Patents Issued in June 10, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040107972
    Abstract: A car cigarette lighter with a light indicator includes a power socket and a cigarette lighter. The car cigarette lighter is characterized in attaching an external sleeve to a bottom tube of a handle, and installing a circuit board in electric connection with a circuit of the car cigarette lighter in the external tube. The circuit board has at least one light emitting diode located at a bottom of the transparent handle. A switch in electric connection with the car cigarette lighter is further mounted on the external sleeve. By plugging the car cigarette lighter into the power socket and pushing the handle, the circuit board is conducted, and the light emitting diode is switched on. By the switch of the external sleeve, the electro-thermal winding film is conducted and heated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Lighter Sheen
  • Publication number: 20040107973
    Abstract: A system and method for adding material such as foam material to spaced cavities within a cigarette filter. A belt is provided and adapted to be driven synchronously with a moving cigarette filter rod. A plurality of injection needles protrude from the belt at spaced intervals, with the spacing between the needles coinciding with a spacing between the cavities within a cigarette filter rod. A chamber containing an expandable foam material is in fluid communication with one or more of the injection needles at one or more positions along a path traveled by the injection needles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Gary Atwell
  • Publication number: 20040107974
    Abstract: Cosmetics brushes particularly suitable for applying mascara include a plurality of multi-fiber bristles deployed extending from a core, at least some of the multi-fiber bristles including a plurality of individual fibers in supportive interengagement. In one embodiment, a central support fiber has smaller and less stiff additional fibers braided or woven thereabout. The additional fibers may themselves be braided bundles of microfiber. In another embodiment, thin fibers are constrained and supported within a hollow support fiber, which may be a fiber with a C-shaped cross section and an entry slot to the hollow central portion. In another embodiment, a spiral support fiber is spirally wound around a plurality of smaller diameter fibers. In a further embodiment, a plurality of fibers are braided together to form a multi-fiber bristle, and some of the fibers may be bundles of microfibers. In these cosmetics brushes, fibers may be selected and mixed to achieve desired performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: The Bridgeport Metal Goods Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Dominic Paratore, Martin M. Vasas
  • Publication number: 20040107975
    Abstract: An eye makeup stencil to serve as a guide for lining the top and bottom of the eye, and including a thin, flexible body with a first side, a second side, and an outer circumference. The first and second sides have a plurality of eye makeup shapes on the outer circumference, which may be used as guides during the application of eye makeup. The eye makeup shapes are designed for use with any size eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Beth Bender
  • Publication number: 20040107976
    Abstract: This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/402,897, filed Aug. 13, 2002. A foot and toe scrubber has an elongated handle and an elliptical, conical, rectangular, squarish or cylindrical scrubbing element attached at one end of the handle. The scrubbing element is an elliptical, conical, rectangular, squarish or cylindrical foam or sponge material having a plurality of grooves and/or cells providing an overall uneven, irregular surface. The foot and toe scrubber is configured so that the scrubbing element can be applied and moved between and about the toes, as well as other areas of the feet. Application of the scrubber head to, between, around and about the toes and otherwise on the feet is to clean between the toes and other areas of the feet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Sonia Carrine Lawson, David Dominick Ferrentino, Stephen Howard Goldstein, David Allen Lane
  • Publication number: 20040107977
    Abstract: A method of washing utensils in provided which provides a washing action of a pot and pan washing machine within an isolated portion of the washing machine. A utensil basket utilizing the method of the instant invention is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: John W. Cantrell, John Inch
  • Publication number: 20040107978
    Abstract: A jar fillable with cleaning fluid has a lid with a suspension system for roller bearings hanging from the inside of the lid. On each of two or more suspension systems, bearings are interwoven between two sides of an overlapping plastic tie looped through a securing loop in the lid. Any desired number of bearings of various sizes and shapes are secured, with a synching of the tie at the bottom, in an alternating array with all bearings parallel, no bearings touching, and each bearing positioned to receive a flow of cleaning fluid through it. The container is shaken in a direction perpendicular to each bearing for maximum cleaning. The bearings are installed by screwing on the lid and removed by removal of the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Edward W. Lynn
  • Publication number: 20040107979
