Patents Issued in March 4, 2004
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Publication number: 20040040465Abstract: An ink jet printing process having the steps of: A) providing an ink jet printer that is responsive to digital data signals; B) loading the printer with ink jet recording elements having a support having thereon an image-receiving layer; C) loading the printer with an ink jet ink composition including water, humectant and a metallized, phthalocyanine colorant, the metallized, phthalocyanine colorant having the formula: MPc(SO3X)a(SO2NRR′)b wherein: M represents a metal; Pc represents a phthalocyanine nucleus; each X independently represents hydrogen, alkali metal or an organic cation; a is from 0 to 3; b is from 1 to 4; each R independently represents a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group having from 1 to about 15 carbon atoms, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, or a substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic group; and each R′ independently represents R or hydrogen; with the proviso that a+b is an average of from 2 to 4; and with the further proviso that at least about 50 wt.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Andrei Andrievsky, David T. Southby, Samuel Chen, Dale E. Decann
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Publication number: 20040040466Abstract: To provide a black aqueous ink composition for excellent light and gas fastness, an ink set including the ink composition, and an ink jet recording process using the same, the black aqueous ink composition contains at least a trisazo dye represented by Chemical Formula 31.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicants: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION, ORIENT CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Tetsuya Aoyama, Kazuhiko Kitamura, Hiroshi Fukumoto, Yoshihiro Sawatari, Shuji Sugawara, Makiko Matsui
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Publication number: 20040040467Abstract: Silicone-based compositions and methods of forming silicone coatings comprising, as a carrier for the silicone compound(s), a composition comprising hydrocarbon molecules which contain from 2 to 10 carbon atoms and from about 50% to about 76% by weight, and in certain preferred embodiments from about 50% to about 70% by weight, of fluorine.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Raymond H. Thomas, Brian M. Naasz, Guillermo J. Hitters, Gary M. Knopeck
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Publication number: 20040040468Abstract: A drier for oxidative polymerization-drying printing ink is provided, which does not contain cobalt capable of exerting an adverse influence on the environment and health and which is environmentally friendly. A printing ink containing the drier is also provided. The drier for oxidative polymerization-drying printing ink contains a cerium salt of a fatty acid and a manganese salt of a fatty acid.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: DAINIPPON INK AND CHEMICALS, INC.Inventors: Makoto Nomura, Kosaku Nishiyama, Masanori Kasai, Hideo Ishii
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Publication number: 20040040469Abstract: A method for the preparation of pigment granules includes mixing at least one pigment selected from the group consisting of iron oxide and chromium oxides with 1-25 wt. % water to form a damp powder. The damp powder is then pressure extruded through at least one die to form granules. The granules are then dried so that the final water content of the granules is less than about 1%, crumbled and sieved to form the final product.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Elementis Pigments, Inc.Inventors: Hugh Joseph McAulay, George Podolsky, Andrew Morris, Roy Laundon
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Publication number: 20040040470Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the preparation of carbonaceous materials comprising a plurality of gamma-keto-carboxyl containing functional groups surface bonded thereto, and further provides several surface modified carbonaceous materials resulting therefrom.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Bollepalli Srinivas
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Publication number: 20040040471Abstract: The invention relates to pigment preparations containing (a) at least one organic or inorganic pigment; (b) at least one cyclic imide of general formula (1) wherein R1 represents a linear-chain, branched or cyclic aliphatic radical having 10 to 30—preferably 12 to 25—carbon atoms, or an alkenyl radical having 10 to 30—preferably 12 to 25—carbon atoms, the aforementioned radicals being able to be substituted by at least one, e.g. 2, 3, 4 or 5, substituent from the group consisting of C1-C6-alkyl, C1-C6-alkoxy, C6-C10-aryl, hydroxy, carboxy, and sulfo, R2, R3, R4 and R5 are the same or different and represent hydrogen, C1-C10-alkyl, C1-C10-alkoxy, halogen, OR6, NR6R7, —COOR6, —CONR6R7, —NR6—COR7, SO2NR6R7, —SO3M, —NO2, —CN or CF3, R6 and R7 representing H or an alkyl radical having 1 to 10 C atoms and M representing an equivalent of a cation having a valency of 1 to 3; and (c) optionally further standard additives.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Martin Alexander Winter, Andreas Harz, Hans Joachim Metz
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Publication number: 20040040472Abstract: A method of recycling cement kiln dust (CKD) generated during the direct manufacturing of cement. The recycling process utilizes the creation of a flowable slurry comprising CKD, a process aid, optionally other raw materials and water. The process aid is selected from the group consisting of sucrose, raffinose, lignin, methylglucopyranoside, lactose, fructose, sodium polyphosphate, trehalose and mixtures thereof, and is added to increase the flowability of the slurry and thereby simplifying recycling. The slurry is reintroduced into the cement kiln, wherein it is burned to create cement clinkers, that are subsequently ground to the fineness required for hardening when reacted with water.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Donald Everett
