Abstract: This invention provides a process for treating a workpiece having a front side, a back side, and an outer perimeter. In accordance with the process, a processing fluid is selectively applied or excluded from an outer peripheral margin of at least one of the front or back sides or the workpiece. Exclusion and/or application of the processing fluid occurs by applying one or more processing fluids to the workpiece as the workpiece and corresponding reactor are spinning about an axis of rotation that is generally orthogonal to the center of the face of the workpiece being processed. The flow rate of the one or more processing fluids, fluid pressure, and/or spin rate are used to control the extent to which the processing fluid is selectively applied or excluded from the outer peripheral margin.

Abstract: A wet cleaning or wet etch facility for semiconductor wafers includes a plurality of chemical baths into which wafers are dipped, a drying unit for drying the wafers, a robot arm that transports the wafers to the plurality of the chemical baths and the drying unit in sequence, and a bubble-detecting sensor for detecting the amount of bubbles generated by the chemicals. A central control unit stops the wet cleaning or wet etch process for a while when the amount of bubbles produced by the chemical exceeds a predetermined amount.

Abstract: The invention concerns an apparatus for cleaning the edge of a wafer that may be relatively simply constructed with low cost, and prevent the wafer from being re-contaminated by the edge cleaning, thus resulting in increase of the yield rate of wafers. The apparatus includes a cleaning agent ejection nozzle body provided on a side part of a chuck for ejecting a particulate cleaning agent (CO2 particles) towards the side and the edge portions of the wafer held and rotated by the chuck, and a nozzle body carriage for moving the nozzle body between rest and cleaning positions.

Abstract: A second housing whose center portion is depressed and whose end portion around the center portion is formed like a visor is arranged around a first housing whose center portion is depressed and whose end portion around the center portion is formed like a visor, and a hollow portion is formed between the first housing and the second housing by sandwiching a packing between the end portions of the housings. Further, degassed water for preventing empty heating is filled in the hollow portion, and an ultrasonic transducer is placed on the surface of the center portion of the first housing. A weight for preventing the vibration of the wall is provided on the wall surface of the second housing. Since the vibration of the wall of the housing is suppressed by the weight, vibration energy returns toward the bottom surface of the center of the housing through water and is radiated from the bottom surface efficiently as ultrasonic waves.

Abstract: An umbrella includes a center post having upper and lower sections pivotally connected together. A crown is mounted to the upper section. A number of ribs are pivoted to and radially extend from the crown. A runner is movably mounted to the center post. A stretcher is arranged between and pivoted to the runner and each rib. A canopy is attached to and supported by the ribs. A worm-gear based driving system converts the rotation of the worm caused by manual operation into linear movement of a nut engaging a threaded shaft of the gear. A link is arranged between and pivoted to the nut and the upper section whereby the linear movement of the nut drives the link to swivel the upper section relative to the lower section about the pivotal connection between the upper and lower sections. The worm-gear based driving system may also be employed to move the runner with respect to the center post for opening/closing the umbrella.

Abstract: Walking aid apparatus comprises handle portion and a shaft portion including a ground-contacting ferrule, the shaft portion comprising telescopically-mounted cylindrical spindle and sleeve elements and a spring means acting between seats of said spindle and sleeve elements resiliently to restrain relative axial sliding movement, in which the apparatus includes a sliding friction-reducing means between at least one end of the spring means and the associated seat, whereby the handle portion and the ferrule are axially rotatable to accommodate twisting movement as between the user and the ground in use. The sliding friction-reducing means results in controlled rotation as between the spring means and the spindle and/or elements with considerable benefits to the user in avoiding tortional loading to the twist, elbow and/or shoulder joints which can be especially painful to those who suffer from arthritis.

Abstract: A covering assembly includes a plurality of upright legs, and upper and lower canopy units. The lower canopy unit is mounted on top of the legs, and is formed with a ventilation opening. The upper canopy unit is mounted on top of the lower canopy unit, and is disposed above the ventilation opening. The upper canopy unit has a size sufficient to shield the ventilation opening while allowing air to be vented through the ventilation opening.