    Abstract: A self-tilting connector mechanism of an umbrella is disclosed. The mechanism comprises a seat, a tilting head seat, a pulling shaft, a steel cable and a linking shaft. The seat and the tilting head seat are each provided with a pulley. Using a locking means to position the linking shaft between the tilting head seat and the pulling shaft, such that the pulling shaft is inserted into the through hole of the small tubular section of the seat, and a restoration spring is provided between the pulling shaft and the tubular section, and a steel cable is wound at the pulleys of the seat and the tilting head seat, and the steel cable is mounted to the handle rotating shaft of the main shaft of the umbrella, by rotating adjustment of the hand, the opening, tilting, reverse-tilting and closing of umbrella can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Jin Sheng Lai
  • Publication number: 20040107980
    Abstract: An umbrella frame device includes a runner slidably sleeved on a stem for spreading and collapsing a canopy. A retaining member has a retaining end which is movable radially in a slot in the runner and which is extendable inwardly of the runner to slidably contact a slideway on a protuberance disposed on the stem. The retaining end is brought to slip over an upper edge of the protuberance so as to be retained on a shoulder when the runner is moved to an engaging position. A sleeve member surrounds and is movable relative to the runner, and has a cam surface portion which can depress the retaining end radially with a friction force that arrests the runner in the engaging position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Max Wang
  • Publication number: 20040107981
    Abstract: A walking stick is generally known as a lightweight, straight, rigid wooden stick, held in one hand as an aid in walking. POWERFLEX DELUXE WALKING STICKS are a better concept of walking stick. They are designed to be used in pairs, (imagine a cross country skier without skis or snow), as an aid in walking, to relieve strain on lower body joints, (ankles knees, hips), and to exercise and tone the upper body muscles at the same time. The essential feature is the curved and slightly flexible shaft of the stick, which has a shock absorbing and power releasing effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Steven Anthony Smith
  • Publication number: 20040107982
    Abstract: A cane having a base formed from a cup-shaped support having a concave bottom surface and a top surface defined by a circumscribing exterior sidewall having a bottom edge. The concave bottom surface is formed to have a plurality of resilient projections extending therefrom a distance to project slightly beyond the bottom edge of the sidewall. The projections are formed in a spoke-like pattern on the bottom surface such that the density of the projections is greater near the central section of the bottom surface than at the periphery of the bottom surface. The projections are also formed to have a length that varies according to their position on the bottom surface so that a substantially planar contacting edge is presented to a support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: James K. Morris
  • Publication number: 20040107983
    Abstract: A joint mechanism for use in a rod for bearing at least a portion of a user's weight and a corresponding flexible tip for contacting a substantially horizontal surface. The joint mechanism includes a spring mechanism, a first bushing, and a second bushing. The spring member has opposed first and second ends. The first bushing is adapted for positioning in a hole in an end of the rod and has a cavity adapted to receive the first end of the spring member. The second bushing is adapted for positioning in a hole in the flexible tip and has a cavity adapted to receive the second end of the spring member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Hsueh-Hu Liao
  • Publication number: 20040107984
    Abstract: A bed enclosure comprises a frame, a tent supported by the frame, and a mattress cover. The frame employs a pair of opposed end bars, each having a first and a second end segment and a side bar connected to the first end segment of each end bar, with preferably no side bar connected to the second end segments. This defines a generally rectangular shape with an open side allowing unobstructed access underneath the bed. The frame employs an attachment bar connected between the legs of an upright end member. The attachment bar is movable up and down along a portion of the legs. The frame can include releasable fastener means for fastening the attachment bar to the bed. The enclosure includes means for connecting the tent to the mattress cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Charles R. Kline
  • Publication number: 20040107985
    Abstract: The present invention provides a landfill site covering system. The system comprises a plurality of freely mobile support members (2) with a cable array (20 22, 24) secured to the support members (2) to form a supporting framework. Covering material (26, 28) is attached to thc supporting framework to form an enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Nadrew John Weeks
  • Publication number: 20040107986
    Abstract: A system is provided to enable high throughput parallel processing of multiple samples for drug screening methods and other analytical methods. Disposable wellplates cooperate with external sensor arrays to eliminate the laborious task of cleaning and sterilizing contaminated system components. The wellplates can use conventional or custom array formats, and are adapted and configured to be well suited for high throughput automated analytical screening processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Andy C. Neilson, Jay S. Teich, Mike R. Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20040107987
