Patents Issued in May 6, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040084025
    Abstract: The individual cylinder air to fuel ratio of an internal combustion engine varies due to the fact that the intake manifold cannot distribute airflow into the individual cylinders evenly. This feature of the present invention utilizes minimum timing for best torque MBT timing criterion provided by the ionization signals or by the in-cylinder pressure signals to balance the air to fuel ratios of the individual cylinders. The control method of the present invention comprises: calculating a mean timing coefficient, calculating a timing coefficient error, integrating the minimum timing for best torque timing coefficient error, calculating a raw fuel trim coefficient, resealing the raw fuel trim coefficient, updating a feedforward look-up table based upon the current engine operating conditions, and calculating a final fueling command.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Guoming G. Zhu, Chao F. Daniels
  • Publication number: 20040084026
    Abstract: This feature of the present invention comprises a method and apparatus which uses an ionization signal to optimize the air to fuel ratio AFR of the combustion mixture when the engine is operated at wide open throttle (WOT). This feature of the present invention optimizes the air to fuel ratio AFR on-line using the relationship between an air to fuel ratio AFR index CAFR and the air to fuel ratio AFR. In a preferred embodiment, the real-time control strategy adjusts the engine air to fuel ratio AFR based upon an air to fuel ratio AFR gradient parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Guoming G. Zhu, Chao F. Daniels
  • Publication number: 20040084027
    Abstract: Fuel accumulator (10) includes a segmented housing (12) that includes a front wall (34), rear wall (36), and a fuel delivery ring (38). The fuel outlet ports (40) and (42) are formed in the fuel delivery ring, and the fuel delivery ring can be detached, rotated and reattached at different angles about the housing. Flexible diaphragm (72) and the air behind it in the rear wall interior cavity (50) modulate the pressure of the fuel inside the fuel accumulation chamber (60), (70), as the fuel passes through the filter (76).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Barry S. Grant
  • Publication number: 20040084028
    Abstract: A fuel rail is provided for delivering fuel to a plurality of fuel injectors for a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine. The fuel rail includes an inlet tube for receiving pressurized fuel having at least one orifice. An outer tube forming and enclosing control volume is provided about the inlet tube. The outer tube has a plurality of injector outlets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Michael J. Zdroik
  • Publication number: 20040084029
    Abstract: An advance arrangement controls timing of fuel delivery by a fuel pump for use in an engine. The advance arrangement includes an advance piston, a servo piston, a light load piston, and an arrangement. The advance piston is slidable within a first bore and cooperates, in use, with a cam arrangement of a fuel pump to adjust the timing of fuel delivery by the pump. A surface associated with the advance piston is exposed to fuel pressure within a first control chamber. The servo piston is slidable within a further bore provided in the advance piston to control the pressure of fuel within the first control chamber. The servo piston is responsive to speed dependent fuel pressure variations within a servo control chamber, thereby to permit adjustment of the timing in response to engine speed. The light load piston is moveable relative to the advance piston against the action of a light load control spring in response to fuel pressure variations within a light load control chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel Jeremy Hopley, Robert Mark Kemsley, William Robert Burborough
  • Publication number: 20040084030
    Abstract: An EGR-gas temperature estimation apparatus for an internal combustion engine which has an exhaust circulation pipe and an EGR-gas cooling apparatus. The estimation apparatus obtains the cooling efficiency &eegr;egr of the EGR-gas cooling apparatus from the temperature Tex of EGR gas at the inlet of the exhaust circulation pipe and the flow rate Gegr of the EGR gas, and obtains the temperature THW of engine cooling water, used as a coolant for the EGR-gas cooling apparatus. Subsequently, the estimation apparatus calculates the temperature Tegr of the EGR gas at the outlet of the exhaust circulation pipe by the expression Tegr=Tex−&eegr;egr·(Tex−THW). Since the cooling efficiency &eegr;egr greatly changes depending on the EGR-gas flow rate Gegr and the EGR-gas temperature Tex, the estimation apparatus can accurately estimate the cooling efficiency &eegr;egr, and therefore can accurately estimate the EGR-gas temperature Tegr.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Akio Matsunaga, Masato Katsuno
  • Publication number: 20040084031
