Patents Issued in February 12, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040025916
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a rib structure of a four-folded umbrella, which includes a first rib, a second rib, a third rib, and a tail rib and is connected with a shaft. The characteristic is to provide a connector at the outer end of the third rib and a branch rib, and the connector can bond the third rib and the tail rib that provides the umbrella rib structure to be a perfect arched outlook as it is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Shih-Shin Kuo
  • Publication number: 20040025917
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, an mobility-aid apparatus comprises: a first member that includes an exterior, a second member adjustably connected to the first member, and a lock. The first member is made using a mold that includes at least a first form unit that forms a first portion of the exterior and a second form unit that forms a second portion of the exterior. There is at least one boundary on the exterior between the first and second portions. The first and second members together span an adjustable axial length. The lock fixes the adjustable axial length against at least one of contraction or expansion, wherein the lock engages, or exists on, the first member not on the at least one boundary on the exterior of the first member. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method is for producing an apparatus for assisting in mobility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jerry Gin
  • Publication number: 20040025918
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, a mobility-assistance device comprises: a body having an upper end and a lower end, the body comprising an elongated member at the lower end that terminates in a lower tip, the lower tip being formed integrally with the elongated member and being without any substantial flange, the lower tip having at least one bottom surface; the elongated member being elongated along a longitudinal axis; and a resilient ground contact that attaches to the body at the lower tip. The body transfers weight to the ground contact axially via the bottom surface, and overall area of the at least one bottom surface is substantially greater than non-empty area of a cross section of the elongated member perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method is for producing a crutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
  • Publication number: 20040025919
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a ground contact article for connecting onto a bottom tip portion of a mobility assistance device comprises: a body that includes a resilient material as a structural basis and that includes a top end and a bottom surface, the bottom surface for engaging the ground. The body is configured to include at least one collapsing region, configured to permit a peripheral portion of the body to collapse more readily than a central portion of the body to thereby permit the bottom surface to remain flush with the ground even when the mobility assistance device is moved such that angle between the mobility assistance device and the ground is changed substantially. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method is for producing a ground contact article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Jesus Garza
  • Publication number: 20040025920
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, an ambulation-assistance device comprises: a lower body portion that includes an elongated, weight-bearing first member at top of the lower body portion, the lower body portion having no other elongated, weight-bearing member at top of the lower body portion parallel to the first member; and an upper body portion that includes an elongated second member at bottom of the upper body portion, the second member being adjustably connected to the first member, adjustment of the connection for adjustment of device height; wherein each of the first and the second members is integrally shaped to oppose relative rotation between the second member and the first member around a longitudinal axis. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method is for producing a mobility-enhancing apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
  • Publication number: 20040025921
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a mold is for molding a first member of a device for assisting in ambulation, for example, a crutch. The device further is to include a second member. The first member is to include a cavity to accept an elongated portion of the second member in a direction of insertion of the second member, which is opposite a direction of withdrawal of the second member. The mold comprises: a form configured to shape the exterior of the first member; and a core configured to shape the cavity of the first member; the core being configured and disposed to separate from the first member in a direction other than the direction of withdrawal of the second member. According to an embodiment of the invention, there is a method is for molding a portion of a mobility-assistance device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
  • Publication number: 20040025922
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods assist in mobility of a person. According to an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for assisting in mobility of a person comprises: a crutch having a crutch length along an axis; and at least two adjustment points on the crutch, wherein the length is adjustable at the adjustment points, whereby the crutch is customizable for accommodating body dimensions of an intended user; wherein the adjustment points include a first and a second adjustment point, and the first adjustment point is configured to, at least occasionally, contribute an adjustment to the crutch length that is not merely an adjustment that is being contributed by the second adjustment point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jeremey Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jerry Gin
  • Publication number: 20040025923
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for assisting ambulation comprises: a first member; a second member adjustably connected to the first member, the first and second members together spanning an adjustable height; and at least one tab, integrally formed on the first member, that, when engaged, opposes adjustment of the adjustable height. According to another embodiment, a method for producing an apparatus for assisting in mobility comprises: forming a first member including integrally forming a stop on the first member, wherein the stop is not merely a bore through the first member; providing a second member; and adjustably connecting the second member to the first member, wherein the first and second members together span an adjustable height, and wherein the stop is configured as capable of being engaged to oppose relative motion against the second member to thereby oppose adjustment of the adjustable height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jeremy Gin, Jerry Gin
