Patents Issued in November 6, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030205542
    Abstract: A seat adapted to receive a wood working tool is composed of a seat body and a receiving body. The seat body has a hollow room at interior thereof. The receiving body is connected at a bottom thereof to the seat body and has a receiving hole communicated to the hollow room of the seat body, a plurality of hollowed portions disposed at a lateral periphery of the receiving body, and a plurality of spring members disposed in the receiving hole corresponding in location to the hollowed portions respectively for clamping the handle of the wood working tool which is inserted in the receiving hole of the receiving body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Sen-Chou Chen
  • Publication number: 20030205543
    Abstract: A wine rack comprises a reticulated lattice defining an X direction and a Y-Z plane orthogonal to the X direction. The reticulated lattice is comprised of a plurality of spaced posts extending in the X direction and a plurality of connecting rods extending in the Y-Z plane. The posts and the connecting rods are constructed to form at least one prismatic receiving space for receiving at least one wine bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: I-Feng Kao
  • Publication number: 20030205544
    Abstract: A module for a structure, the module comprising an elongate member having opposite end portions which each have a connection means suitable for connection with connection means of like modules and a body portion extending in a general axial direction, wherein each end portion extends in substantially opposite lateral directions from the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: William Timaru Rhodes
  • Publication number: 20030205545
    Abstract: A wall shelf assembly for organizing, storing and drying wet weather wearing apparel includes an adjustable length sliding shelf for organizing and storing wet weather wearing apparel and provides means facilitating the flow of water from such apparel and a water trap for collecting and holding water escaping from such apparel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: James L. Moceri
  • Publication number: 20030205546
    Abstract: The frame attachment system of the present invention is a unitary-bodied frame attachment member being selectively and removably attachable to a display frame member for attaching shelving brackets, and attachments of the like. The present invention essentially includes three portions: a bracing portion, a grasping portion, and a slot portion. The grasping portion is substantially u-shaped for attachment around a display frame member with the bracing portion being in perpendicular opposition to the grasping portion. The slot portion is proximate the bracing portion and includes a plurality of slots capable of receiving shelving brackets such that the insertion of a shelving bracket results in the bracket flushly resting against the frame member and thus limiting movement of the frame attachment member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Fritsche, Dan Berg, Jason Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030205547
    Abstract: A telescoping boom has a plurality of boom sections, and the boom sections nest together. The sections include an outer base section, intermediate sections, and an inner section that forms the outer end of the boom when extended. A hydraulic actuator and mechanical flexible links control the extension and retraction of the boom sections, and a hose carrier housing that is mounted as a subassembly carries hoses of sufficient length to carry hydraulic fluid under pressure from a base end of the boom to the outer end. The hose carrier housing supports the hoses folded into lengths in a zigzag form to provide sufficient length for boom extension. All connections to the hoses are accessible at the base end or at the outer end of the inner boom section. The entire hose carrier housing and the hoses are capable of being removed from and replaced into the boom as a unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Henri R. M. Dupre, Arnaud J. M. Guinee, Cyrille P. J. Boussaud, Bernard J. H. Poncet
  • Publication number: 20030205548
    Abstract: A bottle adapter includes a connector having a containment region for holding a composition and an internal threaded portion that engages threads on a bottle neck and has an opening in fluid communication with the containment region. An upper end of the connector has an aperture that is in fluid communication with the containment region. The adapter also includes a first seal for sealing an opening in the threaded portion and a second seal for sealing the aperture. In use a removal of the first seal permits fluid communication between the containment region and fluid in the bottle, permitting the formation of a mixture. A removal of the second seal permits the mixture to be dispensed. Methods for storing a composition for subsequent mixing with a fluid and for delivering a mixture of a composition and a fluid are also addressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Allison Seckler
  • Publication number: 20030205549
    Abstract: A closure structure includes a closure body having a deck and depending sidewall, and a dispensing orifice through said deck. A closure cap has a lid part attached by a hinge to the body, and a cover part frangibly connected to the lid part, on a side of the lid part opposite the hinge. The lid part is latched to the body at lateral positions located between the hinge and the cover part. The cover part covers a lifting lip extending from the lid part. Removal of the cover part exposes the lifting lip for lifting by the user to open the lid part from the closure body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: John E. Harrold, Bruce M. Mueller, Richard A. Gross