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Publication number: 20040040473Abstract: A gypsum-based molding material is customized by hydrating the molding material to workable (malleable) consistency with a moistening solution containing 0.001% to 35% polytetrafluoroethylene.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Jose Walter
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Publication number: 20040040474Abstract: Extremely fast setting of cementitious compositions for producing cement-based products such as cement boards is made possible by adding an alkanolamine to a hydraulic cement such as portland cement, and forming a slurry with water under conditions that provide an initial slurry temperature of at least 90° F. Use of alkanolamine under conditions disclosed herein allows an extremely rapid setting of the cementitious composition. Additional reactive materials may be included such as high alumina cement, calcium sulfate and a pozzolanic material such as fly ash. The extremely fast rapid set permits rapid production of cementitious products.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Marianela Perez-Pena, Ashish Dubey
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Publication number: 20040040475Abstract: The present invention relates to an additive which is added in order to reinforce cement. The additive comprises chlorides of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals and/or transition metals and oxides selected from the group consisting of alkali metal and alkaline earth metal oxides, aluminum oxide, silica, apatite and/or zeolites and comprises, in particular, a combination of sodium chloride, ammonium chloride, aluminium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulphate, sodium carbonate, silica, apatite and/or zeolites. Additives of this type can be used, inter alia, to stabilize/modify cement; consolidate sand and/or soil, such as when building roads, dykes, tunnels, foundations and the like, immobilize pollutants, during the injection of cement compositions, such as grouting, and for the production of concrete.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Robin De La Roij
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Publication number: 20040040476Abstract: A bacteria resistant butcher table is having a flat level top including a shallow tub within which is placed a butcher block or work surface. Water fills the tub over the top of the work surface insert and is frozen therein. As food preparation proceeds, layers of ice which now constitute the work surface are worn away and replaced by newly frozen water provided from around the sides of the work surface block. A refrigeration system is provided beneath the flat top and has its cooling coils arranged immediately beneath the tub. Water is provided through perforated water piping about the sides of the tub work surface insert. Four support legs include leveling pads or feet to keep the top perfectly level.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Wilfred F. Diers
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Publication number: 20040040477Abstract: Systems and methods for platforms designed to be loaded with pre-loaded 463L pallets or other pallets configured for use in a transport aircraft. The truck platform, once loaded with 463L pallets, is then loaded onto a truck (in particular a PLS truck or other truck utilizing a hook system such as those used to load traditional CROPs or flatracks) for ground transport.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Kenneth M. Neumann
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Publication number: 20040040478Abstract: The present invention is a tablecloth that, although appearing to be a regular overhanging tablecloth, is secured to the table by a skirt that is sewn to the tablecloth and which connects to the table such that the tablecloth will not blow off in the wind. Preferably, the skirt surrounds the entire peripheral edge of the table and is secured to the table by an elastic edge.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Sally Skertchly
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Publication number: 20040040479Abstract: A shelf of the present invention includes a plate member, a band, and a plurality of posts, which are mounted to the plate member. Each of the posts includes a slot that receives the band and supports the band to form a fence around at least a portion of the plate member.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Floyd A. Searer, Michael L. Gingrich
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Publication number: 20040040480Abstract: The present invention provides tables having a tabletop whose height is adjustable. A table according to the present invention is useful among other employments as a coffee table whose height can be varied to suit the needs of persons using the table for various purposes, including game playing. A table with adjustable height top portion according to the invention is attractive and functional Various means for maintaining the selected height at which the table top is set are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Sunny Hwang