Abstract: A shelter structure (10) having a pair of end frames (11) and a canopy frame (12) interconnecting the end frames (11). There are also provided a plurality of adjustable bracing members (19) interconnecting frame members (13, 16, 18) of the canopy frame (12). The adjustable bracing members (19) may be tensioned during installation of the shelter structure (10) to stabilise the canopy frame (12) against lateral or transverse forces.

Abstract: Portable lounge chair awning is a simple structure easily folded into a compact configuration for storage. The awning consists of dual elongated loops of flat spring steel covered by layers of fabric. The shape is oval. In use, the shape assumes a shaped dictated by the fabric's shape. The support and fabric assumes a generally saddle-shaped configuration. The major surfaces are adapted to reflect the sun's light and heat radiation. When open, the awning is placed over the back of a lounge chair and secured by ribbon-like ties to the side structure of a conventional lounge chair forming an awning to cover the occupant's head. The coilable frame allows the awning to be twisted and folded into a compact configuration consisting of a series of loops and fabric layers. The ribbon ties secure the compact configuration for storage.

Abstract: A miniature thermal device (4) comprising a plurality of thermal elements (4) each having a thermal energy absorber (15) and a micro-heat converter (16) connected therewith so as to convert energy absorbed by the absorber (15) into another utilizable form of energy. The thermal elements (4) are assembled so that their absorbers (15) form there between a receiver cavity capable of receiving heat from an external heat source.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module includes at least a first and a second photovoltaic cell each having a substrate electrode, a top electrode and a photovoltaic semiconductor body disposed therebetween in electrical communication with the substrate electrode and the top electrode. Each cell includes a plurality of current collecting grid wires disposed atop the top electrode in electrical contact therewith. The grid wires of the first cell are in electrical communication with a current collecting bus bar and the grid wires of the second cell extend onto the first cell so as to establish an unbroken current path therebetween. The grid wires of the second cell may establish electrical communication with the substrate electrode of the first cell, in which case a series connection therebetween is established. Alternatively, the grid wires of the second cell may establish electrical communication with the top electrode of the first cell so as to create a parallel electrical connection therebetween.

Abstract: A mobile has mobile elements made from a solar cell, a hollow beam and a motivator. The solar cell is mounted to a substrate and connected via wires through the hollow beam to the motivator. The hollow beam supports the substrate at one end and the motivator at the other. The motivator may be a small electric fan or valved gas jet. The substrate is a flat plastic panel, such as a CD-ROM disc, a lightweight plastic sheet, and printed circuit board. The mobile elements may be connected as in a traditional Calder mobile, or in an aligned vertical stack. As the solar panels receive sufficient light, power for the motivator is generated, causing the mobile elements to move.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module comprises electrically interconnected and mutually spaced photovoltaic cells that are encapsulated by a light-transmitting encapsulant between a light-transparent front cover and a back cover, with the back cover sheet being an ionomer/nylon alloy embossed with V-shaped grooves running in at least two directions and coated with a light reflecting medium so as to provide light-reflecting facets that are aligned with the spaces between adjacent cells and oriented so as to reflect light falling in those spaces back toward said transparent front cover for further internal reflection onto the solar cells, whereby substantially all of the reflected light will be internally reflected from said cover sheet back to the photovoltaic cells, thereby increasing the current output of the module. The internal reflector improves power output by as much as 67%.

Abstract: An inerting system is provided which is adaptable to inert the fuel tank of a vehicle, such as an aircraft. The fuel inerting system includes an oxygen detector, a source of an inert gas, a detector and a fiberoptic probe. The oxygen detector monitors oxygen partial pressure of vapors in an ullage volume of a tank. The source of an inert gas, such as a liquid nitrogen dewar, pressure swing absorption or hollow fiber membrane technology, is in valved communication with the ullage. The detector senses oxygen content in the ullage and controls the flow of inert gas to the ullage to maintain a volume with a proportion of oxygen that will not support combustion. The specific fiberoptic probe enables monitoring oxygen content within the tank without introducing a source of electrical current.