    Abstract: A control method of an EGR system of an engine capable of effectively performing an EGR control at a time of rapid acceleration. For this purpose, an intake air flow rate of the engine is obtained, and from a target EGR valve opening degree and a difference in pressure in front of and behind the EGR valve, a virtual EGR gas flow rate is arithmetically operated. A virtual EGR rate is obtained from the intake air flow rate, the fuel flow rate and the virtual EGR gas flow rate, and a difference from or a ratio to a target EGR rate obtained from the engine speed and the fuel flow rate is obtained. A command EGR valve opening degree is obtained from an EGR valve opening degree correction coefficient obtained from the difference or the ratio, and the target EGR valve opening degree, whereby the EGR vale is driven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Takumi Ito, Yasuyuki Onodera, Kanji Namimatsu, Shuki Akushichi, Koichi Okaya
  • Publication number: 20040084032
    Abstract: A fuel injector adapter for providing nitrous oxide to an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The nozzle has a fuel injector passage, having a central axis and terminating at an injector outlet, for passing fuel from a fuel injector to an engine. The nozzle also has one or more first auxiliary passages, which may be arranged in an annular pattern around the fuel injector passage, and which terminate at first outlets. The nozzle furthermore may have one or more second auxiliary passages, which also may be arranged in an annular pattern around the fuel injector passage, and which terminate at second outlets. The first auxiliary passages and second auxiliary passages are adapted to supply nitrous oxide or other additional combustion reactants to the engine. The nozzle may be attached to an engine intake and may be adapted to fit between a fuel injector and an engine without substantial modification to the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Oswald Baasch, Douglas Joseph Flynn, Laura Beth Rucker, Shane Wilson
  • Publication number: 20040084033
    Abstract: A device that improves ignition spark intensity with power transmitted at the time of ignition from a conventional plug cord for an internal combustion engine to an ignition plug is constituted so that counter electromotive force arising at the time of ignition of the ignition plug is stored as electrostatic energy and is discharged at the next ignition of the ignition plug and has positive and negative electrodes, the positive electrode being connected to or in contact with an internal combustion engine plug cord and the negative electrode being connected to or in contact with an internal combustion engine ground, thereby improving ignition spark intensity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Hideaki Todoroki
  • Publication number: 20040084034
    Abstract: This feature of the present invention comprises two embodiments of an integrated ionization detection circuit and ignition coil driver according to the present invention, an ASIC and a single electronic package. The apparatuses reduce the cost and complexity of an in-cylinder ionization detection system by combining like functionality into one ASIC or electronic module easing packaging constraints. In both embodiments, a current sink is used. The current sink removes noise in the form of voltage spikes. The voltage spikes are high voltage, but of short duration. The current sink prevents these spikes from turning on the IGBT. However, the current sink allows the IGBT command signal to pass. This feature of the present invention also comprises a switch whereby ionization current and coil primary current are multiplexed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Garlan J. Huberts, Michael T. Nation, Guoming G. Zhu, Kevin D. Moran, Bruce Wang, Kenneth L. Gould
  • Publication number: 20040084035
    Abstract: This feature of the present invention comprises a method and apparatus that provides a regulated power supply for in-cylinder ionization detection by harvesting the excess ignition coil leakage and magnetizing energy immediately following the turn off of the ignition coil IGBT. It uses an additional energy storage capacitor which replaces a first capacitor as the primary energy storage device. Thus, this feature of the present invention uses a two step method for charging the ionization detection circuit, as opposed to just one stage. The second capacitor is charged first, typically up to 400 Volts DC, and is then used as a reservoir to charge the first capacitor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen J. Newton
  • Publication number: 20040084036
