Patents Issued in April 22, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040074435
    Abstract: A cooking thermometer having an audible alarm includes a skewer having a segment of a shape memory alloy wire disposed therein. The upper end of the shape memory allow wire is secured to a connecting rod which is operatively associated with a cam assembly. When the skewer and hence the shape memory alloy wire is heated, the shape memory alloy commences a phase transformation from martensite to austenite and contracts. The cam assembly serves to translate the up and down motion of the connecting rod into rotational motion which is transmitted through a spur gear assembly to a pivoting pointer positionable over a temperature indicia plate. A helical spring assembly is positioned on the top of the connecting rod which exerts stress on the connecting rod and shape memory alloy wire during the phase transformation to extend the temperature transformation range and improve and optimize the linearity of the transition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dolores C. Kaiser, Tommi L. Kuutti
  • Publication number: 20040074436
    Abstract: Magnetic bookmark including a soft sheet formed with at least one weakened foldable section dividing the soft sheet into at least two folding faces. At least one magnetically attracting section and at least one magnetically attractable section are disposed on each of the folding faces. The two folding faces are foldable toward each other about the foldable section to attract and attach to each other. Accordingly, the folded bookmark can ride on a page with the magnetically attracting section and magnetically attractable section of the folding faces attracting each other so as to clip the page.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Wu
  • Publication number: 20040074437
    Abstract: A method of growing single crystal Gallium Nitride on silicon substrate is disclosed including: removing oxide layer of silicon substrate, growing buffer layer of Silicon Carbon Nitride (SiCN), and growing single crystalline Gallium Nitride thin film, characterized in that a buffer layer of SiCN is grown to avoid lattice mismatch which appears when Gallium Nitride is grown directly on silicon substrate, and that Rapid Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition is adopted to grow SiCN buffer layer, and that Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition is adopted to grow single crystalline GaN thin film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Yean Kuen Fang, Wen Rong Chang, Shyh Fann Ting, Hon Kuan, Cheng Nan Chang
  • Publication number: 20040074438
    Abstract: A method of forming a layer of tungsten consisting of separate atomic layers upon a substrate, comprising the following steps. Atomic layers of tungsten are formed upon the substrate by sequentially introducing and purging A, B and C Cycles of gasses. The A Cycle comprising a first gas at a first flow rate for a first time. The B Cycle comprising a second gas at a second flow rate for a second time. The C Cycle comprising the third gas at a third flow rate for a third time. A First Cycle Set comprises an A Cycle and a B Cycle while a Second Cycle Set comprises an A Cycle, a B Cycle and a C Cycle. Whereby a series of First Cycle Sets with a number of Second Cycle Sets at a variable frequency are performed to form the layer of tungsten so that impurities are substantially eliminated within the formed layer of tungsten.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Chii-Ming Wu, Shau-Lin Shue
  • Publication number: 20040074439
    Abstract: A system and method for applying adhesive to at least a first end of a rod-shaped member, such as a cotton swab stick includes a carrier, an adhesive applicator, and a rotator device. The carrier conveys the rod-shaped member or stick in a machine direction and also allows rotation of the rod-shaped member about its longitudinal axis. The adhesive applicator includes an application surface positioned to engage the first end of the rod-shaped member. The application surface includes at least one discharge passage for applying adhesive to the first end of the rod-shaped member. The rotator device rotates the rod relative to the application surface and about its longitudinal axis as the rod-shaped member is conveyed along the application surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Wesley C. Fort, James Keough, Leslie J. Varga
  • Publication number: 20040074440
    Abstract: An assembly is disclosed treating a moving web (1) of paper or paperboard with a web treatment substance, the assembly comprising an application chamber (P2) located in a close vicinity of the moving web (1) and facing the web (1), whereby the chamber is delineated by the web (1), the walls (12) of the coater apparatus and sealing means (18, 24, 35) adapted to operate at the web ingoing and outgoing sides of the application chamber (P2). For application of the web treatment substance, the assembly includes at least one linear nozzle array incorporating at least one nozzle (21) for spraying the web treatment substance onto the web (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Vilho Nissinen, Juha Leimu, Rauno Rantanen
  • Publication number: 20040074441
