Abstract: A method and system is described for controlling a solar collector. A microprocessor receives inputs from one or more sensors in the system and determines the level of operation of an energy conversion device. If the level of operation reaches a predetermined setpoint below a maximum level at which the device is to operate, a variable focus solar concentrator is defocused to reduce energy input into the energy conversion device. When the system cools down and operates at a second predetermined level, lower than the first predetermined level, the concentrator is then refocused to increase the power input to the energy conversion device.

Abstract: Dosages of inhaled insulin are controlled within a narrow range by controlling the total volume of air inhaled by a patient. By repeatedly delivering aerosolized insulin with the same total inhaled volume of air, the amount of insulin delivered to the patient each time is consistent. A device for delivering insulin by inhalation is disclosed which device comprises a means for measuring inhaled volume and for halting inhalation at a pre-determined point. The device also comprises an adjustable means for applying various amounts of force to a container of formulation to expel different amounts of drug from the container based on the force applied.

Abstract: A therapeutic aid for providing therapeutic vapors to a child having cold symptoms. The therapeutic aid includes a body member having a perimeter wall. The perimeter wall defines an interior space. The perimeter wall of the body member has a slot positioned along a front portion of the body member whereby the slot is for permitting access to the interior space of the body member. A treatment member is insertable into the interior space of the body member. The treatment member is designed for emitting therapeutic vapors through the body member for easing the cold symptoms of the child when the body member is positioned in a proximity to the child.

Abstract: A medical device clamping assembly includes proximal and distal axially aligned members. The proximal and distal members are movable relative to each other. A channel is defined through the members for receipt of a treatment device, such as a catheter tube, therethrough. A clamping member is configured between the proximal and distal members and defines a portion of the channel. The clamping member is actuated between an unclamped configuration and a clamped configuration by a clinician moving one of the distal or proximal members relative to the other. In its clamped position, the clamping member clamps upon and prevents axial movement of the medical treatment device through the clamping assembly.

Abstract: The apparatus provides for the determination of the instantaneous phase in the respiratory cycle, subject's average respiration rate and the provision of ventilatory assistance. A microprocessor (16) receives an airflow signal from a pressure transducer (18) coupled to a port (17) at a mask (11). The microprocessor (16) controls a servo (19), that in turn controls the fan motor (20) and thus the pressure of air delivered by the blower (10). The blower (10) is coupled to a subject's mask (ii) by a conduit (12). The invention seeks to address the following goals: while the subject is awake and making substantial efforts the delivered assistance should be closely matched in phase with the subject's efforts; the machine should automatically adjust the degree of assistance to maintain at least a specified minimum ventilation without relying on the integrity of the subject's chemoreflexes; and it should continue to work correctly in the pesence of large leaks.

Abstract: A system and method of performance testing an aircraft's oxygen supply system where demand is assured by in use performance testing and monitoring by a controller and monitor for the partial pressure of oxygen necessary to meet demand in a pressurized aircraft. The system and method utilizing a predetermined performance test signal sent out at pre-programmed intervals of time during use, receiving, evaluation and responding to performance test signal control data received in response to the performance test signal and adjusting the partial pressure of oxygen to meet demand if necessary.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus and method therefor having a frame capable of carrying a primary air storage tank and an emergency air storage tank, where the emergency air storage tank can either be released from the frame to replace a disabled person's tank, or the emergency air storage tank can remain on the frame and be coupled to a disabled person's face-mask by a hose thus allowing a rescuer to have both hands free in order to carry or drag a disabled person to safety

Abstract: A vaginal muscle exercising device utilizing a garment having a base layer and an overlying second layer of material. An aperture through the second material is capable of supporting a projecting member such that the base of the member lies below the overlying layer and a protuberance extends upwardly. The projecting member is fastened to the garment to remain in such position. The garment is worn by a user and the protuberance is inserted into the vagina of a female subject for exercise.