    Abstract: Internal combustion engine (ICE) on-plug ignition coils with transistor drivers located in powertrain control modules (PCM) or other remote locations are prone to high electrical and magnetic interference (EMI) emissions and are subject to interference from other components due to long connecting wires. Ionization detection circuits have even greater sensitivity to EMI because of their very low signal current levels (microampere). The present feature of the invention integrates both the coil driver transistor and ionization detection circuits into the on-plug ignition coil. In a preferred embodiment, parts rated at 140 degrees centigrade are used in both the coil driver transistor and the ionization circuits which are located on the coil to address temperature and thermal shock concerns. Additionally, parts rated at 20 G are used in both the coil driver transistor and the ionization circuits to address vibration concerns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: David L. Porter, Garlan J. Huberts, Constantine Panagos, Guoming G. Zhu, Michael T. Nation, Bruce Wang, Kenneth L. Gould, Kevin D. Moran
  • Publication number: 20040084037
    Abstract: The ball throwing apparatus of this invention is formed of a flat main frame plate which mounts a rotary ball throwing wheel and a confronting pad spaced from the wheel slightly less than the diameter of a ball to be thrown. The pad is mounted for adjusting said space for alternatively engaging and throwing baseballs and softballs. The main frame plate is mounted on the upper end of a vertical post by a first pivot for adjustable rotation about a horizontal axis for adjusting the curvature of flight of a thrown ball. The lower end of the post is mounted on a second pivot for rotation about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the first pivot for adjusting the trajectory of flight of a thrown ball, the bearing for the second pivot is mounted on a leg supporting cup for rotation about a vertical axis for adjusting the horizontal direction of a thrown ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Kerry K. Paulson, Durward E. De Chenne
  • Publication number: 20040084038
    Abstract: An electronic trigger grip for a paintball gun having a firing actuator is described. The grip subassembly includes a frame adapted for mounting to the gun, a trigger movably secured to the frame, a sensor positioned to detect a pull of the trigger, a linear motor adapted for mechanical coupled to the firing actuator, and a source of electric power. A pulsation power controller is electrically connected to the sensor, the power source and the linear motor for energizing the linear motor with a pulsating signal in response to a trigger pull.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Stanley Gabrel
  • Publication number: 20040084039
    Abstract: An archery bow component includes a preform having a plurality of fiber tows braided to each other. A polymeric material is applied to the preform. The polymeric material coats the plurality of fiber tows during molding of the preform. The dispersal of the polymeric material throughout the preform is effected by the braiding of the plurality of fiber tows to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Albert A. Andrews
  • Publication number: 20040084040
    Abstract: A pneumatic assembly preferably includes a compressed gas storage area, a firing valve, and a bolt arranged along substantially the same horizontal axis. A valve retainer, a compressed gas storage area housing, and a bolt assembly are preferably arranged to form a substantially contiguous assembly housing. The firing valve is preferably configured to open when gas pressure is applied to a surface area thereof through a control valve. The bolt is preferably configured to move to a closed position before the firing valve is actuated. The control valve is preferably an electro-pneumatic valve configured to actuate the firing valve in response to a trigger pull of a paintball gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Danial Jones
  • Publication number: 20040084041
    Abstract: A ball launching apparatus configured to launch balls to a user. The ball launching apparatus is configured such that a user may change an angle of trajectory T of launched balls by simply resting the ball launching apparatus on one of two different base portions. The ball launching apparatus is configured to receive, feed, and launch balls having different shapes, such as baseballs and footballs. A ball feed mechanism of the ball launching apparatus is driven by ball propulsion mechanism of the ball launching apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Mark Wojtkiewicz, Ross Rumfola, Kevin R. Shinn, Dave Moomaw
  • Publication number: 20040084042
    Abstract: The apparatus, system and method for cutting crystal ingot provide techniques for cutting an ingot into wafers with a wire cutting apparatus utilizing wire with a diameter of less than 0.18 mm, such as 0.14 mm. The wire cutting apparatus also includes multiple rollers about which the wire is wrapped, and nozzles for applying slurry to the wire. One of the rollers is located on one side of the crystal ingot, while another roller is located on the other side of the crystal ingot. At least one nozzle is disposed proximate the first and second rollers. The nozzles collectively disperse slurry at a rate in the range of 40 to 60 liters per minute, such as 50 liters per minute, and at a viscosity of 42 to 62 centipose, such as 52 centipose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: SEH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Shawn V. McAulay, Kazuhisa Takamizawa