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Publication number: 20040040481Abstract: A device serves for transplanting trees or shrubs. The device comprises a carrier that is capable of encircling the tree or the shrub. Circularly arced slideways are supported on the carrier, and spades are adjustably supported along the slideways. The spades can be adjusted from a digging position, in which they encircle the tree or shrub, to a transport position, in which they substantially complement each other to form a bowl. So that the spades can be easily adjusted, the slideways are accommodated in guide boxes. The guide boxes are supported on the carrier so that they can be adjusted independently of each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Dieter Opitz
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Publication number: 20040040482Abstract: From a light source (51), light beams (57) are directed tangentially through the hook body (17), the hook base (27), and the bobbin case (28), onto a light receiver (53). Using the time (t) or the position of angular rotation of the hook body (17) at the impingement of the first light beam (57), the diameter of the bobbin packing on the lower thread bobbin (29) can be calculated.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Fritz Gegauf Aktiengesellschaft BERNINA-NahmaschinenfabrikInventor: Hans Fluckiger
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Publication number: 20040040483Abstract: A sewing apparatus such as a household sewing machine includes a needle bar on which a sewing needle is mounted, a needle bar vertically moving mechanism vertically moving the needle bar, a thread cassette having a thread accommodating section accommodating a supply of thread, a cassette mount to which the thread cassette is detachably attached, a threading mechanism operated in synchronization with attachment of the thread cassette to the cassette mount when the needle bar is stopped at a predetermined position, the threading mechanism passing the thread drawn from the thread cassette through an eye of the needle mounted on the needle bar, and a threading limiting unit limiting the threading mechanism so that the threading mechanism is inoperative in a case where the thread cassette is attached to the cassette mount when the apparatus is disconnected from a power supply.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: BROTHER KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Kaoru Sakakibara, Akira Kaiya
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Publication number: 20040040484Abstract: Trim with decorative double lipped fastening structure comprising a first set of threads folded near a midpoint and knotted together providing a knot near a midpoint of the threads with a fringe end and a folded end on opposite sides of the knot. A second set of threads adjacent the first set of threads is similarly folded and knotted. A lip is provided by a cross stitching connecting the folded ends of the first and second set of threads side by side. A second lip of thread having a plurality of folds folded to length equal to the length of the folded ends of the first and second set of threads are held together by a cross stitching. An end of the second lip is fastened adjacent the first and second knots by a cross stitching providing a bottom of a fastening channel of uniform depth.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: BRIMAR Inc.Inventor: Martin Gerster
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Publication number: 20040040485Abstract: A power steering system for a watercraft comprises a hydraulically actuated, unbalanced steering cylinder assembly, a pressure source, and helm that is spaced from the steering cylinder assembly. The helm includes a helm cylinder having a slave chamber fluidically coupled to a second chamber in the steering cylinder, a high pressure port fluidically coupled to the outlet of the pressure source and to a first chamber in the steering cylinder, and a return port fluidically coupled to vent. A helm piston is slidably mounted in the helm cylinder, and a control valve assembly is movable between at least first and second positions to alternatively couple a control chamber in the helm cylinder to the high pressure and return ports. In order to facilitate mounting of the helm to the dash of the watercraft, the helm has only three ports, and all three ports are all located on a rear axial end of the helm cylinder. The helm cylinder also is very compact, having a diameter of no more than about +3″.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Mark X Steering Systems, LLCInventor: James M. Hundertmark
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Publication number: 20040040486Abstract: A mooring assembly including two detachably coupled elements configured and dimensioned so that one of the elements passes through the other element as the boat is being piloted in a travel direction by the unassisted boater. The elements engage one another upon reversing the direction of advancement of the boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Joseph A. Pufahl
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Publication number: 20040040487Abstract: The invention relates to a floating platform (1) for offshore drilling or production of hydrocarbons, comprising a topsides (2) and a structure (3) having a lower pontoon (4) and columns (5) connecting the pontoon (4) to the topsides (2). Heave motion (S1, S2) of the platform (1) causes a change in the metacentric height (GM) of the platform. To counteract this change in metacentric height, the columns (5) are so adapted that the moment of area inertia of the waterline area of the columns (5) decreases on downward heave motion (S1) and increases on upward heave motion (S2.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Per Herbert Kristensen, Ida Husem, Erik Pettersen