Abstract: A skin topographical method for quantifying pharmacodynamic parameters of a paralytic effect of a Clostridial toxin, such as a botulinum toxin upon a muscle, such as a frontalis muscle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new cosmetic method for removing hemorrhoids. The method comprises sequentially the steps of 1) Isolating a hemorrhoidal mass from a patient with a curved forceps applied at the perianal skin outside the mucocutaneous junction, and eversion of the internal and external hemorrhoidal mass. 2) Application of another curved forceps at the base of the internal hemorrhoid, and suturing under the forceps with 20 catgut (securing hemostasis), then amputation of the internal hemorrhoid with a knife. 3) Leaving the first forceps in place, application of the second forceps at the base of the external hemorrhoid, suturing as above, amputation of the external hemorrhoid, and removal of the forceps. 4) This procedure is repeated for the remaining hemorrhoids.

Abstract: An electrical smoking system comprising a cigarette and an electric lighter, wherein the cigarette comprises a tubular tobacco mat partially filled with material tobacco so as to define a filled tobacco rod portion and an unfilled tobacco rod portion. The cigarette and the lighter are mutually arranged so that when the cigarette is received in the lighter, the electrical heater element of the lighter at least partially superposes at least a portion of the filled tobacco rod portion. The cigarette and the lighter are also mutually arranged so that when the cigarette is received in the lighter, the free end of the cigarette is occluded. The cigarette includes a zone of perforations at a location along the filled tobacco rod portion, with the cigarette being free of perforations along the unfilled tobacco rod portion. An apparatus for perforating a cigarette which can be smoked in an electrical smoking device includes a drum link-up assembly and a laser perforating apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an applicator device for highlighting hair. The applicator device includes a closure cap for mounting on a container, at least one product guide located on the closure cap for dispensing hair colorant, and at least guide prong located adjacent to the product guide. The guide prong is removable from the applicator device and is substantially in the shape of a strip with a width that extends beyond the product guide in at least one direction.

Abstract: A hair extension device has a skin-simulating layer of artificial skin material having an inner face for attachment to a wearer's scalp and an outer face. The skin-simulating layer has an opening through which a portion of a wearer's existing hair can be pulled. A plurality of hair strands are secured to the skin simulating layer around the opening to extend from the outer face of the layer in order to imitate naturally growing hair when integrated with the natural hair pulled through the opening.

Abstract: The decorative hair accessory kit with interchangeable decorations and storage board includes a hair band, hair comb, barrette and a plurality of interchangeable decorations, including a storage board for the components. Hook and loop fastening material adhesively attached to both the display surface of the hair controlling device and to the underneath surface of the decoration provide the attachment method by which decorations are interchangeably attached to the hair band, barrette, and hair comb. A decorative storage board provides a surface for storing the decorative hair accessories when not in use.

Abstract: A device for packaging and applying a cosmetic or care product, the device having a reservoir containing the product and an applicator endpiece for dispensing and applying the substance contained in the reservoir, the endpiece defining an applicator surface that is fed with the substance via at least one orifice, wherein the orifice opens out into a cavity or groove placed at a distance from the applicator surface, the groove or cavity being arranged in such a manner that the applicator surface is fed with the substance in a privileged manner via a first fraction of the groove or cavity, the remaining portion of the groove or cavity communicating with the first fraction and being effective in collecting all or part of the excess substance present on the applicator surface.

Abstract: A combination of parallel processes to provide optimal re-mediation operations for contaminated soil. Soils with high levels of heavy petroleum hydrocarbons are directed to a thermal process for destruction in a combustion process. Carbon dioxide generated and recovered in the thermal process is employed as a solvent in a solvent process to clean other soils of petroleum hydrocarbons and certain chlorinated hydrocarbon compounds. In the solvent process, contaminated soils are run through a closed soil separator where the soils are washed with carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is then dried from the soil and the soil is sent for segregation. Soils with the lightest forms of hydrocarbon contamination (gasoline, etc.) are subjected to a vaporization process utilizing heat energy generated in the thermal process to heat the soil, under a partial vacuum, and the vapors generated are captured, condensed, and recovered as product.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a fluid regulating control valve includes a housing having an upstream region and a downstream region and having a control orifice formed therein adjacent the downstream region and a piston slidably disposed within the housing. The piston has a fluid passage defining an intermediate region disposed between the upstream region and the downstream region and an edge adjacent the downstream region. The valve also includes an elastic member disposed within the housing for opposing translation of the piston within the housing and a throttling element adjacent the upstream region. The throttling element has a throttling surface adjacent the edge of the piston, in which the throttling surface and the edge define a throttling orifice therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process of utility conservation control methodology within a fluid pumping distribution system. With fluid flowing through a distribution grid, the pressure at any given point becomes a function of system flow. At a specific flow rate, the pressure at this point is a function of flow rate. This invention is a process that continuously adjusts the pressure requirement for the pumping system by varying the pump speed according to the system head curve details. This invention produces several benefits for a fluid distribution system including reducing utility costs and equipment aging.

