Patents Issued in January 29, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040016436
    Abstract: A surface-modified adsorbent and a process for making a surface-modified adsorbent are provided. The process involves providing an adsorbent and a non-volatile organic compound to a vessel, adjusting the temperature and/or pressure to provide supercritical conditions for a supercritical fluid, and introducing the supercritical fluid into the vessel. The supercritical fluid dissolves the non-volatile organic compound, and impregnates the adsorbent with the non-volatile organic compound. The surface-modified adsorbent can be used, for example, in cut filler compositions, cigarette filters, and smoking articles. Methods for making cigarette filters, cigarettes and for smoking a cigarette comprising the surface-modified adsorbent are also provided. The surface-modified adsorbents can be used to remove one or more selected components from mainstream smoke, without removing other components, such as those that contribute to flavor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Thomas
  • Publication number: 20040016437
    Abstract: This invention features a method for delivering information over a network, the method including: a) monitoring an action of a user on the network to obtain observed user data relating to a desired behavior modification; b) obtaining user supplied data relating to the desired behavior modification; c) evaluating the observed user data and the user supplied data to generate tailored information for progressing a user towards the desired behavior modification; d) presenting the tailored information to the user over the network; and e) repeating steps a), b), c) and d) until the desired behavior modification is achieved. The user is continually provided with re-tailored information resulting from an iterative process of obtaining and evaluating data that progresses the user towards a desired behavior modification. The desired behavior modification can be, for example, the cessation of smoking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Nathan Knight Cobb, Michael Buhkin, Christian T. Cartter, Amanda Louise Graham, David L. Rosenbloom
  • Publication number: 20040016438
    Abstract: This invention is the callus-removing hand piece 1 used to remove the calluses of the skin which directly causes the skin to age. More specifically, in configuring this hand piece 1 connected to the vacuum suction device 100, the lower part of the main body 10 of the above mentioned hand piece 1 is bent at a certain degree for greater usability. Below the bend there is a detachable cutter 60 so that you can mount a cutter 60 with a desirable shape. In the upper part of the main body 10, connectors 40 with nipples 44 can be mounted so that they are inserted into the suction tube 102 near the already equipped vacuum suction device 100 to ensure compatibility with the vacuum suction device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Jong Sam Han
  • Publication number: 20040016439
    Abstract: A hair separator and fluid applicator is provided that includes a central handle portion, a parting portion disposed adjacent the central handle portion, and an applying portion disposed adjacent the central handle portion opposite the parting portion. The parting portion includes a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end being disposed opposite the central handle portion and generally narrowing from the proximal end to the distal end. The parting portion also includes a generally concave face. The hair separator and fluid applicator may optionally include a ribbed ringlet disposed about the handle portion, the ringlet being displaceable along a length of the handle portion. The handle portion may optionally be disposed along a generally longitudinally extending axis, with the applying portion extending from the handle portion along a generally longitudinally extending axis. The handle portion may be shaped such that it tapers as it extends towards both the parting portion and the applying portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Larry Rush Alexander
  • Publication number: 20040016440
    Abstract: An applicator nozzle may comprise an attachment portion configured to attach the nozzle to a receptacle configured to contain a product and an arrangement of at least two teeth disposed so as to form at least one row comprising first and second end teeth. At least one of the teeth of the arrangement may define a channel configured to be placed in flow communication with product contained in the receptacle. The channel may open on an exterior of the at least one tooth via at least one outlet aperture facing substantially in a direction of at least one adjacent tooth. The nozzle may further define at least one groove and the outlet aperture may open into the groove. The groove may extend from the outlet aperture substantially to a free extremity of the at least one tooth. The arrangement may be formed by a single molded piece and may be configured so as to present an obstacle to product flowing from the at least one outlet aperture beyond the first and second end teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Vincent De Laforcade, Philippe Bonneyrat