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Publication number: 20040040488Abstract: A pontoon including a generally elongated shell. The shell has a shell peripheral wall surrounding a shell inner volume. The shell defines at least one end aperture extending into the shell inner volume from one of the shell longitudinal ends. A filling component is positioned within the shell inner volume. The filling component is made out of a generally buoyant material. Manufacturing the pontoon involves slidably inserting the filling component into the end aperture in a direction generally along the shell longitudinal axis and towards the opposed shell longitudinal end. The volume of the filling component slidably inserted into the shell is such that the combination of the shell and the filling component forms a generally buoyant combination. Chambers including ballast sections for receiving ballast material may be formed in the shell inner volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Paul Trepanier
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Publication number: 20040040489Abstract: A combination boat and distressed boat flotation apparatus, a distressed boat flotation apparatus, and methods of installing and using a boat flotation apparatus are provided. The combination preferably includes a boat including a boat hull and a plurality of flotation containers positioned to substantially surround the boat hull and positioned to be inflated with a gas responsive to the boat hull being in a distressed condition so that the boat is prevented from sinking by the inflated plurality of flotation containers. The apparatus of the combination also preferably includes a plurality of moisture sensors each positioned in the boat hull to sense the distressed condition and a distressed condition controller positioned in communication with the plurality of moisture sensors and the plurality of flotation containers to control the inflation of the plurality of flotation containers responsive to at least one of the plurality of moisture sensors sensing the distressed condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Calford S. Martin
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Publication number: 20040040490Abstract: &bgr;-ZrNCl polycrystalline powder prepared by chemical transport method and NH4Cl are mixed in a molar ratio of 1:2. The mixture is encapsulated in a Au capsule (6 mm in inner diameter and 6 mm in depth) of a reaction vessel 2, which is then enclosed in a highly heat-conductivitive sodium chloride block as an electrically insulating pressure medium 6. The mixture held in the sodium chloride block is placed in a carbon tube 8 for serving as a heater. In a cubic-pressing apparatus using a pyrophyllite 12 as a pressure-transmitting medium, the mixture is heated at 900° C. for 2 hours under an applied pressure of 3 GPa. After the mixture is allowed to stand until it is cooled down to room temperature, the Au capsule is taken out and light green &bgr;-ZrNCl single crystals are obtained. A large single crystal among them had a hexagonal plate-like habit and is transparent with dimensions about 2 mm in diameter, and 0.3 mm in thickness.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: JAPAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Shoji Yamanaka, Xuean Chen
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Publication number: 20040040491Abstract: A silicon single crystal wafer for a particle monitor is presented, which wafer has an extremely small amount in the surface density of light point defects and is capable of still maintaining a small surface density even after repeating the SC-1. The wafer is prepared by slicing a silicon single crystal ingot including an area in which crystal originated particles are generated, and the surface density of particles having a size of not less than 0.12 &mgr;m is not more than 15 counts/cm2 after repeating the SC-1. More preferably, a silicon single crystal wafer having a nitrogen concentration of 1×1013-1×1015 atoms/cm3 provides a surface density of not more than 1 counts/cm2 for the particles having a diameter of not less than 0.12 &mgr;m even after repeating the SC-1. Hence, a high quality wafer optimally used for a particle monitor can be obtained and a very small number of defects in the wafer make it possible to produce devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Hiroki Murakami, Masahiko Okui, Hiroshi Asano
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Publication number: 20040040492Abstract: A partial SOI substrate is obtained by performing a step of forming a partial insulating layer on the first substrate, a step of selectively growing the first semiconductor layer on an exposed portion of the first substrate, a step of growing the second semiconductor layer in the partial insulating layer on the first semiconductor layer, and a step of forming a bonded substrate by bonding the second substrate to the second semiconductor layer of the first substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Kiyofumi Sakaguchi
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Publication number: 20040040493Abstract: A semiconductor structure including a cap layer formed over a semiconductor substrate having a rough edge, which discourages formation of dislocation pile-up defects.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: AmberWave Systems CorporationInventors: Christopher J. Vineis, Richard Westhoff, Mayank Bulsara
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Publication number: 20040040494Abstract: A method of forming (and apparatus for forming) a layer, such as a strontium titanate, barium titanate, or barium-strontium titanate layer, on a substrate by employing a vapor deposition method, particularly a multi-cycle atomic layer deposition process.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC.Inventors: Brian A. Vaartstra, Stefan Uhlenbrock