  • Publication number: 20030205550
    Abstract: A lightweight hot-fill blow-molded plastic container (10, 110) having a sidewall (16) with a rigid grip portion (24, 124) and a flexible vacuum absorption portion (26, 126).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Roger M Prevot, David M Melrose, Richard K Ogg, Raymond A Pritchett
  • Publication number: 20030205551
    Abstract: A process is revealed whereby resistors can be manufactured integral with a printed circuit board by plating the resistors onto the insulative substrate. Uniformization of the insulative substrate through etching and oxidation of the plated resistor are discussed as techniques for improving the uniformity and consistency of the plated resistors. Trimming and baking are also disclosed as methods for adjusting and stabilizing the resistance of the plated resistors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: MacDermid, Incorporated
    Inventors: Peter Kukanskis, Dennis Fritz, Frank Durso, Steven Castaldi, David Sawoska
  • Publication number: 20030205552
    Abstract: A method of forming a membrane having nanometer scale pores includes forming an etch stop layer on a substrate and forming a base layer on the etch stop layer. Advantageously, a silicon nitride etch stop layer is formed on a silicon substrate and the base layer is a thermally grown oxide layer. Micron scale holes are etched through the base layer and, advantageously, partially through the underlying etch stop layer. A sacrificial base layer of controlled thickness is formed on the base layer and lining the holes. A thermally grown oxide is advantageously used as the sacrificial base layer. A plug layer is then formed on the base layer, on the sacrificial base layer and filling the holes. Polysilicon is advantageously used as the plug layer. The plug layer is planarized followed by the creation of an aperture in the backside of the wafer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Derek J. Hansford, Mauro Ferrari
  • Publication number: 20030205553
    Abstract: Ruthenium, osmium and their oxides can be etched simply and rapidly by supplying an atomic oxygen-donating gas, typically ozone, to the aforementioned metals and their oxides through catalysis between the metals and their oxides, and the ozone without any damages to wafers and reactors and application of the catalysis not only to the etching but also to chamber cleaning ensures stable operation of reactors and production of high quality devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Miwako Nakahara, Toshiyuki Arai, Shigeru Ohno, Takashi Yunogami, Sukeyoshi Tsunekawa, Kazuto Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20030205554
    Abstract: This invention is directed to an intracorporeal device formed of a high strength Co—Ni—Cr alloy and is particularly suitable for forming a composite product with a pseudoelastic member formed of NiTi alloy. Suitable intracorporeal products include guidewires and stents. The high strength alloy consists essentially of about 28 to about 65% cobalt, about 2 to about 40% nickel, about 5 to about 35% chromium, up to about 12% molybdenum, up to about 20% tungsten, up to about 20% iron and the balance inconsequential amounts of impurities and other alloying constituents, with a preferred alloy composition including about 30 to about 45% cobalt, about 25 to about 37% nickel, about 15 to about 25% chromium and about 5 to about 15% molybdenum. Intravascular devices such as guidewires, stents and the like can be formed of this high strength Co—Ni—Cr alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Sepehr Fariabi
  • Publication number: 20030205555
    Abstract: A method for making a polymer-based rare earth-doped waveguide includes the steps of: providing a substrate (11); spin coating a polymer bottom cladding layer (12) on the substrate; spin coating a core layer (13) comprising a polymer and complex rare earth metal ions, which can be excited to produce a laser, on the bottom cladding layer; using a channel patterning technique with masking and ultraviolet (UV) radiation followed by etching to form at least one channel waveguide (14); and spin coating a polymer top cladding layer (15) over the at least one channel waveguide and exposed portions of the bottom cladding layer. The method includes improving the solubility of rare earth metal ions in a polymer matrix, by forming a complex of each rare earth metal ion with an organic compound. These complexes have higher solubility in a fluorinated polymer, compared with pure rare earth metal ions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Charles Leu, Ga-Lane Chen
  • Publication number: 20030205556
    Abstract: A process to form a capillary that is well insulated from its environment is described. Said process has two stages. The first stage, which is the same for both of the invention's two embodiments, comprises forming a micro-channel in the surface of a sheet of glassy material. For the first embodiment, this sheet is bonded to a layer of oxide, that lies on the surface of a sheet of silicon, thereby sealing in the capillary. After all silicon has been selectively removed, a thin membrane of oxide remains. Using a low temperature bonding process, a second sheet of glassy material is then bonded to this membrane. In the second embodiment, the silicon is not fully removed. Instead, the oxide layer of the first embodiment is replaced by an oxide/nitride/oxide trilayer which provides improved electrical insulation between the capillary and the remaining silicon at a lower level of inter-layer stress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Institute of Microelectronics