  • Publication number: 20040084043
    Abstract: A fracturable tile for making tesserae or fillets has on the fixing face a pre-fracture regular grid (14) consisting in two series of parallel and equally spaced pre-fracture lines (2) which extend from an edge to the opposed one of the tile and each of these latter includes first grooves (10). The pre-fracture grid (14) delimits portions (3, 4, 5) of the tile in order to allow its split in tesserae or listels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Giorgio Mingarelli, Andrea Mattioli, Cristiana Vandelli
  • Publication number: 20040084044
    Abstract: An inhalation device configured to programmably emit small droplets of multiple components in which quantities of the multiple components can vary with each successive activation of the inhalation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Winthrop D. Childers, David Tyvoll
  • Publication number: 20040084045
    Abstract: An interactive character associated with a metered dose inhaler that includes a medication dispensing canister and a canister holder. The interactive character includes a base portion adapted to be coupled to a canister such that actuation of the canister to dispense a medication requires providing an actuating force on the base portion. An interactive element is coupled to the base portion so that it that activates in a manner that is readily perceived by humans. The interactive element is actuated by an actuating system responsive to the actuating force being applied to the base portion to actuate the canister.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: RIC Investments, Inc.
    Inventors: Lauren R. Ziegler, Dirk Von Hollen
  • Publication number: 20040084046
    Abstract: The present invention provides a heat and moisture exchange (HME) unit that includes a housing having a fibrous media in the housing that is designed to absorb and retain moisture and heat from exhaled air passing through the housing and transfer the moisture and heat to inhaled air passing through the heat and moisture exchange unit. The heat and moisture exchange unit has an internal bypass in the housing to enable air to pass through the heat and moisture exchange unit without passing through the fibrous media. The present invention also provides a breathing circuit that includes a medication bypass heat moisture exchange unit, a medication treatment device and a ventilator that is connected in a closed system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Scott Halperin
  • Publication number: 20040084047
    Abstract: The present invention provides a sedation and analgesia system having an emergency medical kit, where the medical kit is designed to meet the specific needs of medical emergencies related to the delivery of sedatives, analgesics, and/or amnestics. The invention further provides a sedation and analgesia system with an emergency medical kit having policies along with automated and semi-automated pre-use checks necessary to ensure that components of the kit are present, functioning properly, and that perishable components within the kit have not expired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Scott Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Randall S. Hickle
  • Publication number: 20040084048
    Abstract: A method and device for effective delivery of a gas such as oxygen for inhalation are described that sequentially dilute room air to the flow of gas during a respiratory cycle. A mask assembly is described that comprises an inspiratory and expiratory limb each containing a very low resistance one-way valve, and a sequential dilution conduit (leading from the atmosphere to the inspiratory limb) with a one-way valve that has a slightly positive cracking pressure. A sequential dilution valve may also be placed in the sequential dilution conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Alex Stenzler, Tim Quinn, Edmond Chu, Hiroshi Sasano, Ron B. Somogyi, George A. Volgyesi, Steve D. Iscoe, David Preiss, Eltan Prisman, Alex Vesely, Joseph A. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20040084049
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering a medicine to a patient via the patient's respiratory system with control and efficiency. A nebulization catheter is positioned in the patient's respiratory system so that a distal end of the nebulization catheter is in the respiratory system and a proximal end is outside the body. In a first aspect, the nebulization catheter may be used in conjunction with an endotracheal tube and preferably is removable from the endotracheal tube. The nebulization catheter conveys medicine in liquid form to the distal end at which location the medicine is nebulized by a pressurized gas or other nebulizing mechanism. The nebulized medicine is conveyed to the patient's lungs by the patient's respiration which may be assisted by a ventilator. By producing the aerosol of the liquid medicine at a location inside the patient's respiratory system, the nebulizing catheter provides for increased efficiency and control of the dosage of medicine being delivered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Trudell Medical Limited