  • Publication number: 20040025924
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods assist in mobility of a person. According to an embodiment of the invention, a device for enhancing mobility of a physically-impaired person comprises: a first member that comprises an elongated portion; and a second member that is configured to slidably receive the elongated portion of the first member and to have negative draft relative to the elongated portion of the first member. According to another embodiment of the invention, there is a method for producing an apparatus for assisting in ambulation. The method comprises the steps of: providing a first member that comprises an elongated portion; and providing a second member, including: forming a recess in the second member for slidably receiving the elongated portion of the first member; and tapering the recess to have negative draft relative to the elongated portion of the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jeremy Gin, Jerry Gin
  • Publication number: 20040025925
    Abstract: An underarm crutch according to an embodiment comprises an underarm support that is placed underarm of a person during use; and at least one elongated member that bears weight and that includes a polymeric material as a structural basis, wherein the underarm support is coupled to the at least one member to help support weight of the person; wherein the underarm crutch has height during use, a substantial portion of which height is contributed by the at least one elongated member; and wherein the underarm crutch comprises substantially no metal, whereby the underarm crutch is capable of not triggering an alarm by an airport metal detector. An apparatus according to another embodiment comprises: a crutch that is substantially composed of injection molded plastic and that includes no metal; wherein the crutch, when viewed using x-ray, has appearance that differs from appearance of a metal crutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Jerry Gin
  • Publication number: 20040025926
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, a crutch comprises a crutch body having an upper end and a lower end, the lower end for engaging the ground during ambulation; and a variable-spring-rate spring coupled to the crutch body to provide shock absorption for the crutch, wherein the spring provides greater spring rate with increased compression of the spring. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for producing an apparatus for assisting ambulation of a person comprises: providing at least one member that supports some weight of the person in the course of using the apparatus; and forming a material of lower durometer than the at least one member, wherein the material, at each of multiple points along an axis of compression, has substantially non-equal thickness perpendicular to the axis of compression.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
  • Publication number: 20040025927
    Abstract: This patent application is for a collapsible tepee tent configuration using a camera tripod stand. Entrance to the tepee tent is made possible by the use of a zipper fitted to the bottom part of one tepee tent wall. In one version of the present invention, holes on each of the three tepee tent walls provide ventilation as well as a means for the tepee tent user to position a photographic or video camera lens through the tepee tent wall. The said holes can be covered by mesh fabric, by the tepee tent user, in order to prevent intrusion of insects. The said holes can also be covered by water-proof fabric, by the tepee tent user, in order to prevent rain water from entering the tepee tent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Hilmersen
  • Publication number: 20040025928
    Abstract: A collapsible structure has first and second wall panels, each wall panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, a frame retaining sleeve for retaining the respective frame member, and a fabric material substantially covering each frame member to form the panel for each frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The fabric assumes the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member. The foldable frame member for each wall panel further includes a top side and a bottom side, with the frame retaining sleeve of the first wall panel stitched along the length of its top side to the frame retaining sleeve along the length of the top side of the second wall panel to form a hinged connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20040025929
    Abstract: A shelter is formed by joining a resilient sleeping pad at its edges to a thin, flexible, waterproof, vapor-breathable shell. The sleeping pad, being the floor of the shelter, eliminates material otherwise used for this purpose. An opening in the shell for the user's face, is edged with a sleeve containing a drawstring for closing the opening to the extent desired. A zippered separation in the shell extends from the opening, to provide easy access into the shelter. A canopy, attached to the shelter, is supported above a user by long, resilient wands attached to the canopy material. Various embodiments are disclosed for combining a canopy with the basic shelter, for supporting the canopy above the user, and for providing entry into the resulting shelter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy D. Turner
  • Publication number: 20040025930
    Abstract: Method for manufacturing thermoelectric converters, consisting in weaving electroconducting threads (12, 14) of two different natures, parallel and arranged alternately, with threads (10) made of an electrically insulating material in moving the electroconducting threads together two by two at predetermined intervals, in welding them in their contact zones (20) and in cutting them at the level of the welds so as to obtain strips (34) comprising, on the longitudinal edges thereof, a large number of thermocouples connected in series.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Edouard Serras
  • Publication number: 20040025931
    Abstract: A solar panel for simultaneous generation of electric and thermal energy with efficiency improvements is disclosed. A combined panel provided with a photovoltaic panel thermally contacting a fluid-containing panel by means of a heat exchanger, has reflective means mounted thereon for directing solar radiation to the photosensitive surface of the photovoltaic panel. The increased light concentration together with the cooling action of the water circulating in the fluid-containing panel, permits to highly increase the electric energy generated by the photovoltaic panel and the thermal power carried outside the fluid-containing panel by means of the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: S.I.E.M. S.R.L.