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying a fluid preservative to wood or wood products has a work tank for maintaining a predetermined concentration of preservative in the fluid. The work tank is equipped with a heater to keep the temperature of the fluid and the preservative in the work tank at a predetermined level. Hot fluid and preservative is drawn under a vacuum, initially from the work tank. On filling a pressure vessel, a pressure pump then supplies the preservative and fluid mixture under pressure to the pressure vessel in which the wood or wood product is being treated. As the treatment process depletes the preservative in the fluid, through absorption in the wood, the depleted fluid is circulated back to the work tank where it is heated and more preservative is added to restore the concentration of preservative in the fluid to a desired level. The fluid, replenished with preservative, is then pumped into the pressure vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: James N. Ray
  • Publication number: 20040074442
    Abstract: An applicator device and method where on the one hand adherence of particles in the dispensing area of the applicator nozzle, and on the other hand a thermal deflection of applicator device components can be prevented, or at least minimized. At least one thermal control channel through which a fluid flows is integrated into at least one of the two nozzle lips of the applicator device. Water or air can be used as temperature controlling fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Eckart Krageloh, Franz Fischer, Philipp Speidel, Christoph Henninger
  • Publication number: 20040074443
    Abstract: A chill drum (14′) is modified to improve heat transfert between the drum and a flexible web substrate (20) disposed around the drum. The drum surface (22) contains a series of passages (44) and distribution holes (46). A working gas is injected into these passages and flows out of the distribution holes into the space between the web and drum. A cover (32) prevents working gas from escaping from frum passages in the area not covered by the web, and supplies the working gas to the passages at the drum cover. Once gas is in the passages, leakage only occurs from the edges of the web. The pressure in the passages remains essentially constant around the drum, producing uniform elevated pressures under the entire web. Elevated pressure behind the web significantly improves overall heat transfert, thereby allowing higher deposition rates and other process advantages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: John Madocks
  • Publication number: 20040074444
    Abstract: An ion source is provided wherein depositing gas and/or maintenance gas is/are introduced into the ion source via the vacuum/depositing chamber, thereby reducing the amount(s) of undesirable insulative build-ups on the anode and/or cathode of the source in an area proximate the electric gap between the anode and cathode. In certain embodiments, an insulative and/or dielectric insert(s) and/or layer(s) is/are provided in at least part of an area between the anode and cathode so as to help reduce undesirable insulative build-ups on the anode and/or cathode. More efficient ion source operations is thus achievable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Viyayen S. Veerasamy, Rudolph Hugo Petrmichl
  • Publication number: 20040074445
    Abstract: The present invention provides a film deposition system capable of effectively cooling a work having a large volume, and a film deposition method using this system. The film deposition system has, within a vacuum chamber 1, an evaporation source 3 for forming a film on a work 2 and a cooling device 4 for cooling the work 2, characterized in that the work 2 has an internal space 15 communicating with the outside through an opening part 14, and the cooling device 4 is insertable to and drawable from the internal space 15 through the opening part 14 of the work 2 to cool the work 2 from the inside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd)
    Inventors: Hirofumi Fujii, Tadashi Kumakiri, Katuhiko Shimojima
  • Publication number: 20040074446
    Abstract: A quality assurance program for consistently producing high quality meat products broadly comprises selecting a plurality of calves that meet a set of standards and managing the calves according to a set of protocols. The standards are used to cull out low quality calves that are expected to yield low quality meat products. The protocols ensure the calves are properly nurtured so that they may yield high quality meat products by dictating how the calves are fed and treated. For example, the protocols preferably dictate what and when vaccines are given to the calves. The program may be broken down into three growth phases, such as an initiation phase in which the calves are managed during their first weeks, a growth phase in which the calves are managed during their growth, and a finishing phase in which the calves are managed leading up to slaughter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Raymond Hawn, Robert W. Balding
  • Publication number: 20040074447
    Abstract: This invention provides a method for initiation of farrowing of pregnant domestic swine within a predictable number of hours by administering a progesterone receptor antagonist. The present method also significantly reduces reduce stillborn pigs. A preferred progesterone receptor antagonist for use in the present method is RU38,486. The progesterone receptor antagonist can be administered to a pregnant swine via an appropriate route of administration, such as orally, intramuscularly or intravaginally. The present invention greatly facilitates human supervision and assistance during parturition, and is important for the production and profitability of farrowing operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Pfizer Inc
    Inventors: Douglas Mann, Paula Gaynor
  • Publication number: 20040074448
