Abstract: There is provided a fuel injection control apparatus for an internal combustion engine, which includes an O2 sensor and a feedback controller that performs a feedback control of the injection quantity of fuel to the internal combustion engine. The feedback controller performs the feedback control such that the feedback gain set at the time of starting the feedback and which gives operation constant for performing feedback until the air/fuel ratio becomes optimum, is set larger than the feedback gain set for the normal operation period and which gives operation constant for performing feedback in a stable state, and the feedback gain is changed between the control start time and the normal operation period, thereby reducing the time required to attain a stable feedback state and therefore quick transition to the stable state upon starting the control and thus enabling effective reduction of harmful components in exhaust gas.

Abstract: A cutting tool for cutting hard rock, said cutting tool including one or more cutting elements (10) each comprising a pointed or chisel-shaped body (12) including a diamond composite material including diamond crystals bonded together by a silicon carbide matrix, the each cutting element being mounted into a supporting matrix comprising a metal matrix composite material, such that the point or chisel edge of the each element protrudes from said matrix.

Abstract: A device is shown for transporting asphalt repair materials for use in repairing potholes in asphalt pavements. The device has a body with a hopper compartment for transporting and dispensing asphalt mix materials. A dry, radiant heat source is located in a heating chamber below the hopper compartment and heats the asphalt mix. Exhaust stacks in communication with the dry heat means have a damper system for retaining heat within the heating chamber, the damper system being electronically controlled in response to the temperature within the body of the device.

Abstract: Solar panel (1) comprising an absorber element (2), a heat-insulating insulation element (3) placed between the absorber element (2) and an underlayer, and a frame structure (4) surrounding the insulation element (3) and the absorber element (2). The invention is characterized in particular in that said insulation element (3) and said frame structure (4) are integratedly formed into an essentially box-shaped, self-supporting base element (5) having a recess (7) to accommodate said absorber element (2), which base element (5) consists in the main of a foamed plastic material. The solar panel (1) preferably also comprises a transparent covering sheet (6) placed over said absorber element (2).

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for delivery of a medicament to a respiratory system. A reservoir is provided for a liquid medicament with the reservoir having a liquid medicament inlet port and a medicament outlet. An aerosol generator is provided at the medicament outlet of the reservoir for aerosolizing the liquid medicament. A connector entrains the aerosolized medicament from the aerosol generator with a gas.

Abstract: A nebulizer comprising an aerosol generator and a titration mechanism comprising a dosing mechanism, a screw assembly, a plunger and an actuator, wherein the dosing mechanism is rotatably mounted in the nebulizer and the plunger is mounted in the nebulizer to travel along a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the plane of rotation of the dosing mechanism. The actuator is mounted to the nebulizer to travel in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The screw mechanism allows the rotation of the dosing mechanism to fix a variable distance of travel of the plunger based on the selected dose, without moving the plunger longitudinally. This allows the user to verify and if necessary correct the selected dose prior to any drug being released from the vial. Operation of the actuator causes longitudinal movement, through the screw mechanism, to the plunger.

Abstract: There is provided according to the invention a metered dose inhaler comprising an interfacial surface having the following properties: i) a contact angle of greater than 70 degrees; and ii) a conductivity of greater than 2.4 mS. There are also provided processes for its preparation and its use in therapy.

Abstract: A dispenser for a gaseous, gas borne or droplet substance contained in a source thereof, the dispenser including: a body (1) with a mouthpiece; (2) a junction member in the body for the substance source: and a breath actuable valve, (8) for controlling the release of the gas or liquid containing or comprising the substance, the valve comprising: a flexible tube for receiving the said gas or liquid, the tube extending from a valve inlet connected to the junction member and having a portion (21) which is kinkable for closure of the valve and movable to an open position in which the tube is un-kinked for opening of the valve; and a member arranged for movement in the body by inhalation to un-kink the valve: the tube being kinked to an obturating extent when the movable member is in a ready position and un-kinked when the movable member is moved on inhalation for release of the gas or liquid; wherein: the movable member is or includes a flap (7) arranged in the body for action of breath on it on inhalation: the j

