Patents Issued in July 15, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040134508
    Abstract: An appliance for hairstyles and for applying a perm, including: a flat portion (9); at least one anchorage means (8), formed on the inner surface (99) of said flat portion (9) for defining means for deflecting and anchoring a strand of hair; at least one fastening member (7), formed on the inner surface (99) of the flat portion (9) for defining means for fixing the strand of hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Mauro Catini
  • Publication number: 20040134509
    Abstract: The Nappy Locs Tool with a pinched end (14) for holding sections of hair. The hair section is threaded through the bulb (13) and pulled upward into the pinch (14)of the needle. This device secures hair while sewing hair in looping patterns in the formation of the hairstyle dreadlocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Debra Jean Belton
  • Publication number: 20040134510
    Abstract: A toothbrush having a spool of floss stored within the handle, and a forked floss holding frame for holding a portion of the floss in a taut condition for use thereof. The toothbrush includes a handle which terminates in a floss holding frame across which floss from the spool may be extended and held tight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Arnold G. van Vilsteren, Elaine C. Tivinsky
  • Publication number: 20040134511
    Abstract: A hand-held dental flossing device has a housing with a handle that may be held with one hand. A dental floss supply is located in the housing and a winding gear is rotatably mounted to the housing. A free end of the dental floss strand from the floss supply is threaded through the housing into a floss exit arm of the housing where it passes through an exit opening to an exposed area of the flossing arm. Used dental floss returns into the housing, via a receiving opening, where it passes through an optional disinfectant supply before or as it wound onto the winding gear. The housing has an opening where the winding gear extends therefrom and is accessible to the fingers of the user's hand. The winding gear has teeth that cooperate with a stopper to form a one-way ratchet gear. A floss-tensioning button is located in the housing and has first and second ends extending from the housing. The first and second ends are accessible to the user's hand holding the handle of the flossing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Mark C. Bergman
  • Publication number: 20040134512
    Abstract: A dental flosser is moveable between a stored, non-use position where the flosser is substantially planar, and an engaged or in-use position where a portion of the flosser is angled relative to the handle to aid in reaching back teeth. The dental flosser preferably includes a holder (which may be a U-shaped holder) that is movable between the non-use and in-use position; a handle; a living hinge between the holder and the handle, and a locking arm designed to secure the holder in the in-use position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Song Jun Ding, Steven A. Slabine
  • Publication number: 20040134513
    Abstract: A method of cleaning particulates from a solution bath including at least partially filling a deionized water (DIW) bath for rinsing at least one wafer following chemically cleaning the at least one wafer; rinsing the at least one wafer; transferring the at least one wafer to a downstream process; at least partially draining the DIW from the DIW bath; at least partially filling the DIW bath with a bath cleaning solution; and, applying at least one source of ultrasonic energy to agitate the bath cleaning solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuo-Liang Lu, Wen-Song Tseng
  • Publication number: 20040134514
    Abstract: A wafer cleaning method and system including a combined high frequency signal, a low frequency signal, and in one embodiment a biased voltage signal, allows cleaning particles and impurities off of fine-structured wafers, through application of an acoustic field to the wafer through a cleaning liquid which fosters micro-bubble formation for effective cleaning while buffering micro-bubble growth which would otherwise damage the wafer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Yi Wu, Cole S. Franklin, Brian Fraser, Thomas Nicolosi
  • Publication number: 20040134515
    Abstract: An improved method for removing contaminant particles from a surface of a semiconductor wafer includes forming a sacrificial film on the surface of the wafer and then removing the sacrificial film by supercritical fluid cleaning. The removal of the sacrificial film via the supercritical fluid cleaning process facilitates removing the contaminant particles. The method further includes identifying and characterizing the contaminant particles and creating a record of the contaminant particle data. The composition of the sacrificial film is selected based on the contaminant particles data and the supercritical cleaning recipe is selected based on the composition of the sacrificial film and the contaminant particles data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Paul P. Castrucci
  • Publication number: 20040134516