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Publication number: 20040040495Abstract: MBE nitrogen sources of dimethylhydrazine, tertiarybutlyhydrazine, nitrogentrifloride, and NHx radicals. Those nitrogen sources are beneficial in forming nitrogen-containing materials on crystalline subtrates using MBE. Semiconductor lasers in general, and VCSEL in particular, that have nitrogen-containing layers can be formed using such nitrogen sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Ralph H. Johnson, Jin K. Kim, James K. Guenter
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Publication number: 20040040496Abstract: A reactant gas (C) is supplied from a reactant gas supply means (1) concentratedly to active areas (A1) alone on a target article (A), a photochemical reaction between excimer UV and the reactant gas (C) is thereby accelerated in a low-temperature atmosphere. The reactant gas (C) is not supplied to areas (A2), where the photochemical reaction does not actively occur, and is not wasted. A reactant gas source having a large gas-supply capability is not required. The photochemical reaction can be stably performed with a simple structure in a low-temperature atmosphere.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Tadatomo Ohnoda, Ikuo Sakai
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Publication number: 20040040497Abstract: A silica glass crucible is disclosed comprising a barium-doped inner wall layer. The crucible is made by introducing into a rotating crucible mold bulk silica grain to form a bulky wall. After heating the interior of the mold to fuse the bulk silica grains, an inner silica grain, doped with barium, is introduced. The heat at least partially melts the inner silica grain, allowing it to fuse to the wall to form an inner layer. The inner layer of the crucible crystallizes when used in a CZ process, extending the operating life of the crucible.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Katsuhiko Kemmochi, Robert Mosier, Paul Spencer
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Publication number: 20040040498Abstract: The invention relates to a backing lath (6, 14) used for coating a web of paper or paperboard in doctor blade and rod coaters and film-transfer coaters, the backing lath featuring a fiber-reinforced composite material body. When necessary, the backing lath can be surfaced with a wear-resistant coating. The invention also concerns a doctor element assembly, wherein the backing lath has a fiber-reinforced composite material body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Petri Parni, Rami Vanninen
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Publication number: 20040040499Abstract: An exhaust monitoring cup which measures exhaust gas flowing through a top opening in a coater cup of a spin coating apparatus used in the deposition of photoresist coatings on semiconductor wafers. The exhaust monitoring cup includes a gas flow cup which is positioned in fluid communication with the top opening of the coater cup. The exhaust gas flows through a gas flow opening in the gas flow cup, and a flow rate measuring apparatus at the gas flow opening receives the exhaust gas and measures the flow rate thereof. The flow rate of the gas leaving the gas flow cup can be compared to the flow rate of the gas flowing from an exhaust conduit leading from the bottom of the coater cup, to facilitate detection of abnormal conditions in the coater cup or exhaust conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kuo-Chen Huang, Chang-Shing Chen, Hsin-Yi Ho
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Publication number: 20040040500Abstract: A semi-automated coating system for providing medical devices with antimicrobial coatings is disclosed. The semi-automated coating system extends the coating solution's usable life span by minimizing exposure to light, air and temperature extremes. Moreover, the disclosed semi-automated coating system minimizes operator and environmental exposure to the coating solutions. Methods for coating medical devices using the semi-automated coating system are also provided. The methods disclose techniques for preparing coating solutions, setting up the coating system and operating the device. Moreover, the systems and methods described herein minimize operator intervention with the coating processes and provide superior product consistency.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Mark S. Bouchier, Robert E. Lund, James A. Gohman, Randall P. Rowland
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Publication number: 20040040501Abstract: A method of forming (and apparatus for forming) a zirconium and/or hafnium-containing layer on a substrate, particularly a semiconductor substrate or substrate assembly, using a vapor deposition process and one or more silicon precursor compounds of the formula Si(OR)4 with one or more zirconium and/or hafnium precursor compounds of the formula M(NR′R″)4, wherein R, R′, and R″ are each independently an organic group and M is zirconium or hafnium.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC.Inventor: Brian A. Vaartstra
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Publication number: 20040040502Abstract: An improved gas precursor delivery system for a deposition chamber is disclosed. The system includes, in a preferred embodiment, a shower head containing holes through which the gas precursors will be delivered to the deposition chamber. Each hole within the shower head has associated with it a flow regulating micromachine, such as a microvalve or micropump, for independently regulating the flow of the precursor into the deposition chamber, and if necessary, for vaporizing the source chemical. Each micromachine is preferably associated with a single precursor source, and hence precursor lines are not shared and thus do not need to be purged with the introduction of each new precursor, saving manufacturing time and decreasing wasted precursor gas. Precise control of precursors into the chamber via the micromachines allows film stochiometry and thickness to be carefully controlled.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Cem Basceri, Gurtej S. Sandhu