  • Publication number: 20040016441
    Abstract: The plasma cleaning gas for CVD chamber according to the present invention is a gas for cleaning silicon-containing deposits on the surface of a CVD chamber inner wall and the surfaces of members placed inside the CVD chamber after film forming treatment on a substrate by a plasma CVD apparatus. The cleaning gas comprises 100% by volume of fluorine gas which gas can generate plasma by electric discharge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Akira Sekiya, Yuki Mitsui, Yutaka Ohira, Taisuke Yonemura
  • Publication number: 20040016442
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for removing material adhering to a workpiece are disclosed. A process liquid and a discontinuous phase are placed in a process tank adapted to receive a workpiece. The interface between the process liquid and the discontinuous phase is energized with megasonic energy, and the interface is contacted with and moved relative to the workpiece in a linear direction at a controlled rate, preferably across all of the workpiece. Liquid in the interface is optionally removed from the process tank at predetermined times to remove entrained particles. Numerous drying schemes can be used to reduce or eliminate formation of droplets and to speed drying time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: B. Gene Cawlfield
  • Publication number: 20040016443
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for removing particles which effectively eliminates particles in the vacuum container unit without degrading the rate of operation of the processing device, and is simple and inexpensive to embody.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Hiroshi Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20040016444
    Abstract: A cleaning cloth for household and industrial use having a plurality of rubber yarns knitted therein and secured in a lock-stitch pattern. The plurality of rubber yarns formed as an integral part of the knitted fabric extend generally parallel to each other across the fabric and are of sufficient relative diameter to form spaced-apart rib elements and the rib elements are of sufficient size so as to serve as wiper blades to provide a squeegee effect during use of the cleaning cloth to remove dirt and debris from a hard surface being cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Larry T. Mitchell, William Martin
  • Publication number: 20040016445
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for on-line cleaning of internal surfaces of selected sections of a hydrocarbon fuel burning gas turbine and associated heat recovery equipment, during operation. Cleaning solutions containing graphite and/or molybdenum-based particles and oil soluble corrosion inhibitors, aromatic solvents, and surfactants are selectively introduced directly into the combustion chamber (combustor) of the gas turbine, into the fuel stream, water washing system, or the combustion air system (hot gas path). The cleaning process dislodges unwanted ash deposit buildup and, thereby restores the gas turbine to rated power. When introduced into the compressor section, the particles impinge on the metal surfaces, cleaning them prior to entering the hot gas section where the process may be repeated. They may also be carried through the exhaust to additionally clean attendant heat recovery equipment, if present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Koch, Daniel T. Smith, Mark D. Hughes, Thomas Urbas
  • Publication number: 20040016446
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning the magnetic head of a card reader, particularly, a generally rectangular shaped semi-rigid card, wherein at least one aperture is sized and positioned on the apparatus to allow the magnetic head of a card reader to protrude into the aperture. The aperture is at least partially covered with an absorbent material which is bonded to the apparatus and may be presaturated with a cleaning solvent. As the apparatus passes through the card reader, the aperture covered by the semi absorbent material conforms to the entire convex surface of the magnetic head, and effectively removes particulate matter on the magnetic head. The apparatus, without the cleaning solvent, is then used to remove any remaining particulate matter raised by the cleaning solvent to prevent settling of residue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Frank Krancevic
  • Publication number: 20040016447