Abstract: A device for opening nasal passages is provided. The device including: a strip of material having an adhesive on one surface thereof for applying the strip across a human nose; at least one biasing member attached or embedded in the strip, the at least one biasing member being fabricated from a material which exhibits a shape memory effect upon being heated toward a human body temperature, the at least one biasing member having a shape upon being heated toward the human body temperature which biases the nasal passages of the human nose toward an open position. In a variation of the device, the strip itself is at least partly fabricated from the material. In another variation, the shape memory material is replaced with a biasing material, which does not need the application of heat to bias the nasal passages open, such as spring steel or a resilient thermoplastic.

Abstract: A mouthpiece includes a wall having an anterior section and a plurality of posterior sections. Retaining wings are coupled to the anterior section. The retaining wings conform to the anatomy of the user's buccal vestibule. The method of customizing the mouthpiece includes cutting the retaining wings.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for the vaporization of materials that release active constituents for inhalation without the creation of harmful byproducts such as carcinogens associated with combustion and inhalation of substances. According to a preferred embodiment, an apparatus for releasing volatile elements of a substance in disclosed, comprising in combination a power means, a heater means, a fan means sufficient to create an airflow, a temperature sensing means, a time and temperature control means, a source material holder which is insertable and removable for holding said substance, a receptacle for receiving a vapor that results from the release of volatile elements created by heated air directed from said heater means releasing said volatile elements and an opening for allowing release of said vapor.

Abstract: Mouthpieces for particulate inhalers typically have either stationary particle deflectors or rotatable devices for changing the flow of particulate material through the mouthpiece. However, these mouthpieces do not prevent the build up of particulate drug on the walls of the mouthpiece. Thus, there is provided a mouthpiece (10) for use in an inhaler for particulate medicament, the mouthpiece having an inlet (12) and an outlet (13) for particulate medicament, a helical member (15) disposed between the inlet and the outlet for, in use, imparting a rotational movement to an air flow which is drawn through the mouthpiece and in which medicament is entrained, wherein the helical member (15) is, in use, axially movable between a first position and a second position such that it restricts the build up of medicament on the inside of the mouthpiece (10).

Abstract: Inhalation device and associated method for facilitating inhalation by a patient of powder medicaments contained in a receptacle. The inhalation device has a chamber for receiving the receptacle. A ring is circumferentially coupled to an inner surface of the chamber to achieve a higher reproducible emitted dose of medicament from the receptacle. The inhalation device also includes an improved implement for puncturing the receptacle, requiring less force and experiencing fewer failures. The inhalation device also includes a means for indicating readiness.

Abstract: An aerosolization apparatus comprises a body having an inlet, an endpiece having an outlet, the endpiece being connectable to the body to define a chamber, wherein the chamber is sized to receive a capsule containing a pharmaceutical formulation in a manner which allows the capsule to move within the chamber. The apparatus further includes a connection mechanism to provide selective connection of the endpiece to the body, wherein a rotational force between the endpiece and the body is needed to connect or disconnect the endpiece from the body, the rotational force being applied about an axis passing through the chamber. When a user inhales, air enters into the chamber through the inlet so that the pharmaceutical formulation is aerosolized within the chamber and the aerosolized pharmaceutical formulation is delivered to the user through the outlet. The connection mechanism prevents inadvertent disconnection of the endpiece from the body.

Abstract: An on demand supplemental oxygen delivery system that is self-calibrating includes a tank containing a supply of oxygen and a nasal cannula through which the oxygen may be provided to a patient when the system solenoid valve is in the open condition. When the valve is in the closed condition, the cannula communicates with a pressure transducer via a transducer line. An orifice is formed in the line so that the pressure within the transducer line goes to atmospheric pressure when the valve is in the open condition. When the valve is in the open condition, the pressure transducer reads the atmospheric pressure and directs it to a system controller where it is stored as a reference pressure. When the valve is in the closed condition, the pressure transducer monitors the pressure in the nasal cannula.

