomas Beckett, Marina Miller, Susan Grimes, John Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20030084899
    Abstract: An actuator for an inhaler for delivering medicament by inhalation, comprising: a housing (14) for receiving a canister (8) comprising a body (10) which defines a chamber containing medicament and a valve stem (12) which extends from the body (10); a nozzle block (18) for receiving the valve stem (12) of the canister (8); a mouthpiece for providing medicament from the nozzle block (18) to the mouth of a user; and at least one actuating member (54, 56) for manual engagement by a user in applying a force to actuate the canister (8), wherein the at least one actuating member (54, 56) is disposed such that the actuating force is applied substantially laterally relative to the longitudinal axis of the canister (8) and configured when being acted upon to cause relative movement of the body (10) and the valve stem (12) of the canister (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: AstraZeneca UK Limited
    Inventor: Malin Andersson
  • Publication number: 20030084900
    Abstract: The invention relates to a respiratory assistance apparatus equipped with a turbine or compressor making it possible to deliver pressurized gas comprising a casing (1) having a gas inlet orifice (2), a motor (6) having a motor shaft (5) of axis (AA), the said motor shaft (5) being able to move about the axis (AA) when it is driven by the said motor (6), a first propeller (3) and a second propeller (4) mounted securely to the said motor shaft (5), an internal partition (7), arranged in the said casing (1), inserted between the two propellers (3, 4) so as to form a first stage (13) internal to the said casing (1) containing the first propeller (3) and a second stage (14) internal to the said casing (1) containing the second propeller (4), the said first stage (13) and second stage (14) being arranged in series, the said internal partition (7) comprising an opening (8) traversed by part of the motor shaft (5) and through which the first internal stage (13) is in fluid communication with the second internal stage
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Daniel Leclerc, Laurent Preveyraud, Nourreddine Kissi, Delphine Brunner, Francois Aubatier
  • Publication number: 20030084901
    Abstract: In a method of regulating the flow rate of additional oxygen taken from a pressurized inlet for oxygen from a source and admitted into a breathing mask provided with an inlet for dilution ambient air, the ambient pressure and the instantaneous inhaled breathe-in flow rate in terms of volume reduced to ambient conditions are measured in real time. The minimum oxygen content in the complete inhalation phase in order to comply with respiratory standards is computed from the ambient pressure and the instantaneous flow rate of additional oxygen is controlled in such a manner as to satisfy the requirements of the applicable standards with a safety margin that is generally a few percent. There is also described a regulator implementing the above method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Patrice Martinez
  • Publication number: 20030084902
    Abstract: An exhalation valve 14 for a filtering face mask 10 has a flexible flap 24 that makes contact with a curved seal ridge 30 of a valve seat 26 when the valve 14 is in the closed position. The curvature of the seal ridge 30 corresponds to a deformation curve exhibited by the flexible flap 24 when secured as a cantilever at one end and exposed at its free portion to a uniform force and/or a force of at least the weight of the free portion of the flexible flap. A seal ridge curvature corresponding to a flexible flap exposed to uniform force allows the flexible flap 24 to exert a generally uniform pressure on the seal ridge to provide a good seal. A ridge curvature corresponding to a flexible flap exposed to a force of at least the weight of the flap's free portion allows the flexible flap 24 to be held in an abutting relationship to the seal ridge 30 under any static orientation by a minimum amount of force, thereby providing a face mask 10 with an extraordinary low pressure drop during an exhalation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 1994
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: DANIEL A. JAPUNTICH, VAUGHN B. GRANNIS, HAROLD J. SEPPALA, ANTHONY B. FERGUSON
  • Publication number: 20030084903
    Abstract: An adjustable mask provides a unique configuration, whereby one hand may be used to both doff the respirator and to securely don the mask. In one embodiment, such configuration is facilitated by a reel attached to one or cords, the cord attached at a second end to a harness designed to engage a portion of the head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Keith E. Fecteau, Jon Taylor, Dave Honan
  • Publication number: 20030084904
