Patents Issued in August 14, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030150741
    Abstract: A fabricating method and apparatus of an zinc phosphate coating for a varistor has a insulation formed on a surface of a body which does not include two opposite ends of the body formed two outer terminals. The insulation has anti-etch feature for the electrolyte, so that the exposed surface of the body prevents to be etched and to be electroplated a metal material on it. Therefore the varistor has a great fabricating yield and the great shape after electroplating the two outer terminals step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Thinking Electronic Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Liang Wu
  • Publication number: 20030150742
    Abstract: A method of processing a printed wiring board. Initial processing steps are implemented on the printed wiring board. Copper is plated on the printed wiring board from a bath containing nickel and copper. Nickel is plated on the printed wiring board from a bath containing nickel and copper and final processing steps are implemented on the printed wiring board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Michael P. Meltzer, Christopher P. Steffani, Ray A. Gonfiotti
  • Publication number: 20030150743
    Abstract: There are provided a tin or tin-base alloy plating bath having significantly improved solderability, a tin salt solution and an acid or complexing agent solution for preparing or controlling and making up the plating bath, as well as electrical and electric components prepared by the use of the plating bath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: DAIWA FINE CHEMICALS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Keigo Obata, Masakazu Yoshimoto, Kiyotaka Tsuji, Ei Uchida
  • Publication number: 20030150744
    Abstract: A method for electrochemical synthesis of a superconducting boron compound MgB2 which comprises the steps of preparing a powder mixture of magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, potassium chloride and magnesium borate, drying the mixture by electrical heating at a temperature of 400° C. or below under an inert gas atmosphere, and further heating the mixture electrically at a temperature of 400° C. or above so that it is melted and undergoes chemical reaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute
    Inventors: Kenji Yoshii, Junichiro Mizuki, Hideki Abe, Hideaki Kitazawa, Akiyuki Matsushita
  • Publication number: 20030150745
    Abstract: Methods and devices for electrochemically detecting a change in the viscosity of a fluid are provided. In the subject methods, a fluid sample (e.g., a whole blood sample) is introduced into an electrochemical test strip's electrochemical cell using a micro-needle integrated into one of oppositely spaced apart working and reference electrodes. An electric potential is applied to the electrochemical cell to first achieve a steady state cell current. A decrease in the steady state cell current is then detected and related to a change in viscosity of the sample. In many embodiments, the sample is blood and the change in viscosity is related to the onset of coagulation in the blood sample, and often the PT of the blood sample. An electrochemical test strip includes an electrochemical cell and an integrated micro-needle. The electrochemical cell includes oppositely spaced apart working and reference electrodes and a reagent mixture (e.g., a redox couple and a coagulation catalyzing agent).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Maria Teodorczyk, Ernest J. Kiser, Lorin P. Olson, Devin McAllister, Vadim V. Yuzhakov, Koon-wah Leong
  • Publication number: 20030150746
    Abstract: A hydrating paint box and palette system for using, storing, and transporting paints or other water-based substances is disclosed. The paint box (10) contains a plurality of wells (30), each with a cover (28) that limits exposure to air and reduces evaporation, preventing the contents of the wells (30) from drying out. The wells (30) contain a sponge (34) that when moistened with water provides a hydrating mechanism creating a moist environment for storing water-based substances such as acrylic paints. The substances can be used directly from the well (30) and can be transported conveniently without contaminating each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Celeste Mendelsohn
  • Publication number: 20030150747
    Abstract: A blank for forming a carton includes a top flap, top panel, front panel, bottom panel, and rear panel which are connectively hinged together in the named order such that when folded, the top flap is fastened to the rear panel. Right and left side flaps are also connectively hinged to the aforementioned panels. A first tear strip is placed within the front panel and the right and left side flaps attached thereto and a second tear strip is placed at the juncture of the top flap and top panel. After tearing and removing the tear strips, a display carton is formed to hold and display a plurality of articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Reckitt Benckiser Inc.
