Abstract: A piston assembly for use in a hydraulic cylinder includes a piston head configured to slide axially within the hydraulic cylinder in response to changes in hydraulic pressure. The piston head has an axial through-hole. A piston rod has a proximal end axially abutting the piston head and a distal end extending outward through an end of the hydraulic cylinder. The proximal end of the piston rod has a threaded bore co-axial with the axial through-hole in the piston head. A bolt has a bolt head and an unthreaded shank portion adjacent the bolt head and a threaded shank portion away from the bolt head. The bolt secures the piston head to the proximal end of the piston rod when the bolt shank is inserted through the axial through-hole in the piston head and is threadingly engaged in the threaded bore in the piston rod. An annular washer is positioned and held captive on the unthreaded portion of the bolt shank between the bolt head and the piston head.

Abstract: An air drying system for a vehicle including an membrane air dryer is provided. The air dryer is supplied with a stream of compressed air that has a low and constant concentration of oil vapor. A coalescing filter element may be used to maintain the oil vapor concentration. The filtered material may be discharged from the coalescing filter by a pressure swing drain valve, which discharges the filtered material upon unloading of the compressor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus using deep pleated filters to provide efficient and safe electrically enhanced filtering (EEF), with ultra low pressure drop, higher efficiency of particulate removal and higher dirt holding capacity over the life of the filter. An EEF may be constructed with a housing, with or without an internal air moving device such as a fan, a deeply pleated filter, preferably a V-pack filter with sets of downstream ground electrodes and charge transfer electrodes borne by the exterior surface of the filter packs that form the filtering element. An ionizer assembly that ionizes the gas and charges particles entering the deeply pleated filter and also transfers a charge to the charge transfer electrodes on the filter pack. A plate seals the gasket on the filtering element against the ionizing assembly. A high electrical potential is applied to charging elements in the ionizer and, in some embodiments, a fan or motor assembly.

Abstract: A pressure swing adsorption process including the step of separating a gas mixture by absorbing a gas component in adsorbent beds provided within vessels, where the separating step has at least a two-stage pressure equalization and is performed with no more than five valves per vessel of the plurality of vessels. The process includes an adsorption step, a first pressure equalization step having at least two stages where the pressure decreases, a purge step, and a second pressure equalization step having at least two stages where the pressure increases. A pressure swing adsorption system is provided with vessels each having a first opening connected to a source manifold via a first valve and connected to a waste manifold via a second valve, and a second opening connected to a product manifold via a third valve and connected to an equalization conduit via a fourth valve and a fifth valve.

Abstract: A method for the separation of non-hydrocarbon gases from hydrocarbon gases, the method comprising the steps of: adding water and an agent adapted to reduce the interfacial tension between water and hydrocarbons to a first stream of desired hydrocarbon and undesired non-hydrocarbon gases to form a gas-agent-water mixture; pressurising the gas-agent-water mixture; and cooling the gas-water-agent mixture to initiate the formation of a hydrate richer in desired hydrocarbons and leaner in undesired non-hydrocarbons relative to the first stream of desired hydrocarbon and undesired non-hydrocarbon gases.

Abstract: A downhole liquid and gas separator system has a pump, a separator and a motor, and a shroud around the pump, separator and motor. The shroud has a lower impermeable portion with a closed lower end and an upper porous portion. The upper end of the impermeable portion is above the inlet port for the separator so that production fluid flows upwards between the well casing and the shroud, over the upper end of the impermeable portion and downwards to the inlet port, generating a pressure drop and releasing gas before the production fluid enters the separator.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved filtration system, filtering method and unique chemical composition for capturing mercury and other pollutants in flue gases generated by process gas streams. The improved filtration system may take various forms depending on the type of filter system most desired for a particular application; however, the filter system includes at least a filter element or elements and an adsorbent component having a composition suitable for capturing mercury on the downstream side of the filter element.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fixture type sterilizing and lighting apparatus provided together with a sterilizing apparatus and a lighting apparatus, so that it can accomplish a sterilization and an illumination concurrently by the same electric lamp, economize in energy and resources and solve one's double share in expenses. The fixture type sterilizing and lighting apparatus includes a ultraviolet electric lamp 1, 4, 22, 14 for emitting ultraviolet rays (wavelength of 253.7 nm); a fluorescent film 2, 5, 8, 15 formed with a fluorescent substance which emits the necessary rays such as visible rays, ultraviolet rays and infrared rays by the ultraviolet rays (wavelength of 253.7 nm) emitted from the above ultraviolet electric lamp 1, 4, 22, 14; a transparent tube or transparent plate 3, 6, 9, 16 coated with the above fluorescent film; (wavelength of 253.7 nm); and a reflection plate 17 for reflecting the ultraviolet rays (wavelength of 253.