    Abstract: A forehead support (10) for a respiratory mask (14). The forehead support (10) includes a pair of arms (22). The arms (22) are each adapted to locate a forehead cushion (30). The arms (22) are also adapted to pivot relative to each other. The arms (22) are also selectively lockable at two or more angular positions relative to each other. The forehead support (10) can thus be adjusted to suit the facial topography of the wearer of the respiratory mask (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Michael K. Gunaratnam
  • Publication number: 20030084905
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tracheotomy has been used to assist patients who require mechanical ventilation. Tracheostomy is a common surgical procedure for intensive care patients. The goals of tracheotomy are to bypass the upper airway, facilitate removal of tracheobronchial secretions, prevent aspiration of gastric contents, and to control the airway for prolonged mechanical ventilation. METHOD: The hypothesis was to improve the design of the current tracheostomy tube in order to make it easier to use and to eliminate nearly all of the disadvantages found in prior tracheostomy tubes. RESULTS: This device is an improved tracheostomy tube designed with the balloon cuff (18), guide balloon (26), balloon connector (32) and guide balloon valve (24) located on the inner cannula (12). The inner cannula (12) will be inserted into another tube called the outer cannula (14), which has been inserted into an incision or stoma into the patient's trachea between the vocal cords and carina.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Antonio Ortiz
  • Publication number: 20030084906
    Abstract: Method of urinary continence training, utilizing an objective measurement, indicative of the state of fullness of the bladder of the subject, to identify the occurrence of an appropriate continence training opportunity. When the objective measurement equals or exceeds a signal threshold value, set to correspond to a bladder volume that is less than a reflexive urination volume, a signal is provided to the subject or to a caregiver. The objective measurement may be performed by a bladder monitor, using any of several modalities of automatic sensing, and preferably using ultrasound. The signal threshold value may be recalculated and increased, so as to continue to correspond to a relatively full bladder, as the subject grows and/or achieves progress toward continence. The method may include other steps directed to help the subject associate the physical sensation of a full bladder with voluntary urination, such as informing the subject that urination is imminent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Donald Carroll Roe
  • Publication number: 20030084907
    Abstract: The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to body tissue in order to incise, dissect, harvest or transect tissues or an organ of a patient. The electrosurgical systems and methods are useful, inter alia, for accessing, dissecting, and transecting a graft blood vessel, such as the internal mammary arteries (IMA) or the saphenous vein, for use in a by-pass procedure. A method of the present invention comprises positioning an electrosurgical probe adjacent the target tissue so that one or more active electrode(s) are brought into at least partial contact or close proximity with a target site in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid. A high frequency voltage is then applied between the active electrode and one or more return electrode(s). During application of the high frequency voltage, the electrosurgical probe may be translated, reciprocated, or otherwise manipulated such that the active electrode is moved with respect to the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: ArthroCare Corporation
    Inventors: James L. Pacek, Hira V. Thapliyal, Philip E. Eggers
  • Publication number: 20030084908
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided to increase the accuracy and safety of ablative laser treatments of the eye. In an illustrative embodiment, tissue is removed from the cornea, via a laser, to provide an effluent from the cornea. The effluent is aspirated and deposited into a chemical analyzer. The amount of effluent that has been deposited is quantitated. Data relating to a dimension of the ablated cornea is inputted to a computer and data relating to the quantitized effluent is also inputted to the computer. The computer uses the quantitized effluent data and the inputted dimension data to estimate the number of diopters of treatment accomplished. The estimated number of diopters of treatment accomplished is compared to a desired number of diopters of treatment and the laser treatment is modified based on the comparison for most accurate optical results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Robert L. Epstein
  • Publication number: 20030084909