Abstract: A combined, integral flow control valve and actuator is formed with a two part valve body and a slidable plug therebetween. A valve seat is formed integrally within the valve body. The slidable plug and the valve body define actuating chambers. A positioner/actuator mounted to the valve body has an output coupled to the actuator chamber to move the slidable plug with respect to the valve seat and thereby control fluid flow. In a single action device, a spring return moves the slidable plug towards the valve seat. In a dual acting embodiment, two actuating chambers are provided and two integral valve seats are provided in a symmetrical configuration. The valve seat is removable enabling different materials to be used for the valve seat.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a fluid container having a plurality of container members and firmly sealing the fluid container to prevent reverse flows of fluid from the container members where each container member is not provided with a check valve. The fluid container includes a guide passage, a plurality of container members, and narrow passages connecting the guide passage and the container members, and a check-valve formed at an input of the guide passage for allowing a fluid flow of only one predetermined direction. A fluid is introduced through the input of the guide passage, the check-valve, and the narrow passages to the container members, thereby inflating the container members. The narrow passages are sealed after the inflation of the container members.

Abstract: A contained pipeline and leak detection system having a plurality of pipeline sections adjoined to one or more fluid reservoirs, and a method of detecting leakage in the system are provided. Each pipeline section includes a primary pipeline section and a secondary pipeline section disposed around the primary pipeline section, defining an interstitial space therebetween. The pipeline sections are adjoined by a fitting that maintains fluid communication between the primary and secondary pipeline sections, and the interstitial spaces. Fluid is disposed within the interstitial spaces and the fitting such that fluid entering or exiting the interstitial spaces or the fitting, changes the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir. An alarm system is connected to the fluid reservoir having a sensor that detects changes in the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir.

Abstract: A liquid level control system for detecting and responding to changes in the level of liquid in a container. The system includes a transmitter in radio communication with a receiver, which is in turn connected to a valve assembly. The transmitter unit is programmable to respond to changes in the level of liquid in a container and to emit a radio signal receivable by the receiver unit, which controls the release of liquid to the liquid container via the valve assembly. The signal may be suppressed by a timing circuit in the transmitter circuitry unless and until a liquid level change is sufficiently sustained. The receiver is also programmable to keep the liquid control valve open a predetermined amount of time or to close the valve upon receipt of a high liquid level signal.

Abstract: The float valve (11) controls water level e.g. in an associated plant pot. A housing (21) has a water inlet (25) with an inlet port (26), a float (31) able to rise and fall with the level of the water in the housing (21), a valve operating mechanism (60) able to open and close the port (26), and an actuator means (40) to operate the valve operating mechanism when the float (31) rises and falls to predetermined levels. For opening and closing the inlet port (26), there is a valve operating mechanism comprising a valve operator (60) having a valve member (67) and a lever (61) mounted for pivoting movement about generally central pivot point (65). Actuator means (40) is coupled to the float (31) and switches between a standby condition an active condition respectively to the closed and open positions of the valve operating mechanism (60).

Abstract: The invention relates to a valve assembly of a pipe disconnector for separating a service water system which is arranged to be filled or re-filled from a drinking water system, comprising upstream and downstream backflow preventers which both close in the direction from the service water system to the drinking water system, and a relief valve, which is exposed to the pressure of the drinking water system in closing direction and which is adapted to connect the space between the backflow preventers to a drain, when this pressure ceases. A pipe disconnector is to be provided, which is easy to clean and to service. Furthermore, a valve assembly is to be provided which can be used equally for pipe disconnectors of the type CA and for pipe disconnectors of the type BA.

