Patents Issued in December 4, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030221684
    Abstract: A paintball gun trigger system includes a trigger, an emitter arranged to emit light and collector arranged to receive an amount of the light that varies with the position of the trigger and produce a signal that varies with the position of the trigger. A controller is arranged to determine from the signal when the trigger has been pulled and released. In one embodiment, the light beam from the emitter is pulsed on and off and the signal from the collector is sampled at regular intervals. Variations in the pulsed collector signal are used to detect when the trigger has moved to a pulled position and a released position, and when the collector is swamped with light from another source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: NPF LIMITED
    Inventor: John Ronald Rice
  • Publication number: 20030221685
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flat chisel (2), in particular an insertion chisel for power-driven rotary hammers for working stone, having a chisel head (3) which has a main lip (7) disposed transversely to a chisel longitudinal axis (x), a front and a rear striking face (10, 11), and at least one side face (12, 13) connecting the striking face (10, 11). In this case, an approximately concave and/or convex and/or bent and/or undulating profile of at least one lip (7, 14, 15) is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Marco Lang, Franc Koljaka, Cristian Falchetti
  • Publication number: 20030221686
    Abstract: A radiant heating system having a housing for holding a plurality of gas burners with a ceramic burner element that emits infrared rays after becoming hot. A controller is used for selectively controlling at least one valve to restrict the gas flow to the individual burners. A method is shown for radiating heat from a gas burner in response to a thermostat by controlling the gas flow to individual burners with electronic valves located in a gas supply line and selectively shutting off the gas flow to each burner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Farshid Ahmady
  • Publication number: 20030221687
    Abstract: A medical therapy compliance management system manages a patient's use of a therapy device, such as a nebulizer, in which treatments are to be provided at predetermined intervals. A compliance monitor coupled to the medical therapy device determines when a medical treatment is provided to the patient. A compliance controller receives data indicative of a medical treatment and can generate a reminder to the patient of future scheduled treatments. The compliance controller tracks the treatments provided and adjusts the reminders accordingly. The medical therapy compliance management system tracks certain parameters indicative of clinical or transactional events within the healthcare process. If any one of the measured or calculated parameters is outside a predetermined threshold the system notifies the patient and or caregiver. The system may also utilize interactive voice response technology to gather data from the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: William Kaigler
  • Publication number: 20030221688
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the treatment of colds. The method comprises directing heated air into the mouth of a human being, which is then held in the lungs for a period of time. The heated air is then exhaled from the lungs through either the mouth or the nose. A heat generator is provided for direction of the heated air into the body. Prior to entering the body, the heated air passes through a cone-shaped device. The temperature of the air is incrementally increased as the method is repeated. The heated air in the body kills cold sustaining bacteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jim Carey
  • Publication number: 20030221689
    Abstract: A methodology and apparatus for determining ventilator settings including an end expiratory pressure setting, pressure swing, resistive unloading and target ventilation for delivering ventilatory support based upon generalized patient ventilation characteristics and/or disease classifications. An apparatus may be programmed with the instructions to accomplish the methodology interactively by prompting the user/physician during setup and calculating settings based upon measurements or input responses. Pre-assigned values associated with ventilation characteristics or disease classifications may be combined with a base pressure value or measured values to provide patient customized settings or adjustments to determine pressure levels for the delivery of ventilatory support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Berthon-Jones
  • Publication number: 20030221690
    Abstract: In this invention, air-blocking material is contained that enables the formation of a concentrated passage in the inner surface of the mask body that covers the nose and mouth of the user where air is concentrated and passed through at the time of inhalation and exhalation. Accordingly, concentrated passage maintains humidity and preserves heat due to the humidity and warm air of the respiration heat, produced at the time of exhalation. Consequently, cold and dry air of the outside that is the main cause of cold outbreak is converted into warm and humid air while passing through the concentrated passage, which in turn prevents worsening of cold symptoms and the outbreak of cold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Bookyung Lee
  • Publication number: 20030221691