Abstract: A pump transfers syrup through a supply line and through a valve assembly for mixing with ice cream in a mixing chamber to form a frozen dessert or milkshake. When the syrup flows through the passive valve, the pressure along the supply line increases. When syrup delivery is complete, a first timer is initiated to dispense ice cream into the mixing chamber for 0.4 seconds to flush out any remaining syrup. A second timer is also initiated when the syrup delivery is complete to reverse the pump for 0.2 seconds to remove the residual pressure in the supply line. By removing the residuals pressure, syrup in the supply line is prevented from oozing out of the valve apparatus and into the mixing chamber.

Abstract: A slush beverage maker is provided that is easy to assemble and disassemble, has few parts, and is easy to operate. The slush beverage maker has a mixing chamber for receiving ingredients to make a slush beverage. An auger is received within the mixing chamber to mix the ingredients. An ice drum is received within the auger in the mixing chamber. An ice blade is disposed in the ice drum to stir the ice mixture received by the ice drum when making a slush beverage. A hand crank is connected to both the auger and the ice blade to rotate both simultaneously. A blowby area in the mixing chamber outside the auger provides continuous flow of the slush beverage mixture, thereby avoiding freezing the auger within the mixture. Moreover, the ice blade speeds up the heat transfer between the slush beverage mixture and the ice mixture, thereby decreasing the time required to make a slush beverage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cooking appliance comprising a case (1) and a vessel (2). Said vessel is intended to receive a cooking bath and is equipped with a draining device (10) which is used to drain the contents of the vessel (2) into a draining container (3), said container being removably-disposed in relation to the case (1). According to the invention, the draining device (10) comprises a thermostatic valve (16) consisting of a heat-sensitive mechanical element which moves according to the temperature.

Abstract: A beverage container and method for forming a beverage container having a straw pierceable portion in a wall. The beverage container has a port formed of a rigid frame having a membrane covering an aperture. The frame member is bonded to a flexible wall of a pouch. The membrane is mounted to the frame member to separate from the frame member when pushed by a straw. The frame guides the straw to the membrane. An alternative embodiment includes a dimple formed under heat and pressure in a mold pierceable by a straw.

Abstract: A kettle corn popper comprises a cabinet, a deck attached to an upper edge of the cabinet by a hinge, a hemispherical kettle fixed to the deck and protruding through the deck into the cabinet, a control panel attached to the cabinet, and heating assembly attached inside the cabinet.

Abstract: A steak or burger weight incorporates a built-in meat thermometer. The steak weight rests on a serving of meat while it cooks. A temperature probe protrudes beneath the steak weight metal plate so that it penetrates into the meat to sense the internal temperature of the meat. A visible indicator located on the steak weight handle indicates when the meat is done to order. The indicator can be a pointer-type gauge, or can include an LCD or one or more LEDs. The cook or chef knows at a glance when the meat is cooked to the customer's order so as to avoid serving the meat when it is over- or under-cooked.

Abstract: A food service cart assembly having improved panel structures and an improved divider and tray arrangement to increase the thermal insulation efficiency of the assembly. Several different panel structures are disclosed, to reduce thermal transfer between the inside and outside surfaces, and between the inside surfaces in the separate heated and refrigerated compartments of the cart. The divider and food trays reduce airflow and thermal transfer between the heated and refrigerated compartment.

Abstract: A coffee roaster and a method for roasting beans are disclosed. The coffee roaster comprises a chamber for containing beans, a temperature adjusting means for heating or cooling the beans and the chamber, a temperature measuring means located within the chamber for measuring a beans' temperature and a chamber's temperature, and a controller. The controller calculates a first beans' temperature and a first maintain time based on the weight and a type of raw beans. The controller also controls the temperature adjusting means in order to maintain the chamber temperature as a first chamber temperature during a first maintain time when the beans' temperature reaches the first beans' temperature, and in order to continuously heat the beans during a roasting process.