    Inventor: David George Maus
  • Publication number: 20030150748
    Abstract: A packaging system or a closure (1) or base (3) for a packaging system which provides for a positive displacement (or “pumping”) of at least some of each of one or more components out of their separate and hermetically sealed chambers, using a twisting motion of the respective chambers, to combine them into a single main chamber (2) or separate container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Alan Mark Crawley
  • Publication number: 20030150749
    Abstract: A display package for holding a wrist-watch and a wallet or billfold. The package comprises a generally planar strip of foldable material having a first and second fold lines forming a front panel, a rear panel, and an intermediate panel. Each panel has a pair of side edges. The panels are disposed with respect to each other so that the wallet/billfold is located with one of its sections behind the front panel, and with the other of its sections located in front of the rear panel and with the intermediate panel interposed between the two sections of the wallet/billfold. The rear panel includes a pair of openings therein through which the band of the wrist-watch can be extended, so that the band extends through those openings, about the side edges of the front and rear panels and about the wallet/billfold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Reborn Products Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Allan L. Ford
  • Publication number: 20030150750
    Abstract: A mail-safe envelope includes an envelope, two gloves and a ziplock sealing-strip. The envelope is formed out of two rectangular sheets of flexible and transparent plastic material. The two rectangular sheets are disposed on top of each other to form the envelope with four sides and have two of the four sides being sealed by radio frequency energy. The two gloves are formed out of sheets of flexible and transparent plastic material and are inserted between the two rectangular sheets adjacent a third of the four sides. The two gloves and the third side are sealed by radio frequency energy. The ziplock sealing-strip is disposed between the two rectangular sheets adjacent a fourth of the four sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Moshe Y. Begim, Guy Marom
  • Publication number: 20030150751
    Abstract: A MD, CD and magnetic disk box structure includes a connecting plate having a first side provided with a first box, and a second side provided with a second box. The first box has a peripheral face having a determined height, and the second box has a peripheral face having a determined height, so that the fist box and the second box may be combined to form a closed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Yung-Tsun Chen
  • Publication number: 20030150752
    Abstract: An optical disc case assembly is provided, which can cope with a by-robot manufacturing process of optical disc loading such that in the stage of manufacture it horizontally holds the optical disc, that in the stage of use by the user it permits rocking of the optical disc in response to opening and closing of the lid, and that in both the stages of manufacture and use by the user it permits reliable prevention of detachment or fall of the optical disc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Hiromichi Uchida
  • Publication number: 20030150753
    Abstract: The enclosure comprises: a base portion; retaining means provided on the base portion for releasably holding a data carrier such as a CD within the enclosure; and a closure member, e.g. a plastic sheet, attached to the base portion so as to prevent removal of the CD from the enclosure, an irreversibly breakable join, e.g. a heat weld, being provided between the closure member and the base portion which, when broken, enables the closure member to be opened to allow the CD to be removed from the enclosure. The closure member may be removed entirely or may be hinged to the base portion so it is retained for use as a lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Anthony Henry Joseph Fraser, Stefan Alexander Pijanowski
  • Publication number: 20030150754
    Abstract: A storage system is provided especially for planar items, and in particular for optical discs. The system includes a number of sleeves for receiving the items, eg CDs, VCDs, DVDs, and each sleeve is formed with a T-shaped projecting member that is used to allow the sleeves to be removably attached to a receiving member. The receiving member may be provided within a case, or box like container for the discs, or the receiving member may be provided without any such container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: LEPI China Limited, Hong Kong SAR
    Inventor: Lip Boon Saw
  • Publication number: 20030150755
    Abstract: A compact disk case is provided having a disk retainer provided inside each of two hinged cover shells thereof, the disk retainer having two springy radial arms respectively upwardly extended from the inner sidewall of the corresponding cover shell toward each other, first and second retaining blocks respectively formed integral with the free ends of the springy radial arms, the first retaining block having a protruded portion forwardly extended from one side thereof toward the second retaining block, the second retaining block having a recessed portion adapted for receiving the protruded portion of the first retaining block to prevent the retaining blocks from jamming the user's finger during disk loading, and two disk retaining flanges provided at the retaining blocks for synchronous movement with the retaining blocks and locking the loading disk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Kun Chang Chen