    Inventor: Jorge Miguel Aguglia
  • Publication number: 20040025932
    Abstract: A solar cell is provided comprising a substrate having a light-receiving first surface and a variegated second surface, the second surface having at least first and second recesses. The substrate is doped within the first recess to provide a p-type region, and within the second recess to provide an n-type region. At least one conductive material is disposed in each of the first and second recesses, permitting electrical connections to the p-type and n-type regions. In a first embodiment, using selective deposition, tungsten fills the slots and slots may have a depth of up to 60 microns. In a second embodiment, a sputtering technique is used to deposit metal in the slots, and slots may have a depth of up to about 10 microns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: John Husher
  • Publication number: 20040025933
    Abstract: Replacing liquid electrolytes with solid or quasi-solid electrolytes facilitates the production of photovoltaic cells using continuous manufacturing processes, such as roll-to-roll or web processes, thus creating inexpensive, lightweight photovoltaic cells using flexible plastic substrates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Konarka Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kethinni Chittibabu, Savvas Hadjikyriacou
  • Publication number: 20040025934
    Abstract: A polymeric linking agent enables the manufacture of photovoltaic cells on flexible substrates, including, for example, polymeric substrates. Photovoltaic cells may be fabricated by a relatively simple continuous manufacturing process, for example, a roll-to-roll process, instead of a batch process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Konarka Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kethinni Chittibabu, Russell Gaudiana
  • Publication number: 20040025935
    Abstract: A fluid collection apparatus is provided including a tube defining a longitudinal axis and extending therealong from a closed end to an open end. The tube further defines an inner surface. An insert is configured for disposal within the tube and recessed from the open end. The insert includes a first diameter configured and dimensioned for engagement with the inner surface of the tube and a second diameter configured and dimensioned to form a chamber with the inner surface of the tube. The insert may define an interior cavity. The insert may include a transition diameter disposed intermediate the first diameter and the second diameter. The transition diameter can be substantially tapered relative to the longitudinal axis. The second diameter may include at least one radially extending rib being configured and dimensioned to engage the inner surface of the tube. The first diameter may have a larger dimension relative to the second diameter. The insert can be disposed adjacent the closed end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: John Liseo, Richard H. Hawley, Todd DeMatteo
  • Publication number: 20040025936
    Abstract: A rupture disk assembly for use in a pressurized fluid passageway within an application environment having a temperature operational range. The disk assembly includes a cylindrical one-piece disk consisting of unimpregnated graphite, a single bore extending partway into the top surface of the disk, a casing, and a metallic layer overlaying the planar bottom surface of the disk. The disk assembly has a particular burst pressure that is generally temperature insensitive over essentially the entire temperature operational range. The temperature operational range may be from about −425° F. to about 900° F. The burst pressure may have a tolerance of about +/−5% over the temperature operational range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas J. Wadkins
  • Publication number: 20040025937
    Abstract: A fuel blocking valve device includes a housing attached to a fuel tank of a vehicle and having a communication path between an inside and an outside of the fuel tank, a float valve for closing the communication path when fuel flows into the housing, and a two-way valve disposed above the float vale for opening and closing according to an inner pressure of the tank. The two-way valve opens and closes according to a difference between the inner pressure of the fuel tank and an atmospheric pressure. Further, the two-way valve includes a valve member for opening when the vehicle runs and vibrates. The valve member is formed of a spherical member and a cone shape valve seat for opening the communication path when the inner pressure of the fuel tank exceeds a predetermined high level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: NIFCO INC.