Abstract: An aseptic method of preparing meals using automated means to place food portions of different types such as meat, lamb, chicken, vegetables, starches, rice, and potatoes within individual food type moulds (21) and into an in-line oven (1); each type of the food portions is then cooked as the moulds (21) are conveyed (19) through the oven; and automated means such as a spatula (22) and mould holder and lifting apparatus (24) are used to remove the food from the oven and moulds; and assembling the individual food portions to form a meal within a package (23). Also disclosed is a monitoring means for sue in a multiple stage sequential automatic food processing system that includes a means (15) for assigning a unique identification code or barcode to each individual food portion and sensors for measuring values of predetermined parameters (e.g. temperature, duration) of the process for said identified portions.

Abstract: Methods and devices for extracting oil from oil seeds, which further include the extraction of an oil seed cake. In a preferred embodiment the oil extractor apparatus includes a steam chamber, a worm drive housing in communication with the steam chamber, a worm drive contained within the worm drive housing, where the worm drive has a first end and a second end, a driver in communication with the worm drive, and an oil seed cake thickness adjuster in communication with the second end of the worm drive, wherein the thickness of an oil seed cake is adjusted during operation of the oil extractor. Another preferred embodiment further includes a power transmission assembly comprised of a plurality of planetary gears between the driver and the worm drive.

Abstract: A food press is provided having a presser arm and a presser plate which is received by a basket formed in a handle, and a pivotally attached perforated strainer plate is locatable within the basket. The strainer plate is pivotally attached to the handle at a point which is at a side of the basket opposite a hinge which pivotally attaches the handle to the presser arm. The food press provides for the pivoting of the strainer plate from a first position in the basket, where the food article may be pressed against the strainer plate, and a second position exposing the upper surface and lower surface of the strainer plate for easy access and cleaning of the perforated strainer plate.

Abstract: A high pressure press for treatment of substances such as food including a floating piston (10) in a pressure chamber with sealing means (11, 12). The floating piston (10) comprises drainage means for collecting any pressure fluid that leaks past a sealing means (11, 12) of the floating piston. The drainage means comprises a pressure reducer arranged inside said floating piston. The drainage means also comprises an elastometic pad which is so arranged as to supply an underpressure to a space (24) where pressure fluid leaking past a seal may collect. Collected pressure fluid is returned to the pressure chamber later in the cycle. The invention also relates to a method for operating a high pressure press and use of a high pressure press.

Abstract: The present invention is to a stand (10) for supporting framed (100) screens (200) during the coating, developing and cleaning processes. The stand (100) includes one or more braces (40) supporting a top portion (30) substantially parallel to a bottom portion (20). The top portion (30) rotates relative to the bottom portion (20) to permit one to remove or insert a frame into the stand (10). The top and bottom portions (20,30) support shafts (52) that are selectively rotated by a controller assembly (60) and an actuator assembly (80). As a result, one can clean, coat or treat the front of the screen and then the back of the screen without touching, lifting or physically moving the screen. This facilitates the coating, exposing, developing and cleaning processes associated with screens used in screen printing.

Abstract: A drive mechanism is provided for a printing unit which is comprised of a first cylinder having its own drive motor, and a second cylinder that cooperates with the first cylinder in a printing position and which has its own drive motor. A standard locking gear, which has at least one pair of links which are cooperating with one another and with spur toothing, is arranged between the first cylinder and its assigned drive motor.

Abstract: A rotary press includes a printing unit, folding machine, dancer roller, motor, tension detection unit, and control unit. The printing unit prints on a web supplied from a winding roll. The folding machine folds the printed web supplied from the printing unit. The dancer roller retreats from and advances to a web traveling path between the printing unit and the folding machine, during printing and plate mounting, respectively, to come into contact with the web. The motor selectively, rotatably drives the winding roll in a reel-out direction and a winding direction. The tension detection unit detects a tension of the web between the winding roll and the printing unit. The control unit controls the motor on the basis of a detection result of the tension detection unit during plate mounting.

Abstract: A form roller for use in an offset lithographic printing press comprises a stationary shaft and an eccentric roller supported on the shaft for rotation around the shaft and for oscillation along the length of the shaft. One or more cams are mounted on the shaft for controlling the operation of the rollers therealong. The exterior surface of the roller comprises an impregnated elastomeric material.

Abstract: The invention relates to a coating device for a rotary printing machine, especially a sheet printing machine. The aim of the invention is to provide a coating device whose set up time, in particular, is reduced on account of the design thereof and which can be used in a universal manner. The inventive coating device for a rotary printing machine is provided with a printing cylinder (11), a rubber blanket cylinder (9) and a plate cylinder (8) with at least one associated inker unit (15). The inking cylinders (16) of the inker unit can be moved towards and moved away from the plate cylinder. Plate clamping devices are arranged on the periphery of the plate cylinder (8) for fixing a flexible layered body (17) which comprises a supporting layer (18) that can be fixed in the plate clamping devices and at least one compressible rubber layer (19) fixed on top of the supporting layer, in addition to an outer rubber layer (20) fixed on top of the rubber layer.