  • Publication number: 20030150756
    Abstract: A carrying case for a PDA(organizer-data receiver transmitter) that permits the PDA to be swung out of the case for connection to a charger or other peripheral devices without detaching the PDA from the case. A flexible flap permits this and is pivotally connected at one end in the case and attached by loop and hook connectors to the rear of the PDA.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Kevin Kajiya
  • Publication number: 20030150757
    Abstract: A metal shipping crate is provided with a tubular steel construction. The crate is modifiable and expandable to enclose varying sizes of cargo. The crate requires no tools to pack and unpack, and is stackable and economical to use and store.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Larry W. Dunn
  • Publication number: 20030150758
    Abstract: A sterilization case in which the upper portion of one side of the case functions as a door having a hinge that is positioned horizontally with respect to the height of the case. When the case is closed, the surgical instruments are held securely in position, resting against an internal tray. When the door of the case is opened, the internal tray is raised, thus making the instruments more accessible by elevating them to a position above the top of the open case. The door swings downward to form an angle with the lower portion of the case, acting as a support so that the open case can stand in an upright position. When the door is closed, the internal tray is lowered and the instruments automatically retract into the case. Holes in the front and back covers of the instrument case allow the instruments within the case to be sterilized without removing them from the case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: KMedic
    Inventor: David Barwick
  • Publication number: 20030150759
    Abstract: The carton has two side panels, a front panel, a back panel and top and bottom flaps attached by a crease to each panel. The front panel has a trapezoidal shaped tear out section from a top edge to a bottom portion. A tape carrying handle is adhesively attached to a top portion of each side panel. Upon removing the trapezoidal tear out section, a purchaser of the carton filled with cans in a longitudinally stacked array is able to remove one can at a time without causing other cans to fall out of the carton.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: George H. White
  • Publication number: 20030150760
    Abstract: A temporary packaging method and a resultant package are provided for comprising temporarily bonding containers on a flat base member to stabilize the containers for further packaging, the method comprising the steps of providing a base member, providing containers, temporarily bonding the containers to the base member with a hot melt adhesive, advancing the base member with containers through the packaging or handling system so that further processing of the containers may optionally be effected, encapsulating the base member and bonded containers with a plastic shrink film to complete the package, followed by release of the containers from the bond to base member within minutes after shrink wrapping, with the adhesive remaining bonded to the base member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Dale C. Andersen, Donald J. Lasecke
  • Publication number: 20030150761
    Abstract: A display device for holding and displaying an article comprises a panel and one or more straps. The strap is movable between an article receiving position whereat the strap and panel form a laterally extending opening for laterally receiving the article therethrough, and an article engaging position whereat the article is frictionally engaged by the strap and panel in a direction perpendicular to the laterally extending opening to restrain lateral movement of the article from the opening. A pair of straps may be adjacent one another to provide vertical spacing between adjacent articles held in the respective straps. A pair of straps may be laterally spaced apart to display at least a portion of the article between the straps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Noah Slomowitz
  • Publication number: 20030150762
    Abstract: A card package assembly is disclosed having a carrier for holding a card, a card having a back surface which has account-related indicia thereon, the account-related indicia being concealed by a scratch-off material layer adhered to an inner region of the back surface of the card, wherein the scratch-off material is removable to reveal the indicia. A dry-release adhesive is used to adhere the elements of the assembly such that separation of the elements exposes the scratch-off material and prevents reassembling of the assembly using the same adhesive. A label is preferably attached to the back of the card having at least two layers, the scratch-off material being applied between the layers on the first layer covering the indicia. The two layers are adhered together using the dry-release adhesive, and the second layer is preferably adhered to the carrier via a high tack adhesive. A method for assembling the card package assembly by providing the elements described above is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Richard L. Biller
  • Publication number: 20030150763
    Abstract: A card model package device has a base board, a card model, a plurality of card pieces, and a plastics casing having a first chamber to receive the card pieces and a second chamber to receive the card model. The plastics casing is disposed on the base board. The second chamber has a protruded portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Du-Po Chen