    Abstract: An apparatus for the three-dimensional spatial registration of components of a surgical procedure. At least one radio tag is incorporated into a medical device. The at least one radio tag provides a radio signal source to a radio receiver for determining the position of the signal source. A central control unit includes software controls for providing information concerning the position of the signal source, and data is communicated between the central control unit and radio receiver. The central control unit includes a graphical interface for viewing the position of the radio signal sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Everette C. Burdette, Dana L. Deardorff
  • Publication number: 20030084910
    Abstract: A method and unit for forming a tobacco bead, whereby a forming conveyor conveying the tobacco bead cooperates with a pressing device for compacting portions of the tobacco bead equally spaced with a given spacing, and cooperates with a shaving device; and whereby a distance between the pressing device and the forming conveyor is regulated independently of a distance between the shaving device and the forming conveyor, and as a function of a linear travelling speed of the forming conveyor or a physical quantity related to it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Fulvio Boldrini
  • Publication number: 20030084911
    Abstract: A portable cigar holder for golfers, small and comfortable enough to be carried in the golfers pocket, designed for insertion into the ground or the spare-tee-holding-holes in most golf carts. Constructed in one piece, the holder has a tapered tee section (5) for securing the holder in the ground or spare-tee-holding holes in a golf cart. A cup section (4) with an internal pin (6) holds cigars of varying widths securely in the vertical plane. The internal pin (6) serves to both pierce the cigar for smoking and allows the holder to securely hold cigars of varying widths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew A. McGraw
  • Publication number: 20030084912
    Abstract: A method and composition to help persons reduce or quit smoking is disclosed, employing raw tobacco leaves, or tobacco fluid extract, or food grade tobacco like flavor and aroma, and Antioxidants, with or without and SAMe and caffeine. All ingredients can be in a micro-powdered or liquid form, for buccal administration. The composition can be in a tablet or capsule that is intended to be slowly sucked and dissolved in the mouth, and that delivers the nicotine, caffeine or SAMe, proved to be effective in alleviating smoking withdrawal symptoms. The composition can also be embedded inside a soft squeezable plastic cigarette for simulated smoking, providing additional periodic doses of nicotine, caffeine and SAMe to satisfy cravings for cigarettes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Ivo E. Pera
  • Publication number: 20030084913
    Abstract: A device for applying a cosmetic product may include a first brush portion including a first twisted core holding bristles having ends extending from the first twisted core, and a second brush portion including a second twisted core holding bristles having ends extending from the second twisted core. The first brush portion and the second brush portion may be wound one around the other so that over at least one bristled portion of the device, the first twisted core and the second twisted core are twisted one relative to the other lying a substantially constant distance apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Jean-Louis H. Gueret
  • Publication number: 20030084914
    Abstract: A personal care or cosmetic article is provided which includes a substrate within which is disposed at least one liquid containing breakable capsule. The article further includes a cosmetic composition which is wetted by liquid within the capsule upon breaking of the capsule. Additional capsules can be provided for wetting the cosmetic composition or, alternatively, one or more capsules can be provided with the same article to wet additional cosmetic compositions, so that multiple functions are performed by the same article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventor: Pascal Simon
  • Publication number: 20030084915
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vibrating abrasive cleaning apparatus and method which is powered by at least one electric motor specially fabricated to the cleaning container assembly mounted on a rigid square tubing frame on one side by compression springs, on the opposite side by tension springs. The compression springs and tension springs have a different spring rate which produces better rolling of the media and therefore, faster circulation and cleaning. The specially fabricated electric motor attached to the cleaning container provides for enhanced oscillation and much greater cleaning capabilities thereby reducing the cleaning time. The entire vibrating assembly sits on a base and has a lid operated by a cable and counterweight for ease in loading the container for oscillation of the parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Joe O. Trahan
  • Publication number: 20030084916