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cleaning equipment provided with a cleaning solution tank, a cleaning solution supply route for supplying the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank to a cleaning bath, a cleaning solution return route for returning the cleaning solution that has been supplied to the cleaning bath to the cleaning solution tank, a gas supply route for supplying a purge gas into the cleaning solution tank, and a gas discharge route for discharging the purge gas from the cleaning solution tank. Moreover, a cleaning solution discharge opening of the cleaning solution return route is immersed in the cleaning solution stored in the cleaning solution tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicants: Matsushita Electrical Industrial Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshihiko Nagai, Itaru Kanno, Naoki Yokoi, Yasuhiro Asaoka, Masahiko Higashi
  • Publication number: 20040016448
    Abstract: A solvent flush cleaning system for a paint supply system. The cleaning system includes an air injection system that injects air directly into the pumping chambers of the solvent pump to entrain air within the solvent. The cleaning system preferably includes a dedicated double diaphragm pump that circulates the solvent. The air injection system preferably includes a pair of injection valves that cooperate to selectively supply pressurized air to each pumping chamber. The air injection system further includes an actuation assembly that times the injection valves so that pressurized air is supplied to each pumping chamber as that chamber expands. The actuation assembly includes actuation valves that are operated by pressure within the air chambers of the pump. When pressure builds in one air chamber, it opens the corresponding actuation valve, which in turn actuates the injection valve causing pressurized air to be supplied to the opposite pumping chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Ullrey, Michael L. Piper, Richard J. Tice
  • Publication number: 20040016449
    Abstract: The compressor cleaning system includes a track mounted about the inlet of the compressor. A circumferential position assembly mounts an insertion drive assembly which is driven about the track into selected circumferential positions. The insertion drive assembly carries a manipulator arm assembly mounting at its distal end a cleaning head. By using pairs of control cables, the proximal yaw, pitch and distal yaw sections of the manipulator arm can be moved to weave the cleaning head past the multiple stages of blading to locate the cleaning head adjacent a selected blade. By repeated extension and retraction of the cleaning head relative to the compressor inlet and about the compressor blades, each blade can be cleaned without disassembly of the compressor casing or removal of the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew Joseph Travaly, William Francis Lopes, Kathleen Lynne Bentzel
  • Publication number: 20040016450
    Abstract: A method and system for reliably reducing the formation of particles upon wafers or substrates during wafer processes is disclosed. The method and system reduces residue contamination of a substrate material during wafer processes by pre-filling a pressure chamber to a first pressure P1 with a purified pre-fill prior to filling the pressure chamber with a primary bulk source at a second pressure P2. By pre-filling a chamber with purified pre-fill source at the first pressure P1 which is substantially equal to the bulk source pressure P2, the contaminants found in the bulk CO2 remain within the bulk CO2. Thus, this method and system reduces precipitation of contaminates caused by the depressurization of the bulk source during wafer processes and thereby reduces corresponding substrate material contamination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Ronald Thomas Bertram, William Dale Jones, Douglas Michael Scott
  • Publication number: 20040016451
    Abstract: There is disclosed a scrub cleaning device which can reduce cleaning time and which requires no large-scaled device for transferring a substrate to the next cleaning process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Hoya Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kouno, Masahumi Kanahara
  • Publication number: 20040016452
    Abstract: A holding unit holds a substrate to enable a surface of the substrate to be processed. The unit has a vacuum suction member that comes into contact with a peripheral portion of the surface of the substrate and sucks the substrate. A processing apparatus holds the wafer stably and allows an edge, a bevel portion and/or a back surface of the wafer to be processed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Junji Kunisawa, Norio Kimura, Kenya Ito, Akira Fukunaga, Yuuki Inoue, Hiroshi Tomita, Soichi Nadahara, Motoyuki Sato
  • Publication number: 20040016453
    Abstract: A device, such as an ambulatory bag, comprising a plurality of pockets with means to releasably secure the device to an ambulatory appliance, such as a walker, wheelchair, or motorized mobility scooter. The device can hold and store belongings of a person using the ambulatory appliance and facilitate the placement and retrieval of items to and from the device while the person is engaged with (i.e. using) the ambulatory appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Beiersdorf, Inc.