    Inventors: Yu Chen, Janak Singh
  • Publication number: 20030205557
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the voltage applied to a shield interposed between an induction coil powered by a power supply via a matching network, and the plasma it generates, comprises a shield, a first feedback circuit, and a second feedback circuit. The power supply powers the shield. The first feedback circuit is connected to the induction coil for controlling the power supply. The second feedback circuit is connected to the shield for controlling the voltage of the shield. Both first and second feedback circuits operate at different frequency ranges. The first feedback circuit further comprises a first controller and a first sensor. The first sensor sends a first signal representing the power supplied to the inductive coil to the first controller. The first controller adjusts the power supply such that the power supplied to the inductor coil is controlled by a first set point. The second feedback circuit further comprises a second sensor, a second controller, and a variable impedance network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: LAM Research Corporation, a Delaware Corporation
    Inventors: Neil Benjamin, Andras Kuthi
  • Publication number: 20030205558
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a glass substrate for displays is provided, which allows efficient and inexpensive removal of at least a reducing heterogeneous layer formed on the top surface of the glass substrate, and a glass substrate for displays manufactured by the same method. A glass substrate is prepared by the float method. The reducing heterogeneous layer formed on the top surface of the glass substrate is removed by etching using an etchant which is mainly composed of hydrofluoric acid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadao Kuzuwa, Nobuhiro Sakata
  • Publication number: 20030205559
    Abstract: In a method for treating a semiconductor substrate, a single substrate is positioned in a single-substrate process chamber and subjected to wet etching, cleaning and/or drying steps. The single substrate may be exposed to etch or clean chemistry in the single-substrate processing chamber as turbulence is induced in the etch or clean chemistry to thin the boundary layer of fluid attached to the substrate. Megasonic energy and/or disturbances in the chamber surfaces may provide the turbulence for boundary layer thinning. According to another aspect of a method according to the present invention, megasonic energy may be directed into a region within the single-substrate process chamber to create a zone of boundary layer thinning across the substrate surface, and a single substrate may be translated through the zone during a rinsing or cleaning process within the chamber to optimize cleaning/rinsing performance within the zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Eric Hansen, Victor Mimken, Martin Bleck, M. Rao Yalamanchili, John Rosato
  • Publication number: 20030205560
    Abstract: An apparatus for splicing a heatable section of a tubular heater to a cold section, the heatable section includes an outer sheath, which has a heating element therein. The cold section includes an outer sheath which has a cold pin therein. The apparatus comprises an enclosure defining a chamber which further defines opposed openings in communication with the chamber. A welding tip extends into the chamber and is capable of melting the cold pin and welding the ends of the heatable and cold sections together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: George B. Desloge
  • Publication number: 20030205561
    Abstract: A controller outputs a first event signal having a periodical waveform and a second event signal having a periodical waveform synchronizing with the first event signal. A first laser source radiates a first pulse laser beam having a wavelength in an ultraviolet range, synchronously with the first event signal. A second laser source radiates a second pulse laser beam having a wavelength in the ultraviolet range, synchronously with the second event signal. A converging optical system converges the first and second pulse laser beams at the same point. A holder holds a workpiece at a position where a pulse laser beam converged by the converging optical system is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Keiji Iso
  • Publication number: 20030205562
    Abstract: A process for cutting or splitting at least one optical fiber at a predetermined angle, wherein the fiber is introduced into a holding and positioning device and is cut by a pulsed laser beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Henricus Jozef Vergeest, Antonius Petrus Cornelis Maria Hultermans, Pieter Stroobach
  • Publication number: 20030205563
    Abstract: A high-speed method and system for precisely positioning a waist of a material-processing laser beam to dynamically compensate for local variations in height of microstructures located on a plurality of objects spaced apart within a laser-processing site are provided. In the preferred embodiment, the microstructures are a plurality of conductive lines formed on a plurality of memory dice of a semiconductor wafer. The system includes a focusing lens subsystem for focusing a laser beam along an optical axis substantially orthogonal to a plane, an x-y stage for moving the wafer in the plane, and a first air bearing sled for moving the focusing lens subsystem along the optical axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: General Scanning Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley L. Hunter, Steven P. Cahill, Jonathan S. Ehrmann, Michael Plotkin