    Abstract: A fuel reforming system comprises a fuel reformer and a thermoelectric device positioned in thermal communication with the fuel reformer. A method of generating electrical energy is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Mehmet S. Ciray, Rodney H. Cain, William Taylor, Rudolf M. Smaling
  • Publication number: 20040107988
    Abstract: A thermoelectric (TE) device includes a first leg of TE material (a pseudobinary or pseudoternary alloy) and a second leg comprising a metal wire. The second leg is in thermal and electrical communication with the first leg. The TE device has a ZT value of approximately 2.0 at a temperature of approximately 300K.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Theodore C. Harman, Patrick J. Taylor, Michael P. Walsh, Brian E. LaForge
  • Publication number: 20040107989
    Abstract: Methods for formulating and depositing a sol-gel coating onto a surface of a solar cell to provide improved radiation damage resistance. The sol-gel contains a solvent, alkoxyzirconium and an organosilane, with an organic acid catalyst and optionally a surfactant. The sol-gel coating can be deposited by spraying and the sol-gel coating is cured. The invention reduces manufacturing steps and overall weight of the solar cell array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Suzanne L. B. Woll, Kay Y. Blohowiak, David E. Harden, Harold G. Pippen, Larry K. Olli
  • Publication number: 20040107990
    Abstract: A valve for use in a pneumatic fluid system, such as an air brake system, is disclosed. The valve provides for fast release of pneumatic fluid from the delivery cavity through the exhaust port upon cessation of flow from the pneumatic fluid reservoir through the supply cavity. The valve includes a flow diverter that restricts fluid flow from the delivery cavity to the supply cavity when pneumatic fluid pressure in the supply cavity is less than that in the delivery cavity with minimal restriction of flow from the supply cavity to the delivery cavity when pressure in the supply cavity is greater than in the delivery cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Thanh Ho, Robert J. Herbst
  • Publication number: 20040107991
    Abstract: In some prior art Blowout Preventer (BOP) operating systems, high velocity fluid flows and low differential pressures induced vibration in the system. This vibration may result in collapse and failure of hydraulic hoses in the system. A quick dump valve has been added at or near the open port on the BOP assembly to reduce vibration and other problems. The dump valve has a vent position and an open position. Several alternative embodiments add a ball check valve assembly to the shuttle in the quick dump valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: GILMORE VALVE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: F. Harold Hollister, Jason P. Curtiss, Frank B. Springett
  • Publication number: 20040107992
    Abstract: The invention relates to an air release valve (10) which has a valve chamber (12) having an inlet (22) that is connected in use to a liquid pipeline or container. There is a first outlet (26) for venting relatively large volumes of air from the pipeline or container during filling, and a second outlet (64) for venting relatively small volumes of air which accumulate in the chamber during pressurised operation. The first outlet is closed by a float arrangement when liquid rises in the chamber above a predetermined level. A conduit (54) extends to the second outlet from an entrance located in the chamber substantially below this predetermined level. The result is such that a volume of air can accumulate in the chamber to serve as a shock absorber for the pipeline or container before there is a sufficient accumulation to displace liquid from the chamber to a level beneath the entrance. At this stage venting of accumulated air can take place through the conduit and second outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Kevin Richards
  • Publication number: 20040107993
    Abstract: A vacuum breaker having a floating piston that is movable in response to the communication of negative pressure to an inlet port of the vacuum breaker for permitting venting of fluid to the outside atmosphere through a vent opening. The vacuum breaker includes a liquid capture and containment device, which in conjunction with an outer hood, is effective for capturing and containing liquid in a fluid flow stream discharging from the vent opening and redirecting the captured liquid back into the vacuum breaker in order to prevent water leakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: Alliance Laundry Systems LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Stephens
  • Publication number: 20040107994
    Abstract: Disclosed is a water supply control system for controlling the water supply system in a structure, such as a home or industrial or commercial building. The water supply control system typically includes an electronically controlled on-off valve to shut down the water supply to the structure, and a water pressure relief valve coupled to the on-off valve. Additional means for relieving pressure build up in the water supply system that may be included in the control system are (1) an expansion bladder, or (2) a vent pipe integral to the water supply system and terminating on the exterior of the structure, including an on-off valve electronically controlled so as to open when the water supply system is shut down and to close when the water supply system is turned on, or (3) means for disabling a hot water heater integral to the water supply system, the disabling being accomplished concurrently with the closing of the water supply to the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Larry Andrew Bartek