    Abstract: The invention relates to a breathing mask for feeding a breathing gas to a mask user and a discharging device for discharging breathing gas from an inner mask area defined by a breathing mask. The inventive breathing mask comprises a sealing lip device for sealing a mask bearing area, a mask base body for creating a space within the mask and a connecting device for connecting at least one breathing gas line, the mask base body and/or the connecting device being provided with at least one decoupling structure made of elastomer material. It is possible to obtain in an advantageous manner a relative movement between a peripheral base area on the side of the base body of the mask associated with the sealing lip device and the breathing gas line within a sufficient area of movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Achim Biener, Bernd Lang
  • Publication number: 20030221692
    Abstract: A sexual aid turntable system for providing a new and unusual platform for engaging in sexual acts. The sexual aid turntable system includes a platform with an aperture in the center. This platform is preferably circular and of a sufficient thickness to bear the weight of an individual using the system. The platform is attached to a rotational member which may be a ball thrust bearing assembly, more commonly referred to as a lazy susan bearing assembly. This rotational member is attached to a supporting frame with adjustable height legs. The design allows for the system to be situated above one sexual participant and adjusted to a comfortable height. The other sexual participant then positions himself or herself upon the platform. The system allows for 360° rotation of one participant while the participants are engaging in sexual acts. The design of the system also allows for greater comfort as no weight bearing is required by either participant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Ian M. Jones
  • Publication number: 20030221693
    Abstract: This subject invention is a protective shield for protecting indwelling medical devices, during showering, bathing, or swimming. This protective shield comprises an inner bag having an opening containing by a medical grade absorbent material, where the opening is surrounded by a medical grade adhesive for attachment to a patient's skin. The medical device in inserted into the bag through the absorbent material. This bag is covered by an attached outer cover, which has an adhesive material applied along it peripheral edge or attachment to the patient, which diverts the flow of fluid away from the opening of the inner bag. The absorbent material in opening of the inner bag traps and hold fluid penetrating the two adhesive barriers affording additional level of protection in preventing fluid from reaching the inside of the pouch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Sanford D. Altman
  • Publication number: 20030221694
    Abstract: A surgical system and cassette, the cassette having a series of identifying tabs that are variably opaque to translucent. By varying the opaqueness of the tabs, the surgical system can readily identify the type of cassette being used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Raphael Gordon
  • Publication number: 20030221695
    Abstract: A curling device for a filter tip attachment comprises at least one blade-like element offered to a continuous strip of paper material at a selected contact zone in such a way as to deform the material as it advances, so that single tipping papers separated from the strip by a cutting unit of the attachment are given a curved profile and as a result more easily wrapped around and affixed to the assembled filters and cigarette sticks when these are joined together; the curling device also comprises a delivery system by which the contact zone is flooded with a cushioning fluid designed to favor a smooth sliding contact between the curling element and the running strip, and at the same time equalize the tensions in the strip preceding and following the contact zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Fiorenzo Draghetti
  • Publication number: 20030221696
    Abstract: Cigarettes are manufactured on a machine that includes a filter tip attachment comprising a train of rollers with peripheral suction grooves, each proportioned to hold a single cigarette. The grooves are set parallel to the axis of rotation of the relative rollers and combine to establish a feed path along which the cigarettes are attracted and released, passing from one roller to the next and advancing through a succession of processing stations. To optimize the attraction and release steps, the cigarettes themselves are exploited in such a way as to create a chamber in each groove, compassed between the cylindrical surface of the cigarette and the bottom surface of the groove it occupies, and connected to the pneumatic circuits generating the suction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Gian Luigi Gherardi
  • Publication number: 20030221697
    Abstract: An elongated tobacco smoking pipe having an outer band (12) that may slide along a body (10) and may be positioned to cover a transverse-smoking cavity (22). The outer band may have either a dimple (26) or a coating (28) to aid with friction. A bore (18) communicates with either an end-smoking cavity (20) or the transverse-smoking cavity or both to carry the smoke mixture to a draw end (14). An end cap (24) may be placed over the end-smoking cavity to secure the embers or the tobacco. Also an end cap (24a) with an end-cap hole (30) may be used to assist in controlling the smoke to air mixture. Either smoking cavity may have and inner liner (32) to protect the body from hot embers. The body may have two pieces (10a & 10b), allowing the smoker to cover the end-smoking cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth Alan Erickson