Abstract: A device and a process for mixing at least a first gas component with a second gas component is suitable for mixing gases in a portable respirator. The gas mixer device makes it possible to bring about the particularly necessary concentration of the first gas component at different volume flows of the gas mixture generated. The gas mixer device has a plurality of ejectors (1, 2) of different sizes, which are designed according to the principle of a venturi nozzle. The ejectors have respective propellant gas connections (3, 9) for feeding the first gas component from a propellant gas container (4) and suction channels (5, 10) for feeding the second gas component from a mixing chamber (6), as well as gas outlets (8, 11) to a respiration connection (7). An evaluating and control unit (17) evaluates the signals of two volume flow sensors (15, 16) and correspondingly actuates proportional valves (13, 14) arranged in the propellant gas connections (3, 9) for feeding the first gas component.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a nitric gas dispenser for mammals on the run. The dispenser has a housing that contains a valve mechanism. The valve mechanism is interconnected between a nitric gas dispersal component that provides nitric gas at a desired pressure and a gas delivery system that provides the nitric gas at the desired pressure to the mammal. The valve mechanism controls the flow of the nitric gas between the nitric gas dispersal component and the gas delivery system. The dispenser also has a pressure sensor that is positioned along the gas delivery system and determines when the mammal is taking a breadth. If the pressure sensor determines the mammal is taking a breadth, the pressure sensor transmits a breadth signal to a microprocessor. The microprocessor then determines if the mammal is within a prescribed time frame for the mammal to be administered nitric gas.

Abstract: A method is provided for effecting improved airway ventilation of a patient which involves delivering a momentary pulse, thrust or bolus of pressurized air into the patient's airway at commencement of inhalation. This process is repeated at the termination of breath exhalation by the patient.

Abstract: A retention device and method for retaining an object, including preferably a gas mask, in position proximate a user's mouth. The retention device includes straps coupled to both sides of the object and having at ends thereof ear pieces. The ear pieces fit over the ears, and are configured to receive the strap at a point proximate the anterior, center portion of the ear, causing pulling forces to be on the posterior center portion of the ear rather than on the top of the ear.

Abstract: A retention device and method for retaining an object, including preferably a gas mask, in position proximate a user's mouth. The retention device includes straps coupled to both sides of the object and having at ends thereof ear pieces. The ear pieces fit over the ears, and are configured to receive the strap at a point proximate the tragus portion of the ear, causing pulling forces to be on the posterior center portion of the ear rather than on the top of the ear. The ear pieces have a downwardly exterior anterior leg and a downwardly extending posterior leg. In one embodiment, the ear pieces are substantially U-shaped. In another embodiment, the ear pieces are substantially ring-shaped.

Abstract: Current methods of drug administration to the lungs are inefficient. ‘Endotracheal Tube with Aerosol Delivery Apparatus’ is specifically designed for uniform intrapulmonary deposition of aerosolized medication in patients on mechanical ventilation. As opposed to the current methods of drug delivery where aerosol particles are generated at the proximal end of the ET tube, with majority of the particles adhering to the endotracheal tube during delivery, this invention bypasses the endotracheal tube by generating aerosol particles at its distal end. This invention incorporates an external adapter designed to perfectly fit the nozzle of the conventional metered dose inhaler at it's proximal end. From the distal end of this adapter originates a secondary cannula with a pinhole inner diameter that enter the ET tube at its proximal end and continues distally within the wall of the ET tube to terminate as a pinhole opening, where aerosol particles are generated.

Abstract: Current methods of drug administration to the lungs are inefficient. ‘Aerosol Delivery Apparatus’ in specifically designed for uniform intrapulmonary deposition of aerosolized medication in patients on mechanical ventilation. As opposed to the current methods of drug delivery where aerosol particles are generated at the proximal end of the ET tube, with majority of the particles adhering to the endotracheal tube during delivery, this invention bypasses the endotracheal tube by generating aerosol particles at its distal end. This invention incorporates a medicament dispenser with an adapter (MDA) to perfectly fit the nozzle of a conventional metered dose inhaler and an L-shaped ventilator connector with adapter (VCA) to fit MDA. From the distal end of MDA adapter originates a semi-rigid cannula with a narrow lumen that terminates as a pinhole opening distally where aerosol particles are generated on actuation of MDI valve.