  • Publication number: 20030150764
    Abstract: In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a single-piece containerboard blank is provided having a bottom panel with a side edge, an end edge and a truncated corner edge extending between the side edge and the corner edge. A side panel is hingedly attached to the bottom panel along the side edge. An adjacent edge of the side panel is a side panel end edge. An internal corner stacking tab assembly is hingedly attached to the side panel at the side panel end edge along a first fold line. The internal corner stacking tab assembly includes a plurality of segments hingedly connected at a second fold line and a third fold line. A tab extends from an edge of the internal corner stacking tab assembly. The tab is positioned substantially transverse of the third fold line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Alex D. Bevier
  • Publication number: 20030150765
    Abstract: A packaged cosmetic product is provided which includes multiple effervescent sachets placed within a tub with an open dispensing mouth. A carbon dioxide breathable and moisture barrier foil is arranged sealingly to close the dispensing mouth. Any carbon dioxide generated during storage, usually as a result of moisture prematurely effervescing powder within the sachets, is allowed to slowly diffuse into the atmosphere through the window formed by the special foil. The tub is formed of walls which do not have any substantial carbon dioxide breathability but do prevent inward moisture penetration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Michael Flaig, Natalie Charambura, Paul Roland Bergquist, Craig Stephen Slavtcheff, Matthew Scott Okin
  • Publication number: 20030150766
    Abstract: A gum disposal pocket includes a back wall, a pair of foldable side wings extended from two sides of the back wall respectively, a holding panel extended from a top side of the back wall and adapted for holding the pair of side wings in position, and a pocket cover extended from a top side of the front panel and adapted for closing and sealing the gum disposal pocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Nicoletta M. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030150767
    Abstract: A controlled temperature food carrier for carrying a plurality of meal trays includes an insulated housing constructed of flexible fabric and having a closed bottom, an open top and a front wall having an opening adjacent the bottom of the housing, wherein the opening is sized to preclude simultaneous removal of all of a plurality of meal containers, thereby limiting heat transfer from within the housing. The food carrier also including a lid constructed of a flexible fabric and operably connected with the housing by a living hinge between an open position and a closed position. The carrier further includes a door constructed of flexible fabric and operably connected with the housing by a living hinge and operable between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Paul T. Dege, Jim C. Nensewitz, Edward W. Burmeister
  • Publication number: 20030150768
    Abstract: A food carrier for carrying a plurality of meal containers includes an insulated housing having a closed bottom, a closed top, and least one side wall having a first opening proximate the top of the housing and a second opening proximate the bottom of the housing, wherein the first opening receives a meal container therethrough, and wherein the second opening allows removal of the meal containers and precludes simultaneous removal of all of the meal containers. The food carrier includes a first door movable between an open position, wherein the meal containers may be loaded within the housing via the first opening, and a closed position, wherein the first door covers the first opening, and a second door movable between an open position, wherein the meal containers may be removed from within the housing via the second opening, and a closed position, wherein the second door covers the second opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Paul T. Dege, Jim C. Nensewitz, Edward W. Burmeister, Brian E. Ainsworth
  • Publication number: 20030150769
    Abstract: A freight storage container includes six rectangularly-shaped panels including a base panel, a front end panel hingedly fastened to a front edge of the base panel and pivotable into overlying contact therewith, and a rear panel hingedly fastened to a rear edge of the base panel and pivotable downwards to overlie the front end panel. The container is assembled on-site by folding upwardly the rear and front panels, installing two side panels in the base, and fastening a roof panel to upper peripheral edge walls of the side and end panels, by novel fastener joints each consisting of a tubular hinge lug member protruding downwards from a lower inside surface of the roof panel, a coaxially aligned tubular side panel hinge lug member protruding inwardly from a side panel, and a stainless steel friction pin forced into an interference fit within coaxially aligned bores of the two lugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: David M.K. Lau
  • Publication number: 20030150770