    Abstract: An improved device for cleaning probe pins of a probe head assembly is presented. The device includes a first holding plate, a second holding plate and a cleaning cartridge. The first holding plate secures the probe head assembly. The second holding plate secures the cleaning cartridge in proximity to the first holding plate. The cleaning cartridge has a chamber. The chamber includes a cleaning solution and an absorbent pad located therein. The absorbent pad is saturated with the cleaning solution and prevents leakage of the cleaning solution out of the chamber. During cleaning operations, the first holding plate is positioned about the second holding plate such that the probe pins of a probe head extend into and contact the absorbent pad in the chamber. Once contact is established, the cleaning solution acts upon the probe pin tips to remove unwanted debris. A depth of penetration of the pins into the pad is controlled by a surface of the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Wentworth Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: William H. Fulton, William F. Thiessen
  • Publication number: 20040134517
    Abstract: A combination of parallel processes is disclosed to provide optimal re-mediation operations for contaminated soil. Soils with high levels of heavy petroleum hydrocarbons are directed to a thermal process for destruction in a combustion process. Carbon dioxide generated and recovered in the thermal process is employed as a solvent in a solvent process to clean other soils of petroleum hydrocarbons and certain chlorinated hydrocarbon compounds. In the solvent process, contaminated soils are run through a closed soil separator where the soils are washed with carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is then dried from the soil and the soil is sent for segregation. Soils with the lightest forms of hydrocarbon contamination (gasoline, etc.) are subjected to a vaporization process utilizing heat energy generated in the thermal process to heat the soil, under a partial vacuum, and the vapors generated are captured, condensed, and recovered as product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Steve L. Clark
  • Publication number: 20040134518
    Abstract: A vacuum line connected to a robotic device is run into a reactor vessel. The robotic device has a rotating body, a cleaning arm, and stabilizing arms to stabilize the robotic device within the reactor vessel. The robotic device may be controlled/monitored from a remote control station in communication with the robotic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: CATALYST SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Greg Kraus, Ray Arnold
  • Publication number: 20040134519
    Abstract: A method of controlling a dishwasher, which heats air in a washing chamber while supplying water into the washing chamber to generate hot water through a heat exchange between the heated air and the supplied water. Further, a second method of controlling a dishwasher operates an air generator while starting of the supplying of water into a washing chamber to heat the supplied water and air in the washing chamber. If a temperature of the water in the washing chamber exceeds a first reference value, the supplying of water is stopped and the air generator is operated. If a temperature of the air in the washing chamber exceeds a second reference value, the supplying of water is started.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tae-Young Jung, Woon-Gu Hur, Sam-Young Jang, Je-Hak Woo, Wang-Seok Son
  • Publication number: 20040134520
    Abstract: A method for the reprocessing of a device having internal passageways by applying a fluid at a plurality of pressures to the internal passageways of the device to permit reuse of the device in a clean environment includes applying a fluid having a single input pressure to a pressure differentiation device having first and second pressure control fittings for providing first and second differing pressure outputs in accordance with the single input pressure and transmitting the fluid at the first and second differing pressures from the pressure differentiation device to the internal passageways. The internal passageways are reprocessed with the transmitted fluid at the first and second differing pressures, whereby the internal passageways are reprocessed at differing pressures in accordance with the single input pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Custom Ultrasonics, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig Weber
  • Publication number: 20040134521
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a fouled RO membrane in a module for RO separation, the membrane having feed side and permeate side, the foulant accumulating at the feed side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Boris Liberman
  • Publication number: 20040134522
    Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of semi-conductor wafers is provided. The apparatus has a first valve mechanism for introducing different treatment fluids into a treatment tank from different reservoirs. At least one collection device is provided for collecting a treatment fluid after treatment of wafers therewith in the treatment tank. A second valve mechanism is provided for conveying at least a portion of the treatment fluid out of the collection device and to a respective reservoir. A rinsing mechanism is provided for rinsing the collection device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Mattson Wet Products
    Inventors: Manfred Schenkl, Robert Pesce, John Oshinowo, Uwe Muller
  • Publication number: 20040134523