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Publication number: 20040040503Abstract: An improved gas precursor delivery system for a deposition chamber is disclosed. The system includes, in a preferred embodiment, a shower head containing holes through which the gas precursors will be delivered to the deposition chamber. Each hole within the shower head has associated with it a flow regulating micromachine, such as a microvalve or micropump, for independently regulating the flow of the precursor into the deposition chamber, and if necessary, for vaporizing the source chemical. Each micromachine is preferably associated with a single precursor source, and hence precursor lines are not shared and thus do not need to be purged with the introduction of each new precursor, saving manufacturing time and decreasing wasted precursor gas. Precise control of precursors into the chamber via the micromachines allows film stochiometry and thickness to be carefully controlled.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Cem Basceri, Gurtej S. Sandhu
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Publication number: 20040040504Abstract: The present invention provides an evaporation apparatus, which is one type of film formation apparatus and provides superior uniformity in EL layer film thickness, superior throughput, and improved utilization efficiency of EL materials and an evaporation method. The present invention is characterized in that an evaporation source holder, in which a container that encloses an evaporation material is disposed, is moved at a certain pitch with respect to a substrate during evaporation. Further, a film thickness monitor is integrated with the evaporation source holder for the movement. Furthermore, film thickness can be made uniform by adjusting the moving speed of the evaporation source holder in accordance with values measured by the film thickness monitor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shunpei Yamazaki, Masakazu Murakami
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Publication number: 20040040505Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus for delivering liquid precursors to semi-conductor processing apparatus. The liquid precursor delivery system is generally indicated at 10 and includes a source 11, an inlet tube 12, a two-way valve 13, a pump assembly 14, an outlet tube 15, a shut-off valve 16 and a flash evaporator 17. The pump assembly 14 is in the form of a syringe or variable volume pump and is controlled by a combination of a step motor 27 and a linear encoder 30. The arrangement is such that unused liquid precursor can be returned to the source.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: John MacNeil
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Publication number: 20040040506Abstract: A high throughput apparatus for depositing one or more thin film layers on a plurality of continuous web substrates. The apparatus includes a pay-out unit for dispensing a plurality of webs, a deposition unit that receives the plurality of webs and deposits a series of one or more thin film layers thereon, and a take-up unit that receives and stores the plurality of webs upon deposition of the thin film layers. High throughput is achieved through the simultaneous deposition of thin films on a plurality of web substrates. In a preferred embodiment, deposition occurs through plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition in which a plasma region is formed between a cathode in the deposition unit and the plurality of webs. Deposition precursors are introduced into the plasma region and are transformed to reactive species that form a thin film layer on the plurality of web substrates.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Herbert C. Ovshinsky, Kevin Hoffman, Joachim Doehler, Mark Lycette, James Key
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Publication number: 20040040507Abstract: It is required for the conventional plasma processing apparatus used for plasma processing in a reduced pressure atmosphere to replace the component parts such as earth member frequently as the expendable supplies because an insulation-processed layer and the substrate itself are thinned due to plasma and impurities contained in these thinned materials diffuse into plasma to result in adverse effect on a sample such as wafer, and thinning of the insulation-processed layer due to plasma and resultant electrical effect of the thinning of the insulation-processed layer cause the change of the state of plasma. The invention solves the problem by using electrically conductive ceramic that is formed of a baked material mainly composed of alumina for component parts of the apparatus in the plasma processing apparatus used for plasma processing of an sample to be processed such as wafer in a reduced pressure atmosphere.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Susumu Tauchi, Masanori Kadotani, Muneo Furuse, Motohiko Yoshigai