    Abstract: A method of herd management which includes providing each member of the herd with a device (eg; an intra vaginal device) capable of identifying the member, of sensing at least one physiological condition of the member of the herd and communicating with other such devices and/or a base station. With such communication the proximity of devices each other allows groupings to be determined such as a grouping indicative of behavioural oestrus. With such devices it is possible by monitoring groupings of the animal to determine those in oestrus and to have the device administer appropriate active ingredients to some of the animals of the herd.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Craig Robert Bunt, Peter Stephen Cross, Rainer Kunnemeyer, Dale Anthony Carnegie
  • Publication number: 20040074449
    Abstract: A simple, strong handle for use as a grip for holding articles is disclosed comprising a carabiner-like snap hook provided with a gripping surface of the proper size and shape to be comfortably held by a human hand. The snap hook has a generally C-shaped back portion on which the gripping surface is disposed, and a gate selectively attached to the back portion, forming a closed loop. Articles such as shopping bags and animal leashes received by the snap hook and secured by the gate may be held comfortably by the grip. The snap hook may be made of a variety of materials and shapes depending on the application and requirements of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Wendy Axel
  • Publication number: 20040074450
    Abstract: A diaper for a dog or other animal comprises a body band of sufficient length to be placed around the body of a dog that includes a fastening device such as Velcro to secure the body band about the waist of the dog. An elongate covering with stiffening member extends from the mid-section of the body band that is of sufficient length to cover the dog's genital area without overlapping the dog's anal area. Thus, normal bowel movement is not inhibited. The body band and the elongate covering are constructed of an inner layer consisting of a non-allergenic fabric to be disposed against the body and the genital area of the dog, a decorative outer layer to be exposed, and a moisture impermeable layer situated between the inner layer and outer layer to trap waste discharge. A pair of straps constructed of elastic material connect the body band to the elongate covering and maintain the covering and mid-section of the body band over the dog's genital area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Daryl Bruce Soares, Leslea Ann Soares
  • Publication number: 20040074451
    Abstract: An amount of energy consumption in a semiconductor fabrication facility can be reduced by using cooling water drained from a semiconductor fabrication apparatus as a heat source of another semiconductor fabrication apparatus. Cooling water of 80° C. drained from a heating furnace of a heat processing apparatus (10) is supplied to a deionized water heating apparatus (32) of a cleaning apparatus (30). The deionized water heating apparatus (32) raises a temperature of deionized water of a room temperature to 60° C. through heat exchange with the cooling water of 80° C. The cooling water, whose temperature falls to 30° C. after the heat exchange, is reutilized for cooling of the heating furnace (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Osamu Suenaga, Sadao Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20040074452
    Abstract: An emissions control system for the after treatment of a fuel combustion process exhaust stream includes an exhaust passageway. The exhaust passageway allows for passage of an exhaust stream containing exhaust byproducts from the combustion of a fuel that includes a manganese compound. The exhaust stream includes a manganese compound which complexes with at least one of the exhaust byproducts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory H. Guinther, Joseph W. Roos, David M. Human, Scott D. Schwab
  • Publication number: 20040074453
    Abstract: A diagnostic system according to the present invention diagnoses system failure of a secondary air injection system. The secondary air injection system includes a pump that provides air to an exhaust system via a conduit and a valve that controls the flow of air through the conduit. A pressure sensor measures pressure in the conduit. A controller predicts pressure in the conduit during first, second and third operational phases of the secondary air injection system. The controller compares the measured pressure to the predicted pressure to evaluate operation of the secondary air injection system. During the first phase, the secondary air injection system is used to reduce vehicle emissions. During the second phase, the valve is shut while the pump is on. During the third phase, the pump is turned off while the valve is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Matthew J. Roelle, Martin L. Hall, Daniel H. Hooker, Gary E. Johnston, Kevin E. Person, Jeffrey M. Polidan
  • Publication number: 20040074454
    Abstract: A work vehicle cooling system comprises a cooling fan (18) driven by the output from an engine (16), and a flow path for allowing an airflow (27) generated by the cooling fan (18) to be flown between the engine (16) and an operator's seat (14) without having passed through any of a radiator (20) and an oil cooler (21) for the engine (16). With this simple configuration, the heat generated by the engine (16) is prevented from being transmitted to the operator's seat (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Junji Mimuro, Shinichi Itou