Abstract: A device for removing electric charges from flat or printed material that is transported through a feed channel made up from grounded metal plates, particularly for printed material on the conveyor of a printer or copy machine. At least one discharging mechanism situated approximately perpendicular to the transport direction of the printed material is disposed opposite the outer surface of the metal plates turned away from the feed channel, whereby the discharging devices are situated so that they are essentially opposite each other or staggered in the transport direction of the printed material. The discharging devices are made up of either passive means and/or active devices positioned approximately perpendicular to the transport direction of the printed material across the entire width of the feed channel.

Abstract: The igniter comprises a disk-shaped element (15) with a central portion (16) and a boundary portion (17) surrounding it for interrupting and/or releasing an ignition chain (13a, 13b) of the igniter. Only the central portion interrupts the chain of ignition and is supported by a holding device (19). A collecting space is provided around the holding device which, seen in the direction of flight of the projectile, is located below the boundary portion (17). The central portion (16) and the boundary portion (17) are connected with each other by means of a rated breaking point (18). Upon the initial acceleration of the projectile the boundary portion (17) is sheared off from the central portion (16) and received in the collecting space (21), whereupon the central portion (16) is also subsequently removed from the ignition chain (13a, 13b) by the twist of the projectile.

Abstract: A cartridge and a chamber for a firearm adapted to fire a bullet with an outside diameter of about 0.223″ (also known as a 223 round). The cartridge has an axis, a neck, a shoulder, a body, and an extraction groove. The chamber of the present invention is provided for the cartridge, described above. The chamber has an axis, a neck bore, a shoulder bore, and a body bore. The shoulder and the shoulder bore may be formed at an angle where the angle is about 28°, ±3° with respect to the axis of the cartridge or chamber. Upon firing a firearm equipped with the cartridge and chamber of the present invention, the bullet is capable of reaching a velocity of greater than about 2,500 fps.

Abstract: An ammunition device (4) comprising one or more warhead effect jackets (17), each jacket containing warhead effect elements (18). The ammunition device also incorporates one or more explosive compositions arranged inside each warhead effect jacket that in or close to the target is/are triggerable by means of a triggering device. One or more separation charges is/are arranged adjacent to each warhead effect jacket that when actuated cause removel of one or more said warhead effect jacket(s). The actuation devices incorporate or interact with a programming device that operates with a first mode in which the actuation devices remain non-actuated, and a second mode in which the programming device actuates the actuation devices for initiating the separation charges, thereby causing ejection of each warhead effect jacket concerned.

Abstract: A patient mobility system. The system includes a patient support assembly with which a user interfaces much as with traditional crutches. The patient support assembly provides handgrips and under-arm support members on either side of the patient's body, as well as a standby seat member upon which a user can transition from waling to sitting at any time while engaged with the patient support assembly. The seat member is detachable from the remainder of the patient support assembly, and configured for reversibly docking with a chair, whereby a user can first sit in the chair, engage the seat member with the remainder of the patient support assembly, and then, under assistance of a wench which raises and lowers patient support assembly, move from a sitting to a standing position for walking or therapy.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a releasing method and a releasing member for releasing a towed device from a cableway at a desired point without an assisting person or without stopping the lift. According to the method a towing member (2) connected to the towing rope (10) of the towing apparatus (5) of the cableway (4) is released from the clutch member (1) in the towed device by changing the vertical towing angle (R) between the towing member (2) and the clutch member (1) at the release point. In order to change the angle, a releasing member (3), developed for the method and mounted at the release point, is used, whereby the member has a vertical section (V) arranged intersectingly on the towing line at a height, which allows the towed device to pass below it. A safety system (9) can be connected to the releasing member, which system results in the stopping of the lift in the case that the load in the towing direction acting on the horizontal portion (V) exceeds the allowed value.