Abstract: Disclosed is a discharge valve for a compressor comprising a cylinder having a discharge hole for discharging a fluid; a valve plate provided at an outer portion of the cylinder for opening and closing the discharge hole; a retainer located behind the valve plate for limiting an opened range of the valve plate; and a plurality of micro dimples formed in at least one contacted portion among a periphery of the discharge hole to which the valve plate is contacted, the retainer, and the valve plate.

Abstract: A normally closed electromagnetic valve is closed again after temporarily being opened during an abnormality check of the valve. When the valve is opened, electricity is supplied so that a plunger is moved by a coil but a back face of the plunger does not abut against a receiving face of a fixed portion. Because the plunger does not strike the fixed portion, no impact noise is generated. Also, when the valve is closed, the electricity is not instantly dropped to zero, but is gradually reduced. As a result, impact noise when the valve strikes the valve seat is able to be reduced.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a throttle valve, particularly for controlling a liquid flow in a central heating or an air conditioning system, with a flow control unit having a first and a second element (18, 30), which are movably mounted relative to each other for setting a desired flow, characterised in that the first element (18) is designed as a first disc, and the second element (30) is designed as a second disc, and that the first and the second disc (18, 30) are mounted tight on each other in such a way that the first disc (18) may be rotated relative to the second disc (30), the first disc (18) exhibiting at least one first flow aperture (36) and the second disc (30) exhibiting at least one second flow aperture (38), the desired flow being adjustable through the degree of overlapping of the at least one first flow aperture (36) and the at least one second flow aperture (38), the at least one first and the at least one second flow aperture (36, 38) being designed such that, by rotating the first di

Abstract: A sump liner comprising a liner wall joined with a base member, the liner wall extending about the periphery of the base member, the liner wall comprising a primary reservoir portion and a secondary reservoir portion, with a weir extending from the base member and the inside surface of the liner wall. The weir divides the sump liner interior into a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, with a primary pump to remove water from the primary reservoir and a secondary pump to remove water from the secondary reservoir. The primary reservoir receives drainage water through an inlet pipe. The secondary reservoir receives drainage water that flows over the weir in the event the primary pump in the primary reservoir fails, in which case the secondary pump in the secondary reservoir pumps out the water.

Abstract: A valve arrangement having electromagnetic actuation and valve elements that can be displaced by the effect of a solenoid acting against the force of a closing spring whereby the valve elements close in a sealing manner or open between valve seats of varying cross sections provided between the delivery passage and the discharge port. The first valve element (4) cooperates with a valve seat (3) having a large cross section and the first valve element (4) is provided with a passage (6) in the space upstream from the first valve seat (3) to a second valve seat (7) of smaller cross-sectional dimension whereby the second valve seat (7) cooperates with the second valve element (8) so that actuation can be simplified at reduced size and control of the valve elements can be designed in a simpler manner to be less susceptible to malfunctioning.

Abstract: An automatic eaves trough downspout includes a first conduit and a second conduit. The first conduit has a coupling socket. The second conduit has a hollow cylindrical coupling body is adapted to fit in the socket to form a pivotal connection. A pair of pivot pins serve as an axle for relative pivotal movement of the first conduit and the second conduit. A torsion spring overlies at least one of the pivot pins to bias the second conduit into a substantially vertical stored position. A ratchet engagement is provided between the pivot pin and the socket of the first conduit, which permits rotational movement pin in the first direction to increase spring tension and resists rotational movement in the second direction.

Abstract: A multi-port rotary disc valve comprising a stator with a plurality of fluid flow ports and a rotary distributor with a plurality of channels arranged in a channel pattern. The channels are adapted to connect the ports between them and/or to the environment in a plurality of predetermined combinations, each combination being associated with an angular position of the rotary distributor with respect to the stator. The succession of combinations performed during a full or partial unidirectional turn of the rotary distributor constitute a predetermined sequence. The rotary distributor comprises a rotor and a mask mounted movably thereon, the rotor and the mask accommodating the plurality of channels. The mask is adapted to change the channel pattern by changing its position with respect to the rotor, thereby enabling the rotary disc valve to perform different predetermined sequences corresponding to different positions of the mask.