  • Publication number: 20030205564
    Abstract: In a laser processing apparatus including an ultra-short pulse laser a focusing optical system and processing a work by projecting a beam delivered through the focusing optical system on to the work, the focusing optical system has at least a pair of diffractive surface and a refractive surface, and chromatic aberration is corrected or chromatic aberration and pulse extension are corrected by making use of the diffractive dispersions due to and the diffractive surface the refractive dispersion due to of the refractive surface. With this arrangement, chromatic aberration is corrected or both chromatic aberration and pulse expansion are corrected in the processing with the ultra-short pulse laser and thereby improve the practical use and value of the processing by improving its accuray, qualiy and speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Amako, Kazuhiro Nishida, Kimio Nagasaka
  • Publication number: 20030205565
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding thermoplastic materials with a stir welding system using a rotating element pin or element with a geometry to induce frictional energy from the rotating element. A floating constraining surface that has a motion independent of the rotation the pin (preferably stationary) is used to constrain ejection of material from the zone where the weld is being formed. Molten material is retained in the weld region, avoiding weakness and voids at the weld joint. Optionally a system for introducing thermal energy into the weld zone in addition to the frictional energy is used. The system for introducing the thermal energy may be in association with the constraining shoe and/or the rotating tool, or a system independent of these.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Tracy Wendell Nelson, Carl David Sorensen, Clark Joseph Johns
  • Publication number: 20030205566
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable adhesive dispensing appliance with adjustable duty cycle. Rather than applying power continuously to the heating element, the element power is intermittently switched over to a variable duty cycle. Savings are gained in three areas: extended life of the element; less heat lost to thermal radiation; and less adhesive waste due to dripping and overheating. The duty cycle may be adjusted manually or automatically based on the temperature of the adhesive in the melt chamber. Additionally, the voltage and/or current to the heating element may be adjusted, either manually or automatically, for more rapid recovery during high usage periods. Higher throughput is achieved by sensing the temperature, comparing the temperature to a desired temperature, and then increasing the duty cycle by either or both one of increasing the frequency of duty pulses and/or lengthening the duration of the duty pulses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Walter Evanyk
  • Publication number: 20030205567
    Abstract: There is provided a baby wipes warmer for warming baby wipes while maintaining moisture and coloration thereof. Such warmer comprises a base member for supporting the warmer on a surface. A body member is engaged onto the base member and has an interior-side housing wall and an upper housing wall which collectively form an inside compartment. The warmer further includes a sponge layer which is disposed within the inside compartment and retains liquid therein. A heating element is disposed about the inside compartment for providing heat thereto. The liquid retained within the sponge layer transitions into vapors when heated by the heating element for maintaining the moisture and coloration of the baby wipes supported upon the sponge layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas E. McConnell, Francois Hacquard, Michael E. Henley, Gary L. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030205568
    Abstract: There is provided a baby wipes warmer comprising a housing which defines an upper housing wall. It also comprises a liquid tank assembly that has an upper tank surface defining at least one vapor aperture therethrough. The tank assembly is disposed within the housing in a manner as to form an inside compartment between the upper housing wall and the upper tank surface. The warmer further comprises a heating element which is disposed within the housing to provide heat to the tank assembly. In this regard, a portion of liquid within the tank assembly transitions into vapors when heated by the heating element and flow to the inside compartment through the vapor aperture(s). By providing the vapors, the moisture and coloration of the baby wipes supported therein can be maintained while warming them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas E. McConnell, Francois Hacquard, Michael E. Henley, Gary L. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030205569
    Abstract: The present invention provide a dual-purpose pot for roasting and frying, which comprises a main body, a pot body, an electric heat pipe, a fan, and a frying net. The top portion of the main body is open, and an upper cover capable of opening and closing is disposed at the top portion of the main body. The pot body is disposed in the main body. The electric heat pipe is disposed inside the pot body. The fan is disposed at the inside of the upper cover. The fan comprises a motor and a fan blade. The motor is fixed at the inside of the upper cover. The fan blade is fixed with a power output shaft of the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kwei Tang Chang