    Abstract: A sheet metal washer system for cleaning metal blanks includes a washer cassette with an open bottom that is selectively mounted on a tank assembly, a drive motor assembly and a filter assembly. The washer cassette includes an inlet opening and an exit opening with upper and lower entry rollers having a first predetermined durometer positioned adjacent to the inlet opening and upper and lower exit rollers having a second predetermined durometer positioned adjacent the exit opening. Upper and lower manifolds for delivering cleaning fluid from the filter assembly to the interior of the washer cassette are positioned between the entry and exit rollers. The sheet metal blank is cleaned by the entry rollers and dried by the exit rollers, as it passes through the sheet metal washer. The washer cassette preferably includes a safety mechanism for locking the upper entry and exit rollers into a storage position when the washer system is not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Utica Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: William Robert Budry, Mohamad A. Sebai, Douglas J. Goetz, David Berghorn, Michael J. Bleau
  • Publication number: 20040134524
    Abstract: A sheet metal washer system for cleaning metal blanks includes a washer cassette with an open bottom that is selectively mounted on a tank assembly, a drive motor assembly and a filter assembly. The washer cassette includes an inlet opening and an exit opening with upper and lower entry rollers having a first predetermined durometer positioned adjacent to the inlet opening and upper and lower exit rollers having a second predetermined durometer positioned adjacent the exit opening. Upper and lower manifolds for delivering cleaning fluid from the filter assembly to the interior of the washer cassette are positioned between the entry and exit rollers. The sheet metal blank is cleaned by the entry rollers and dried by the exit rollers, as it passes through the sheet metal washer. The washer cassette preferably includes a safety mechanism for locking the upper entry and exit rollers into a storage position when the washer system is not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Utica Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: William Robert Budry, Mohamad A. Sebai, Douglas J. Goetz, David Berghorn, Michael J. Bleau
  • Publication number: 20040134525
    Abstract: Combination animal leash and umbrella includes a center post with a closeable umbrella cover that fits convexly over the leash attached to the inside of the umbrella. In a preferred embodiment, the extending support post of the umbrella is articulatable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Travel Caddy, Inc. d/b/a Travelon
    Inventors: Donald E. Godshaw, Andrezj M. Redzisz
  • Publication number: 20040134526
    Abstract: Harmful effects of the sun are becoming more prominent than they have been in the past. Thus, appropriately shielding ourselves from the sun has become ever more important. Unfortunately, applying sunscreens to infants may not be preferable thus sunshade umbrellas have been developed that clamp onto a stroller and are user positionable to provide shade to the infant located thereunder. Unfortunately, as the stroller I moved with respect to the sun, the orientation of the umbrella must be varied in order to ensure the infant is in adequate shade. Not applicable to just stroller umbrellas, an automated position in system for an umbrella is thus disclosed. The automated positioning system orients the canopy of the umbrella in relation to the sun so that shade at a predetermine location is provided thereunder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Rashell Freedman
  • Publication number: 20040134527
    Abstract: A modified umbrella, cane or similar device's handle consisting of a knob attached to the end of the handle. The handle is shaped in such a matter to facilitate the attachment of the knob and placement of the knob such that the knob would be in contact with a flat surface if the umbrella, cane or similar device were hung from that flat surface. This knob would increase the lateral fiction of the handle and keep it from sliding on the flat surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Nicholas Black
  • Publication number: 20040134528
    Abstract: A golf umbrella case is designed for positioning in a golf bag between two transverse partitioning strips at a top opening of the golf bag for receiving a golf umbrella therein, so that the golf bag has an integral and valuable appearance without an outward protruded portion to collide or interfere with external things and cause discomfort to a person carrying the golf bag on shoulder. Any rainwater remained on the golf umbrella is collected in the golf umbrella case without internally wetting the golf bag, and the golf umbrella case may be easily removed from the golf bag to clear rainwater and dust accumulated therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Tsun-Zong Wu
  • Publication number: 20040134529
    Abstract: The invention relates to the side covering (7) for a collapsible tent of a light variety, whereby the individual corner posts are each in two parts and comprise an upper (1) and a lower (2) section. Said sections may be telescopically placed one inside the other and may be locked together. The corner posts (1, 2) have grooves (3, 4) in the longitudinal direction, the diameter of which is different for the upper piece (1) and lower piece (2), such that they may be placed one inside the other. Moulded profiles (8, 9) may be placed in the grooves (3, 4), to which the side covering is fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Heinz Stoeckler
  • Publication number: 20040134530