Abstract: A valve configured to receive a fluid, such as ambient air, from one or more sources and distribute the fluid to one or more outlet ports selected from a plurality of outlet ports. The valve includes a first and second member forming a cavity that contains a rotational disk used to directed a fluid through one or more outlet ports located in the second member. The first member includes a distribution chamber for receiving the fluid from an inlet port and for distributing the fluid to the rotational disk. The rotational disk may be controlled using a motor and sensor to align one or more apertures in the disk with one or more selected output ports in the second member. Thus, a fluid may be directed from a single distribution chamber to one or more selected outlet ports.

Abstract: A solenoid control valve for use in actuation of a manual hydraulic clutch in a vehicle. The solenoid control valve has an electronically operated solenoid with armature and actuator rod displaced through a channel in the solenoid. A spool valve has a valve body that is coupled at one end to the solenoid. A spool is slidably disposed in the control channel. A first and second dampener chambers are located at the two ends of the spool. The dampeners function to improve the stability in the control system and balance the transient flow forces of the hydraulic fluid as it moves through the valve member. The spool also has a control portion is located between the first end and the second end of the spool. The control portion allows the control portion to communicate with a supply, control and exhaust passages in the valve body.

Abstract: An auto-relieving pressure modulating valve includes a spool, a solenoid that shifts the spool in an energized direction, and a spring arrangement. The spring arrangement functions to shift the spool from a relieving position to a neutral position, in the energized direction, without energizing the solenoid.

Abstract: An inlet/exhaust valve having a cylindrical portion with a cavity therethrough for use in a pneumatic control valve is disclosed. The inlet/exhaust valve has at least two seats, one of which is on an inner diameter of the cylindrical portion and the other of which is on an outer diameter of the cylindrical portion. Both seats are rounded for self-aligning seating with corresponding seating surfaces.

Abstract: The invention relates to a valve assembly especially for a liquid dispensing device. It comprises a valve enclosure body (10), a valve element (13) located in the valve enclosure (10), an operating lever (14) for moving the valve element (13), and an operating lever sealing (15) in a through-hole of the valve enclosure body (10). According to the invention, the operating lever (14) is pivoted to the valve enclosure body (10) on the outside of the valve enclosure, in which case the pivot point is not in contact with the agent flowing through the valve.

Abstract: A system and method for integrating gas components that combines together, either in an in-line or modular fashion, at least two gas components used in a gas stick for flowing a gas from a first point to an end point. In one embodiment, the present invention can be used to combine a pressure transducer, a filter, and a display into a single unit that will reduce the gas stick size along the gas flow axis of the gas stick. The gas components can be integrated using VCR connections for an in-line use of the present invention. In the modular form, the present invention can use a number of different connections to connect the gas components vertically on a modular base block (i.e., stacked approximately perpendicular to the modular base block). Thus, the gas components will stack vertically with respect to the traditional horizontal gas flow path axis.

Abstract: A micro channel unit having a shape designed to reduce a pressure drop when fluid passes through a connecting channel portion is provided. The micro channel unit includes a micro channel with a width of micrometer dimensions through which liquid flows. The micro channel includes a plurality of straight channel portions and connecting channel portions that connect each pair of adjacent straight channel portions. The connecting channel portions are wider than the straight channel portions connected by the connecting channel portions. The use of the micro channel unit can reduce the pressure drop when fluid passes through the connecting channel portions, thereby reducing the amount of power required to drive the fluid flow and further enabling miniaturization of microfluidic devices such as pumps and peripheral devices.