Abstract: Security devices are provided to prevent or block unauthorized access through portholes formed in a protective housing assembly when the protective housing assembly is in its first, closed position and to allow access through the portholes when the protective housing assembly is in its second, open position. The protective housing assembly may be mounted on an upper portion of a railway tank car to protect valves, fittings and other components associated with loading and unloading of lading from the tank car. The portholes are typically formed in the protective housing assembly to allow access to an adjacent valve or other component. Each porthole cover may be engaged with a normal access cover of the protective housing assembly to block or restrict access through the respective porthole.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ink-jet ink, an ink-jet recording material or an ink-jet system containing at least one water-soluble hindered amine compounds of the general formula (I) or (II): wherein G1 and G2 are independently alkyl of (1) to (4) carbon atoms or are together pentamethylene; Z1 and Z2 are each methyl, or Z1 and Z2 ?together form an unsubstituted linking moiety or a linking moiety substituted by one or more groups selected from an ester, ether, hydroxy, oxo, cyanohydrin, amide, amino, carboxy or an urethane group; E is oxyl; X is an inorganic or organic anion; and wherein the local charge of cations h is equal to the total charge of anions j.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ink set, an ink jet recording apparatus, an ink jet recording method, a recording unit, and an ink cartridge, which can produce ink jet color images in which the color balance does not easily become unstable even if the image is stored for a long time, and in which the color images have greater durability so that degradation of the visual appearance is not easily recognizable even if the image is stored for a long time. The ink set includes a first aqueous ink and a second aqueous ink having the same color tone, the second ink having a lower coloring material content than that of the first ink, and the degree of fading of an image produced with the second ink is the same as or lower than that of an image produced with the first ink.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ink comprising

Abstract: A substrate treatment composition comprising a particulate substrate treating agent (other than precipitated calcium carbonate), wherein the particles of the substrate treating agent, such as silica, organosilane, aluminium oxide or hydroxide have a broad range of diameters and include at least some particles with a diameter greater than 0.9 &mgr;m and at least some particles with a diameter less than 0.5 &mgr;m. Suitable substrates include paper, fabrics, plastics and glass which are subsequently printed on.

Abstract: A composition for colouring the surface of a porous substrate is disclosed comprising a colorant, a binding agent, and a water-repelling agent is disclosed wherein upon application of the composition to the surface of the porous substrate, the composition penetrates the surface through the pores of the substrate, and adds colour to the surface of the porous substrate. Also disclosed is the method for coloring a substrate, a colored surface of a porous substrate and a process for producing such a composition.

Abstract: The “Free Standing Pet Platform” is a unit that allows your pet to have a full view of the outdoors, while still remaining safely inside. Since it is a freestanding unit, it does not attach to your walls or windows; therefore, it will not cause damage to your home. Your pet has the choice to lay, stand or sit on the unit. It is of sturdy construction and is standard window height, approximately 30″ high; however, it can be customized to accommodate other heights. Some basic assembly is required.

Abstract: A shelving system having at least four posts with upper and lower traverses between the posts joined by dovetails on the posts and post connectors connecting the posts. A metal core forms the posts surrounded by plastic. A support post underlies at least one of the traverses having a metal interior portion and an exterior plastic with a foot at the base and an end cap distal from the foot for engaging the traverse.

Abstract: Plant for the hot treatment of waste gases from municipal waste incinerators or the like, comprising a first line of taking up hot waste gases for treating in an exit section of a municipal waste incinerator, a one stage or multiple stage fluid bed contained within one or several reactors and invested by the waste gases to be treated, at least one hopper for charging the solid granular material into the reactor or reactors, a cyclone separator at the outlet of the reactor or of the last of the reactors; the treated waste gases exiting from the reactor or reactors being first introduced into said separator and subsequently conveyed, by said first uptake line, toward a final discharge chimney; said first uptake line providing, downstream of said cyclone separator, a second recirculating line moving the waste gases treated by the reactor or reactors, upstream of the reactor or of the first of the reactors, so that by this second line said treated waste gases mix with the waste gases to be treated originating fro

Abstract: One or more auxiliary plasma torches are provided to a waste processing plant at strategic locations within the chamber and directed towards the waste column. When a bridge forms within the chamber the auxiliary plasma torches may be operated such as to provide an additional heat source where needed, quickly heating the organic solids, which thus pass through the bituminsation and charcoal formation stages quickly. The additional heat source may be in the neighborhood of the bridge, but may also be near the bottom end of the chamber, in which case the additional temperature at the bottom of the chamber effectively moves the combustion and gasification zones for the charcoal to a higher part of the chamber, altering the temperature profile. The heat source also enables the inorganic wastes to be heated rapidly to pass beyond the melting stage relatively quickly.

Abstract: Combustion of coal in which oxygen is injected into the coal as it emerges from burner produces ash having reduced amounts of carbon.