Abstract: A device for regulating the flow of gas from an environment. The device includes a shell forming a path through which fluid flows. A fixed grate is disposed in the path so that as fluid flows in the path the fixed grate does not move. A movable grate assembly includes one or more plates and a movable grate attached to the one or more plates. The one or more plates includes an integral hinge such that the plate can rotate about the integral hinge. When the movable grate moves with respect to the fixed grate the impedance on the flow varies.

Abstract: A fuel component assembly having a fuel component disposed between a base and a cover, which prevent fluid communication to an exterior thereof. The fuel component defines at least one aperture, the base supports the fuel component and defines a passage in communication with the at least one aperture. The cover is located proximate the base. A securement having a projection and the receiver that engage to form a fluid tight seal. The projection is radially disposed about a longitudinal axis of the fuel component, and the receiver continuously engages the projection. The projection being disposed on one of the cover and the base, and the receiver being disposed on the other of the cover and the base. The fuel component assembly allows for a method of encapsulating a fuel component within a fuel supply.

Abstract: A coupling for connecting a cylinder valve on an LPG tank to the inlet of a pressure regulator for gas consuming equipment comprises a nipple having an upstream end for connection with the cylinder valve and a downstream end for connection with the pressure regulator, and a plastic coupling nut for connecting the nipple to the cylinder valve. The end wall of the coupling nut has a metal heat transfer washer on the inner side thereof, and a pressure responsive flexible shutoff valve plate is provided in the nipple passageway. The shutoff valve plate closes the passageway in response to a pressure differential thereacross of no more than 15 psi, and the end wall of the coupling nut and the heat transfer washer are responsive to a temperature of between 240° F. and 300° F. to release the nipple for displacement away from the cylinder valve in the direction downstream of the nipple.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for allowing the injection of hydrate inhibitors into a valve cavity without washing out the valve seals, generally comprising a valve having a sealing member, such as a gate or a ball, that provides for fluid communication between the valve cavity and the valve flowbore. One embodiment of a valve constructed in accordance with the present invention is an expanded gate valve comprising a valve body having a flowbore intersecting a valve cavity and a gate assembly disposed within said cavity. The gate assembly is a parallel expanding gate assembly having ported, juxtaposed members that are moveable into a sealing arrangement with upstream and downstream valve seats disposed about the flowbore. The gate assembly further comprises a flow path that enables direct fluid communication between the aligned ports and the valve cavity.

Abstract: A modular fluid control system which comprises a plurality of fluid distribution modules each formed of a parallelepiped-shaped module block of similar shape and size and having fluid channels therein is provided. Each module block has at least two porting faces on opposite sides, selected ones of the channels opening on an associated one of the porting faces to form port openings. The module blocks are arranged in an aligned abutting relationship so that selected port openings communicate with each other at abutting porting faces of adjacent module blocks. The modular fluid control system further comprises a frame which surrounds the module blocks and has connector through ports therein aligned with selected ones of the port openings.

Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an outlet port, a valve access hole, and an outer surface with a recess defined therein. The recess is configured to receive a locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole. A locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole is mounted on the fire hydrant body such that the locking cap is received in the recess defined in the outer surface of the fire hydrant body. The recess shields an interface between the locking cap and the fire hydrant body from access by unauthorized tools. A fire hydrant body, a method for restricting unauthorized access to a fire hydrant, and a method for locking an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.