Abstract: A seal clamp assembly for sealing an opening in a piping system includes, in an exemplary embodiment, a base having a first side, a second side and an aperture extending therethrough from the first side to the second side, and a brace coupled to the base. The brace includes a distal pad hingedly coupled to a distal end portion of the brace. The seal clamp assembly also includes a spring bridge coupled to the base first side. The bridge includes a substantially rectangular U-shaped frame and an aperture extending through the spring bridge frame such that the spring bridge aperture is in substantial lineal alignment with the base aperture. A clamping assembly is coupled to a proximate end portion of the brace.

Abstract: A thrust plug that performs the functions of both (i) reversibly capping an end of a length of pipe, a fitting, or the like and (ii) providing a surface against which a concrete thrust block can be cast, thereby facilitating thrust blocking. The thrust plug of the present invention comprises a plug affixed to a base for engagement with a thrust block and against which a concrete thrust block can be directly cast.

Abstract: The invention concerns a flexible hose with connect flange and a method for obtaining such a hose. The flexible hose (1) whereof the elastomer wall (1a) is reinforced by at least a main carcass (2) comprises flexible cables, including at least at one of its ends an annular flange (3), provided with longitudinal perforations, whereto is fixed at least the main carcass, said flange having an external diameter not greater than the external diameter of the hose wall proximate to the flange. The invention is characterised in that the flange comprises perforations (34a) emerging on one or more indentation(s) (12) provided on the outer surface (9) of the hose wall and whereof the dimensions enable to house therein at least linking means (15) externally accessible for abutting connection of pipes without interposition of an intermediate component between their respective flanges.

Abstract: A multi-layer, composite material, and products made therefrom, having the combined properties of high strength, high chemical resistance, and low permeation to chemicals and gas. The multi-layer composite material has a barrier layer, an intermediate binding layer, and a support layer. The barrier layer is polyphenylene sulfide compounded with an ethylene/glycidyl methacrylate copolymer. The intermediate binding layer is ethylene/glycidyl methacrylate copolymer. The support layer is polyamide compounded with an ethylene/glycidyl methacrylate copolymer.

Abstract: An automotive fluid tubing, especially for gasoline, diesel fuel or hydraulic fluid, and composed of metal can be provided with a tube coating of aluminum and then a polyamide 12 layer which is extruded onto the aluminum coating. The polyamide extruded layer greatly improves the wear-resistance and corrosion-resistance of the tubing.

Abstract: Composite pipe formed by a metallic pipe with inner lining of plastic material resistant to corroding agents, the inner lining formed by a prefabricated plastic material lamina, curved to tubular shape to adapt it to the inner surface of the metallic pipe, its longitudinal edges abutting or separated by a small width joint. The curved lamina is placed inside the metallic pipe adhered to its inner surface, filling the joint between its longitudinal edges with a filler compatible with the plastic material of the lamina and the material of the metallic pipe, and resistant to the fluids to be conveyed through the composite pipe. Also, a method to manufacture said composite pipe, comprising placing into the metallic pipe a curved plastic material lamina, expanding same until adhering against the inner surface of the metallic pipe, by means of an adhesive, filling the joint between the edges of the curved plastic material lamina with a filler material.

Abstract: On the one hand, the invention relates to a device for exerting a return force on at least one harness element of the harness of a Jacquard weaving machine, comprising at least one return spring (2) provided with means of attachment (1) for attaching the return spring (2) to retaining means (4) being immovably provided, said means of attachment (1) being provided with a positioning opening (6) for positioning the means of attachment (1) with respect to the retaining means (4), and a fixing opening (7) for fixing the means of attachment (1) to the retaining means (4), a spring connection (8) being provided between the positioning opening (6) and the fixing opening (7), in such a manner that the means of attachment (1) are able to move from positioning opening (6) to the fixing opening (7) with respect to the retaining means (4), but after having been fixed will be unable to move back from the fixing opening (7) to the positioning opening (6) with respect to the retaining means during operation or transport of