  • Publication number: 20030221698
    Abstract: A process reorders tobacco that has been expanded by impregnating the tobacco under pressure with liquid carbon dioxide, forming a solid mass of the tobacco and solid carbon dioxide, and heating the solid mass in an expansion zone to sublimate the carbon dioxide and thereby expand the tobacco. The expanded tobacco is discharged from the expansion zone and before the temperature of the expanded tobacco is below about 80° F., the tobacco is contacted with humidifying air having a temperature of about 80° F. to about 91 ° F. and a relative humidity of about 58% to about 88%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Joseph Casrell Douglas, Dale Alan Halverstadt, Dave Robertson Smart
  • Publication number: 20030221699
    Abstract: A misting styling brush is provided for use with pressurized and non-pressurized cylindrical aerosol sprayers. The misting styling brush includes a handle similar to that of a standard cylindrical hair brush but having a longitudinal interior chamber disposed therein. The aerosol sprayer fits within the handle with an end cap retaining the aerosol sprayer from longitudinal movement once admitted therein. A trigger assembly slides the aerosol sprayer toward the restrained end cap to actuate the pump of the aerosol sprayer to spray a liquid contained therein toward a lateral spray hole through the handle. A plurality of interchangeable cylindrical brush assemblies of various outer bristle diameters each include a plurality of bristle groups that extend outwardly from a tubular bristle support member which slides over a brushing portion of the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Anthony Battaglia, Allen E. Edwards, Elissa L. Edwards
  • Publication number: 20030221700
    Abstract: A hair clip adapted to firmly hold hair while preventing damage thereto is disclosed. The hair clip includes a snapping member and a pin member. The hair clip is adapted to move between opened and closed positions. The hair clip also includes means for firmly holding hair between the snapping and pin members while preventing damage to the hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Mary G. La Fauci
  • Publication number: 20030221701
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning internal channels in an article are presented, with the method comprising providing an article that comprises at least one internal channel. The at least one internal channel comprises at least one inlet port and at least one outlet port. The method further comprises providing a cleaning apparatus, and this cleaning apparatus comprises a cleaning fluid, a reservoir containing the cleaning fluid, a transmitter of vibrational energy projecting into the reservoir the transmitter comprising a transmitter tip and a source of vibrational energy coupled to the transmitter, with the vibrational energy comprising a frequency and a wavelength. The reservoir of the provided apparatus comprises an interface adapted to accommodate attachment of the reservoir to the article, and this interface comprises an orifice to allow fluid communication between the reservoir and the at least one internal channel of the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Canan U. Hardwicke, Michael F.X. Gigliotti, John B. Deaton, Paul L. Dupree, Robert S. Gilmore
  • Publication number: 20030221702
    Abstract: A wet cleaning/passivation process for a passivatable metal part including a contaminant-bearing surface. The process includes the steps of: (a) contacting the contaminant-bearing part with an aqueous acid solution effective for pickling the contaminant-bearing surface of the contaminant-bearing part, with such contacting being conducted for sufficient time and at sufficient temperature to achieve pickling of the contaminant-bearing surface; (b) contacting the cleaned surface of the part with a passivating aqueous solution, with such contacting being conducted for sufficient time and at sufficient temperature to passivate the cleaned surface; and (c) CO2 blasting the surface, to remove micron and sub-micron particles from the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Henry C. Peebles
  • Publication number: 20030221703
    Abstract: A method of removing Ge contamination existing on a semiconductor substrate is provided. A surface of a semiconductor substrate is oxidized to convert a germanium (Ge) contamination existing on the surface of the substrate to an oxide of Ge. Thereafter, the surface of the substrate is contacted with an aqueous solution containing fluorine (F) ions. The oxide of germanium existing on the surface of the substrate is dissolved in the solution, thereby removing the Ge contamination from the substrate. Possible performance degradation of a semiconductor device to be fabricated with the substrate having the Ge contamination is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: NEC ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shizuo Oguro
  • Publication number: 20030221704
    Abstract: Carbon dioxide is purified through the use of catalytic oxidation. Carbon dioxide is exposed to at least one catalyst, oxidizing at least a portion of the nonvolatile organic residues to form purified carbon dioxide that is directed to an application. Carbon dioxide that is in a near-critical, critical, or supercritical phase can be exposed to the catalyst.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Clinton Johnson, Carl Joseph Heim, John Fredric Billingham
  • Publication number: 20030221705