Abstract: A water meter cover including a pipe segment having an outside diameter, having upper and lower ends, and having annular outer and inner surfaces; a pipe cap closely fitted to the outside diameter of the pipe segment, the pipe cap having a downwardly facing surface; a first adhesive layer disposed between the pipe cap and pipe segment, the first adhesive layer fixedly attaching the pipe cap to the upper end of the pipe segment; an elastic foam sheet having an outer surface; and a second adhesive layer disposed between the elastic foam sheet and the pipe segment, the second adhesive layer fixedly attaching the outer surface of the elastic foam sheet to the annular inner surface of the pipe segment.

Abstract: A valve and tank enclosure assembly for use on a snowplow that includes a frame, a valve assembly, a tank, and a cover. The frame and cover of the enclosure cooperate to provide a seal from water spray. Hydraulic lines within the enclosure are routed such that moisture is prevented from contacting the valve assembly. The tank is mounted within the frame at three-locations and elevated so that forces from vehicle operation are isolated from acting upon the tank. The assembly also includes a pivoting shelf supporting the valve assembly, the pivoting shelf providing wide-open access to the valve assembly from a range of directions.

Abstract: A water feeder controller for a boiler monitors a low water cutoff sensor in a boiler and uses a feed timer to feed water to the boiler for a predetermined feed period of time. The feed timer brings the water level in the boiler well above the low water cutoff sensor. The feed timer supplies water to the boiler only if the low water cutoff sensor continues to indicate a low water level for a delay period of time measured by a delay timer. A resettable display indicates the quantity of water supplied by the water feeder to the boiler based on a feed counter incremented during water feeding. A manual feed button allows water to be manually fed to the boiler. The quantity of water manually supplied to the boiler is also shown on the display. The feed timer and delay timer are preferably implemented in software in a microcontroller in the water feeder controller. A lockout loop in the software prevents overfeeding of water to the boiler in the event of a failure of the low water cutoff sensor.

Abstract: A valve (10) for a fluid tank, comprising a housing formed with one or more inlet (28) and outlet (20) ports, side walls and a seating wall (14) portion supporting a float-type valve member. The valve member is axially displaceable within the housing responsive to fluid level within the tank, between an uppermost position and a lowermost position, and has a top and a bottom end and a bearing portion facing the seating wall portion of the housing. Either one or both of the seating wall portion of the housing and the bearing portion of the valve member, are fitted with one or more dampening members (46) for diminishing impacting noise of the valve member encountering the housing upon displacement into the lowermost position.

Abstract: A support (1) through which first and second outlet pipes (7) from a first tank (9) is connected to a second tank (42). The support (1) has rear wall (17) separated from a front wall (37) by a spacer (39) to define rectangular cavities (33) therein. The rear wall (17) has a first and second sleeves (5) that extend therefrom and are correspondingly located in the outlet pipes (7). The front wall (37) has openings (35) therein that are aligned with openings (3) defined by the first and second sleeves (5). First and second claw rings (15) are correspondingly attached to the first and second sleeves (5) and first and second tubular pipes (41.1,41.2) are pushed through the claw rings (15) and into the first and second outlet pipes (7). Radial protrusions (13) on the claw rings (15) engage the tubular pipes (41.1,41.2) to define a sealed connection.

Abstract: A multiway valve for controlling a flow of fluid under pressure, includes a valve housing having fluid ports and a plurality of bores in side-by-side parallel disposition substantially at a same level. Each bore is configured for accommodation of a valve spools which are sealed in the bores against the valve housing. The spools have opposite first and second end faces, and include portions of greater diameter and portions of smaller diameter. Acting on the first end face of the spools is an actuation unit for moving the spools in a longitudinal direction to thereby direct a flow of fluid under pressure between the ports, whereas a mechanical coupling mechanism, which is secured to the valve housing, interacts with the second end faces of the spools.

Abstract: A coolant flow valve for controlling the distribution and flow of coolant to replace the radiator thermostat and heater valve currently used in automotive applications. The valve includes a valve rotor rotationally received in a valve housing wherein the rotational orientation thereof determines which combination of flow paths through four different outlet ports is selected.

Abstract: In a solenoid valve, a boss portion is formed integrally with an attracting portion of a stator core at an outer peripheral side of the attracting portion. The boss portion has a tapered outer peripheral surface and a tapered inner peripheral surface. A plunger has a communication passage, which extends through the plunger generally along a central axis of the plunger.