    Abstract: A protective plastic package for storage, transportation and display of electronic components, particularly integrated circuits. The package has a top and bottom cover, is slightly larger than the electronic component, and centers the electronic component within it to prevent damage. The package is also has anti-static properties to prevent static electricity damage. The electronic component is retained within the package when open, and may be ejected from the package without touching the electronic component. The protective plastic package may also be used within larger display packaging to provide an added level of protection against damage and theft. If individualized identification tags are placed on individual items within transparent display packaging, they can be individually read without opening the package or placing corresponding tags on the package exterior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Berkley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Joe Campbell, Jon L. Kaniewski, Steven A. Milburn, Joseph G. Toma
  • Publication number: 20030150771
    Abstract: A transportable merchandise display unit (10) is provided comprising: an outer container (20) containing an inner display case (30) removable via an opening in the top of said outer container, the outer container including display case support means (50, 50′); the support means arranged to move from a first position to a second position; the first position is resiliently retained by an elastic band until the inner display case is vertically displaced from an initial transit position to a display position, at which instant the support means resiles to the second position to engage and support the inner display case thus preventing the inner display case from returning under the force of gravity to the initial transit position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: David G Mason, Robin K Youngs
  • Publication number: 20030150772
    Abstract: A carton blank includes first and second spaced main panels and first and second side flaps abutting first and second side edges, respectively, of the first main panel. Third and fourth side flaps abut first and second side edges, respectively, of the second main panel and an intermediate panel is disposed between first ends of the first and second spaced main panels. A cover flap abuts a second end of the second main panel and a display flap includes first and second portions adjacent to one another wherein the first portion is joined to a second end of the first main panel by a score line and the second portion is joined to the second end of the first main panel by a perforated line collinear with the score line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: William J. Rice
  • Publication number: 20030150773
    Abstract: A combination shipping/display box for displaying goods for sale is disclosed. The box includes a front panel, a bottom panel and a number of other panels. The front, bottom and other panels define a compartment for holding the goods. The bottom panel and the front panel include a display tab integrally formed therein. The display tab has a perforated first edge and a second edge along which the display tab is attached to the box. The display tab may be detached from the box along the perforated first edge but remain attached to the box along the second edge. The display tab includes a display portion and a swing portion attached to the box along the second edge. The display portion may be moved relative to the swing portion along a fold defined in the display tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: CADBURY TREBOR ALLAN INC.
    Inventors: Angela Dennis, Peter Widdis
  • Publication number: 20030150774
    Abstract: Production of nickel/silica hydrogenation catalyst precursors by heating a slurry of particulate silica, e.g. kieselguhr, in an aqueous nickel ammine carbonate solution for a total period of at least 200 minutes at a pH above 7.5, followed by filtration, washing, drying, and optionally calcination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Cornelis Martinus Lok, Gavin Gray, Stephen Derek Rogers, Stephen Bailey
  • Publication number: 20030150775
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for converting cycle oils produced in catalytic cracking reactions into olefin and naphtha. More particularly, the invention relates to a process for hydroprocessing a catalytically cracked light cycle oil, and then re-cracking it in an upstream zone of the primary FCC riser reactor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Gordon F. Stuntz, George A. Swan, William E. Winter, Michel Daage, Michele S. Touvelle, Darryl P. Klein
  • Publication number: 20030150776
    Abstract: A process for increasing the yield of C10 plus hydrocarbon products from a Fischer-Tropsch plant which comprises the steps of (a) separating a Fischer-Tropsch product into a wax fraction and a condensate fraction; (b) dewaxing the wax fraction to produce a high boiling intermediate; (c) hydrofinishing the high boiling intermediate; (d) dehydrating the alcohols in the condensate fraction to convert them into olefins; (e) oligomerizing the olefins to form higher molecular weight hydrocarbons; (f) hydrofinishing the oligomerization mixture; and (g) and recovering a C10 plus hydrocarbon product from the hydrofinishing zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: David R. Johnson, Christopher A. Simmons, Donald H. Mohr, Stephen J. Miller, Stephen K. Lee, William L. Schinski, Michael S. Driver
  • Publication number: 20030150777
    Abstract: A process for producing low pour point diesel and lubricating base oil products by bulk dewaxing a C5 plus Fischer-Tropsch syncrude, hydrofinishing the dewaxed intermediate, and recovering 120 degrees C. plus products having improved properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: David R. Johnson, Christopher A. Simmons, Donald H. Mohr, Stephen J. Miller, Stephen K. Lee
  • Publication number: 20030150778