    Abstract: A cleaning method for a semiconductor substrate including placing the semiconductor substrate into a cleaning chamber and injecting ozone gas (O3) into the cleaning chamber. This process operates to cleanse the semiconductor substrate without corrosion or etching of the semiconductor substrate; even when the substrate has metal layer made of tungsten.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Dong-Gyun Han, Hyung-Ho Ko, Young-Jun Kim, Ki-Jong Park
  • Publication number: 20030221706
    Abstract: A system cleans a set of optical connectors. The system includes a fluid source, a vacuum source, a support member which defines a cleaning device edge, and a set of cleaning devices. Each cleaning device includes (i) a fluid intake member which connects to the fluid source, (ii) a fluid output member which connects to the vacuum source, and (iii) a cleaning head which connects to the fluid intake member and the fluid output member. Each cleaning device is disposed along the cleaning device edge of the support member. The set of cleaning devices is configured to (a) align over a set of optical interfaces of the set of optical connectors, (b) direct fluid (e.g., gas, gaseous snow, etc.) from the fluid source toward the set of optical interfaces, and (c) draw the directed fluid away from the set of optical interfaces and toward the vacuum source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Sepehr Kiani, Chung Yi Chou, David Jacob Gessel, Richard F. Roth, John A. Lehman
  • Publication number: 20030221707
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and material for purging comprising adding a purge material of thermoplastic polymer and layered inorganic particles into polymer melt processing equipment containing residual contaminant, and passing the purge material through the processing equipment so that the residual contaminant intercalates the layered inorganic particle, thereby removing the residual contaminant from the processing equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Thomas N. Blanton, Narasimharao Dontula, Debasis Majumdar, Jose L. Garcia, Gary S. Freedman, Craig L. Barnes
  • Publication number: 20030221708
    Abstract: Provided is a novel method of cleaning a semiconductor process chamber having deposits on an inner surface thereof. The method involves: (a) introducing a cleaning gas comprising hydrogen chloride into the process chamber, wherein the cleaning gas is effective to react with and remove the deposits from the inner surface of the process chamber; (b) removing gas from the process chamber; and (c) monitoring at least a portion of the removed gas for a species indicative of an endpoint of the chamber cleaning. The invention allows for the cleaning of semiconductor process chambers in an efficient manner so as to reduce process down time and improve process throughput. The method can be applied to in-line analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Chun-Hao Ly, Yves Campidelli
  • Publication number: 20030221709
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a casing arranged within the dishwasher, an odor eliminating material installed within the casing, a shutter which selectively opens a part of the casing to expose the odor eliminating material, and a shutter driving device which operates the shutter. A control unit of the dish washer counts an actual drying time in a drying operation of the dishwasher, and opens the shutter by operating the shutter driving device in response to the counted drying time being equal to or greater than a preset drying time. The odor eliminating material eliminates odors in the dishwasher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS., LTD
    Inventors: Tae-Young Jung, Sam-Yong Jang
  • Publication number: 20030221710
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for delivering a cleaning and inspection device to an appropriate position on a backplane having an optical connector. A set of tubes corresponding to the number of optical connectors is attached to the rear of a connector assembly or some other similar device capable of being coupled to a connector housing containing the optical connector. The diameter of the hollow tube large enough to accommodate the insertion of several types of cleaning and inspection devices including optical cleaning swabs and scopes. After the connector assembly is mated with the connector housing, the tubes can provide direct access to each optical connector for cleaning and inspection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Marvin R. Young
  • Publication number: 20030221711
    Abstract: An improved post-metal-plasma-etching wafer cleaning process includes providing a wafer having a naked metal structure thereon, dipping the wafer into a first cleaning vessel having a volume of basic solution therein, and after dipping the wafer in the first cleaning vessel, the wafer is then transferred into a second cleaning vessel to perform at least one cycle of a hot QDR cleaning process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Yen-Wu Hsieh, Chia-Fu Yeh
  • Publication number: 20030221712
    Abstract: Shower tubing which enhances the spray uniformity of deionized water or other rinsing fluid on multiple semiconductor wafers in a wet bench to improve uniformity in the particle-removing capability of the wet bench. Each of a pair of parallel shower tubes in a wet bench cleaning bath is fitted with multiple, closely-adjacent shower nozzles which provide a substantially uniform spray of deionized water or other cleansing or rinsing chemical to all of multiple substrates in the bath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shin-Shing Yang, Fu-Shiang Chen, Juan-Chin Cheng, Chih-Hong Cheng, Cho-Chin Chen
  • Publication number: 20030221713
    Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus includes a rotor 45 for rotating a plurality of wafers W paralleled each other at appropriate intervals. While rotating the wafers W by the rotor 45, a chemical liquid is supplied to the wafers W for their processing. The rotor 45 has holding members 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 for holding the peripheries of the wafers W in parallel arrangement and a press member 100 for holding the wafers W while applying a pressure on their peripheries. Irrespective of rotation of the rotor 45, the press member 100 always applies a pressure on the peripheries of the wafers W so as to prevent the peripheries from sifting with respect to the holding members 95, 96, 97, 98, 99. With the action of the press member 100, it becomes possible to prevent the peripheries of the wafers W from being worn and also possible to elongate the span of life of the holding members 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 while performing a chemical processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: Koji Egashira
  • Publication number: 20030221714
    Abstract: An umbrella includes an elongate stem, a notch with an insert portion for insertion into a concavity in a top edge wall of the stem, a canopy mounted on a mounting portion of the notch, and a rib assembly pivotally mounted to the mounting portion for supporting the canopy. A tubular runner is slidably sleeved on the stem and is movable between upper and lower positions for spreading and collapsing the canopy. A stretcher assembly is disposed to stretch or retract the rib assembly. The rib assembly can be brought into close proximity of the stem after retraction, thereby resulting in a compact size of the umbrella for convenient storage and carrying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Max Wang
  • Publication number: 20030221715
    Abstract: A collapsible side wheeled walker accommodates a user walking to one side of the walker while holding the walker and supporting at least a portion of the user's weight on the walker. The walker can be collapsed in a tripod-like manner into a compact configuration that is easily transported and stowed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel J. Fink
  • Publication number: 20030221716
    Abstract: An outdoor shelter comprising a sheet member (10) having a generally rectangular-shaped portion and a slit (26) extending from a first corner (62) of the sheet member (10) to the central region (50) of the sheet member (10). The slit (26) defines separated opposing edges, which are equipped with complementary means (30,32) for selectively securing the edges together. The edges define a first fold line (41) when secured together by the securing means (30,32). A third securing means (38) is disposed on a second fold line (42) extending from the central region (50) to a second corner (68) of the sheet member (10) adjacent the first corner (62). The third securing means (38) is complementary to the securing means (32) to enable the second fold line (42) to be secured to one of the edges of the slit (26). By selectively securing the securing means (30,32) to each other or the third securing means (38), the sheet member (10) can be configured to achieve a variety of shelter configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Charles J. Olson
  • Publication number: 20030221717
    Abstract: There is provided a composite thermal system. The composite thermal system includes a thermoelectric system and a photovoltaic system. The photovoltaic system converts light energy into electrical energy. The thermoelectric system converts electrical energy into thermal energy. The photovoltaic system is integral with and electrically connected to the thermoelectric system for providing electrical energy to the thermoelectric system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    Inventor: Steven Van Dessel
  • Publication number: 20030221718
    Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide a solar cell apparatus which can prevent occurrences of peeling, warping and cracking of a film due to a temperature change in heating and cooling, etc. in a production process of a large-area solar cell panel and can cause an absence of a development of defects in the production process, a production method of the solar cell apparatus, a metal plate for the solar cell apparatus, and a power generating plant. According to this invention, there is provided a solar cell apparatus containing a metal substrate, two silicon layers, one of the two silicon layers being formed in contact with a part of one surface of the metal substrate, a plurality of electrodes formed in contact with the other of the silicon layers, an external terminal formed on the other surface of the metal substrate, and an external terminal formed in contact with the electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Masaharu Kubo, Takashi Naitou, Mutsuhiro Mori, Mutsuko Hatano, Yuichi Sawai
  • Publication number: 20030221719
    Abstract: A pressure relief system is provided to detect and abate an overpressure condition in a pressurized fluid. An actuator assembly establishes an overpressure path for the pressurized fluid when a pressure of the pressurized fluid reaches a predetermined level, and includes an extension sleeve which extends into a housing interior chamber along a selected axis. A pressure response assembly includes a pressure responsive member which mechanically fails when the pressure reaches the predetermined level and a trigger member which extends into the extension sleeve. Retention members (preferably ball bearings) are recessed within cavities formed in the housing to prevent axial movement of the extension sleeve prior to mechanical failure of the pressure responsive member, and thereafter allow axial movement of the extension sleeve upon failure of the pressure responsive member. Movement of the extension sleeve allows the actuator assembly to rotate a quarter-turn valve to an open or closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Julian S. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20030221720