  • Publication number: 20040074455
    Abstract: The flame propagation rate resulting from a combustion event in the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine is controlled by modulation of the heat transfer from the combustion flame to the combustion chamber walls. In one embodiment, heat transfer from the combustion flame to the combustion chamber walls is mechanically modulated by a movable member that is inserted into, or withdrawn from, the combustion chamber thereby changing the shape of the combustion chamber and the combustion chamber wall surface area. In another embodiment, heat transfer from the combustion flame to the combustion chamber walls is modulated by cooling the surface of a portion of the combustion chamber wall that is in close proximity to the area of the combustion chamber where flame speed control is desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Charles E. Roberts, Christopher J. Chadwell
  • Publication number: 20040074456
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine is disclosed, which have hydraulic valve actuators (11) each assigned to one gas exchange valve, with one adjusting piston (13) acting on the gas exchange valve and two hydraulic work chambers (121, 122) defined by the adjusting piston (13), of which chambers the first work chamber (121), acting on the gas exchange valve (10) in the closing direction, is constantly filled with fluid that is under pressure, and the second work chamber (122), acting on the gas exchange valve (10) in the opening direction, can be filled with and relieved of fluid that is under pressure in alternation via a first and second electrical control valve (24, 25; 26, 27).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Hermann Gaessler, Hubert Schweiggart, Bernd Rosenau, Ralph Engelberg
  • Publication number: 20040074457
    Abstract: The invention proposes a variable valve train (1) for throttle-free load control of an internal combustion engine. Each cylinder of the internal combustion engine is provided with two inlet valves (9). According to the invention, each inlet valve (9) cooperates with a particular adjusting element (8, 8a), and the adjusting elements (8, 8a) can be actuated independently of each another. This additionally enhances the variability of the valve train.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Gerhard Maas, Frank Himsel
  • Publication number: 20040074458
    Abstract: A valve timing control device includes a rotation member for opening and closing values, a rotation transmitting member rotatably mounted on the rotation member, a fluid chamber defined between the rotation member and the rotation transmitting member, a vane fitted into a vane groove formed on the rotation member or the rotation transmitting member so as to divide the fluid chamber into a advance angle pressure chamber and a retard angle pressure chamber, the vane groove having contacting portions contacted with the vane and an elastic member disposed between the vane and the rotation member or the rotation transmitting member, wherein the radial length between the bottom portion of the vane groove and a bottom portion side end portion of the contacting portion is larger than a radial length between the bottom portion of the vane groove and an engaging portion of the vane engaged with the elastic member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Motoo Nakamura, Shigeru Nakajima
  • Publication number: 20040074459
    Abstract: A rocker arm assembly includes an inner rocker arm and an outer rocker arm. The outer rocker arm includes two rail portions spaced a distance apart and forming an open space therebetween. The inner rocker arm is pivotably connected to the outer rocker arm such that it is at least partially within the open space. The inner rocker arm includes a locking pin housing containing two locking pins selectively engageable with holes in each of the rail portions to selectively prevent relative movement between the inner rocker arm and the outer rocker arm. The rocker arm assembly enables two-step valve operation and has a design characterized by compact size and improved manufacturability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Alan W. Hayman, Eric C. Douse
  • Publication number: 20040074460
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve lifter body, comprising an outer surface, enclosing a first cavity and a second cavity, wherein the first cavity includes a first inner surface configured to house a cylindrical insert, the second cavity includes a second inner surface cylindrically shaped, and at least one of the cavities is fabricated through forging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dhruva Mandal, Carroll Williams
  • Publication number: 20040074461
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a roller follower, comprising an outer surface, enclosing a first cavity and a second cavity, wherein the first cavity includes a first inner surface configured to house a cylindrical insert, the second cavity includes a second inner surface cylindrically shaped, and at least one of the cavities is fabricated through forging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dhruva Mandal, Carroll D. Williams
  • Publication number: 20040074462
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lash adjuster body, comprising A lash adjuster body, comprising an outer surface, enclosing a cavity, wherein the cavity includes an inner surface configured to accommodate an insert and a spring; and the cavity is fabricated through forging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dhruva Mandal, Carroll Williams