Abstract: A liquid hammer prevention device has a casing led to a fluid channel via passage hole, an elastic cushion made of foamed material incorporated in the casing; and a diaphragm partitioning the inside of the into an area led to the fluid channel and another area incorporating the elastic cushion. The elastic cushion is “Asker C 30 and 85” according to Japanese Industrial Standard S 6050 measured by the level gauge of a durometer “Asker C,” and is 0.30-0.70 of apparent specific gravity.

Abstract: A sealing terminal for an installations duct of tubular shape is provided. The sealing terminal includes a plug having a threaded frustoconical part which can be screwed into one end of the duct, a manipulating head with a peripheral shoulder in a continuation of the plug, where the peripheral shoulder is designed to face an edge face of a border around an opening of the duct, and an annular seal arranged against the peripheral shoulder.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for sealing an underground junction between a lateral service line and a main pipeline from the inside-out. One embodiment provides a substantially rigid patching apparatus which may be positioned and installed with a robotic device within a main pipeline. The patching apparatus has a flange shaped to fit the internal diameter of the main pipeline and a tubular stem or sleeve which penetrates into the lateral service line. The patching apparatus contains an interconnection substrate such as felt, sponge or other similar material. The interconnection substrate may be impregnated with a bonding agent which sealingly interconnects the patching apparatus to the main pipeline and lateral service line, and may be heated by utilizing a heating element within a support cage, thus reducing the time required for curing.

Abstract: A system and method for providing secondary containment for pipeline transmission systems that complies with environmental regulations for double wall applications. The outer surface of the pipeline is adapted with an epoxy bonded multi-ply fabric that forms a secondary containment structure external to the pipe with first and second spaced layers forming an interstitial space therebetween. An external coating of cured epoxy resin provides resistance to impact, abrasion, and chemically induced corrosion and deterioration. Probes may be installed at various locations along the pipeline for continuously sampling the environment within the interstitial space thereby providing leak detection. Secondary containment is constructed on an existing section of, steel, iron, fiberglass, composite, metal alloys, or concrete pipe.

Abstract: A high-pressure composite pipe of the present invention comprises an inner layer pipe made of a synthetic resin, and a reinforcing layer formed by spirally winding a stretched polyolefin resin sheet on an external circumferential surface of the inner layer pipe. The synthetic resin for the inner layer pipe or a heat-sealable resin is filled into a gap defined by the stretched polyolefin resin sheet, thereby avoiding penetration of water from a cut surface of the pipe.

Abstract: An apparatus for changing power steering fluid in an automotive power steering system, uses the components of an fluid receiving container; an fluid supply container; a utility fluid pump, a pressure actuated fluid valve; and a fluid conducting means. The components are arranged such that air is compressed in the fluid receiving container by entry of spent power steering fluid and builds to open the pressure actuated valve so as to drive replacement power steering fluid into the power steering system, replacing the spent fluid.

Abstract: The invention concerns a weight-filling machine wherein a force sensor consists of a deformable component having a base end (16) linked to a frame and an interface end (18) whereon is fixed a device for gripping (50) the container. The invention is characterised in that the gripping device (50) is coupled to the interface end by elastic means (72) urging the gripping device (50) towards a normal position wherein it is supported on a support surface (78) linked to the interface end (18), and the gripping device (50) is mobile relative to the interface end (18) along a protective direction, countering the elastic means (72), up to a stop position wherein it comes in contact with a stop surface (90) linked to the frame (86).

Abstract: An apparatus and method is available for transferring data relating to the functioning of a fuel dispenser between a wireless device and the fuel dispenser. The wireless device activates a sensor on the fuel dispenser which in turn initiates the transfer of data between the wireless device and the fuel dispenser. The wireless device can download data from the fuel dispenser for review as well as modifying the data. If the operator of the wireless device modifies the data, the operator can upload the modified data to the fuel dispenser.

Abstract: An apparatus for filling insulation material consists of a vibrating means; a lift driving means for lifting the vibrating means; a horizontal transporting means for horizontally transporting the vibrating means and the lift driving means along the guide rail of the storage tank; an automatic winding means; a level sensing means for checking the amount of filling of the insulation material; a flux preventing means for securely maintaining the flux in the horizontal direction and verticality of the vibrating means; a descending position sensing means for restricting the descending position of the vibrating means by touching the insulation material; a control means for checking the amount of the insulation material filled along with automatically remote controlling the vibrating means, the level sensing means and the lift driving means; and a display means for directly observing the inside through a camera.