    Inventor: George Baran
  • Publication number: 20040084050
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering a medicine to a patient via the patient's respiratory system with control and efficiency. A nebulization catheter is positioned in the patient's respiratory system so that a distal end of the nebulization catheter is in the respiratory system and a proximal end is outside the body. In a first aspect, the nebulization catheter may be used in conjunction with an endotracheal tube and preferably is removable from the endotracheal tube. The nebulization catheter conveys medicine in liquid form to the distal end at which location the medicine is nebulized by a pressurized gas or other nebulizing mechanism. The nebulized medicine is conveyed to the patient's lungs by the patient's respiration which may be assisted by a ventilator. By producing the aerosol of the liquid medicine at a location inside the patient's respiratory system, the nebulizing catheter provides for increased efficiency and control of the dosage of medicine being delivered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Trudell Medical Limited.
    Inventor: George Baran
  • Publication number: 20040084051
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube and a method for using an endotracheal tube are disclosed. In one embodiment, the endotracheal tube includes a tubular member including a distal end and a proximal end. The endotracheal tube also includes a plurality of visually distinct regions that is closer to the proximal end than the distal end. Each visually distinct region is spaced from other visually distinct regions, and each of the distinct region comprises a respectively different color.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Ronaldo B. Hipolito, Michael P. Sherman, Jay M. Milstein
  • Publication number: 20040084052
    Abstract: A system for restraining the upper torso of a child or infant for diapering activities. The system provides a stable base (10) onto which the child is laid, and provides restraining straps (16) which are attached to the base (10) and arranged over the chest of the child in a crisscrossing manner. The child is prevented from rolling, sitting and sliding by the combined action of the restraining straps (16) and the stable base (10). The system effectively controls movement of the child's upper torso and maintains the child in a proper diapering position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Shannon Cox Parker
  • Publication number: 20040084053
    Abstract: A device for stabilizing a patient's head on a spine board while allowing longitudinal and rotational movement in conjunction with the body and a method of use for the device are disclosed. The device is comprised of a head harness, a forehead strap, a chin strap, a crown strap and a lateral stabilization strap. The head harness has a skid plate, located on the side of the head harness that rests on a spine board, that is adapted for low friction engagement with the spine board. A patient in a cervical collar is placed on a spine board, the head harness is positioned beneath the patient's head and attached to the spine board. The forehead strap, chin strap, and crown strap are attached to the head harness. The lateral stabilization strap is then attached to the head harness and the attaching straps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Michael T. Hess
  • Publication number: 20040084054
    Abstract: A ring for preventing a prolapse of the uterus and the urinary bladder has an annular part and a flexible curved rod-shaped part whose one end and other end are so formed as to be connected to the annular part and whose intermediate portion interposed between the one end and the other end is so formed as to be disposed over a central region of an annular plane formed with the annular part The annular part has an open portion formed by a partial absence thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Hisayuki Kaseki, Noboru Inagaki, Tamotsu Inoue
  • Publication number: 20040084055
    Abstract: This invention resides in an air and watertight portable container for carrying and extinguishing a cigarette. The container comprises an elongated cylindrical tube having a closed end and an open end disposed opposite the closed end for receiving an ignited cigarette; said open end has female threads for removably receiving a mating set of male threads connected to a cap, wherein the cap contains an O-ring located on a seat between the upper portion of the male threads and the bottom portion of a lip located on said cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: William D. Rebensdorf
  • Publication number: 20040084056