  • Publication number: 20030205570
    Abstract: A cooktop includes a cooktop panel, in particular, of glass ceramic material, associated with at least one heating element for heating a cooking vessel that can be set down on the cooktop panel and a weighing unit having a detection unit through which it is possible to determine a deformation of the cooktop panel as a result of weight-induced loading. The cooktop panel has a defined subregion, and the detection unit can sense lowering of the subregion as a result of weight-induced loading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Dan Neumayer
  • Publication number: 20030205571
    Abstract: A food product is heated by maintaining the food product in an AC electrical field generated by an RF signal. As the heating takes place, maximum energy is delivered to the food product using automatic impedance matching to adjust the rate of the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicants: State of Oregon, Acting by and through the State Board of higher Education on Behalf of Oregon Stat, Benjamin A. Flugstad
    Inventors: Benjamin A. Flugstad, Qingyue Ling, Edward R. Kolbe, John Henry Wells, Yanyun Zhao, Jae W. Park
  • Publication number: 20030205572
    Abstract: An induction heating method and device comprise an inductive heat source (120) having a controller (130), a resonant converter (125) and an induction coil (80). The controller (130) generates a variable frequency variable duty cycle control voltage in response to a power setting. The variable duty cycle of the control voltage decreases in response to an increase in the variable frequency of the control voltage. In response to the control voltage, the resonant power converter (125) generates an output between a first node (126) and a second node (128). Coupled between the first and second nodes (126, 128), the induction coil (80) varies the amount of heat it produces in response to the output power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Nicholas Bassill, Jih-Sheng Lai
  • Publication number: 20030205573
    Abstract: A microwave firing furnace comprises microwave heating means and a furnace chamber for holding a material to be fired containing an organic binder. A carrier gas introduction pipe introduces a carrier gas that contains oxygen at a concentration lower than that of the air to suppress the burning of the organic binder contained in the material being fired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Kazunari Okumura, Akira Kagohashi, Akira Nishio
  • Publication number: 20030205574
    Abstract: Microwave heating system comprising an elongated cylindrical metal cavity intended for heating a voluminous elongated load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Per Olov G. Risman, Pia Larsson Brelid, Rune Simonson
  • Publication number: 20030205575
    Abstract: A device for preventing food splatter during microwave cooking includes a sheet of material capable of maintaining a crease, and which has at least one crease that extends across the sheet. The device is positioned over a food disposed on an open dish with the crease extending across the dish and with the crease being at an apex of the sheet while the food is heated in a microwave oven. The invention provides a convenient, easy to use and inexpensive device and method for preventing food splatter during microwave cooking of food in an open container such as a plate or bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: David S. DeWinter
  • Publication number: 20030205576
    Abstract: An elliptical exposure chamber has an extended focal region. A plurality of cylindrical reactors (25) form the extended focal region. Reducing the size of the opening (58) to each reactor (25) reduces the amount of energy reflected and increases the overall heating. In order to efficiently deliver the electromagnetic energy to the reduced opening (58), a tapered waveguide (55) has a concave end (56). A power splitter (42) divides power from a central waveguide (52) to the plurality of reactors (25). The power that is delivered to each reactor (25) can be adjusted by adjusting the impedance of each reactor (25), the width of each reactor (25) or the width of the opening (58) to each reactor (25). The width of the opening (58) to each reactor (25) can be controlled by a movable metal plate (44). A dielectric wheel can be used to shift hot spots along the focal region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: J Michael Drozd, William T. Joines
  • Publication number: 20030205577
    Abstract: A displayable jewelry box includes a case body having an exterior surface, an interior surface, an interior chamber, and an opening communicating with the interior chamber, so as to define at least an opening edge formed along the interior chamber, at least an enveloping sheet having at least a protective layer and a cover layer attached to the exterior surface of the case body, and a receiving arrangement provided on the case body for receiving the protective layer of the enveloping sheet into the interior chamber so as to tensely retain the cover layer of the enveloping sheet on the exterior surface of the case body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kinsen Ka Fai Au
  • Publication number: 20030205578