    Abstract: A thermoelectric conversion device for securely fixing a junction of a thermocouple to a top plate while ensuring heat transfer between the junction and the top plate. The thermoelectric conversion device includes a substrate having a main surface, a top plate facing the main surface of the substrate, and a plurality of series-connected thermocouples. Each thermocouple has a first end including a first junction and a second end including a second junction. The first junction of each thermocouple is fixed to the main surface of the substrate and the second junction of each thermocouple is provided with a bump for attaching the second junction to the top plate in such a way that the second junction is separated from the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicants: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO, THE RITSUMEIKAN TRUST
    Inventors: Kouichi Itoigawa, Hiroshi Ueno, Susumu Sugiyama, Toshiyuki Toriyama
  • Publication number: 20040134531
    Abstract: A solar concentrator module comprising a front lens on its front face, a receiver cell on its rear face and a reflector between the front lens and the receiver cell, said reflector having inclined sidewalls along at least two opposite sides of the receiver cell characterised in that the reflectors are truncated and in that the sidewalls of the reflectors are inclined in such a way that, for a 0 [deg] off-pointing, solar rays are reflected on the inclined side walls of the reflectors before impinging on the receiver cell, to produce a relatively uniform illumination on the receiver cell for a range of off pointing acceptance angle superior to zero degree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Serge Habraken, Jean-Marc Defise, Jean-Paul Collette
  • Publication number: 20040134532
    Abstract: An apparatus is for inhibiting fuels from flowing out of fuel tanks, and includes a housing having an evaporator opening, a floating valve, a seat, a cylinder having a peripheral wall and a lateral hole formed in the peripheral wall and communicating the inside of the cylinder with the outside, a bottom hole formed in the seat and communicating the inside of the cylinder with the outside, and a flow passage extending from the bottom hole to the lateral hole, flow passage in which a part of the peripheral wall of the cylinder intervenes. Alternatively, the apparatus include a flow passage extending from the bottom hole to the evaporator opening and constricted partially by the seat and a bottom of the floating valve. Thus, gases are less likely to float the floating valve upward, but liquids are likely to float it upward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Norihiro Yamada, Eishin Mori, Keisuke Yoshida, Koji Miwa, Takashi Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20040134533
    Abstract: An emergency utility backup system, for a building normally supplied with culinary water, electric power and natural gas by public utilities, includes at least one water storage reservoir having an upper input coupled to a public water utility main line; an electric generator powered by an internal combustion engine; and an electric air compressor having a compressed air storage tank which provides elevated air pressure to the water storage reservoir(s) in the event that water pressure from the public water utility main line fails. The electric air compressor is operable from power supplied by either a public electric utility or said electric generator. The emergency utility backup system may also include a tank for storing a liquid hydrocarbon fuel that may be utilized for both the electric generator and a heating system for the building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: LeRoy Frank Cowan
  • Publication number: 20040134534
    Abstract: An exit opening (78) in a cartridge (22) is alignable with an opening (48) in a housing (32) for communication to an external drain. The cartridge and the housing have positions of final secured and initial unsecured interconnections, when openings (78, 48) are respectively aligned and unaligned. A lever (52) is swivelably secured to the housing bottom wall (46), whose cap (54) can close housing exit tube (28); a projection (56) is engageable with the cartridge for effecting the closure when the housing and cartridge openings (48, 78) are not aligned. Three L-shaped keyways (60) in the housing interior mate with three keyways (82) in the cartridge, and have corrugated surfaces to provide a ratcheted secure connection between the cartridge and the housing when in the secure connection. A tool (92) is used to insert and to remove the cartridge into and from the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Ditmar L. Gorges, Michael Higgins
  • Publication number: 20040134535
    Abstract: A pressure and vacuum vent utilizing a column of liquid to open and close the vent at predetermined pressure and vacuum levels. A column of liquid is constrained in connection with internal and external passages coupled between a pair of expansion chambers. The external passage is sized to hold a level of liquid corresponding to a predetermined positive pressure level at which the valve will open, while the internal passage is sized to hold a level of liquid corresponding to a predetermined negative pressure level at which the valve will open. At either the predetermined positive or negative pressure level, the valve opens when sufficient liquid has exited either the external or internal passage to permit the flow of a restrained gas past the liquid column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas O. Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20040134536