    Abstract: The flavor and aroma characteristics of the smoke of a tobacco blend incorporating Oriental tobacco are improved by subjecting that blend to heat treatment. Oriental tobacco having a relatively high sucrose ester content is combined with a second dissimilar Oriental tobacco material and/or a non-Oriental tobacco material to form a tobacco mixture, and that mixture is heated for a time and under conditions sufficient to reduce the concentration of sucrose esters in the Oriental tobacco. Tobacco blends having reduced levels of sucrose esters yield smoke that does not possess undesirable off-notes provided by pyrolysis products of those sucrose esters; namely, 2-methylpropionic acid, 3-methylbutyric acid and 3-methylpentanoic acid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
    Inventors: Jerry Wayne Lawson, William Monroe Coleman, Ronald Lewis Parks, William Samuel Simmons
  • Publication number: 20040084057
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a hair brush that can be used for cutting the hair so that no skills and knack are required for adjusting the inclination angle of bristles and cutters with respect to the scalp. In a hair brush in which multiple the bristles 12 are set upright on a the brush body 14, the cutters 18 provided with the cutting edges 18a are set upright nearby the bristles 12.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Hisao Okaniwa
  • Publication number: 20040084058
    Abstract: An oral hygiene device having an integrally formed, elongate member with opposed first and second ends. The member including first and second handle portions defined near the first and second ends of the member, respectively, a scraping portion defined between the first and second handle portions and having a generally arc-shaped cross-section defining a longitudinally extending, concave channel along the member between the first and second handle portions, a spoon defined at the first end and inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the member, and a generally rectangular blunt fine edge defined at the second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Loriel Tyndal
  • Publication number: 20040084059
    Abstract: A cleaning chemistry for lowering defect levels on the backside of a semiconductor wafer after chemical mechanical planarization (CMP). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cleaning chemistry comprising nitric acid, hydrofluoric acid, and phosphoric acid in solution with deionized water is applied to the wafer surface to be cleaned preferably while subjected to megasonic assist cleaning. The wafer is preferably then subjected to brush scrubbing and a deionized water rinse with megasonic assist cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Changfeng Xia, Linlin Chen
  • Publication number: 20040084060
    Abstract: A method and kit are disclosed for removing or alleviating the severity or intensity of stains from aldehyde-based sterilizing solutions through the use of reducing agents. This invention is effective even for porous surfaces such as filter paper and porous nylon films as well as for smooth surfaces such as glass, aluminum, copper, brass and stainless steel. Also, the invention may be used in a variety of formats such as a kit useful for making or using solutions or gels to treat the aldehyde-based stained surfaces of, for example, medical devices, hospital bench or table tops, hospital floors and skin (if in appropriate pH range), etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Peter Zhu, Henry Hui, Les Feldman
  • Publication number: 20040084061
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide washing liquid for semiconductor substrate capable of removing grinding grains of silica, alumina or the like in a polishing agent and polishing trashes of copper, and capable of leaving little organic substance due to an additive used for preventing corrosion of copper on the surface of a copper wiring after washing, while corrosion of copper is suppressed, and a method of producing a semiconductor device using this washing liquid. The object is achieved by washing liquid for a semiconductor substrate having a copper wiring, comprising a basic compound and at least one selected from the group consisting of sugar alcohols and saccharides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited
    Inventor: Masayuki Takashima
  • Publication number: 20040084062
    Abstract: A floor-scrubbing machine is provided having a main body and a cleaning fluid delivery system. At least one rotatable brush having a brush body and bristles extending from the brush body is included. The brush is carried by the main body whereby the bristles of the brush engage the floor being scrubbed. A fluid distributor is provided to distribute cleaning fluid supplied to the fluid distributor to the brush. The brush defines a recess having a sidewall and at least one opening formed in the sidewall for distributing the cleaning solution radially outward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: William H. Theiss, Robert W. Bauman, Dale L. Buxton, David B. Rennecker