  • Publication number: 20040074463
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a socket, comprising, a body including a plurality of passages, a first surface, a second surface, and an outer surface; the first surface is configured to accommodate an insert; the second surface is configured to cooperate with an engine workpiece; the outer surface is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece; and at least one of the surfaces is fabricated through forging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Dhruva Mandal, Carroll Williams
  • Publication number: 20040074464
    Abstract: An independent electrical module 26 distributes an electrical signal to the terminals 24 of a fuel injector device in an engine. The module 26 comprises a self-supporting plastic lead frame 28 with copper ribbons 30 disposed on the plastic frame 28. Pluralities of terminal connectors 32 are separate from and movable relative to the frame 28 for being connected to the terminals 24. The ribbons 30 continue in a free and self-sustaining support portions 31 between the frame 28 and the terminal connectors 32 and are bendable for allowing movement of the connectors 32 relative to the frame 28. Each of the connectors 32 includes a polymeric body defining a pair of the sockets 36 with an electrical contact 38 in each of the sockets 36 and a pair of the bendable support portions 31 paired with the contacts 38 in each connector 32.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: James R. Zwick, Graylan Valentine, John Forish, Edward A. Ort, Joyce Pagtaconan
  • Publication number: 20040074465
    Abstract: A system for the management of fuel and fuel vapors in the cold start fuel passageway of an internal combustion engine which has a cold start fuel injector which, when activated, introduces fuel into the cold start fuel passageway. The system includes an engine control unit (ECU) which determines the probability of fuel within the cold start passageway. Different procedures programmed in the ECU are then utilized to dissipate the fuel from the cold start passageway. These procedures include delaying the initiation of the spark ignition for the engine, maintaining the heater associated with the cold start fuel injector activated for a period of time following deactivation of the cold start fuel injector, maintaining revolution of the internal combustion engine for a predetermined time period, as well as other strategies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Frank Warren Hunt, Shigeru Oho, Ayumu Miyajima
  • Publication number: 20040074466
    Abstract: A module for providing purified air to an internal combustion engine that does not use a throttle body. The module includes a housing an inlet for receiving fresh air and a filter for filtering the fresh air to provide purified air. The module is attached to the engine by at least one mounting member. The module also includes a plurality of runners extending between the housing and the at least one mounting member, wherein the runners direct the purified air to combustion chambers of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Siemens VDO Automotive Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Joseph Powell
  • Publication number: 20040074467
    Abstract: A sliding structure for an automotive engine includes a sliding member with a sliding portion and a lubricant applied to the sliding portion so that the sliding portion can make sliding contact with a counterpart member via the lubricant. The sliding member is either of a piston ring, a piston pin, a cam lobe, a cam journal, a plain bearing, a rotary vane and a timing chain. The sliding portion has a base made of a steel or aluminum material and a hard carbon film formed on the base to coat the sliding portion. The hard carbon film has a thickness of 0.3 to 2.0 &mgr;m, a Knoop hardness of 1500 to 4500 kg/mm2, a surface roughness Ry (&mgr;m) satisfying the following equation: Ry<{(0.75−Hk/8000)×h+0.07/0.8}, where h is the thickness (&mgr;m) of the film; and Hk is the Knoop hardness (kg/mm2) of the film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takahiro Hamada, Yutake Mabuchi, Makoto Kano, Yoshiteru Yasuda, Yusuke Okamoto
  • Publication number: 20040074468
    Abstract: An oil supply means is provided to supply the center portion of a rotating part of an Oldham coupling with oil. The oil spreads from the center of rotation to the outside of the Oldham coupling and makes it possible to prevent the Oldham coupling from wearing. A recess is also provided to direct the oil supplied from an engine to the inward portion of the Oldham coupling. Accordingly, the oil is supplied all over an Oldham projection so that it is possible to prevent the frictional wearing of the Oldham projection disposed inside the Oldham coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Tadaaki Makino, Katsumi Mori, Katsunori Furuta
  • Publication number: 20040074469
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus to determine an amount of aeration of fluids such as engine oil, thus permitting more aggressive operation of an oil-driven actuator, with fewer limitations in scheduling operation of the actuator. It includes monitoring engine speed and fluid temperature, and determining a first and second attitude of the engine relative to a first and second axis, and determines an amount of aeration of the fluid based upon those factors. The method determines an operating range of the fluid-driven actuator based upon the amount of aeration, and then permits the operation of the fluid-driven actuator within the operating range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: James Patrick Waters