  • Publication number: 20040107995
    Abstract: A locking device of an air-operated normally-closed valve for a gas cylinder includes a housing; a piston assembly provided in the housing; a tapered axial member having an annular outer tapered surface and positioned coaxially with the piston assembly axis; a lock nut which is screw-engaged with the housing and coaxial with the tapered axial member; an annular inner tapered surface formed on an inner peripheral surface of the lock nut to correspond to the annular outer tapered surface; an intermediate cylinder member positioned between the annular outer and inner tapered surfaces; and a lock piece inserted into a radial through hole and contacting the annular outer and inner tapered surfaces. The lock nut can press the lock piece against the annular outer tapered surface via the annular inner tapered surface to lock the piston assembly by adjusting the lock nut with respect to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: Fujikura Rubber Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Ejiri
  • Publication number: 20040107996
    Abstract: A flow control apparatus for controlling and regulating liquid flow rates. The apparatus is designed for the regulation and control of the flow of very small quantities of liquid over a continuous range from a few microliters/min to below one nanoliter/min from a high pressure source. The apparatus comprises a low permeability liquid flow channel, electrodes positioned within the liquid flow channel; and a power supply connected to the electrodes. Connected to the outlet of a high pressure liquid source, such as an electrokinetic pump, the variable flow apparatus controls flow from the pump by generating an opposing or augmenting electroosmotic within the low permeability flow channel. By adding an accumulator in combination with the variable flow apparatus to modulate the pressure-driven flow from the accumulator, the dynamic flow range is enhanced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Robert W. Crocker, Kamlesh D. Patel, Gabriela S. Chirica
  • Publication number: 20040107997
    Abstract: A valve assembly for controlling gas delivery from a higher pressure fluid source to a lower pressure processing tool comprising a valve poppet movingly engageable with a valve seating member and a fluid permeable insert positioned between the valve poppet and the valve seating member that is unexposed to flowing fluid when the valve poppet is in a closed position thereby preventing fluid flow through the valve assembly and provides a diffusional path for transfer of all flowing fluid when the valve poppet is in an open position. The permeable insert can be inserted into the sealable and engageable surface of either the valve seat member or the valve poppet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Glenn Tom
  • Publication number: 20040107998
    Abstract: In a flow control valve, a spool is fitted into a cylindrical body including an input port and an output port. A spring is disposed between the spool and a flow rate setting plug at an end of the cylindrical body. A flow by-path communicating with the input port and the output port is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the cylindrical body. When a quantity of a fluid flowing through the flow control valve is reduced, the fluid flowing through the flow by-path compensates the reduction thereof. Accordingly, it is possible to maintain a constant flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Junya Kuromusha, Shigeru Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20040107999
    Abstract: A relief valve assembly including a valve member, having inlet and outlet bores, for sliding movement within a valve body bore portion, having a cylindrical sleeve portion, journalled via a cylindrical sleeve bearing for substantially the entire axial extent thereof, with a valve member head portion having a plurality of equally spaced apertures, connecting the inlet bore and a sleeve portion central cavity with the outlet bore. An annular resilient seal, having a flat-faced sealing surface is retained in the valve member head portion for sealingly engaging a valve body valve seat portion. A compression member, for biasing the valve member to a closed position, is operatively interposed between an adjustment member piston portion and a valve member sleeve cavity, the adjustment member having an adjustment stem for external adjustment of the compression member. A radial end thrust bearing, is interposed between the compression member and the adjustment member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Burdell Eugene Waffler, Timothy Scott LaCrosse
  • Publication number: 20040108000
    Abstract: A check valve for use in a high-pressure pump is provided with a check valve seat having a frustoconical end region that engages a tapered surface provided on an outlet adaptor. By providing a conical interface between the check valve seat and the outlet adaptor, a compressive stress is placed on the valve seat, thereby dramatically increasing the fatigue life of the check valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: Flow International Corporation
    Inventors: Chidambaram Raghavan, Olivier L. Tremoulet, Katherine M. Madden
  • Publication number: 20040108001