    Inventor: Takeshi Kojima
  • Publication number: 20040025938
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving the operation of sewer systems includes a first set of sewer lines connected to a source of other water and a second set of sewer lines of smaller diameter than the sewer lines of said first set connected to sources of sanitary effluent, the first and second sets of lines being separately connected to a sewerage treatment plant. The second set of sewer lines has at least a portion thereof that extends inside the first set of sewer lines and the first set of sewer lines can be an existing sanitary sewer system. The apparatus can include at least one sanitary effluent process device connected to the second set of sewer lines such as a pumping station, a grinder pump or a vacuum system to assist the flow of the sanitary effluent through the second set of sewer lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: E. Wynn Berry
  • Publication number: 20040025939
    Abstract: An improved pneumatic valve and a missile with an improved thrust directional valve. In one embodiment, a refractory material lining for a pneumatic valve enables better valve operation and better valve performance. A thin-wall cylindrical sleeve of rhenium or other suitable refractory metal is located inside a cylinder. A valve piston may then travel within the refractory sleeve with greater reliability and better operation. The refractory sleeve cylinder lining can be subject to high temperatures at a rapid rate and remain operational.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: George T. Woessner
  • Publication number: 20040025940
    Abstract: A pressure switch device for controlling gas without calibration of pressure in a vacuum system is disclosed. The pressure switch device comprises an isolation valve for controlling gas flow between a chamber and a pump, a pressure balance switch bypassing said isolation valve and detecting a pressure difference between the chamber and the pump, and a control line used by said pressure balance switch to control said isolation valve, wherein said pressure balance switch open said isolation valve whenever the pressure difference between the chamber and the pump is larger than a predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tse-Lun Chang, Wen-Ming Chen
  • Publication number: 20040025941
    Abstract: A method and a device for controlling at least one valve, in response to a detected leak in the system including the valve. An activation signal is generated which opens the valve briefly for flushing purposes and closes it again, or moves the valve ball at great speed onto the valve seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Gebhard Wuerth, Matthias Schanzenbach, Juergen Binder, Timo Jahnz, Ulrich Gottwick, Michael Schubert
  • Publication number: 20040025942
    Abstract: The air breather is formed with a breather body coupled to a transmission body, and a cap coupled to an upper part of the breather body. The breather body defines first and second spaces communicating therebetween by an air channel. The first space is coupled with a first piston which slides to open and close the air channel in response to internal pressure applied to both lateral surfaces thereof. The second space is coupled with a second piston which slides in response to air having passed through the air channel and is further equipped with oil return holes for oil having passed through the air channel from the first space and having been separated to return into the first space, such that the oil and the air are effectively separated to prevent oil leakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Woo-Yeol Kim
  • Publication number: 20040025943
    Abstract: A regulated gas supply system having a body defining a pressurized gas reservoir connected to a high-pressure regulator that regulates the high pressure gas from the gas reservoir to disperse the gas at a desired pressure. The regulating assembly includes a piston chamber with a piston slidably positioned in the piston chamber. A spring is positioned between one side of the piston and the piston chamber, with the piston including a piston channel to allow pressurized gas to flow through the piston. Pressure is developed on the piston opposite the spring that is proportional to the force of the spring, providing a balanced piston. The system is miniature and self-contained to fit inside any number of small pneumatically operated devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Henry Martin Wilson, Paul Heath Fleming, Corey Howard Metcalfe
  • Publication number: 20040025944
    Abstract: A back flow prevention device is shown for use in a plastic pipeline for conveying water, sewage, hydrocarbons or other fluids. A valve body features a flow control mechanism which is formed entirely or primarily of plastic materials. The valve body and its opposing ends are formed of a plastic material which is compatible with the plastic material of the existing pipeline, whereby the valve body can be installed in the pipeline in co-axially fashion by directly joining the opposing ends of the body to the opposing mating pipe ends at a selected location within the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Kane Whitaker, Mark Jones
  • Publication number: 20040025945
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for notifying a user of a pending empty gas supply tank. The user can input the initial volume of the gas supply tank, a gas monitor can monitor the amount of gas that was injected into the chamber and an indicator can notify the user when the gas volume of the supply tank is at or below a predetermined level so that the user can take the appropriate action. Additionally, a gas volume converter can be included to convert from one volume unit to another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Richard H. Bair, Bryan M. Elwood