    Abstract: Ultrasonic cleaning products comprise a cleaning composition comprising a cleaning component and a source of dissolved gas and an ultrasonic wave generating source for imparting ultrasonic energy to a surface to be cleaned. Methods for removing soil from a surface in need of cleaning comprise applying a cleaning composition comprising a cleaning component and a source of a dissolved gas to a surface in need of cleaning, and contacting the surface with a source of ultrasonic energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Sonia Gaaloul, Tim Van Hauwermeiren
  • Publication number: 20030084917
    Abstract: In a method of cleaning a metallic article, in particular for removing oxide deposits, whereby the metallic article is made of a hardenable steel having a carbon content of at least 0.1% by weight and is at least partially hardened, the metallic article is placed in a vessel containing a liquid cleaning agent with a pH value in the range of 4 to 8, and exposed to sound waves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ralf Pape, Heinz-Gerd Walter, Thomas Troster, Jurgen Krogmeier, Johannes Boke
  • Publication number: 20030084918
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing materials, such as photoresist, on surfaces of objects, such as semiconductor wafers, utilizes one or more integrated dry-wet processing modules to selectively perform plasma ashing and wet-chemical cleaning processes. Thus, a customized combination of plasma ashing and wet-chemical cleaning processes can be performed on a single platform to achieve desired processing results on the objects. In an embodiment, the apparatus may also include a critical dimension inspection unit to inspect the objects that are being processed by the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Yong Bae Kim
  • Publication number: 20030084919
    Abstract: A method of removing residual contamination including metal nitride particles from semiconductor wafer surfaces including the steps of: providing at least one semiconductor wafer with metal nitride particles adhering to the at least one semiconductor wafer surface thereto; subjecting the at least one semiconductor wafer to at least one mechanical brushing process while a cleaning solution including a carboxylic acid is supplied to the at least one semiconductor wafer surface; and, subjecting the at least one semiconductor wafer to an a sonic cleaning process including the carboxylic acid cleaning solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yali Tai, Shih-Chi Lin, Wen-Long Lee, Francis Wang, Szu-An Wu, Hsi-Kuei Cheng, Ying-Lang Wang
  • Publication number: 20030084920
    Abstract: The Bucket-Razor presents a method for removing various items from hard surfaces. Such surfaces can be Asphalt and concrete, but not limited to these. The device can be attached to any front-end loader piece of equipment, such as, but not limited to skid steer tractors, backhoes, farm tractors, any front-end loader. The unit is designed to fit a large range of different size and thickness buckets. It can, by use of setscrews, be held in place. Once unit is attached to the bucket, a cutting blade is inserted into unit. This blade also is held in place by countersunk setscrews. This blade being mainly spring steel and of such a thickness and hardness to allow it to get under and cut objects stuck to hard surfaces. Several blade widths are possible up to 16″. The unit itself can be positioned at any point on the bottom plate of the bucket from one side to other side. Removing is accomplished, by the spring steel being forced under the object, by the forward motion of the front-end loader.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Randy Richard Sawtelle
  • Publication number: 20030084921
    Abstract: A semiconductor wafer cleaning apparatus comprises an outer tank, a cleaning tank provided within the outer tank, a wafer carrier provided within the cleaning tank, a plurality of jet nozzles directed toward the wafer carrier, a main pipe connected to the jet nozzles, a circulating pump connected to the main pipe and the outer tank for circulating a cleansing solution from the outer tank, through the main pipe, the jet nozzles, and the cleaning tank, and a filter for filtering the circulated cleansing solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: LG Semicon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun Jun Huh, Suk Bin Han, Jae Jeong Kim
  • Publication number: 20030084922
    Abstract: A method for removing the circumferential edge of a dielectric layer on a semiconductor wafer is disclosed. First, a semiconductor wafer having a dielectric layer on its upper surface is provided. Second, the semiconductor wafer is placed and secured on a susceptor. Third, the circumferential edge of the dielectric layer is removed by a ring cutter. Then, the semiconductor wafer is cleaned from its central portion to its edge portion by water jets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Yu-Ling Huang, Lung Hui Tsai
  • Publication number: 20030084923