Abstract: Combustion of hydrocarbon liquids and solids is achieved with less formation of NOx by feeding a small amount of oxygen into the fuel stream.

Abstract: A tucking attachment for a sewing machine having a tucking blade with one end positioned adjacent material and a tucking blade drive with an output shaft mechanically coupled to the tucking blade. A control, connected to the tucking blade drive, is operable to command the tucking blade drive to move the tucking blade through a programmable displacement to form a tuck in the material adjacent a presser foot of the sewing machine. Thereafter, the sewing machine is operated to sew a number of stitches in the tuck, and the tucking blade is then retracted. Repeating the above cycle of operation permits successive tucks of different lengths to be formed in the material.

Abstract: A two-piece rear grip apparatus 22 for a personal watercraft includes a body member 23 having either a U-shaped or an H-shaped cross-sectional shape. The body member includes a recessed portion 28, which opens upwardly. The apparatus also includes a grip face member 24 for placement covering the sculpted recess. The two component parts of the apparatus may be formed from a plastic resin. The grip face member 24 may be injection molded, and has slipresistant textured irregularities 36 formed thereon to provide purchase for the palm of a user's hand. The two component parts of the apparatus may be formed by compression molding or injection molding. Even if the surface of the grip face member includes fine detail work, injection molding can effectively transfer such detail from a metal mold into the finished part. Accordingly, the grip face member can be made to include fine detail work.

Abstract: A device by pressure vessels (2) for sea transport of petroleum fluids, where at least two pressure vessels (2) are connected to and communicate with a manifold (1).

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for cleaning the underwater portions of a boat. The apparatus is remarkable in that it comprises at least one cleaning unit (1) comprising first generator means (10) for generating a jet of cleaning fluid (103) under high pressure, and second means (11) for generating jets of gas under low pressure, said second means (10) enabling a volume (114) to be defined around said cleaning fluid jet (103) in which space density is considerably reduced relative to the density of the surrounding water, such as a space that is free or practically free from water, said space (114) extending from said first generator means (10) to the surface for cleaning of said underwater portions (2). The invention is applicable to cleaning sail boats, motor boats, canal boats, without it being necessary to take them out of the water.

Abstract: Presented is an enhanced Surface Effect Ship (SES) that offers the high efficiencies of the pressurized air cushion supported generic flexible bow and stern seal SES but without the generic SES's shortcomings that are due largely to its 80 percent total hull width flexible bow and stem seals. This is accomplished in the instant invention by use of forward extending rigid bow members positioned both sides of a pressurized hull supporting gas cushion where the width of the sidehulls make up a majority of the width of the instant invention enhanced surface effect ship with the remainder, less than 35 percent of vessel width normally, made up by a moveable seal member disposed between the bow members. Gas cushions may extend forward into undersides of the bow members to further reduce wetted area resistance. Longitudinally oriented fluid fences may be incorporated to at least partially separate portions of the gas cushion and thereby dampen pressure perturbations in the gas cushion(s).

Abstract: Presented is an improved Surface Effect Ship (SES) that offers the high efficiencies of the pressurized air cushion supported generic flexible bow and stern seal SES but without the generic SES's shortcomings that are due largely to its 80 percent total hull width flexible bow and stern seals. This is accomplished in the instant invention by use of forward extending rigid bow members positioned both sides of a pressurized hull supporting gas cushion where the width of the sidehulls make up a majority of the width of the instant invention improved surface effect ship with the remainder, less than 35 percent of vessel width normally, made up by a gas cushion forward seal member disposed between the bow members. Gas cushions may extend forward into undersides of the sidehull bow members to further reduce wetted area resistance. Longitudinally oriented fluid fences may be incorporated to at least partially separate portions of the gas cushion and thereby dampen pressure perturbations in the gas cushion(s).

Abstract: Presented is an advanced Surface Effect Ship (SES) that offers the high efficiencies of the pressurized air cushion supported generic flexible bow and stem seal SES but without the generic SES's shortcomings that are due largely to its generally about 80 percent total hull width flexible bow and stem seals. This is accomplished in the instant invention by use of forward extending rigid bow members positioned both sides of a pressurized hull supporting gas cushion such that the width of the sidehulls make up a majority of the width of the instant invention advanced surface effect ship with the remainder, normally less than 35 percent of vessel width, made up by a gas cushion forward seal member disposed between the bow members. Gas cushions may extend forward into undersides of the sidehull bow members to further reduce wetted area resistance.