  • Publication number: 20040084063
    Abstract: A method of using an electric stainbrush for cleaning inanimate surfaces is provided. The electric stainbrush includes a handle having a motor disposed therein, a head having a longitudinal axis, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head. First and second bristle holders are associated with the head. The first bristle holder oscillates or rotates. The second bristle holder reciprocates in generally the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the head but does not rotate or oscillate. The motor is operatively connected to the first and second bristle holders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: James Charles Vago, Stephen Allen Jacobs, Paul Amaat Raymond Gerard France
  • Publication number: 20040084064
    Abstract: A method, an apparatus, a plant, and business method are provided for recovering, cleaning, and recycling dirty crumb rubber bedding used in barns and stables which house animals such as horses and cows that produce manure. The dirty bedding includes bedding which is contaminated with animal manure and urine produced by the animals, and other waste materials such as straw, dirt, and sand. The method includes the steps of washing the dirty bedding on a pulse washer which washes and separates straw from the bedding, followed by washing on a vibratory washer which loosens and washes away any remaining solid particles clinging to the bedding. Dirty water in from the pulse washer is filtered and reused, while a filtered out a sludge primarily of manure is subsequently packaged for use as fertilizer. The recycling plant includes a pulse washer and vibratory washer fed with stockpiled dirty by an input conveyor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Ralph Verderosa, Fortunato D. Borruto, Michael M. Anthony
  • Publication number: 20040084065
    Abstract: A system and method of selectively extending a wash cycle duration of a warewasher beyond a set minimum duration provides suitable cleaning of wares while at the same time seeking to increase the number of wash cycles per unit time. A system and method for detecting water level in a wash chamber or other tank provides the ability to identify a progressively fouling electrode. A system and method of automatically priming one or more chemical feed lines of a warewasher is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: David Charles Edelmann, Richard W. Cartwright, Gary V. Hoying
  • Publication number: 20040084066
    Abstract: A system and method for cleaning boxes used for handling flat media includes a rotor rotatably mounted within an enclosure, with spray nozzles in the enclosure for spraying fluid toward the rotor. The rotor has at least one box holder assembly for holding a box. At least one retainer bar is located on the rotor for engaging a front section of the box to retain the box in the box holder assembly during rotation of the rotor. The retainer bar is preferably moveable from a first position where the retainer bar restrains the box on the box holder assembly, to a second position where the retainer bar is moved away from the box. The box holder assembly may alternatively include a base with a plurality of grooved elements thereon that are adapted to engage a flange on the box for securing the box to the box holder assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: Kert Dolechek, Jeffry Davis
  • Publication number: 20040084067
    Abstract: A composition and method for treating oversprayed paints in paint spray booths is provided. The composition includes an aqueous solution of a compound such as chitosan, and a complex metal salt, such as aluminum chlorohydrate, capable of flocculating the oversprayed paint, and optionally, bentonite clay. The composition is useful for detackifying and flocculating oversprayed paint, and is particularly useful as a liquid concentrate for the addition to wash systems in paint spray booths for water-based and solvent-based paints. The composition is also useful in decreasing the time for phase separation of the organic phase and the aqueous phase in solvent-based removal processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Michael L. Albu, Phillip J. Beauchamp
  • Publication number: 20040084068
    Abstract: A dishwasher that is provided with an improved soundproofing structure to reduce the manufacturing cost of the dishwasher and accomplish an improved soundproofing effect in comparison with conventional dishwashers. The disclosed dishwasher includes a washing tub provided in a cabinet. A basket is provided in the washing tub to hold dishes therein. A washing pump pressurizes wash water contained in the washing tub. An injection nozzle sprays wash water supplied from the washing pump. A soundproofing unit with a net structure is installed in the washing tub in such a way as to be spaced apart from the inner surface of the washing tub, thus dispersing wash water sprayed from the injection nozzle while reducing pressure of the wash water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Woon-Gu Hur, Sam-Young Jang, Tae-Young Jung, Wang-Seok Son