Abstract: A prophylactic system or kit that prevents the transmission of disease-producing microorganisms and spermatozoa by acting as a sexual barrier and sexual aid. The invention comprises an undergarment that allows sex acts while the garment is worn and that absorbs the fluids associated with the sex act, at least one pocket, sexual aids, and safer-sex information.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for treating atrial fibrillation. More specifically, highly active foci of atrial myocytes are identified and selectively heated to induce apoptosis of the arrhythmic foci. The methods generally involve heating the myocytes with a catheter for a sufficient time and at a sufficient temperature to induce programmed cell death.

Abstract: A brain damaged patient who is improving will have a higher percentage of REM sleep than one who is not. The improvement we studied is that occurring over a period of weeks and months, so it cannot be attributed to the return of function of temporarily damaged, but not destroyed, brain tissue. Improvement was therefore to be considered as new learning or programming. Patients suffering from aphasia as the result of a discrete cerebrovascular accident or of trauma are able to enhance their improvement by increasing amounts of REM sleep inducing activities (such as having a regular sleep schedule with a systematic schedule of phase changes in circadian rhythms) and diminishing REM sleep reducers such as caffeine, noise or a use of tranquilizers.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a unit which forms burn control agent coated regions on a web of a wrapping paper transferred by a wrapping paper transfer unit at a plurality of positions separated from each other in the longitudinal or in the width direction of the web, a unit which supplies chopped tobacco leaves to the wrapping paper after formation of the coated regions, a roll-up unit which rolls up the wrapping paper on which the chopped tobacco leaves are supplied, and a cigarette cutting unit which cuts the rolled-up wrapping paper together with the chopped tobacco leaves in a predetermined length of the cigarette in the longitudinal direction thereof.

Abstract: An insect repellent substrate (10) includes a fabric base material (12) made of felt which is impregnated with a repellent carrier composition (14). The carrier composition (14) includes a mixture of wax and a naturally occurring insect repellent such as pyrethrum oil. The carrier composition (14) may also include scented or aromatic oils such as citronella oil, rosemary oil, eucalyptus oil and neem oil. Strips of the fabric base material may be attached to headwear such as a headband or cap so that it is in contact with the wearer's hair or body. Active constituents of the carrier composition (14) provide effective treatment and prevention of headlice and other parasitic insects.

Abstract: Ready to use sheets of aluminum foil sized specifically for salon use and dispensed in an engineered delivery system that allows for rapid fingertip use.

Abstract: A hair curler device comprises a cylindrical body portion with animal-shaped components attached at the ends of the body portion. The animal-shaped components increase the enjoyment and decrease the tedium of using hair curlers, especially for young, pre-teen, teenage and adolescent females.

Abstract: A make up case or kit comprises two hingedly connected compartments, a flat dividing element inserted between the compartments which is hingedly held in place, and a plurality of magnetic holders of the cosmetics supplies removably insertable inside the first compartment. The case is opened and closed by rotating either of the compartments about the hinge and the dividing element is rotatable about the hinge to cover either of the compartments.

Abstract: A compact for cosmetics, including a base for holding cosmetic material and a cover hingedly connected to the base in clamshell fashion, with a window formed in one portion of the cover for viewing the cosmetic material, and a first inwardly facing mirror mounted in another portion of the cover so as not to block the window, wherein a second mirror is mounted in the cover for movement between a retracted position underlying the first mirror and an extended position in which the second mirror blocks the window and faces inwardly.

Abstract: A toothpaste dispensing toothbrush device for combining a toothbrush and toothpaste into one useful tool. The toothpaste dispensing toothbrush device includes an elongate housing including a handle portion and an elongate head portion; and also includes a plurality of bristles being attached to the head portion of the elongate housing; and further includes a cap being removably attached to the elongate housing; and also includes a toothpaste dispensing assembly for dispensing toothpaste from the elongate housing.