    Abstract: A gas bottle assembly includes a container for containing a pressurized gas, and an operating head, the operating head including a valve member which in the absence of any demand for the gas, is positioned close to a valve seat such as to permit only a minimal flow of gas from the container past the valve seat, and an actuator moveable to move the valve member away from the valve seat thereby to permit a greater flow of gas past the valve seat, to an outlet for use, and wherein the actuator includes a plunger with which the valve member is integral or to which the valve member is affixed, and the actuator includes a piston part which is movable in a piston chamber in one direction in response an actuator spring acting at a first side of the piston part, to move the valve member away from the seat, and in an opposite direction in response to a combination of gas pressure and a valve return spring which is located in the piston chamber at a second opposite side of the piston part to the actuator spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: Honeywell Normalair-Garrett (Holdings) Limited
    Inventors: Robert John Phillips, Terence Oborne
  • Publication number: 20040134537
    Abstract: A double check valve that generally includes a modular fluid casing having a main housing, a one-piece modular cage, and at least one in-line check valve removably housed in the modular cage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Brad L. Noll, Frank Kock, Clark Behnke, Salvador Valdivia
  • Publication number: 20040134538
    Abstract: A check valve for micro electro mechanical structure devices (MEMS), and in particular pertains to a check valve which is adapted to be employed in connection with micro electro mechanical structure devices which are intended to be employed with supercritical fluids constituting working fluids. In a preferred embodiment, the check valve is equipped with a bypass channel including a freely moveable plug structure which, in the open position of the valve enables the ingress of supercritical fluids under high superatmospheric pressures, and subsequent to the filling of the system, let down to atmospheric pressure, causes the plug to be moved into a permanent valve-closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: John Michael Cotte, Kenneth John McCullough, Wayne Martin Moreau, John P. Simons, Charles J. Taft, Richard P. Volant
  • Publication number: 20040134539
    Abstract: A pressure limiting valve is provided which has a valve body assigned on the high-pressure side to a valve seat and an operating piston combined with the valve body to form a unit, wherein the valve body and the operating piston are jointly spring-loaded and bound a pressure space which can be opened as a function of pressure with respect to a connection cross-section open in the return flow by way of the operating piston moving in a sliding guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Horst Ressel, Wolfgang Scheibe, Michael Lippisch, Rene Teuber
  • Publication number: 20040134540
    Abstract: An inlet, a valve chest having a diameter larger than that of the inlet, and an outlet are formed in a valve casing. An annular valve seat is formed between the inlet and the valve chest. A valve element for opening and closing the annular valve seat is disposed within the valve chest. A valve stem is projectingly provided on the inlet side of the valve element. A guide member with which an outer periphery of the valve stem comes into sliding contact is provided at inner ends of ribs which project into the valve chest from an inner wall of the inlet. A recess is formed in the valve element to receive therein the ribs projecting to the valve element and also to receive the guide member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Hideaki Yumoto
  • Publication number: 20040134541
    Abstract: An air pressure and flow regulating valve for pneumatic tool mainly includes a valve body, a pressure regulator and a flow regulator connected to one side and a top, respectively, of the valve body, and an air inlet connector provided at a bottom of the valve body. By rotating a first turning knob provided on the pressure regulator, a narrow passage is produced in the valve body between the air inlet connector and the flow regulator, so that a pressure of air supplied into the pneumatic tool via the flow regulator is controllable via the size of the narrow passage. By rotating a second turning knob mounted around the flow regulator to fully open, partially shield, or fully close an outer air passage hole provided on the flow regulator, speed and flow of air supplied into the pneumatic tool can be changed under control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Li Chen Chen
  • Publication number: 20040134542
    Abstract: A system configured to distribute liquid flow into predetermined proportions is provided. The system includes a distributor defining a plurality of distributor outlets configured to deliver liquid from the distributor. A receptacle is positioned to receive liquid, the receptacle defining a plurality of receptacle outlets oriented to deliver liquid portions toward the distributor outlets. The receptacle is pivotally mounted for movement with respect to the distributor, and is self-leveling such that liquid is divided by the receptacle outlets into predetermined proportions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Robert C. Tsigonis