    Abstract: A self-cleaning filter for use in a valve is disclosed. The valve can include a bore, an orifice disposed in the bore for accommodating a fluid flow therethrough, and a filter disposed in the bore between the input port of the fluid flow being filtered and the orifice being protected. The filter can include an entrance head in predetermined spaced relationship with the bore of the valve to define a filter entrance and a body portion. The entrance head can be configured to prevent particles of a predetermined size from entering the filter entrance. The body portion can include at least a portion that has a different shape than the entrance head which cooperates with the bore to define a fluid passage. The fluid passage can have an exit port which is communicable with the orifice to send filtered fluid to the orifice. The filter can include an offset portion which extends beyond an end face of the bore which is useful to develop pressure gradients which provide for a self-cleaning function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: HydraForce, Inc.
    Inventors: Tomasz Slawinski, Valeriy Kazak
  • Publication number: 20040108002
    Abstract: The valve includes a duct (13) for carrying water into the valve, a rotatable knob (18) for adjusting the flow of water through the duct (13) by means of a shutter, an externally projecting tubular body (20) of a transparent material with an internal cavity (21) and a flow indicator rod, slidable inside the valve, with a portion in the intake duct (13) and an indicator portion in the internal cavity (21) of the transparent body (20). The lower portion of the indicator rod (40) has a conical head (41) acting as a shutter for the intake duct (13) while the upper, indicator portion has an upper area able to indicate no water is flowing and a second, lower area able to indicate that water is flowing through the duct (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: ONDA ENGINEERING SYSTEM S.R.L.
    Inventor: Carlo Lumello
  • Publication number: 20040108003
    Abstract: A distribution device for dense substances, especially concrete, with a distribution boom carrying a concrete-conveyance conduit, with at least one telescopic boom section (4) consisting of a first telescope component and a second telescope component (6) that can be extended with respect to this first component, as well as at least one reinforcement beam that is arranged on one of the telescope components and carries a section of the concrete-conveyance conduit, wherein a section of the concrete-conveyance conduit in the region of the telescopic boom section consists of a flexible hose with a compensation loop to accommodate the extension movement of the telescope or of at least one scissor-type conduit assembly made up of swivel elements connected to each other in such a manner that the swivel elements in the two terminal positions of the telescopic boom section are substantially arranged in a crossover position and, together with the articulated joints that interconnect them, move past each other during the
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Friedrich Schwing, Horst Heckmann
  • Publication number: 20040108004
    Abstract: A multi-port valve is disclosed having a ball bearing support system for a stator/rotor/valve stem assembly within a valve housing. Slipper seals or alternatively, poppet seals, connect a plurality of apertures situated in the rotor and a plurality of apertures situated in the adjoining stator so that a common central fluid receiving channel of the stator can be connected to a peripheral fluid delivery channel of the stator via a transfer channel in the rotor. The valve assembly provides a durable, virtually leak-proof system for delivery of a variety of fluids through the same delivery channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Paul R. Beswick, Gary A. Treadwell
  • Publication number: 20040108005
    Abstract: A fluid scavenging system is provided for a lubrication system including a gas turbine engine having bearing compartments. A valve includes a housing with an outlet and a plurality of fluid inlets respectively in fluid communication with the bearing compartments. The valve includes a rotationally driven member arranged within the housing with the member having a plurality of ports arranged thereon each defining an arcuate slot. Each of the ports are selectively in fluid communication with one of the fluid inlets through the arcuate slot during rotation of the member for selectively permitting fluid flow between the opening of one of the fluid inlets through one of the corresponding ports in the member. A fluid pump is fluidly connected to the outlet for drawing fluid from each of the plurality of fluid compartments during fluid rotation of the member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Douglas A. Parsons, Kenneth Marks
  • Publication number: 20040108006
    Abstract: A coolant flow valve for controlling the distribution and flow of coolant to replace the radiator thermostat and heater valve currently used in automotive applications. The valve includes a valve rotor rotationally received in a valve housing wherein the rotational orientation thereof determines which combination of flow paths through four different outlet ports is selected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: RANCO INCORPORATED OF DELAWARE
    Inventors: Allan McLane, William D. Kramer
  • Publication number: 20040108007
    Abstract: A coolant flow valve for controlling the distribution and flow of coolant to replace the radiator thermostat and heater valve currently used in automotive applications. The valve includes a valve rotor rotationally received in a valve housing wherein the rotational orientation thereof determines which combination of flow paths through four different outlet ports is selected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: RANCO INCORPORATED OF DELAWARE