    Abstract: This invention provides a process for hydrotreating hydrocarbon resins, which process comprises contacting a feedstock comprising a hydrocarbon resin or rosin, under suitable hydrotreating conditions, with a bulk multimetallic catalyst comprised of at least one Group VIII non-noble metal and at least two Group VIB metals and wherein the ratio of Group VIB metal to Group VIII non-noble metal is from about 10:1 to about 1:10. The process accord invention can achieve increased hydrocarbon resin productivity through increase in throughput volumes and effective catalyst lifetimes. The process of the invention is desirably practiced with a bulk catalyst consisting of only the combination of the metal species with the active metal components. The absence of carrier substrates largely removes the possibility of halogen accumulation on substrate surfaces that, in turn, can acidify metal catalysts such that additional, progressive cracking of the hydrocarbon resin molecules occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Jerry L. Haluska, Kenneth Lloyd Riley
  • Publication number: 20030150779
    Abstract: A process for removing metal ions from crude oil comprising contacting a non-ionic amphiphilic solvent with the crude oil, optionally, in the presence of water, so as to produce a metal ion-containing phase, and separating the metal ion-containing phase from the crude oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Ian Ralph Collins, Simon Neil Duncum, Christopher George Osborne
  • Publication number: 20030150780
    Abstract: A process and an apparatus for the preparation of petroleum hydrocarbon solvent with improved color stability from crude oils having high concentration of nitrogenous compounds which comprises passing said petroleum hydrocarbon stream containing substantial amount of nitrogenous compounds over a column of molecular sieves/modified clays at ambient to elevated temperature and pressure maintaining the feed in the liquid state, thereby obtaining the petroleum hydrocarbon stream with desired color stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: INDIA OIL CORPORATION LIMITED
    Inventors: Anurag Ateet Gupta, Suresh Kumar Puri, Muniaswamy Rajesh, Ambrish Kumar Misra, Bijendra Singh Rawat, Akhilesh Kumar Bhatnagar
  • Publication number: 20030150781
    Abstract: A tool designed for separating manure, loose hay and wet bedding from the stall of an animal. The tool comprises a rectangular frame supporting a plurality of spaced parallel rods. The rods extend downwardly at an angle from a wall of the stall such that the lower ends of the rods or the portion of the grate supporting the rods extend into a receiver such as a muck bucket or wheel barrow. When refuse is tossed from a floor of the stall onto the grate, then manure, loose hay and soiled or wet bedding will flow down the grate into the receiver, while reusable bedding will pass through the spaces between the rods for later reuse. The frame is provided with side members which converge at their lower ends to funnel refuse into the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Rasy Lee Forrest
  • Publication number: 20030150782
    Abstract: A screen includes a backing grid, a plurality of parallel elongated supporting bars, and a plurality of parallel elongated screen bars. The backing grid has a plurality of parallel longitudinal grid parts and a plurality of parallel transverse grid parts connected to the longitudinal grid parts. Each of the supporting bars has a length corresponding to that of a respective one of the transverse grid parts, an outer surface fixed to the respective one of the transverse grid parts, and an inner surface formed with a plurality of parallel and spaced apart grooves. Each of the screen bars is formed integrally with a longitudinal constricted portion mounted on the supporting bars in the grooves, and a longitudinal head portion on one end of the longitudinal constricted portion. Adjacent ones of the screen bars form a longitudinal slot therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Chao-Ho Chen
  • Publication number: 20030150783
    Abstract: A liquid circuit for filtering a liquid, comprising a liquid storage vessel (10), a liquid pump (17), a consumer or user device (14), a filter element (23) and a controller (24). A heated liquid can be supplied at least partly to the filter element (23). The liquid circuit may be used in liquid systems in which a liquid, such as water, oil or fuel, is filtered and at least part of the liquid is returned to the storage vessel (10). The liquid is pumped in the liquid circuit from the storage vessel (10) by the pump (17) through lines (11, 13, 15, 16), filtered by filter element (23) and supplied to the consumer device (14). Excess liquid not required by the consumer device (14) is returned through liquid return line (15) to the controller (24) which directs the liquid either to the filter element (23) or the storage vessel (10), depending on the liquid temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: Filterwerk Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventor: Andre Roesgen
  • Publication number: 20030150784
    Abstract: The present invention is a Liquid Chlorine Injection Device (“LCID”) that is used in conjunction with a separate sewage treatment device to disinfect treated sewage effluent prior to discharge to ground. LCID basically comprises a vessel for containing liquid disinfectant, such as household chlorine bleach, a pumping mechanism, and a control mechanism. The control mechanism senses whether the effluent in the pump tank of a sewage treatment plant needs additional disinfectant, and if so, it activates the pumping mechanism. The pumping mechanism draws liquid disinfectant from the vessel and injects it into the pump tank until the proper disinfectant level is attained within the pump tank. LCID may also include liquid level sensors within the vessel, which notify the owner whenever additional liquid disinfectant needs to be added to the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Michael Steven Georgia, Burke Scott Husberg, Roy J. T. Harris