    Inventor: Jessica Ann Mills
  • Publication number: 20040016454
    Abstract: A solar panel for a spacecraft has a base with a face, and at least one row of solar cells and at least one elongated reflector are mounted on the face of said base. The reflectors and the rows are mounted generally parallel to each other in an alternating fashion. The reflector has a first and a second reflecting side when the reflector is in a deployed position. The reflector is mounted so that the first side of the reflector is adjacent to a row of solar cells and reflects radiation incident on the first side onto the adjacent row of solar cells when said reflector is in a deployed position. Preferably, a plurality of rows and a plurality of reflectors are mounted on the face of the base, with at least one of the reflectors being disposed between two adjacent rows of solar cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: AEC-Able Engineering Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Murphy, Michael I. Eskenazi, Brian R. Spence
  • Publication number: 20040016455
    Abstract: A module battery comprises cells each having an electric power generating element hermetically sealed in a package film, and cell holders on each of which each of the cells is mounted and held. The cell holders are formed in configurations so as to allow the cell holders to be freely stacked in a plurality of stages while permitting the cells to be retained thereon and to allow electrode tabs of the cells to be exposed between the cell holders neighboring in a stacking direction. Thus, the module battery can be formed in an easy assembly work.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Etsuo Oogami
  • Publication number: 20040016456
    Abstract: A photovoltaic device comprising a plurality of spherical photovoltaic elements, a support and a first conductor layer and its production method are disclosed. Each of the photovoltaic elements comprises a spherical first semiconductor and a second semiconductor layer covering the surface thereof, the second semiconductor layer having an opening through which a part of the first semiconductor is exposed. An electrode is formed on each of the exposed part of the first semiconductor and the outer surface of the second semiconductor layer. The support has a plurality of recesses, each having a connection hole in its bottom, and comprises an electric insulator layer having the connection holes and a second conductor layer which is formed on the electric insulator layer except around the connection holes and which constitutes the inner surface of the recesses. The first conductor layer is disposed on the backside of the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: CLEAN VENTURE 21 CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mikio Murozono, Yoshimitsu Hiroshima, Ryoji Okazaki, Takeo Takayanagi, Satoshi Omae
  • Publication number: 20040016457
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel level switch which may be employed to detect liquid levels within a process vessel. The level switch of the present invention is self validating so that manual testing is not required in order to ensure proper operation and switch calibration. The switch of the present invention may be easily introduced into existing process vessel designs as a replacement for prior art level detection switches with minimal or no retrofitting effort being required. The self validating level switch of the present invention may be connected to a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) such that process control including process shutdowns to avoid overfilling and low-fluid conditions may be accomplished.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventor: Daniel B. Bolland
  • Publication number: 20040016458
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a damping valve of a steering system for a vehicle which is capable of improving a coupling structure of a housing assembly of a damping valve and a valve body for thereby implementing an easier fabrication and assembling operation. In a damping valve of a steering apparatus which includes a housing assembly which is formed of a first housing and a second housing threadedly engaged with the first housing and is fixedly installed in one side of an oil pressure pipe, and a valve body which is installed in the interior of the housing assembly, there is provided a damping valve of a steering apparatus which comprises the first housing which includes an installation jaw portion in which the valve body is inserted and mounted, and a cocking portion which is adapted to fix the valve body inserted and mounted in the installation jaw portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: MANDO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Sang-Ryong Kim
  • Publication number: 20040016459