Abstract: A bicomponent monofilament tape wherein the tape is made from the fusion of the sheaths of at least about 60 bicomponent core-sheath fibers and the bonding of the fused sheaths to the core fibers is disclosed. A process for preparing a bicomponent monofilament tape by providing at least about 60 bicomponent core-sheath fibers; fusing the sheaths; and bonding the fused sheaths to the core fibers is also disclosed.

Abstract: A dental floss dispenser and applicator housing a supply of dental floss that also serves as an applicator to assist the user in cleaning spaces between the teeth.

Abstract: An apparatus for sanitizing articles includes a conveyor for conveying articles through the apparatus, and an irradiation chamber surrounding the conveyor. A plurality of UV lamps is arranged in the irradiation chamber to irradiate with UV light articles conveyed through the irradiation chamber on the conveyor. The intensity and dose of UV light may be varied to achieve a desired level of sanitization. A method of sanitizing articles for re-use includes checking articles for cleanliness, and washing only articles which are discovered to be below a predetermined standard of cleanliness. Articles which are discovered to be above a predetermined standard of cleanliness are irradiated with UV light in order to sanitize such articles without washing. Articles which are below the predetermine standard of cleanliness may be washed in a traditional wash system prior to being irradiated with UV light.

Abstract: A component having small holes, such as a silicon electrode plate having gas nozzles, used in a plasma processing apparatus is cleaned by producing a cavitation zone that extends through an entire depth of the holes so that deposited layers on the inner walls of the holes formed during the use in the apparatus are removed. The cleaned component can subsequently be re-used in the apparatus, and the production cost and the consumption of natural resources are decreased.

Abstract: Disclosed is a substrate cleaning method for removing particles from a substrate includes a first step of adjusting the concentration of dissolved nitrogen in pure water, so as to be less than or equal to the concentration of dissolved nitrogen in equilibrium with the atmosphere (about 16 ppm), in a supply line that supplies the pure water, and a second step of cleaning a substrate by supplying a cleaning tank with a cleaning solution produced by mixing at least hydrogen peroxide with the pure water adjusted at the first step, and applying an ultrasonic wave to the cleaning solution in which the substrate is immersed.

Abstract: This is a dust mop handle and method in which the handle has a plurality of arcuate and straight segments including means to attach a dust mop to one end; unique hand holding means providing for bi-planar holding and movement of the dust mop handle in such manner that the effective force being applied to the dust mop is multiplied and enhanced and strain on the user is reduced.

Abstract: A blade cleaner having a protective holding apparatus is provided. A method for cleaning blades is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for generating a foam from a liquid phase and a gas phase, a method for placing a foam in circulation in an installation, and a method for cleaning an installation by placing a, foam in circulation.

Abstract: A drum washer has a base, a barrel support structure, and a water delivery system. A hollow drum is turned over and placed on the drum washer by inserting a spray head of the water delivery system through a hole in a top cover of the drum and into the interior of the drum. The barrel support structure holds the drum at a fixed angle while water is sprayed from the spray head onto interior surfaces of the drum. The water rinses the interior surfaces of the drum and drains out the hole in the top cover of the drum.

Abstract: A paper cleaning apparatus employs a paper buffing roll which has a lightweight hollow cylindrical core mounted between stub shafts. The stub shafts are mounted to bearings and the hollow core is arranged to be driven at approximately 3,450 to approximately 4,450 RPM. The surface of the cylindrical core is given a rough surface over which a wool cloth jacket is placed. The cloth sleeve is clamped in place by retaining end caps which fit over the stub shafts and clamp the sleeve against the ends of the hollow cylindrical core. The cloth sleeve is shrunk onto the surface of the cylindrical core with hot water or steam. The cloth sleeve is frayed to form a soft outer surface, with radially extending fibers.