  • Publication number: 20040134543
    Abstract: The present invention proposes a tank, in particular a vehicle fuel tank, having a component (20) mounted therein. Such a tank comprises a tank wall (12) and a shaft (14) having a first end (18) and a second end (21). A base portion (16) is arranged on the first end (18) of the shaft (14), the base portion (16) comprising a weld area (22) on its surface facing the tank wall (12) and weld material (24) is arranged in the weld area (22) for welding the shaft (14) to the tank wall (12). A component (20) is mounted on the second end (21) of the shaft (14). According to an important aspect of the invention, the base portion (16) is wider than the weld area (22), and a circumferential area (26) of the base portion (16) is configured so as to, when mounted to the tank wall (12), at least partially rest on the tank wall (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Norbert Raimann, Marpessa Randolph
  • Publication number: 20040134544
    Abstract: A fluid coupler comprises a ball valve a through hole provided between a female coupler body and a valve holding casing connected to the female coupler body and surrounding the ball. The ball valve has a first flat sliding surface formed on a spherical outer surface of the ball valve which extends in a direction normal to a rotational axis of the ball valve, and a flat stop surface raised from the first flat sliding surface and reaching said spherical outer surface of said ball valve, the first flat sliding surface and the flat stop surface together defining a recess. The valve holding casing has an alignment portion formed on and raised from an interior surface thereof. The alignment portion has a second flat sliding surface slidably engaged with said first flat sliding surface. The flat stop surface is adapted to engage with the alignment portion to limit the rotational movement of the ball valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Toshio Mikiya, Hiroyuki Kitagawa
  • Publication number: 20040134545
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling a household water supply incorporating motion-sensing for determining whether a house is occupied, provides protection of structures and fixtures from water damage due to plumbing failure or other causes. The household water supply is shut-off in conformity with a determination that the household is unoccupied and thereby provides automatic protection from water damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Brent Ford
  • Publication number: 20040134546
    Abstract: Improved valve and methods for analytical techniques and systems. The valve includes a main housing, together with a rotor and stator. The stator has openings therethrough which allow for fluid communication between tubing when connected to the valve, and one surface of the rotor. Ferrules can be used with a clamping assembly to tightly connect the tubing to the valve in a way which separates the clamp assemblies (for ease of connection and disassembly), yet still provides close proximity between the fluid connections. In one embodiment, a series of two or more discrete elements, which can be selectively moved relative to one another, are located within the valve in a “stacked” configuration. Each of the discrete elements includes at least one feature useful for performing chemical analysis, such as sample loops, columns, detectors, mixers and the like, all of which are useful in chromatography.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Hans G. Schick, Michael L. Bailey, Thomas C. Dykas
  • Publication number: 20040134547
    Abstract: A variable force actuator with a double needle poppet assembly includes a housing in which a first poppet and a second poppet are slidably disposed. The second poppet fits within the first poppet, and both poppets move when a nearby coil is energized to establish, in combination, a fluid flow configuration in response to the amount of energy applied to the coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Alejandro Moreno, Conrado Carrillo
  • Publication number: 20040134548
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a switching valve capable of increasing the opening stroke of a valve operated by a differential pressure while saving space, thereby reducing pressure loss. A first valve is disposed between an inlet port and a first outlet port. A pilot valve is provided between a back pressure chamber for a movable plug that holds a valve sheet disposed in a manner opposed to a valve seat, and the first outlet port, such that the first valve is operated by a solenoid. A second valve is arranged between the inlet port and a second outlet port. A back pressure chamber for a movable plug that holds a valve sheet disposed in a manner opposed to a valve seat and the first outlet port are communicated with each other. The second valve is opened by the differential pressure generated by closing of the first valve, and when the first valve is opened, the second valve is closed by the spring since the differential pressure is reduced to zero.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: TGK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Katsumi Koyama
  • Publication number: 20040134549