Abstract: A system and method for evacuating potential wafer-corroding and contaminating residual process gases from the interior of a semiconductor wafer pod before, after or both before and after a process is performed on the wafers. The residual process gases are first evacuated from the wafer pod, which is next charged with a fresh supply of inert gas. The system is adapted to evacuate and charge the wafer pod as the wafer pod typically rests on a load port of a SMIF prior to transfer of the pod to another destination in the semiconductor fabrication facility, prior to internalization of the wafers into a processing tool, or both.

Abstract: Method and device for densifying pulverized material, which is transported by means of a feeding screw in a screw housing, wherein alternatively vacuum and compressed air is applied via a filter on the inner circumference of the screw housing.

Abstract: A continuous strip bag feeder and loader that includes an integrated printer assembly for printing information on each individual bag of the continuous strip. The printer assembly is mounted to a support frame and receives a continuous strip of bags from a feed assembly. The printer assembly includes a print head that prints the desired information on each individual bag of the continuous strip. The printer assembly is positioned relative to the loading assembly such that after each individual bag is printed, the bag is immediately loaded with a product at the loading assembly. Thus, no printed bags are positioned between the loading assembly and the printer assembly, thereby assuring each bag is loaded with a product prior to the printing of another bag.

Abstract: Self-supporting and/or adjustable funnel device includes a funnel to which is attached or has integrally with the funnel a support for holding the device in place. As an alternative or in addition, the device may be adjustable, for instance, by having a contrivance added to or incorporated with the support to make it able to have its orientation vary from a first orientation.

Abstract: A submerged flowline termination buoy supports flowlines below the sea's dynamic wave zone. An export hose, connected to the flowline at a submerged connection assembly which is supported from the termination buoy, is selectively connected to a dynamically positioned shuttle tanker above the buoy. The export hose is allowed to weathervane and is marked with a marker buoy when it is not connected to the shuttle tanker. The marker buoy is anchored to the export hose with a swivel to allow uninterrupted weathervaning of the hose.

Abstract: A hand planing machine has a housing composed of a plurality of shells tightly connected with one another, a planing shaft, a motor for driving the planing shaft, means forming a chip withdrawing opening, the motor and the chip withdrawing opening being arranged axes-parallel to one another and extending outwardly at a same side, the shells including a single cover shell which simultaneously surrounds the motor and the chip withdrawing opening and forms a lateral outer surface of the housing.

Abstract: A power tool workstation for mounting one of a series of different power tools includes a top plate with a flanged opening therein for receipt of an insert upon which any one of a number of power tools is mounted.

Abstract: An adjustable profiling head for a wood cutting apparatus. There is a first body portion for carrying a plurality of first knives and a second body portion for carrying a plurality of second knives. The cutting edges of the knives define respective cutting surfaces of revolution about an axis that have different mean diameters for the two body portions. In one aspect of the invention, the body portions are adapted to receive the respective knives by associated knife clamping mechanisms that are adapted to be removably mounted to the body portions with one or more first control plates therebetween, for adjusting the radial positioning of the knives. In another aspect of the invention, the body portions are adapted to be removably mounted to each other so that the body portions are disposed axially adjacent one another with one or more second control plates therebetween, for adjusting the relative axial positioning of the knives of one of the body portions with respect to the knives of the other body portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a work center for wood working including: a support base (1) for the pieces to be worked; a structure (6), mobile along said base in the direction of a first numerically controlled axis (X); a support (12) of a tool group (13) mounted on said structure and mobile, under numeric control, along a second axis orthogonal the first two, wherein a second tool group (15) is provided, mounted on said support (12), said second tool group (15) being mobile between a first position in which it fits completely within said support (12) and a second position in which said second tool group protrudes from the said support (12). According to a second preferred embodiment, the machine includes, mounted onto the same structure (6), a second carriage mobile along said second axis and supporting a second tool group mobile along said third axis (Z) orthogonal to the first two.