    Abstract: A pressure relief device having a housing including an inlet, an outlet, and an inner wall defining a bore connecting the inlet and the outlet. The inlet is in communication with a fluid under pressure in a pressure vessel. The bore includes an inlet portion extending from the inlet toward the outlet, and an outlet portion extending from the outlet toward the inlet. The bore also includes a tapered portion connecting the inlet portion and the outlet portion. The inlet portion has a diameter which is less than the outlet portion's diameter. A plug is located in the bore and movable from a closed position, in which flow of fluid through the bore is blocked, to an open position, in which flow of the fluid through the bore is permitted in response to a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Erick Girouard
  • Publication number: 20030221721
    Abstract: A pneumatic exhaust controller for use with a source of pressurized air comprises a manifold having a first portal coupled to the source of pressurized air, a second portal, and an exhaust portal. Two manifold embodiments are disclosed. Two regulator embodiments that operate to close the exhaust portal in response to pressurized air from the air source being communicated through the first portal and that operate to pass pressurized air from the pressurized air source to the second portal are disclosed. The regulators are situated in chambers of respective manifolds. A solenoid valve is coupled to each of the manifolds and is operable to block and unblock pneumatic communication between the respective first portal and the associated second and exhaust portals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory T. Filkovski, Brook W. Pence, Wayne D. Morroney
  • Publication number: 20030221722
    Abstract: A method of damping surges in a liquid system includes providing in the system, a surge vessel in which there is trapped air or other gas, the surge vessel being positioned so that in the event of a surge in the system (10), the volume of trapped air or other gas within the surge vessel changes to damp the surge, the method including maintaining generally constant the mass of the trapped air or other gas in the surge vessel is maintained generally constant, irrespective of the liquid level within the surge vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Richard John Hogsden, Simon John Williams, Ian Peter Currie
  • Publication number: 20030221723
    Abstract: A safety check unit for use in a liquid distribution system for preventing damage to a pump and associated components of the system in event of loss in pumping pressure. The unit provides a check component to prevent back-flow of the liquid when the pump is shut down, and provides protection against a possible vacuum condition in the system by introducing air to the system; protects against damage by a surging back-flow of liquid by opening a relief port of the unit; and protects against air in the system by use of an air relief mechanism of the unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Grant A. Colton
  • Publication number: 20030221724
    Abstract: An air pump includes a connector connecting to an air nozzle of an object to be inflated, a holder block connected to the connector and having a valve chamber, an air cylinder air inlet and a manual charge air inlet extended from the vale chamber to the rear side thereof, and an air passage extended from the valve chamber to the inside of the connector, a press button mounted in the holder block and movable between a first position and a second position, a fixed cylinder connected to the holder block and holding an air cylinder, and a movable cylinder sleeved onto the fixed cylinder for reciprocating to pump air into the fixed air cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Lo-Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20030221725
    Abstract: A regenerative thermal oxidizer is provided, including a first heat exchanger defining a first flow path, a first inlet/outlet in association with the first heat exchanger, the first inlet/outlet providing flow access to the first flow path, a second heat exchanger defining a second flow path, a second inlet/outlet in association with the second heat exchanger, the second inlet/outlet providing flow access to the second flow path, a valve assembly having a cylindrical valve body having process flow inlet and outlet and first and second ports connected to the first and second inlet/outlet heat exchanger, and the valve assembly having an elliptical valve disk having an outer perimeter for sealably engaging the cylindrical body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Greco
  • Publication number: 20030221726
    Abstract: The invention relates to a first stage pressure reducing valve having a tubular plug, particularly for regulators of scuba breathing apparatus. According to the invention, at least a portion of the outer surface of the valve has fins (19, 19′) for heat exchange with the outside environment, designed to prevent or reduce the formation of ice (18) caused by the temperature drop generated by gas expansion inside the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Roberto Semeia
  • Publication number: 20030221727