    Inventors: Allan McLane, William D. Kramer
  • Publication number: 20040108008
    Abstract: The method of providing a piston type accumulator with a controlled depth liquid shield on the top of a piston with seals separating a pressurized gas from the seals sealing the pressurized liquid comprising providing a portion of the gas in a chamber portion above said piston and a portion of the gas in a chamber portion not above said piston such that liquids accumulating in the chamber above the piston can be vented into the chamber not above the piston for venting to a location outside said chambers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Benton F. Baugh
  • Publication number: 20040108009
    Abstract: A method of repairing a flow passage is provided that allows prevention of deformation of a tubular assembly after hardening of grout material, to maintain the tubular assembly in a desired cylindrical shape. The method comprises the steps of forming a tubular assembly in a pipe, the tubular assembly having an outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the pipe; filling a grout material in a clearance between the tubular assembly and the inner wall of the pipe; disposing a tubular expansible and contractile pressure bag within the clearance between the tubular assembly and the inner wall of the pipe in a longitudinal direction of the pipe; filling the pressure bag with a fluid to expand the pressure bag; and supporting the tubular assembly with the expanded pressure bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicants: SHONAN GOSEI-JUSHI SEISAKUSHO K.K., YOKOSHIMA & COMPANY
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Yasuhiro Yokoshima
  • Publication number: 20040108010
    Abstract: A clamp attachable to a vehicle for remotely stopping gas leaks in a gas line is provided. The clamp includes a first boom having a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. The first boom is provided with a mounting portion adjacent the first end operable to couple the clamp to a mounting structure for manipulating the clamp. The clamp also includes a second boom having a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. The first and second booms are coupled such that the pipe engaging portions of the first and second booms are positioned to cooperate about a leak portion of a pipe. The clamp has an actuator to selectively engage the first and second pipe engaging portions about the leak portion of the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Wade Gaston, Lance Richard Andrews
  • Publication number: 20040108011
    Abstract: A hose for a fuel feed device of a motor vehicle having a wall (3, 7, 11, 16) manufactured from electrically nonconductive plastic and having an electrical conductor (4, 6, 12-14) that can be connected to a ground (5) of the motor vehicle to discharge electrical charges generated when fuel flows through the hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Karl Eck, Sabine Reichelt
  • Publication number: 20040108012
    Abstract: A device (1) for forming a leno selvedge, said device having two lifting healds (10, 20) and one half heald (30), the lifting healds (10, 20) having a securing element (13, 23; 14, 24) provided respectively at the upper and lower end thereof, said lifting healds (10,20) having, in the region of the lower end, at least one magnet for the foot (31a, 32a) of the half heald (30), each lifting heald (10, 20) having at least one magnet (18, 28) in the region of its upper end, the magnets (18, 28) of the two lifting healds (10, 20) of a leno selvedge device being polarized such that the healds attract each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: Kloecker-Entwicklungs-GmbH
    Inventors: Kurt Hockemeyer, Matthias Klocker
  • Publication number: 20040108013
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for driving one or several pile carriers (2) for the selection of one or several pile yarns (15), comprising at least one drive motor (4) for driving a pile carrier (2), the pile carrier moving under the motor housing (7) of the drive motor and the motor shaft (5) of the drive motor (4) being provided with driving means (6) for directly driving the pile carrier (2), the pile carrier (2) being provided for performing a linear back and forth movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Geert Debuf, Koen Bruynoghe, Peter Garnett
  • Publication number: 20040108014
    Abstract: A pressure container (70) for storing hydrogen gas (26) under pressure for a fuel cell engine. The container (70) includes an outer support layer (12) and a thermoplastic liner (14). An adapter (18) is provided in the outer layer (12) and the liner (14) to allow fill gas (20) to fill the container (70) under pressure. A fill vessel (72) is provided within the liner (14) and is sealed and thermally coupled to the adapter (18). The fill gas (20) is confined within a gap (78) between an outer surface of the fill vessel (72) and the liner (14) so that the temperature of the liner (14) is not significantly increased during the fill process. An opening (82) is provided in the fill vessel (72) so that the fill gas (20) forces the contained gas (26) within the container (70) into the fill vessel (72) through the opening (82).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Rainer Immel
  • Publication number: 20040108015
    Abstract: Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: IMX LABS, INC.