    Abstract: A hydraulic motor vehicle comprises a plastic hydraulic distributor plate (1) with channels (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) for the distribution of hydraulic fluid extending therethrough. Electric conductors (9) of the gearbox control device are embedded in the hydraulic distributor plate (1) and/or electric conductors are metallized onto the surface of the hydraulic distributor plate (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Roland Albert
  • Publication number: 20040134550
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel pressure damping system for use in a hydraulic system. The invention introduces specifically sized restrictors in the fuel passage to control the maximum operating system pulse magnitude as well as damping the overall pulsations of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher John Treusch, Joe Zhi Li, Robert Eugene Wattleworth
  • Publication number: 20040134551
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved method for installing a liner to repair a pipeline. The method involves placing a flexible lining hose that is coated with a thermosetting resin in the pipeline. A thermosetting resin is also applied to the interior walls of the pipeline. A calibration hose is introduced into the lining hose and pressurized fluid is injected therein. The fluid presses the lining hose against the interior surface of the pipeline and cures the first and second thermosetting resins. The curing of the resins bonds the lining hose to the pipeline to form a rigid monolithic composite structure having high mechanical strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel Warren
  • Publication number: 20040134552
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lining sewer pipes that utilize an adjustable form configured to conform to the shape and dimensions of the interior of a man-entry sized pipe line. The adjustable form can be used to position a sheet of liner material immediately adjacent the inner sewer walls. An air cushion system is utilized to reduce friction and drag between the sheet of liner material and form so that the liner sheet can be easily adjusted prior to bonding to the inner walls of the pipe line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Juan P. Renteria
  • Publication number: 20040134553
    Abstract: A flexible hose for use as a refrigerant passageway in a vehicular refrigerating cycle has an inner hose and an outer hose. The outer hose covers the inner hose with a space formed in a given distance. The outer hose and the inner hose are formed of resin having flexibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: CALSONIC KANSEI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nobuo Ichimura, Hiromi Takasaki, Yoshikazu Takamatsu
  • Publication number: 20040134554
    Abstract: An ink tube (10) for an ink jet printer is formed by using a thermoplastic elastomer composition, having a Shore-A-hardness of not more than 70, which comprises an olefin thermoplastic resin and a rubber component, containing not less than 30 wt % of butyl rubber, which is dispersed finely by dynamic vulcanization the rubber component in the olefin thermoplastic resin. It is preferable to extrude the thermoplastic elastomer composition tubularly by a resin extrusion method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Hideyuki Okuyama
  • Publication number: 20040134555
    Abstract: Multi-layer tubular polymeric composite for articles such as tubing and hoses. The composite may be formed of an innermost and an outermost layer, and at least one interlayer between the innermost and the outermost layer. The innermost and the outermost layer each may be bonded directly to one of the interlayers, and may be formed of a thermoplastic polymeric material which may be a polyamide. Each of the interlayers may be formed of a thermoplastic polymeric material which may be a polyester or copolyester, or a polyurethane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Steven M. Powell, Ronald A. Moner, James L. Johnston, John R. Greco, Nick A. Martino
  • Publication number: 20040134556
    Abstract: A heat insulating system for tubular bodies comprises at least two superimposed evacuated panels (4, 4′), at least one of which is essentially formed by an evacuated envelope inside which a polymeric filling material is contained, and at least one other is essentially formed by an evacuated envelope inside which an inorganic filler is present, in the form of powders, fibers or their mixtures. Each of said evacuated panels (4, 4′) is rolled up on itself to the extent that two opposed edges thereof (5, 5′), that are parallel to the rolling axis, are mutually set side by side. Said rolled evacuated panels (4, 4′) are also arranged with said edges (5) of an evacuated panel (4) being staggered with respect to the edges (5′) of another evacuated panel (4′).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: SAES GETTERS S.p.A.
    Inventors: Paolo Manini, Pierattilio Di Gregorio
  • Publication number: 20040134557
    Abstract: A static hydrodynamic mixer undulating interior conduit provides a static mixing apparatus which utilizes a spiral, coiled or curved conduit to cause dynamic mixing of flowing fluids while they are pumped through the conduit. Gentle but pervasive low-shear mixing is produced by axial and radial secondary currents induced by gravitational and centrifugal body forces acting on the solid and liquid fluid components flowing through the undulating conduit. The vigor of mixing and resistance to flow increases with the undulation's amplitude/pitch ratio. The application includes a method of use in extracting bitumen from oil sands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Lubomyr M. Cymbalisty