  • Publication number: 20040025946
    Abstract: A self-adjusting fluid surface skimmer and a wastewater treatment system incorporating the same are provided. In one embodiment, the skimmer includes an intake passage and an outlet passage. The intake passage comprises first and second passageways connected by a flexible coupling. A collar is positioned around the first passageway near an intake opening. At least one buoyant member is attached to the collar and facilitates self-adjustment of the skimmer. A gas inlet is disposed in the outlet passage and allows for the movement of gas through the outlet passage, which creates a suction effect in the intake passage. The wastewater treatment system comprises an aeration tank disposed in a settling tank such that a clearance is created between the two tanks. A skimmer according to the present invention is disposed within the clearance. The skimmer enables further removal of solids from treated fluid within the settling tank prior to leaving the treatment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Matthew L. Sharb
  • Publication number: 20040025947
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for a fluid fertilizer distributor 10, 200, 300, or 400 for distributing fluid fertilizer conducted from a supply vessel 11 to each of a plurality of applicator lines 44. The fluid distributor may regulate a fluid fertilizer flow rate by selectively moving a flow restrictor 50, 250, 350, or 450 relative to the distributor housing. The distributor housing may include a supply inlet port 12, 212, 312, or 412 and a plurality of distributor outlet ports 16, 216, 316, or 416 each for fluid communication with a respective one of the plurality of applicator lines 44. The fluid distributor may separate the fluid fertilizer into a plurality of fluid flow paths prior to reducing the pressure in the fluid to avoid gas flashing or vaporization prior to separation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Spencer M. Nimberger
  • Publication number: 20040025948
    Abstract: A solenoid operated three port pressure control valve assembly of the exhaust pressure bleed type. The valve for the inlet pressure supply port includes a pressure responsive diaphragm with the supply port obturator attached. A bleed orifice in the diaphragm provides viscous dampening of the movement of the obturator and minimizes inlet valve flutter. The valve assembly is disclosed in both normally open and normally closed configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: David E. Herbert, Douglas E. Boddy
  • Publication number: 20040025949
    Abstract: A magnetic device is formed from a permanent magnet generating magnetic flux, an armature which can occupy two positions between four poles and an electromagnet winding to which current can be supplied to produce a magnetic flux in one direction or the other, the flux from the winding causing the armature to move into one position and continue to remain in that position after the current flow ceases. The device can be incorporated into a fluid valve to act as a drive for opening and closing the valve. It may also serve as the drive for opening and closing electrical contacts. Monostable operation can be achieved by locating a magnetic flux shunt at one end of the armature travel. A holding solenoid may be incorporated. A pivoting armature in a fluid tight chamber comprises a fluid flow controlling device. It can adopt either of two home positions in contact with two magnetic poles and is retained by magnetic flux from a permanent magnet. Fluid can flow into and out of the chamber via a first passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Wladyslaw Wygnaski
  • Publication number: 20040025950
    Abstract: With a method of establishing an enveloped flow in a channel, in the channel an envelopment area (3) with a channel section (6, 7) is configured to which a stub with an outlet is connected, where the stub, which can be configured as a polyhedron, is arranged substantially at right-angles to the envelopment area and with the plane of the outlet substantially at right-angles to the channel section. An inlet channel (9, 11) and an outlet channel (8, 10) are connected to the envelopment area. By providing a narrowing-down in the cross-section of the channel in immediate extension of the envelopment area (3), a hydrodynamic focussing of the sample fluid is achieved when a fluid, such as a sample fluid, is introduced into the stub, and a carrier fluid is introduced into the inlet channel. The advantage of the invention is that since it is necessary only to have two fluid inlets, a relatively simple structure can be established, which can be built up in a monolithic manner, e.g. by injection moulding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Ulrik Larsen, Anders Wolff, Pieter Telleman
  • Publication number: 20040025951
    Abstract: A pipe for the transport of fluids, which pipe is internally provided with a liner, wherein the liner is provided with at least one non-return valve arranged in the liner wall, wherein the non-return valve has an inlet end arranged near the outer surface of the liner wall and an outlet end arranged near the inner surface of the liner wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: John Joseph Baron, Karol Edward Szklarz
  • Publication number: 20040025952