    Abstract: A torque-limit signal cap (10) for a filler neck (14) includes an axially outer portion (16), a filler neck closure (12), and a torque-limit signaler (20). The torque-limit signaler (20) operates during cap installation to interrupt temporarily a driving connection established between the axially outer portion (16) and the closure (12) to provide a tactile and/or auditory signal to a user turning the cap (10) in the filler neck (14) indicating that sufficient torque has been applied to the axially outer portion (16) to seat the closure (12) in a filler neck-closing position in the filler neck (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: James B Newport
  • Publication number: 20030205579
    Abstract: A sewage basin arrangement is provided having a flange surface about the opening of the basin, a continuous groove formed in that flange surface which is spaced apart from the fastener apertures and disposed between those apertures and the opening, and a length of compressible sealing tape mounted within the groove and protruding in part from the groove. The tape is secured to the groove by an adhesive disposed within the groove. The ends of the tape laterally overlap within the groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: John Haslock, Craig Nowicki, Paul Schuchman
  • Publication number: 20030205580
    Abstract: This invention is an apparatus (10) for spraying contents of a spray container (16), including a dispenser body (12) sealingly attachable to the container containing a fluid (18), a fluid outlet (20) formed in the dispenser body and a deformable element (56) generally freely (51) supported around a perimeter thereof in the dispenser body, the deformable element having a first orientation (FIG. 1A) when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation (FIG. 1B) when out of the reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in the second orientation of the deformable element is operative to allow a passage of the fluid from the container. A method of dispensing a fluid from a container is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Shimon Yahav
  • Publication number: 20030205581
    Abstract: A “bag-in-a-drum” container for storage and dispensing of fluids. The container is adapted to minimize volumetric space requirements in storage, transport and use of the container. The containers are usefully employed in a system of supplying liquid in containers to an end user market and refabricating containers subsequent to consumption of the liquid from the containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Wertenberger
  • Publication number: 20030205582
    Abstract: A fluid delivery device, comprising an electrochemical pump, wherein the pump is capable of transporting water; a pump product chamber, wherein the pump product chamber is capable of retaining water generated from the pump; a displaceable member positioned between the pump product chamber and a reservoir, wherein the displaceable member is controllably displaced upon generation of water from the electrochemical pump; a reservoir, wherein the reservoir is capable of containing a fluid which is delivered upon displacement of the displaceable member; and an housing for containing the pump, the pump product chamber, the displaceable member, and the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Ashok V. Joshi, Strahinja K. Zecevic, Sai Bhavaraju, Felix Theeuwes, Jeremy Corwin Wright
  • Publication number: 20030205583
    Abstract: This invention is directed to an improved collapsible bag (10) having a spout (12) and one or more grooves (14) on the interior surface of a wall of the bag (10). The grooves (14), which are integral to a wall of the bag (10) rather than on a separate evacuation strip, are in liquid communication with the spout (12) and are sized such that the opposing wall of the bag (10) is not completely forced into the grooves (14) under the suction of conventional pumps which are used to withdraw the liquid from the bag (10). Thus, the grooves enable substantially complete withdrawal of the liquid from the bag (10) without the use of an evacuation strip. Additionally, the present invention may be used in any orientation and does not require a slanted rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Frank L. Provenza
  • Publication number: 20030205584
    Abstract: An improved dispensing pouch is provided having a flexible and collapsible container consisting of a pair of tapered side walls (14). A nozzle (12) is disposed at the lower end of the flexible container and heat sealed thereto. A removable end cap (26) is preferably snap-fit on to the nozzle and held in place by a retainer ring (30) or a nozzle with integral scaling threads (20). The side walls of the icing container are preferably heat sealed about the perimeter and on to the nozzle to effect a leak-proof container for the contents contained within.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: F. William Niggemyer
  • Publication number: 20030205585
    Abstract: An anti run-on device is provided for use in a refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigeration appliance includes a water dispenser including a water reservoir, a water conduit extending downstream from the water reservoir to a water spout, and a user operable valve positioned in the water conduit upstream of the reservoir and the water spout. The anti run-on device comprises a constriction in the conduit between the valve and the water spout, a small hole in the conduit located either at or just downstream of the constriction, and a vacuum chamber in communication with the small hole. A Venturi or knife edge effect is created when water is flowing through the conduit to evacuate the vacuum chamber, so that when the valve is closed, water between the small hole and the water spout is drawn into the vacuum chamber, thereby precluding dripping from the water spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Alan Joseph Mitchell, Allan R. Steinkuhl