  • Publication number: 20040074470
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for powering a motor by using a combination of an explosion motor and a turbine. The combustion reaction in said combination occurs by the reaction of a variable mixture consisting of silicon hydrogens, silicon powder in a water solution and air, whereby water and silicon nitride are produced as exhaust gas. The inner wall of the motor should be coated with silicon nitride, which continuously and simultaneously takes place during the combustion process. A sufficient lubricating film consisting of silicon nitride is always is always provided in the fringe area between the inner wall of the motor and the combustion chamber so that no friction occurs. After being expelled from the explosion engine, the excess heat in the combustion gases is mixed with cold, compressed air, which is then used to drive a turbine whose shaft is coupled to the shaft of the explosion engine to enable the latter to run uniformly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Peter Plichta
  • Publication number: 20040074471
    Abstract: A diesel engine capable of favorably preventing the generation of white smoke even when an engine load is shifted from a high load side to a low load side. For this purpose, a diesel engine (1) includes fuel injection timing control means (42) for controlling fuel injection timing, the fuel injection timing control means (42) advances the fuel injection timing by predetermined time when an engine load becomes a predetermined load (Ff) or lower in an engine stopping step of stopping the diesel engine while gradually reducing the engine load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Kinichirou Watanabe, Takashi Sakasai, Shouhei Nagasaka
  • Publication number: 20040074472
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel injector (1) for an internal combustion engine, in which the fuel jets (4a, 4b) emerging from two orifices (3a, 3b) collide prior to traveling to the ignition device. In this way, it is possible to produce an ignitable fuel mist in the vicinity of the ignition device, without the ignition device being directly struck by liquid fuel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Martin Wirth, Ulrich Kramer, Diana Zimmermann, Karl Walder
  • Publication number: 20040074473
    Abstract: A method and system for generating an idle control signal for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. Rotational speed, n, of the engine is measured. Combustion generated torque &tgr;ind is estimated as a function of the measured engine rotational speed, n. The idle control signal for the engine is produced as a function of the difference between: (A) a time rate of change in such measured engine rotational speed, dn/dt, and; (B) the sum of the estimated combustion generated torque &tgr;ind and a function of an engine idle speed error. The idle speed error is representative of the difference between an idle speed set point and the measured rotational speed, n. Thus, idle speed control is achieved using only a feedback system which responds to measured operating conditions of the engine rather than with a combination of feedback and a feedforward model which relies on a model of each individual engine loss or load to calculate the resulting impact on the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Carol Louise Okubo, John Ottavio Michelini
  • Publication number: 20040074474
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting a desired torque to a throttle area to generate the desired torque in an internal combustion engine including the steps of converting the desired torque to an air per cylinder value, converting the desired torque to an indicated mean effective pressure, converting the indicated mean effective pressure to a manifold pressure, and converting the manifold pressure to the throttle area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: David J. Stroh
  • Publication number: 20040074475
    Abstract: To avoid a sudden change in torque when switching over the valve lift of discretely adjustable inlet valves, the valve lift is firstly only adjusted for a section of cylinders, while the valve lift for the remaining section of cylinders is switched over after a delay. Therefore with each valve lift adjustment, only a slight change in torque has to be compensated by means of a corresponding change in the efficiency of the cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Frank Weiss, Hong Zhang
  • Publication number: 20040074476
    Abstract: A knock control apparatus normalizes a knock frequency magnitude and a background noise level to substantially the same levels in all the engine operating conditions in consideration of a variation in an ionic current level due to an environment, the number of revolutions per minute of the engine, an engine load, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Toshio Uchida, Kimihiko Tanaya
  • Publication number: 20040074477
    Abstract: An injection valve, in particular for an internal combustion engine, including a valve control piston (6), a valve control chamber (2) with an inlet throttle (4) and an outlet throttle (24) for actuating the valve control piston (6), a valve control unit, actuated by means of an actuator unit, in particular a piezoelectric actuator unit (8), for controlling the valve control chamber (2), which valve control unit is embodied in valvelike fashion and has a valve closing member (16) cooperating with at least one valve seat (17). To assure a high closing speed of the valve closing member (16), the valve closing member (16) and the at least one valve seat (17) are disposed in the valve control chamber (2) (FIG. 1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick Mattes