Abstract: The invention concerns a textile surface having at least a high-visibility face. It is obtained from yarns or fibres of at least three types, of blanketing yarns or fibres, heat-stable yarns or fibres and high-visibility yarns or fibres. The surfaces provide excellent protection against fire and flames.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivery of a medicament to the respiratory system comprises a reservoir that is adapted to hold a liquid medicament that is to be delivered to a respiratory system. An aerosol generator is provided that is adapted to aerosolize the liquid medicament. A liquid supplier is used to deliver the liquid medicament from the reservoir to the aerosol generator. A connector is operably coupled to the aerosol generator and comprises a gas conduit having an inlet, and an outlet, and an aerosol supply conduit. The aerosol generator is configured to provide the aerosolized liquid medicament into the gas conduit through the aerosol supply conduit, and the gas conduit is adapted to pass gases to entrain the aerosolized liquid medicament.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are described for administering a needle-less injection of a degassed fluid. Prior to filling, or after filling but prior to administration of a needle-less injection, gas is removed from the fluid. A needle-less injection may then be performed with a reduced risk of discomfort to the recipient of the injection and with lower potential for the creation of a subdermal hematoma as a result of the injection. A wide variety of needle-less injectors may be used in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

Abstract: A metering machine comprising a frame on which a hopper is mounted that is organized to receive a food to be metered out, and that has a bottom in the vicinity of which at least one feed duct opens out for feeding food to a metering device, and at least one drum. According to the invention, the drum is mounted on the frame to pivot about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the feed duct so as to bring the chamber of said drum into a suction position in alignment with the feed duct, and into a delivery position offset angularly relative to said feed duct. The central hub of the drum is further equipped with a suction piston and with a delivery piston, which pistons slide between a deployed position inside the chamber in register and a retracted position out of said chamber.

Abstract: A clean box is composed of a box body having an opening in one surface thereof and a lid member for closing the opening. An annular groove is formed so as to surround the opening on one of the box body or the lid member for defining a suction space sealed between the lid member and the box body under the condition that the lid member is mounted on the box body. Furthermore, intake/exhaust ports are provided for vacuum exhaust/release from the outside.

Abstract: A coolant transfer machine for an automotive engine includes first and second fluid transfer systems. The first system, operated when the engine is not running, sequentially first removes at least a substantial portion of used coolant from the engine. The first system then collects in a used fluid container the used coolant as the used coolant is being removed and then replaces the removed used coolant with new coolant from a new fluid container. The second system, operated when the engine is running, simultaneously displaces at least a substantial portion of used coolant in the engine with new coolant from the new fluid container and collects the displaced used coolant in the used fluid container. A manually operable switch has a first position that enables operation of the first fluid transfer system and a second position that enables operation of the second fluid transfer system.

Abstract: A power tool, such as, for example a router. In some aspects, a power tool includes a motor, a motor housing defining an air outlet, and a shield connectable to the motor housing and positionable to at least partially cover the air outlet to inhibit movement of debris into the motor housing through the air outlet. In some aspects of the invention, a router includes a base, a motor housing supported by the base, at least one of the base and the motor housing defining a depth adjustment column having an open end, a motor supported by the motor housing and operable to drive a tool element, a depth adjustment mechanism supported in the depth adjustment column and operable to adjust the cutting depth of the tool element, and a flexible shield connectable to the base in a position to cover the open end and to allow access to the depth adjustment mechanism through the open end.

Abstract: A wood splitter which comprises a splitting wedge having a splitting edge and a back secured to a guide rod. An impact weight cross-sectionally surrounds the guide rod and is slidable along the length of the guide rod. The splitting wedge has a twisted shape extending from the splitting edge to the back which facilitates the passage of the splitting wedge through a log to be split when driven by the impact weight.

Abstract: The invention is a planing cutter with a cylindrical cutter body (1) with recesses (3) along its enveloping surface. Each recess is delimited by a front wall (4), a rear wall (5) and a bottom (6) and contains a cutting element (7). Each cutting element (7) has a cutting edge (8), a lower edge (9), two lateral edges (10,11), a front face (12) and a rear face (13). One clamping device (2) is also located in each recess.