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for cleaning a torch for a vertical furnace used in semiconductor processing are disclosed. The apparatus is constructed by two main components of a basket-shaped fixture body and a cleaning bath. The fixture body is formed of cylindrical shape with a top ring, a bottom ring and three support rods connecting the two rings together. The top ring is provided with an outwardly extending flange portion for engaging an opening in a cleaning bath for supporting and suspending the fixture body in the bath. The bottom ring is equipped with a pair of symmetrically positioned, inwardly extending arcuate-shaped flange portions adapted for supporting an edge of a bottom surface of the furnace torch in the cleaning bath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: June-Yie Kao, Yie-Min Wu, Ming-Hsun Yang, Chii-Shing Yang
  • Publication number: 20030084924
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning the plenum of a vehicle are disclosed. The apparatus includes an introduction device that is removably attachable to the manifold of an engine in the location of the IAC port. The introduction device atomizes a flow of cleaning solvent and introduces the atomized flow into the plenum at the IAC port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: BG Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold E. Erwin, Ronald R. Leslie
  • Publication number: 20030084925
    Abstract: A soft spray nozzle discharging a cleaning mist is vertically directed and fixed to an arm. A rinse nozzle discharging rinsing deionized water for suppressing obstruction is vertically fixed to the arm at a prescribed distance from the soft spray nozzle. During cleaning, it follows that both nozzles discharge detergents while keeping relative layout relation. Therefore, the discharged cleaning mist and rinsing deionized water do not interfere with each other before reaching the substrate but the used detergents are entirely horizontally splashed and recovered in a cup. Thus, the cleaning mist is prevented from scattering and adhering to the periphery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Nakajima, Masanobu Sato, Hiroaki Sugimoto, Akio Hashizume, Hiroki Tsujikawa
  • Publication number: 20030084926
    Abstract: A method of collecting impurities existing on the surface of a semiconductor wafer and in a thin film formed on the semiconductor wafer is provided with a process for dripping collecting liquid on the surface of the semiconductor wafer to which hydrophobic processing is applied, a process for elongating the collecting liquid dripped and turned spherical by surface tension in a direction of the radius of the semiconductor wafer with the surface tension kept, a process for relatively rolling and scanning the elongated collecting liquid, touching the collecting liquid to the surface of the semiconductor wafer and incorporating impurities into the collecting liquid, a process for restoring the elongated collecting liquid to the original spherical shape after the impurities are incorporated and a process for withdrawing the collecting liquid restored to the spherical shape from the surface of the semiconductor wafer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Kaori Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20030084927
    Abstract: A washer has ozone dissolving equipment for dissolving ozone supplied from an ozone supply source into washing water, and a washing water reservoir for storing the washing water including the ozone and dipping a washed object into the stored washing water, wherein the washing water includes an alkali bromide. Thus, there are provided a washer and a washing method able to easily obtain the washing water of high concentration and lengthen the duration of washing ability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hatsuo Yotsumoto
  • Publication number: 20030084928
    Abstract: A multiple compartment dishwasher is disclosed. The multiple compartment dishwasher includes a housing, a first compartment for washing within the housing, a second compartment for washing within the housing, a plurality of dishwasher components each having a power load when activated, at least one of the plurality of dishwasher components operatively disposed within the second compartment, and a power limiting distribution control system operatively connected to each of the plurality of dishwasher components for managing distribution of power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: John T. Wood
  • Publication number: 20030084929
    Abstract: The present invention provides a substrate processing system and method which can prevent the filter from being stuffed with foreign objects and make the filter accordingly more durable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Yuji Kamikawa, Eiichi Mukai
  • Publication number: 20030084930