    Abstract: A poppet scavenger valve includes multiple cages for multiple poppets, permitting better control of the spacing of the assembly, facilitating maintenance and permitting better fluid flow through the cage structure. A spacer or lift plate may be positioned between the cage and the seat for defining a flow control device for accurately setting and controlling the valve flow. Each cage component is mounted on the lift plate and is trapped between the plate and the seat. Alignment pins are provided to assure proper alignment between the cylinders and the mated counter bores in the cages. The stroke, or valve flow, can be controlled by adjusting the height of the lift plate, without any alteration to or modification of the cage. Multiple cage configurations are possible, including cages for supporting any array of poppets from a grid to a longitudinal assembly. Each cage is adapted for supporting any multiple of poppets, including single poppet cage systems where applicable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Gene M. Thompson, Edgar G. Beidler
  • Publication number: 20040016460
    Abstract: An apparatus for sampling or feeding a flowable material through a wall of a vessel or conduit includes a body having a collection chamber formed therein. A passage has an opening operatively connected to the collection chamber. An orifice is formed in the body and is in communication with the collection chamber. The orifice is located generally adjacent the opening of the passage. A sealing device is mounted to the body to seal and unseal said orifice. Furthermore, at least a portion of the opening of the passage is located flush with or on a process side of the wall of the vessel or conduit when the apparatus is mounted to the wall of the vessel or conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: NL TECHNOLOGIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Newberg
  • Publication number: 20040016461
    Abstract: System determines the position of a control element of an electrically driven actuator. The actuator may be switched on by a controlled switch when a lower threshold value is reached and may be switched off when an upper threshold value is reached. An on-period and an off-period are determined as a function of the lower threshold value, the upper threshold value, and the electric switching behavior of the actuator depending on the position of the control element. From the on-period and the off-period, the position of the control element are determined from a comparison of the quotient of the on-period or off-period and the sum of the on-period and off-period, and form a comparison of the sum of the on-period and the off-period with corresponding stored reference data. The system includes accompanying circuitry for application of the process, and an accompanying device, in particular a hydraulic valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Wenmin Qu, Horst Peter Mannebach, Joachim Morsch
  • Publication number: 20040016462
    Abstract: Apparatus comprising a normally closed valve element that can be mounted on a mobile part and fluid distributor means that can be mounted on a stationary part and is operatively connectable with said valve element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Gino Ferrari, Franco Maioli
  • Publication number: 20040016463
    Abstract: An isolation valve assembly for use in a pipeline comprises a valve housing (1) body having inlet (12) and outlet (13) openings. In the housing there is disposed a pair of independently operable rotary valve balls (3) each having a port (25) therethrough. The valve balls (3) are each rotatable between an open position in which the respective port is in communication with the adjacent opening and a closed position in which the valve ball closes the adjacent opening. A valve seat (9, 14) supports each valve ball in the housing and a valve seat retention member (10) is disposed in each of the openings (5). The retention member (10) defines a flow passage (11) therethrough for communication with the adjacent valve ball port and has a first end proximal to one of the valve balls. The first end supports said valve seat and a second end has means for engagement to the pipeline. The arrangement allow a relatively large bore valve assembly to have a length conforming to International Standard ANSI B16.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Paul Shillito, Mark Oliver
  • Publication number: 20040016464
    Abstract: A fluid coupler is provided in which a male coupler is brought into a fixed connection condition in which the male coupler is fixedly connected to a female coupler member and retained at a fixed connection position relative to the female coupler member, the fixed connection condition being cancelled or broken when an excessive tension is applied to a fluid line in which the fluid coupler member is installed such that the tension acts on the male and female coupler members to separate them. A first valve is provided between and slidably engaged with the exterior surface of the male coupler member and the interior surface of the female coupler member. The first valve has a through hole having an outer end opening at the outer surface thereof and an inner end opening at the inner surface thereof to fluidly communicate the fluid passages of the male and female coupler members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Toshio Mikiya, Koji Matsumoto
  • Publication number: 20040016465