Abstract: A condensation panel to be used for harvesting water from atmospheric moisture during those times of the diurnal cycle when relative humidity is at or near 100% utilizes very localized cooling to optimize condensation on a surface whose materials promote the condensation and collection of the water. The panel is passive in the sense that it can be deployed and left in an unmaintained condition for considerable periods of time. At least one time each day, almost certainly in the morning, water harvested by the process of assisted condensation can be collected for use.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a solar cell unit comprising a back electrode, a photovoltaic layer, a front electrode, and a transparent top layer, characterised in that on top of the top layer at least one removable transparent polymer film is present. Preferably, 2-10, more preferably 3-5, removable transparent polymer films stacked one on top of the other are present on the top layer. On the bottom side the transparent polymer films may be provided with an adhesive layer which displays greater adhesion to the polymer film itself than to the underlying layer. Preferably, the solar cell unit is also provided with a substrate at the back of the back electrode.

Abstract: The first photoelectric cell of the present invention comprises: an insulating base having on its surface an electrode layer (1), the electrode layer (1) having on its surface a metal oxide semiconductor film (2) on which a photosensitizer is adsorbed; an insulating base having on its surface an electrode layer (3), the electrode layer (1) and the electrode layer (3) arranged opposite to each other; and an electrolyte sealed between the metal oxide semiconductor film (2) and the electrode layer (3), wherein at least one of the electrode-having insulating bases is transparent; and the metal oxide semiconductor film (2) comprises anatase titanium oxide particles. This first photoelectric cell includes a semiconductor film comprising anatase titanium oxide particles, having a high proportion of photosensitizer adsorbed, so that the electron mobility in the semiconductor film is high to thereby realize excellent photoelectric transfer efficiency.

Abstract: A breakaway safety shut-off valve including a valve housing and a detachable end portion connected thereto by a region of reduced strength. The housing includes an axial passage and the detachable portion includes an annular shoulder positioned adjacent the region of reduced strength. A ball is guidably displaceable along a circumferential surface of the axial passage between an open position and a closed position, with a spring engaged between the valve housing and the ball to urge the ball toward the closed position. An insert having a plurality of arm segments is engaged between the ball and the annular shoulder to initially maintain the ball in the open position. At least partial detachment of the detachable portion along the region of reduced strength causes at least one of the arm segments to disengage the annular shoulder to permit the spring to displace the ball toward the closed position.

Abstract: In an air valve for an inflatable object, a valve body is connected sealingly to the inflatable object and defines an air passage in fluid communication with an interior of the inflatable object. A movable member is disposed within the air passage and is adapted to connect with a connection head of an inflation device. A rotary member is rotatable to bring the movable member to one of an open position and a sealing position to permit or stop air flow through the air passage.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.

Abstract: A leak identification and containment device (10, 48, 64) is provided which is designed for application to a valve assembly (12) including a conduit (16) and a valve (18) having an operating handle (20) and an outlet (22). The device (10, 48, 64) includes a flexible bag (24, 50, 66) formed of synthetic resin material which is at least translucent (and preferably substantially transparent) with a valve-receiving opening (30, 52) and an absorbent lining (34) on the inner surfaces of the bag (24, 50, 66). In use, the bag (24, 50, 66) is disposed over the valve assembly (12) including handle (20) and outlet (22), and a cinch strap (34, 54) is used to tighten the bag (24, 50, 66) about the conduit (16). The absorbent lining (34) is of a color which contrasts with that of material which may leak from the valve assembly (12), so that the device (10, 48, 64) gives a visual indication of leakage.

Abstract: A pressure relief system for detecting and correcting an overpressure situation in a pressurized fluid. The system includes a pressure responsive member such as a buckling pin configured to mechanically collapse when a predetermined force is applied to the member. An actuator assembly axially compresses the member in response to the pressure of the fluid and rotates a first shaft upon mechanical collapse of the member. A bypass valve assembly establishes a bypass path for the fluid upon rotation of a second shaft. A clutch mechanism decouples the first and second shafts prior to and during initial stages of mechanical collapse of the member and subsequently couples the first and second shafts during remaining stages of mechanical collapse of the member. In this way, forces associated with the bypass valve assembly are isolated from the actuator assembly during steady state operation and during the initial stages of mechanical collapse.