  • Publication number: 20040074478
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for injecting fuel into the combustion chambers of an internal combustion engine, with an injector (3) enclosed by an injector housing (2), whose control chamber (12) is acted on by a control volume, and with control valves (14, 15) for increasing/relieving the pressure in the nozzle chamber (10) of the injector (3) and in the control chamber (12) of the injector (3). The control valves (14, 15; 35) are disposed in parallel to one another. They are hydraulically coupled to one another without side effects by means of a coupling chamber (11), and are actuated by means of an actuator (13) that can be switched into different stroke levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Roger Potschin
  • Publication number: 20040074479
    Abstract: In an internal combustion engine, the fuel is conveyed by an electrically driven fuel pump. The intake side of this pump is connected to a fuel tank and its outlet side is connected to a pressure region. A prerun of the electrically driven fuel pump may be performed before the startup of the internal combustion engine. In order to increase the service life of the fuel pump, an actual pressure (pactual) in the pressure region may be detected by a pressure sensor and the execution of the prerun be a function of at least the signal of the pressure sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Klaus Joos, Jens Wolber, Thomas Frenz, Markus Amler, Karsten Hinn
  • Publication number: 20040074480
    Abstract: A flow including air and exhaust gas is received at a boost pressure at a plurality of cylinders (103). Exhaust gas is expelled from a first subset of the plurality of cylinders (103) into a first divided exhaust manifold (103). Exhaust gas is expelled from a second subset of the plurality of cylinders into a second divided exhaust manifold (111). The first subset and the second subset are different. An exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system receives at an EGR inlet (131 or 201 and 211) a part of the exhaust gas from the first divided exhaust manifold (109) and a part of the exhaust gas from the second divided exhaust manifold (111).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Kai Chen, Scott R. Peterson, Ning Lei
  • Publication number: 20040074481
    Abstract: An engine includes cams for actuating intake and exhaust valves controlling transport of air and combustion products to and from a combustion chamber of the engine. The cams have valve opening and closing curves capable of being timed so that the intake valve opening curve partially overlaps the exhaust valve closing curve, allowing retention of some combustion products in the combustion chamber with an incoming air charge. At least one of the cams has variable timing to vary the valve overlap for controlling the amount of exhaust gas retention or recirculation (EGR). The overlapping portions of the cam opening and closing curves are extended to provide a relatively linear variation in valve overlap area over the range of cam variable timing. Thus, variation of exhaust gas retention in the combustion chamber becomes a relatively constant function of the duration of valve overlap in each engine cycle and control of the amount of EGR is improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Brian W. Geiser
  • Publication number: 20040074482
    Abstract: An archery bowstring release assembly is provided with a flexible and infinitely adjustable connection between the bowstring release and the pull ring. A ring with a slot through the solid portion is attached to a wrist strap. The slot is threaded with a web material or cord; both ends are passed either through or against the ring and either clamped together or clamped against the ring. The clamp is positioned on the loop of material or cord so that the loop may be shortened or lengthened to adjust the distance from the wrist strap to the release.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Scott Archery Manufacturing
    Inventor: Brian K. Jones
  • Publication number: 20040074483
    Abstract: The invention is a broadhead arrowhead. The broadhead arrowhead includes a ferrule, one end portion of which is tapered to a substantial point. One or more blade assemblies extend outwardly from the ferrule. Each blade assembly has a first substantially planar main surface portion disposed in a plane at least substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the ferrule and a second surface portion having a planar region offset at an angle to the plane of the main surface portion. A generally continuously curved region is disposed between and connecting the first and second portions, such that the blade assembly has an airfoil-type shape. Only the first planar portion of the blade assembly is coupled to the ferrule thereby allowing the second portion to flex during penetration of a target and achieve greater penetration depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Todd A. Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20040074484
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a crossbow-type underwater gun having resilient propulsion means comprising at least two bungee type side resilient cords (8), the gun being characterized in that it includes a device for stretching said resilient cords (8) comprising:
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Gillet, Jacques Leroux