    Abstract: A pneumatic actuation control system includes a pressure controller, an eductor and a valve. The pressure controller is capable of directing an amount of fluid to the contained volume such that a pressure within the contained volume exceeds a pressure external to the contained volume by a predefined positive pressure. The pressure controller can also adjust the pressure within the contained volume when the pressure external to the contained volume changes. The eductor can draw fluid from the contained volume to thereby decrease the pressure within the contained volume. The valve is controllably operable in either a pressure mode or a vacuum mode, where the valve either permits the pressure controller to provide fluid to the contained volume, or permits the eductor to draw fluid from the contained volume. As such, The system provides precision pressure control over a broad range of external pressures while compensating for rapid pressure changes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David A. Wingert, Daniel S. Winkler
  • Publication number: 20040016466
    Abstract: An in-line expansion tank. As fluid traverses a pipe within the tank, it may pass into and displace a diaphragm disposed outside of the pipe if the fluid pressure is greater than a tank pressure pushing the diaphragm against the pipe. When the fluid pressure decreases, the fluid passes from the diaphragm back into the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Lombari, Wei-Chiao Lo
  • Publication number: 20040016467
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a repair material for use in repairing an interface area between two intersecting conduits. According to one aspect of the invention, a mold is provided having similar dimensions to an interface area. The interface area is defined by a first conduit and a flange connecting the first conduit to a second conduit. A repair material is provided having a material structure, the material structure defined by an arrangement of fibers such that the material structure has similar dimensions to the interface area. The arrangement of fibers further allowing the repair material to be flexible and seamless. A resin is provided, the resin having a resin viscosity. An additive is provided, the additive is adapted to increase the resin viscosity. The additive is mixed with the resin to form a resin-additive mixture whereby the resin viscosity is increased after a time delay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Mark D. Blackmore, Mark T. Sloan, William M. Lepola
  • Publication number: 20040016468
    Abstract: A corrugation has a radially inner wall circumferentially surrounding an axis. The inner wall defines an inner cavity configured to conduct a liquid axially through the inner cavity. A radially outer wall of the corrugation overlies the inner wall. The outer wall adjoins the inner wall so as to form a closed outer cavity bounded by the inner and outer walls and separated from the inner cavity by the inner wall. The inner wall has at least one opening providing fluid communication between the inner and outer cavities for the corrugation to serve as a reservoir for the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Timothy R. Toliver, Bill R. Vanhoose
  • Publication number: 20040016469
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hose (1) for a vacuum cleaner comprising synthetic resin strips (10), each of which comprises a flat portion (11), a reversed U-shaped protrusion (20) formed at an end (11a) of the flat portion (11) and having an electrical conductive wire (40) inserted therein, and a hook-shaped cover (30) integrally formed at the other end (11b) of the flat portion (11) with a predetermined space from the reversed U-shaped protrusion (20) so that the space between the protrusion (20) and the cover (30) allows smooth bending and stretching of the hose (1), wherein two adjoining strips (10, 10′) are helically wound so that the reversed U-shaped protrusion (20) of one strip is overlapped with the hook-shaped cover (30) of the other strip, thereby contacting a side wall (20a) of the reversed U-shaped protrusion (20) of one strip with an inner surface (30a) of the hook-shaped cover (30), and wherein the side wall (20a) of the reversed U-shaped protrusion (20) of one strip and the inner surface (30a) of the h
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Hyun-Mi Lee
  • Publication number: 20040016470
    Abstract: A duct to receive duct wrap is provided with a plurality of posts at different locations on and upstanding from the post to protrude through the duct wrap. Wrap retainers fit onto the post over the duct wrap securing the duct wrap on the duct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: ROYAL GROUP TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED
    Inventor: Larry Whitty
  • Publication number: 20040016471
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an automatic heddling method and a related automatic heddling apparatus 100, by which a plurality of heddles 2 removed from a plurality of heddle frames 1 are integrally collected in such a manner that flat faces 11 of the heddles 2 may face opposite to each other, then a dummy yarn 4 is inserted simultaneously through heddle eyes provided respectively in the plurality of heddles 2 while they are in a collected state, and then the heddles 2 are individually carried with keeping the contact to the dummy yarn 4, from a collecting position 5 of the heddles 2 to a predetermined individual heddle frame designating means 6.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: KIKUCHI KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Koichi Kikuchi
  • Publication number: 20040016472