    Abstract: A pipe support is provided that includes a frame capable of being placed around an existing pipe and a plurality of support members within the frame. The frame is a hollow cylinder that includes two connectable halves divided along the diameter of the hollow cylinder. The pipe support includes two bearing rings connected to the frame for supporting each of the plurality of members at a minimum of two contact points. Each of the two bearing rings include bearing points for each support member arranged in a cylindrical pattern concentric with the hollow cylinder frame. The pipe support includes means for rotating each of the support members at a first contact point with respect to a second contact point so that the support members engage a pipe placed within the pipe support. The support members are rods that provide vibration isolation to a pipe placed within the pipe support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: John Cunningham, Robert E. Roemer, Robert C. Banasik
  • Publication number: 20040025953
    Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which a tubular sheath is provided that defines a longitudinal passage for receiving a conveyed fluid, a tape is formed by a plurality of metal fibers supported by a strip of flexible material to form a tape, and the tape is wound around the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Wellstream, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana J. Fraser, Colin Soens
  • Publication number: 20040025954
    Abstract: A tubular structure wherein the tubular structure is constructed solely of a polybutylene terephthalate or a polybutylene naphthalate tubular structure having an inner surface and an outer surface wherein the polybutylene terephthalate or polybutylene naphthalate extends throughout the entire wall structure from the inner surface to the outer surface thereof. The polybutylene terephthalate or polynaphthalate tubular structure is useful in a variety of automotive, industrial or domestic applications where there is no need to dissipate any static electricity buildup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher W. Smith, Alan L. Edmonson, Jeremy Duke, Jerry Shifman, Jeffrey A. Swane
  • Publication number: 20040025955
    Abstract: A pipe construction system which utilises a multiplicity of arcuate pipe segments 11, 12 to form a pipe section 10 and which sections are assembled together to form a length of pipe. Each segment 11, 12 has two longitudinal edges 13 of increased radial thickness and having a groove 14 formed in the circumferential direction whereby an interlocking and sealing member 15 may be located in the aligned grooves 14 of two adjacent segments 11, 12. One end of a pipe section 10 assembled from the segments defines a socket 22 for receiving a spigot 23 defined at the other end of a like section. The spigot end of each segment has a pocket 25 formed along said edge 13 but within the thickness of the major area of the segment, which pocket 25 mates with a corresponding pocket 25 of an adjacent segment whereby sealant may be disposed in the mating pockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Lee Martin Skinner, Graham Frank Towers, Ajay Talwar
  • Publication number: 20040025956
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive arrangement, permitting the separate operation of weaving loom and shedding machine and compensating for the speed variation of the drive relative to the drive shaft of each machine for both the weaving loom and the shedding machine. Said novel drive arrangement permits keeping the energy drawn from the electrical supply network during the start phase and the drive power of the installation as low as possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Valentin Krumm, Dietmar Von Zwehl, Michael Lehmann, Dieter Mayer
  • Publication number: 20040025957
    Abstract: A weft yarn deflection brake including a braking element 5 which can be adjusted in timed fashion and by its variable braking force, a drive motor 6 for said braking element and a control device CU connected with said drive motor 6 is equipped by a position detection means E associated to said braking element 5. Said position detecting means E is connected to an adjustment means 9 for functional parameters of the deflection brake. During operation functional parameters as e.g. the braking force and the time of the activation of the deflection brake are varied adaptively in order to assure a performance of the deflection brake which is deemed to be optimal for the insertion system. At selected points in time known target positions of the braking element are set and compared with the actual positions. In case that deviations are detected a respective functional parameter is varied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Marco Covelli
  • Publication number: 20040025958
    Abstract: The method for storing weft ends in a fluid jet loom is characterized by carrying by a water flow weft ends formed due to weft insertion, discharging the same together with the water flow from a discharge section to a storage section, storing the same, and moving the discharge section during discharging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Keiichi Myogi
  • Publication number: 20040025959