    Abstract: An automatic system is used for controlling the cleaning stage of a strip cleaning line, e.g. an aluminum strip cleaning line. The cleaning line includes a chemical cleaning section and at least one rinse section, with cleaning solution being sprayed onto the top and bottom faces of the aluminum strip as it passes through the cleaning section. A programmable logic controller has a dwell time set point for each coil of aluminum strip, which gives for standard conditions of chemical concentration and temperature the time the strip should be exposed to the spray. The controller receives input signals based on the measured temperature and concentration of the cleaning solution and adjusts the dwell time of the cleaning solution spray on the aluminum strip accordingly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen D. Simpson, Gregory J. Courval
  • Publication number: 20030084931
    Abstract: A beach umbrella with lamps is provided with receiving trenches lengthwise on each of the ribs thereof, and the ribs each has several spaced through holes communicating with the trench. Several of the lamps are each connected to one of branches of a conductive wire. The wires are placed along the ribs, and the branches are each passed through one of the through holes with the wires and the lamps being arranged on two opposing sides of the ribs; when the trenches are formed on bottom of ribs, the lamps can be closely received in the trenches with most of the weight being supported by the wires held on the ribs, therefore the same can't possibly fall off even when the umbrella is being stretched or folded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Chorng-Cheng Lee
  • Publication number: 20030084932
    Abstract: A medical crutch has adjustable features including a handle slidable between a pair of side bow tubes thereby enabling adjustment of the height of the handle. Extensions formed on the handle facilitate slidable movement as well as maintaining the handle between the pair of side bow tubes. Projections formed on the ends of the side bow tubes facilitate alignment of the handle so that a securing bolt can be inserted through the side bow tubes and handle. Another adjustable feature includes a lower globe which secures lower ends of the side bow tubes, and facilitates slidable movement of the lower middle tube between said pair of side bow tubes. The lower globe includes at least one projection which selectively engages openings formed on the lower middle tube also helping to register a continuous aperture between the side bow tubes and the lower middle tube which receives a securing bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Kyungil-Cho
  • Publication number: 20030084933
    Abstract: A tent detachable arrangement for an instant setup foldable tent is disclosed. In this instant setup foldable tent, while retaining the advantages of the instant setup foldable tent such as speediness and convenience, a tent detachable arrangement is provided, making it possible to attach and detach the tent to and from the tent frame, enabling the user to pitch the tent or the fly selectively or both, thus promoting the usefulness of the tent. The instant setup foldable tent includes a plurality of foldable tent frames secured to a hub, and a tent cloth is coupled to the plurality of the foldable tent frames by a plurality of hooks. The tent includes a tent detachable coupling attached between a lower portion of the tent cloth and a lower portion of each pole of the foldable tent frames making it possible to attach and detach the test cloth to and from the frames, leaving tent frame untouched; and further includes a pole-securing arrangement provided to secure the tent poles firmly to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: BAEJIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Dong Soo Ju
  • Publication number: 20030084934
    Abstract: A shelter having an internal frame comprised of a roof supported by legs. A canopy covers the roof of the frame to provide protection from the elements. The canopy is taughtly held onto the frame by cords which pass through sleeves in the front and back of the canopy and attach to the corner legs of the frame. To tension the canopy onto the frame, the corner legs are twisted to tension the cords and, in turn, the canopy. Upon tensioning the canopy, the corner legs are locked in the rotated position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Brian L. Goldwitz
  • Publication number: 20030084935
    Abstract: A flexible thermoelectric circuit is disclosed. Thermoelectric circuits have traditionally been of the rigid or substantially rigid form. Several different embodiments of thermoelectric circuits are disclosed which permit flexion in one or more directions to permit applications where flexible thermoelectric circuits are advantageous.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Lon E. Bell
  • Publication number: 20030084936
    Abstract: The air inlet is of scarf type and the internal profile [5S(&thgr;)] of the upper sections [S(&thgr;)] of its lip 1 comprises, with respect to the identical and symmetrical horizontal sections (Sb) of the said lip, an internal bulge (10) which is all the bigger the larger the scarf angle and which is a maximum at the upper vertical section [S(0)].