    Abstract: In a monitoring device used for the weft thread of a weaving machine, which comprises at least one insertion element having a thread clip movable to a thread-release position, and comprising a weft thread detector, which is used for monitoring the movement of the weft thread and which, during each insertion, is activated only for an observation interval ending at least approximately with the release of the inserted weft thread by the thread clip, an electric sensor (S) is provided in an opening device (B) arranged in the weaving machine and used for opening the thread clip (G) of the insertion element, said sensor (S) responding to the release position of the thread clip with a signal (i) representative of the end of the observation interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Stefano Lamprillo
  • Publication number: 20040016473
    Abstract: An on-machine-seamable industrial fabric includes rings in the seam region. In one principal embodiment, the rings are between the seaming loops at the two ends of the fabric and enclose at least one cross-machine-direction (CD) yarn. As such, the rings strengthen the seam region by involving the CD yarns as a reinforcement. In another principal embodiment, the rings are used instead of a seaming spiral.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Robert A. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20040016474
    Abstract: A multiproduct fuel dispenser for dispensing a plurality of fuels stored in a plurality of reservoir tanks comprising a nozzle for dispensing fuel, fuel delivery lines for delivering fuel from the plurality of reservoir tanks to the nozzle, and a common fuel meter operatively connected to the fuel delivery lines for quantifying the amount of fuel dispensed from the plurality of reservoir tanks, the common fuel meter having an internal volume no greater than 0.1 gallons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Dresser, Inc., a Delaware corporation
    Inventor: John Arnold Todd
  • Publication number: 20040016475
    Abstract: An apparatus for filling containers with viscous food product includes a plurality of pressure/vacuum fill head positioned above a plurality of containers. Each fill head includes a housing enclosing a plenum through which is longitudinally disposed a valve stem having in an outer cylindrical surface thereof a plurality of longitudinally disposed grooves terminated near a lower end of the stem by a cylindrical boss. The boss is biased into fluid pressure-tight sealing contact with a lower transverse end face of lower tubular portion of the housing by a helical compression spring which fits coaxially over a portion of the valve stem which protrudes upwardly from the housing, the spring being disposed between an upper transverse end wall of the housing, and the lower surface of a neck which protrudes radially outwardly from the upper end of the valve stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Ramon Navarro
  • Publication number: 20040016476
    Abstract: A portable, handheld sharpener having an elongated body with loop attachments, a battery-operated DC motor with speed reducing gears and a gear plate and a rotatable sharpening unit. A pouch-shaped waste shavings receptacle detachably attached to the body provides a larger cross-sectional dimension ergonomically contoured to fit within the grip of a hand while providing increased internal space for waste shavings storage. An actuator button is molded into the receptacle and is partially circumscribed to provide a hinge-like action to engage a leaf spring connecting the battery source to the motor and also provides a momentary operation of the sharpener while in the original retail packaging. The actuator button will not operate when the receptacle is detached from the sharpener and the internal sharpening unit is exposed, thus acting as a safety feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony J. Lamers, John R. Nottingham, John W. Spirk, Jeffrey Scott Plantz, Patrick W. Brown
  • Publication number: 20040016477
    Abstract: A magnetic alloy raw material is heated and melted to create a melt with floating said raw material by means of electromagnetic field from an inductive type heating coil. The melt is located in between a pair of cupper cooling plates driven by a solenoid coil, and then, splat-cooled below the peritectic point of the raw material by the cooling plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science
    Inventor: Kazuhiko Kuribayashi
  • Publication number: 20040016478
    Abstract: An apparatus for rolling of a powder metallurgical metallic workpiece is provided having a feeding device, a first induction heating apparatus in operable communication with a first RF generator and at least a first hot rolling mill. A process control device monitors at least one parameter of the first RF generator and outputs a signal. A method for continuous rolling of a metallic workpiece is also provided using the apparatus for rolling. The process control device signal can be used to monitor metallurgical properties of the workpiece and provide in-line evaluation of the workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: David Sharpe, Firooz Rasouli, John F. Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20040016479