    Abstract: A method of filling bags with bulk material and of closing the filled bags, wherein, for filling purposes, the bags are suspended from a filling sleeve 16 connected to a filling cone 15 and filled with a measured quantity of bulk material. For closing purposes, the bags, after having been filled, are folded-in at the bag flap in a bag flap folding device 20 and, after having been closed, are gripped by a takeover device 26 for the purpose of being transported further. The filling sleeve during or after the operation of filling a suspended bag and the bag flap folding device during or after the operation of folding an attached bag are synchronously moved in a bag transporting direction at a fixed distance from a respective starting position P1, P2 by the amount of the distance x1 between the filling sleeve and the bag flap folding device 20 into a respective hand-over position P2, P3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Werner Schlosser, Reinhold Schafer
  • Publication number: 20040025960
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for controlling the recovery of vapour at stations for the dispensing of liquid fuels, e.g. petrol of various grades, from a first tank or container to a second tank or container by the intermediary of a pump and a line and/or hose with a nozzle, e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Osborn Persson
  • Publication number: 20040025961
    Abstract: Liquids such as waste water are clarified in a compact unit consisting of a conditioning stage and of a solid/liquid separating stage. In order to allow the liquids to be clarified as completely as possible in a coherent step, the downward flowing suspension under the influence of gravity is forcibly subjected to a substantially vertical acceleration superimposed on the force of gravity. Preferably, the suspension is subjected to a combination of mechanical, magnetic and electric forces. Consequently, not only a largely complete clarification of the liquid is obtained, even when said liquid entrains the most different groups of substances, but also the dwelling time during the solid/liquid separation is shortened, and the dimensions of the clarification reactor are relatively reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Bernard Beaulieu
  • Publication number: 20040025962
    Abstract: A machine (1) for filling containers (2) with liquid or particulate material (6), wherein a carousel conveyor (12), rotating continuously about an axis (9), supports a number of supporting and weighing heads (25), each of which is independent of the other supporting and weighing heads (25) and supports a respective container (2) beneath a respective feed device (20) for supplying the fill material (6); and wherein each supporting and weighing head (25) is connected structurally and functionally to the carousel conveyor by a respective fast-fit connecting/disconnecting device (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Narciso De Antoni Migliorati, Stefano Cavallari
  • Publication number: 20040025963
    Abstract: With reference to FIG. 1, and air sampler 1 for use in analysing biological or other analytes, comprises an airflow chamber 2 having an air inlet 3 and an air outlet 4. An extract from 5, draws ambient air in through the inlet 3, and then through the chamber 2, to discharge it back to atmosphere by way of an outlet 6. The airflow chamber 2 houses a cyclone air/liquid separator 7 through which the inflowing air is caused to pass. An injector 8 introduces liquid into air flowing through the air inlet 3. The cyclone separator 7 extracts this liquid and any entrained particles therein and discharges it from the airflow chamber 2, initially by way of a duct 9, where it is then conveyed to a collection vessel 12, by way of a three channel peristaltic pump 13, and a duct 14. The collection vessel 12 is housed within a Peltier-cooled holder 15 to maintain the contents of the vessel 12 within the 2° C.-8° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: David James Squirrell, William Hunter Symonds, Hilary Anne Bird, Martin John Berry
  • Publication number: 20040025964
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an inflatable pad with a built-in pump, mainly comprising an inflation unit and a air pump assembly inside the inflation unit. The inflation unit has an inflation chamber with laminated fringe while the air pump is composed of a protuberant pump chamber and an inflation/deflation channel. Especially, on one side of the pump chamber there are two pieces of unidirectional membrane tubing, A and B, in a reverse loop. The membrane tubing B is provided as a channel between the pump chamber and the inflation chamber. The membrane tubing A is installed inside the pump chamber so that one end connects to the pump chamber and the other end at the chamber edge connects to a piece of round tubing. The round tubing connects to the laminated edge of the inflation chamber and has an insertable hollow bolt so that an inflation access is formed. On the proper place of the round tubing surface, there is a vent hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Chin-Tang Chen
  • Publication number: 20040025965
    Abstract: There is disclosed a liquid delivery apparatus comprising: (i) a vessel (5) into which a liquid may be introduced via an inlet (1) to partially fill the vessel and to pressurize the liquid and the air that fills the remainder of the vessel; (ii) an outlet (a) via which said liquid may be discharged from the vessel under the pressure of the liquid and air in the vessel; (iii) a valve between the vessel and the outlet to control passage of liquid from the vessel to the outlet (iv) a valve control mechanism for controlling the operation of the valve in response to the pressure of the liquid and air in the vessel; and (v) a means (6, 7, 12, 14, 15) for transmitting the pressure of the liquid and air in the vessel to the valve control mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: David Mitchell