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Thierry Surply, Damien Prat, Benoit Gagnaire
  • Publication number: 20030084937
    Abstract: A side spray mounting assembly includes a side spray with an attached water hose extending downwardly through a hose guide. A mounting nut attaches the hose guide to a sink deck. There is an escutcheon which is attached to the hose guide above the sink deck with the side spray being supported by the escutcheon. A collapsible insert is inserted within the escutcheon and the hose guide to prevent wobble of the side spray when it is positioned within the escutcheon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Leonard J. Burns, Martin Zummersch
  • Publication number: 20030084938
    Abstract: A level control system for controlling the thickness of a work material in a slurry form cast upon a moving belt includes a fluid reservoir disposed above the belt, a sensor lens assembly for sensing the slurry height within such reservoir, and a control valve for adding slurry to the reservoir. A lens disposed near the moving belt and above the reservoir is coupled by fiber optics to a remote sensor amplifier for detecting the height of the slurry. A control circuit responsive to the light sensor regulates the flow rate of the slurry through the control valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: James Edward Ellis
  • Publication number: 20030084939
    Abstract: The flushing apparatus comprises a reservoir for storing liquid, the reservoir having an outlet end movable between a raised position where liquid accumulates in the reservoir, and a down position where liquid stored in the reservoir is flushed out; a counterweight for producing an effect of urging the outlet end of reservoir toward the raised position; a reservoir ballast for cancelling the effect of the counterweight when the liquid stored therein reaches a predetermined amount; a channel for channelling a liquid into an inlet of the ballast when the outlet end of the reservoir is in the raised position; and a means for preventing an overflow of the outlet end of the reservoir. There is also provided a method for flushing liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Dautais
  • Publication number: 20030084940
    Abstract: Quantity of fluid can be more precisely controlled without disassembling the valve by an automatic flow control valve, which can be quietly operated and repaired and maintained in simple and easy manner. In the control valve, a valve body has a fluid channel and a chamber, which are formed in the valve body and communicate with each other. A diaphragm is disposed in the chamber and has a fluid channel switching shaft connected to one surface thereof. A flow control member is assembled with the valve body and extends toward the fluid channel. A fluid transfer hole communicating with an entrance port is formed at an upper portion of a side surface of the chamber, so that an opening degree of the fluid channel can be automatically controlled by the fluid channel switching shaft connected with the diaphragm when the diaphragm is operated by pressure of the fluid transferred through the fluid transfer hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Samyang Comprehensive Valve Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Euiho Lee
  • Publication number: 20030084941
    Abstract: A check valve for a fuel pump of a vehicle includes a valve housing adapted to be disposed in an outlet member of the fuel pump and a valve seat formed on the valve housing. The check valve also includes a valve member disposed in the valve housing and having a closed position to engage the valve seat to prevent fuel from flowing through the outlet member and an open position to allow fuel to flow through the outlet member. The valve member has at least one outlet port a predetermined dwell distance from the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position and allows fluid flow past the valve seat when the valve member is in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: John Gardner Fischer, Robert A. Roth
  • Publication number: 20030084942
    Abstract: A valve arrangement for use in a fire suppression sprinkler system includes a valve member for controlling the flow of a fluid. The valve member has a housing having an inlet and an outlet. The valve member defines a first configuration selectively permitting an unrestricted flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a second configuration selectively permitting a restricted flow from the inlet to the outlet. The valve member includes a first ball member and a second ball member disposed within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: George J. McHugh
  • Publication number: 20030084943
    Abstract: A valve consisting of a motor that rotates a cylinder to perform various functions in controlling liquid flow. The operation being controlled by a cam operated switch to start and stop cylinder in the various cycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Edward Joseph Tischler, Brian Joseph Tischler
  • Publication number: 20030084944
    Abstract: In a fluidic device, a space (35) is formed in a passage block (26) to which a plurality of fluidic modules are connected and which is provided, in its inside, with fluid passages (43, 47, 51) for connecting the plurality of fluidic modules to one another. An internal body (36) is received in the space (35). Channels (37, 38, 39) are formed in an outer surface of the internal body so that the channels (37, 38, 39) constitute part of the fluid passages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Teijin Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masakazu Hattori, Tsutomu Yasui
  • Publication number: 20030084945
    Abstract: A change-over valve comprises a connection portion, a main body, and a switch rod. The main body is connected to the water faucet by the connection portion and is provided with a slide slot, a water discharging channel, and a water discharging cell. The slide slot is provided with a connection duct in communication with a water filter. The switch rod is provided with a small diametrical portion and is slidably disposed in the slide slot such that the small diametrical portion and the slide slot form together a water slot. The switch rod is provided with four washers, two of which are used to separate the flow paths of the water discharging channel and the connection duct, with other two washers serving to make the switch rod and the slide slot leakproof. The water discharging cell is provided with a centrally-located water hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Ching-Ping Chiu