    Abstract: A stabilized water-in-oil energetic emulsion composition comprising a) an aqueous oxidizer phase comprising at least one oxygen supplying component; b) an organic phase comprising at least one organic fuel; c) an emulsifying amount of at least one emulsifying agent suitable for forming a water-in-oil emulsion; and d) an emulsion stabilizer comprising a hydrocarbon polymer, said hydrocarbon polymer having {overscore (M)}n ranging from about 2,000 to about 6,000, provided that said emulsion composition is essentially free of any polyvalent inorganic agent that is capable of cross-linking with the emulsifying agent or the emulsion stabilizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: John J. Mullay, Robert A. Pollack
  • Publication number: 20040016480
    Abstract: High nitrogen nonazide gas compositions, useful in inflating passenger restraint gas inflator bags, contain a high energy substituted tetrazole or bitetrazole that forms a naturally occurring hydrate and phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) as a primary oxidizer. The combination results in gas generants that are relatively more stable and less explosive, have improved ignitability and burn rates, and generate more gas and less solids at lower operating pressures than known gas generant compositions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Graylon K. Williams, Sean P. Burns, Jeffrey W. Halpin, Paresh S. Khandhadia
  • Publication number: 20040016481
    Abstract: The manufacture is carried out in a continuous manner simultaneous to the filling of the shot holes, in a mixer, preferably a rotating mixer, wherein a water-based, non-explosive or low sensitivity matrix, an air bubble stabilizing agent, and optionally, an oxidant in granular form and a combustible material are mixed together. The nature of the water-based matrix, together with the use of an air bubble stabilizing agent, allows the incorporation of air during the mixing, regulating the density of the final product and acting on the variables of the process. On coming out of the mixer, the explosive is totally sensitized and has reached its final density, allowing for quality control before filling the shot hole. The process may be carried out on the explosives pumping truck, with compartments for the transportation of a water-based matrix, an oxidant in granular form, a combustible material and a gas bubble stabilizing agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Union Espanola de Explosivos, a Spanish Corporation
    Inventors: Fernando Beitia Gomez de Segura, Jose Ramon Quintana Angulo, Rafael Lanza Rivas
  • Publication number: 20040016482
    Abstract: A fuel composition is disclosed that comprises insoluble caramel color bodies produced by the thermal degradation of carbohydrates. The fuel composition may be prepared using a carbohydrate such as a sugar and using an acid catalyst, such as using oxalic acid or citric acid. The fuel composition may be prepared by dissolving the carbohydrate in water to form a solution, and heating the solution over time so that a portion of the carbohydrate is converted to an insoluble polymer. The solution is preferably heated until at least approximately 40% by weight of the carbohydrate is converted to an insoluble polymer and is more preferably heated until it least approximately 50% by weight of the carbohydrate is converted to an insoluble polymer. An explosive composition may be prepared by combining an oxidizer with caramel color bodies. The caramel color bodies are preferably non-hygroscopic, have a neutral pH, and have a high molecular weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Warren O Fey
  • Publication number: 20040016483
    Abstract: This disclosure considers the use of specifically-sized Nitrocellulose particles of 75 ml fineness, free of other chemicals, as a flame enhancer in a Diazodinitrophenol primer mixture that is free of heavy metal constituents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Companhia Brasileira de Cartuchos
    Inventor: Laudemiro Martini Filho
  • Publication number: 20040016484
    Abstract: A cover for protecting patio furniture or other objects from adverse weather includes a UV resistant outer layer that may include a top and side panels, an inner layer that may include a top and side panels, and contact sites by which the two layers are fixedly attached to one another. Releasable fasteners for attaching to the furniture or object to be protected are attached to the inner layer. The contact sites are minimal relative to the size of the inner layer, such that the sum of the areas of contact sites or contact areas is substantially less than an unbonded area of the inner layer. Area and perimeter limits apply to the unbonded area between the layers to ensure the two layers can move relatively independent of each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: John J. Muller
  • Publication number: 20040016485
    Abstract: A cover for protecting patio furniture or other objects from adverse weather includes an outer layer and an inner layer removably attached to one another. The inner layer is a waterproof or water-resistant layer, whereas the outer layer is decorative and replaceable. The outer layer can be removed for either cleaning or replacement. The cover of the present invention affords versatility and flexibility to the consumers and results in cost savings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: John J. Muller