  • Publication number: 20030150785
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an up-flow rake bar screen having a multiplicity of bars which are parallel to one another and which are spaced from one another across the screen. At least a portion of each bar is curved so that, when that portion is viewed from a position at which, when the screen is in use, fluid has not yet passed through the screen, that portion of the bar appears convex.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: David P Froud
  • Publication number: 20030150786
    Abstract: An apparatus for carrying out a three-phase separation during treatment of wastewater and sludge, which includes a gas collector (1) which traps gases that rise in the settling basin during the treatment process. The gas collector has an inclined outer surface (2, 3) which ensures that sewage sludge can slide down unhindered. The angle of inclination (&agr;) can be adjusted in order to adapt the apparatus to different sewage sludges. The gas collector has a flexible tube (4) which is guided around a plurality of reversing or bending surfaces (5, 6, 7, 8) so that sections (10, 11) of the tube form the inclined outer surfaces (2, 3). Another section (15) of the tube defines the interior volume (V) of the gas collector. The resulting gas collector is simple to produce and effectively prevents the separation apparatus from becoming clogged by particles of sewage sludge adhering to the outer surfaces of the gas collector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Johan Verink
  • Publication number: 20030150787
    Abstract: An oil filter unit has a drain valve device. The valve comprises a retainer axially movably received in a cylindrical bore of a drain passage at a position upstream of a valve seat. The retainer has a valve member holding end. A valve member is axially movably received in the retainer in such a manner as to be movable between a closed position where the valve member closes a drain bore of the valve seat and an open position where the valve member opens the drain bore. A coil spring is arranged to bias the retainer relative to the valve seat in such a direction as to cause the valve member to take the open position. The retainer has a projected portion that projects into the interior of a filter housing. When a filter element is properly set in the filter housing, the projected portion is pressed down to shift the retainer to a position to allow the valve member to take the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Applicant: HITACHI UNISIA AUTOMOTIVE, LTD.
    Inventor: Shoji Morita
  • Publication number: 20030150788
    Abstract: A self-adjusting fluid surface skimmer and a wastewater treatment system incorporating the same are provided. In one embodiment, the skimmer includes an intake passage and an outlet passage. The intake passage comprises first and second passageways connected by a flexible coupling. A collar is positioned around the first passageway near an intake opening. At least one buoyant member is attached to the collar and facilitates self-adjustment of the skimmer. A gas inlet is disposed in the outlet passage and allows for the movement of gas through the outlet passage, which creates a suction effect in the intake passage. The wastewater treatment system comprises an aeration tank disposed in a settling tank such that a clearance is created between the two tanks. A skimmer according to the present invention is disposed within the clearance. The skimmer enables further removal of solids from treated fluid within the settling tank prior to leaving the treatment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew L. Sharb
  • Publication number: 20030150789
    Abstract: A solid-liquid mixture is electro-dewatered by apparatus having a conveyor belt for receiving an electric charge and having the mixture deposited thereon and an element above the conveyor belt receiving an opposite electric charge with the conveyor belt an element cooperating to apply a compressive force to the mixture and characterised by the conveyor belt including discrete electrically conducted segments which are permeable to the liquid. The upper element is preferably in the form of a rotary drum or second conveyor belt but it can be in the form of a pressure plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Sarah A Miller, Barry Kenneth Johnston, Christopher Veal
  • Publication number: 20030150790
    Abstract: The filtering membranes of the present invention are made from a pair of polymer films stretched in a liquid surface-active medium for the formation of crazes filled with the aforementioned medium. The crazed films are perforated and then stack together in a stretched or released state and are welded together into a sealed structure with a plurality of parallel welding seams arranged, e.g., in mutually perpendicular directions, so that a plurality of sealed cells is formed. The cells have on one side of the membrane input openings and on the other side output openings. If an input opening is in one cell, then an output opening is in the adjacent cell. Adjacent cells are interconnected only through the welding seams. Welding can be carried out by contact heating or with the use of a laser beam, or the like. The material of the welding seam has an amorphous structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Vladimir Prutkin