  • Publication number: 20030205586
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a beverage, such as beer or soft drinks. The apparatus includes a container for storing the beverage, a gas source for supplying the container with a propellant under positive pressure, and a riser pipe for leading the beverage out of the container under the action of the positive pressure. The riser pipe has an open, first end immersed in the beverage and an opposite, second end fluid-connected to a faucet for dispensing the beverage. The gas source is connected to the interior of the container via a gas conduit, and the fluid-connection includes a fluid conduit arranged to offer a considerable resistance against the flow of the beverage during drawing. The apparatus according to the invention has a simple and inexpensive construction and is easy and quick to operate. By activating the faucet the drawing process takes place in a self-regulating manner with a preselected degree of foaming.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Anders Blicher
  • Publication number: 20030205587
    Abstract: A syringe pump has a motor rotating a leadscrew, which drives a plunger head retainer to push a plunger along the barrel of a syringe so as to dispense medication to a patient. A force sensor in the head retainer measures the force on the plunger to detect when there is an occlusion restricting flow of medication. When an excess force is detected an alarm is generated and the motor is reversed to reduce the force to about 10% of that at which the occlusion is detected. The occlusion can be removed with a reduced risk of a bolus of medication being dispensed after which the user restarts the pump so that the plunger is driven normally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Robert James Tribe, Chris Pickles
  • Publication number: 20030205588
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a repeatable volume of flowable material. The apparatus comprises a fluid cylinder body, a piston, a meter body, and at least one valve. The fluid cylinder body includes a fluid chamber, a fluid supply, and a pair of fluid pressure channels. The meter body is positioned adjacent the fluid cylinder body and includes a displacement chamber, a flowable material supply, an outlet valve, an inlet valve, and a flowable material outlet. The piston defines a piston head and a piston stem. The piston head is positioned within the fluid chamber and the piston stem extends laterally from the fluid chamber into the meter body. The valve is positioned adjacent the fluid cylinder body. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: David Lee Mainous, Clark Louis Brown
  • Publication number: 20030205589
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a device for applying fluid material on a substrate. The device includes a valve body, a pole piece, and an electromagnetic drive unit that generates a magnetic field that moves the valve body relative to a pole piece between a closed position that interrupts the flow of material and an open position that releases the flow of material. The effect of the magnetic field provided by the drive unit is strengthened by the presence of a flux element. The flux element incorporates a portion, such as a slit, that eliminates circumferential electrical current paths, which allows the flux element to demagnetize more quickly when the drive unit is de-energized to remove the electromagnetic field. The rapid demagnetization decreases the cycle time for moving the valve body from the open position to the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Hendrik-Jan Righolt, Victor de Leeuw
  • Publication number: 20030205590
    Abstract: A dispensing device including a container (10) with a top aperture (14) adapted for the entry of free-flowing materials and a bottom opening (32) adapted for the directed dispensing of free-flowing materials, a handle (12), a thumb release trigger (16) associated with a stopper (30) located in the opening. Downward pressure on the thumb release trigger moves the stopper downward allowing the free-flowing material to be dispensed out of the opening. The opening and stopper are adapted to direct the dispensing of the free-flowing material, thereby reducing the spilling inherent in many of the devices found in the prior art. Dispensing the free-flowing materials may be facilitated by a reverse taper on the container sidewall (10B) such that the bottom opening for dispensing of free-flowing materials is larger than the aperture for entry of the free-flowing materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Evette Alldredge, Gregg D. Niven
  • Publication number: 20030205591
    Abstract: A fixing device for fixing a dispenser member to the neck (41) of a container (4), said device comprising a ring (2) forming an annular abutment web (20) serving to come into abutment against the top of the neck, with a gasket (5) optionally being interposed, and a peripheral skirt (21) serving to surround the neck, the skirt forming tabs (22) defining free ends (220), said fixing device being characterized in that each of the tabs is provided with at least one deformation zone (221, 222, 223), the tabs being deformed inwards when thrust is exerted axially on their free ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Firmin Garcia, Jean-Jacques Ligny