    Inventors: Julie R. Bartholomew, Richard T. Jobe, Thomas C. Bodiker, Timothy E. O'Meara, Dave Hanselman, Jim Foley
  • Publication number: 20040108016
    Abstract: Rack system for supporting devices such as funnels, small and fluid containers to drain residual fluid after use. Residual fluid drains into a pan shaped collection device that may be filled with a layer of fluid absorbent material. Drain pans can be positioned on the system for draining residual fluid into the collection device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: William J. Saks
  • Publication number: 20040108017
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of manufacturing wood elements for musical instruments that have vibration characteristics similar to those of natural woods that are used for musical instruments. The method comprises a laminating step in which a resin is coated onto or is impregnated into a plurality of wooden plate units, fiber directions of the wooden plate units are aligned, and the wooden plate units are stacked and are subjected to thermal pressing so as to be bonded together and produce a laminated body, wherein the thermal pressing is conducted by controlling a pressure so that a density of the laminated body is in a range from 0.8 to 1.4 g/cm3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Abe, Masayuki Kato
  • Publication number: 20040108018
    Abstract: Nitrided valve metals are described, such as nitrided tantalum and nitrided niobium. The nitrided valve metals preferably have improved flow properties, higher Scott Densities, and/or improved pore size distribution which leads to improved physical properties of the valve metal and improved electrical properties once the valve metal is formed into a capacitor anode. Processes for preparing a nitrided valve metal are further described and involve nitriding the valve metal at a sufficient temperature and pressure during a heat treatment that is prior to the deoxidation step. Capacitor anodes and other products incorporating the valve metals of the present invention are further described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Bhamidipaty K.D.P. Rao, Shi Yuan
  • Publication number: 20040108019
    Abstract: It is disclosed a method of measuring the thickness and/or the depletion of Al and Cr of a &ggr;/&ggr;′ MCrAlY-coating after the use in a high temperature environment, the &ggr;/&ggr;′ MCrAlY-coating (6) exhibiting a non-equilibrium &ggr;/&ggr;′-microstructure at a temperature lower than the temperature during operation. Before the coating (6) conductivity by means of a multifrequency eddy current system is measured a heat treatment is applied to transform the non-equilibrium &ggr;/&ggr;′-microstructure to a equilibrium microstructure having a &agr;-Cr phase. Subsequently the Al and/or Cr depletion of the coating (6) from the coating conductivity and permeability is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: ALSTOM Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Alexander Schnell, Giampiero Antonelli, Klaus Germerdonk
  • Publication number: 20040108020
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of fabricating a steel part, the method comprising the steps of:
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Pierre Dierickx, Gaelle Andre
  • Publication number: 20040108021
    Abstract: An aluminium alloy sheet suitable for use as lithographic plate support, wherein the aluminium alloy has the composition (in wt. %): Si 0.05-0.20 preferably 0.06-0.14; Fe 0.15-0.40 preferably at least 0.2; others up to 0.05 each and up to 0.15 total; Al balance, wherein the aluminium alloy sheet is non-grain refined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Paul Vincent Evans, Theodor Rottwinkel, Jeremy Mark Brown