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Publication number: 20040040508Abstract: The present invention is directed to a semiconductor thermal processing system and an apparatus for thermally cooling a semiconductor substrate. According to one aspect of the present invention, a semiconductor thermal processing system and associated apparatus and method are disclosed which provides a segmented cold plate situated within a process chamber, wherein a plurality of segments of the cold plate are operable to radially translate between an engaged position and a disengaged position, wherein a substrate holder may pass between the plurality of segments when the segments are in the disengaged position. According to another aspect, an elevator is operable to linearly translate a substrate residing on a substrate holder between a heating position proximate to a heater assembly and a cooling position proximate to the segmented cold plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Ali Shajii, David Tao, Mathias Koch, Douglas Brown, Hossein Zarrin
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Publication number: 20040040509Abstract: An apparatus and a method for preventing etchant condensation on a wafer surface positioned in a wafer cool-down chamber after plasma etching. The apparatus of the process chamber includes a chamber enclosure of elongated shape with an aperture in a top plate, a heating means mounted on the top plate for heating a wafer through the aperture positioned in the cavity; and an exhaust means in fluid communication with an exhaust opening provided at a back end of the chamber enclosure for evacuating gaseous content in the cavity during and after the heating of the wafer, and for cooling the wafer after the radiant heater is turned off.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kuo-Liang Lu, Chin-Yuan Hsu, Wen-Zhong Ho, Chong-Lee Chen
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Publication number: 20040040510Abstract: A semiconductor wafer susceptor for batch substrate processing. The susceptor includes a central region in a primary plane and a plurality of flat annular extensions extending below the central region in a secondary plane. The primary and secondary planes are parallel to each other. An edge of the substrate overhangs the central region allowing no contact of the susceptor with the substrate edge.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventors: Anthony Dip, Takanori Saito, Raymond Joe
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Publication number: 20040040511Abstract: A method of introducing a substance into an avian egg such that potential contamination is substantially reduced includes removing an avian egg containing a live avian embryo from an incubator; applying a sanitizing fluid to the shell of the egg to kill pathogens attached thereto; forming an opening in the shell; inserting an injection device through the opening; releasing a substance into the egg via the needle; retracting the injection device from the egg; and applying a sanitizing fluid to the needle to kill pathogens attached thereto. Prior to injection, the sanitizing fluid is applied to substantially the entire surface of the egg shell.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Christopher John Williams
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Publication number: 20040040512Abstract: The invention refers to a device for supporting a milking member in a milking stall (1) and to a milking stall arrangement. The milking member includes a claw (8), a number of teacups (9) connected to the claw, and a long conduit member (11, 12) connecting the claw to a milk-receiving member (7). The stall includes an enclosing structure (2) defining a space (3) for an animal to be milked, and a passage (4) permitting the animal to enter and/or exit the space. The device (15) includes an arm (16), which has a first end portion and a second end portion and is pivotable between an active milking position and a retracted position between milking operations. The arm includes a member (25) for supporting the milking member in the active and inactive positions. A first stop (41, 23) defines the active position of the arm and a second stop (42, 23) defines the inactive position of the arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: John Hayne
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Publication number: 20040040513Abstract: A system and method is shown for processing animals, such as calves, from birth to slaughter by utilizing hot-fed rations during the feeding process. The system and method reduces or eliminates the need to use hormones and simultaneously reduces or eliminates the need to sterilize the meat products. Each calf or animal is weaned at a weaning station, fed at a feeding station, slaughtered at a slaughter station to provide a carcass that is substantially the same size as other carcasses for the same breed of animal processed in the system. The consistent carcass size enables manufacture of consistent carcasses which, in turn, facilitates providing substantially the same size meat cuts. This feature enables use of a standard-size packaging, such as a case-ready package, which may be shipped for display and purchase at a store.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: David H. Long
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Publication number: 20040040514Abstract: A method of ornamenting conduits, cylindrical or otherwise, as well as other tubes, filters, narrow and cylindrical surfaces which can be found in an aquarium or terrarium whereby the tubes, conduits, and cylinders are provided with attachment members on their exteriors and ornaments are provided with attachment members so that the ornaments can be placed on the exteriors of the tubes, conduits, and cylinders enabling the texture or appearance of the exterior to be changed to produce a pleasing and aesthetic effect. The conduits and other aquarium equipment with attachment members on their narrow or cylindrical surfaces, as well as the ornaments with corresponding attachment members or regions are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Robert Edward Lloyd