    Abstract: A protective metal housing is disclosed for an air admittance valve having a head and a hollow stem adapted for coupling to a sewer vent pipe. The housing comprises a cylindrical adaptor having a through passage internally configured for connection at one end to the sewer vent pipe, and for connection at an opposite end to the stem of the valve. A cover is structured and dimensioned to coact with the adaptor in defining an enclosed chamber for containing the head of the valve. The cover is removably secured to the adaptor and has inlet openings arranged to admit ambient air into the enclosed chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Calvin P. O'Neal
  • Publication number: 20030221728
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve having a modular design that allows the release pressure of the valve to be altered during assembly is provided by the present invention. The valve includes a serrated valve tube that fits inside of a valve body. A spring retainer ring fits on an outside diameter of the serrated valve tube such that it is held in position by interacting with the serrations. The release pressure of the valve is altered by changing the position of the spring retainer ring on the serrations. In addition, a variety of different spring types and configurations can be utilized in conjunction with the spring retainer ring position to select one of a large number of different release pressures for the valve during assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jon R. Enerson
  • Publication number: 20030221729
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a housing defining a main chamber having an inlet connectable to a source of pressurized fluid, and an outlet; a first valve within the main chamber normally closing the main chamber outlet but automatically opening its outlet in response to a first predetermined pressure within the main chamber; an intermediate chamber communicating with the main chamber outlet; and a second valve having an inlet communicating with the intermediate chamber, and an outlet for discharging fluid from the chambers. The second valve is normally closed but automatically opens in response to a second predetermined pressure slightly higher than the first predetermined pressure, such that the second valve reduces or eliminates drippings in the discharge of fluid from the chambers particularly during low rates of flow of the fluid into the main chamber via the main chamber inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Peretz Rosenberg
  • Publication number: 20030221730
    Abstract: Disclosed is system for controlling a dynamic hydraulic component, such as a hydraulic actuator or motor. The system allows for either zero, restricted or full fluid flow to the hydraulic component. This enables either no movement, slow, precise movements, or rapid, major movements of the component. The-functionality of the system is accomplished using a multi-pilot system acting on a spool valve that has a pilot piston and at least one stop piston. The stop piston(s) can move to limit the movement of the pilot piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Don B. Porter
  • Publication number: 20030221731
    Abstract: A spool valve comprises a valve body formed with a slide hole therein, a spool slidably received in the slide hole, a supply port, two load ports and two return ports, all of which ports are formed in the slide hole. The load and return ports are disposed with the supply port being the center. The spool has a central concave portion and two land portions, and with the displacement of the spool, the supply port is allowed to communicate with one of the load ports while the other land port is allowed to communicate with a corresponding one of the return ports. The spool is provided with a portion, the outside diameter of which gradually increases, at least on the other load port side from the center of the central concave portion. The outside diameter gradually increasing portion is formed in a conical shape, a curved drum shape, a stepped columnar shape or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: NACHI-FUJIKOSHI CORP.
    Inventors: Yuuji Ogura, Satoshi Hamamoto, Zenzou Hamada, Satoshi Okude
  • Publication number: 20030221732
    Abstract: A dockside water shutoff system for a boat which includes a shutoff valve connected on an inlet end thereof to a fresh water supply. A conduit is connected to an outlet end of the shutoff valve for transferring water from the water supply to a plumbing system on a boat. A timer mechanism is operatively connected to the shutoff valve. The timer mechanism is configured to cause the shutoff valve to close after a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Robert P. Winter
  • Publication number: 20030221733
    Abstract: A suppressor for a fluid line in a manifold, including a mounting body removably securable to the manifold, and a diffuser attached to the mounting body and located in the fluid line when the mounting body is secured to the manifold. A charge bladder is secured to the mounting body and disposed inside the diffuser, and a charging valve is secured to the mounting body for charging gas through the mounting body into the interior of the charge bladder. A discharge opening is between the charge bladder interior and an opening in the mounting body adjacent the manifold when the suppressor is secured to the manifold, and a seal is securable over the discharge opening and between the mounting body and the manifold when the mounting body is secured to the manifold. The seal alone is structurally incapable of preventing discharge of charge gas from the charge bladder, but prevents discharge of charge gas from the charge bladder when the mounting body is secured to the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Roy G. Wilkes