  • Publication number: 20040084069
    Abstract: A combination fluid and air washing apparatus for washing a vehicle's viewing surface. The apparatus includes a housing, where the housing is of a predetermined shape and size, a nozzle assembly, the nozzle assembly includes at least one fluid nozzle, an air nozzle to complement each of the fluid nozzles, and a shaft, the shaft being pivotally attached to the housing by a pivot means, the fluid and air nozzles are adjacently attached to the shaft and pointed towards the vehicle viewing surface, wherein the air nozzle is pointed lower on the vehicle viewing surface than the fluid nozzle. The apparatus also includes at least one fluid reservoir attached to the housing, wherein the fluid reservoir provides fluid to the fluid nozzle through a fluid feed, and an air compressor connected to the fluid reservoir and the air nozzle by a line, wherein said air compressor provides pressured air to the washing apparatus through the line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth S. Woodard
  • Publication number: 20040084070
    Abstract: There is disclosed a cleaning device for a medical instrument, including a nozzle main body detachably attached to a surgical ultrasonic treatment instrument including a channel, and the nozzle main body includes a water supply port opened in a position connected to the channel, when mounted in the surgical ultrasonic treatment instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Katsumi Sasaki, Shinya Masuda, Eiji Murakami, Ryoji Masubuchi
  • Publication number: 20040084071
    Abstract: A combination umbrella and fan includes a centrally located support rod having upper and lower ends with a fan housing secured to the upper end of the support rod. The fan housing includes a lower end having a plurality of open slots extending therethrough and a plurality of openings extending therethrough near an upper end. An electrically powered fan motor is provided, the fan motor having an output shaft secured to a propeller located within the fan housing. The fan motor is reversible for rotating the propeller in first and second directions. A power supply provides electrical power to the fan motor, the power supply including a switch for reversing the electric motor. A flexible cover member is provided and a plurality of spaced part rib members and stretchers are provided for supporting the cover member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Ruben L. Gray
  • Publication number: 20040084072
    Abstract: A rain shield device includes a housing for attaching onto various vehicles, and a shield extendible out of the housing for shielding the upper portions of the doors of the vehicles and for allowing the drivers and the passengers to easily open or receive the umbrella while boarding or moving out of the vehicles. The shield may be extended out of the housing with two links and two racks and a motor. A shaft is rotatably received in the housing for winding and receiving the shield, and may be rotated relative to the housing by a motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Tseng Ping Tien
  • Publication number: 20040084073
    Abstract: A leg assembly includes at least three upright support members and at least three horizontal link members. Each of the support members includes an adjacent pair of planar first and second leg frames that are connected pivotally to each other, and at least one connecting plate disposed between the first and second leg frames so as to form an angle between the first and second leg frames such that the first and second leg frames can stand stably on a ground surface. Each of the link members is connected detachably to an adjacent pair of the support members so as to interconnect and position the support members relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Chuen-Jong Tseng
  • Publication number: 20040084074
    Abstract: An expandable and collapsible canopy support having telescoping legs, a cantilevered roof truss, a plurality of scissored assemblies, and non-compressible pivoting mounting devices, operating to expand the canopy support for use, and operating to collapse the canopy support for storage. The canopy support comprises scissored assemblies, sliding and stationary pivotal mounts, a center dome assembly, and a cantilevered roof support assembly supporting the apex of a canopy. The preferred embodiment provides increased headroom beneath the canopy support, resistance to lateral deflections and torque on scissor elements during expansion and collapsing of the canopy structure, and resistance to vertical deflection of the canopy support and covering. The corner and center mounts have offset flanges which engage forked sockets on the end of each strut, and are secured by non-compressive bolts to form a freely pivoting support structure for strut assemblies during expanding and collapsing of the framework.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Steve Chiu, Xiang Sheng Zhu