Patents Issued in August 12, 2004
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Publication number: 20040154617Abstract: A nebulizer uses air or preferably oxygen to aerate and transport an anesthetic for providing topical anesthesia to the airway passages of a patient undergoing analysis or treatment by any of several medical instruments used to traverse the airway passages. The nebulizer is preferably applied in connection with fiberoptical diagnostic and therapeutic instruments, such as bronchoscopes, endoscopes and laryngoscopes, and many variations of these instruments. Other liquid, aerosol, and gaseous drugs may also be administered with the nebulizer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Dietmar Enk
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Publication number: 20040154618Abstract: Inhalation device and associated method for facilitating inhalation by a patient of powder medicaments contained in a receptacle. The inhalation device has a chamber for receiving the receptacle. A ring is circumferentially coupled to an inner surface of the chamber to achieve a higher reproducible emitted dose of medicament from the receptacle. The inhalation device also includes an improved implement for puncturing the receptacle, requiring less force and experiencing fewer failures.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Advanced Inhalation Research, Inc.Inventors: David Edwards, Mark DeLong, Craig Dunbar, Ernest E. Penachio, Kevin Stapleton, Mark Wolff
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Publication number: 20040154619Abstract: Inhalation device and associated method for facilitating inhalation by a patient of powder medicaments contained in a receptacle. The inhalation device has a chamber for receiving the receptacle. A ring is circumferentially coupled to an inner surface of the chamber to achieve a higher reproducible emitted dose of medicament from the receptacle. The inhalation device also includes an improved implement for puncturing the receptacle, requiring less force and experiencing fewer failures. The inhalation device also includes a means for indicating readiness.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Advanced Inhalation Research, Inc.Inventors: David Edwards, Colleen Conlon, David L. Foshee, Jason R. Durkin, Tim Coker, Kevin Stapleton, Sarah Dreesen, Mark DeLong, Andrew Jones, Ryan McManus, Margaret Millar Saunders, Robert W. Spaller, Andrew Ziegler
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Publication number: 20040154620Abstract: A pneumatic oxygen conserving device uses a portion of gas exiting its main value to interrupt delivery of the gas. Gas is dispensed upon inhalation and is interrupted by means of suitable pneumatic connections between the device's delivery system and its sensing system.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Peter P. Gale, Stephen B. Krentler, Clyde W. Shuman
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Publication number: 20040154621Abstract: An implantable flow control element is provided which prevents air from entering an isolated portion of a patient's lung. The element may permit air to escape from the isolated portion so that the element acts like a valve. Systems for implanting pulmonary devices are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Mark E. Deem, Bernard H. Andreas, Sunmi Chew, Antony J. Fields, Ronald French, Hanson S. Gifford, Ronald R. Hundertmark, Alan R. Rapacki, Douglas S. Sutton, Peter M. Wilson
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Publication number: 20040154622Abstract: A tracheal tube, having a machine end and a patient end, includes a tracheal tube tie located between the machine and patient ends of the tube. The tracheal tube tie is elastic, is made from twisted plastic tape that has been heated to make a rounded cord, and has loose ends for securing the tube in a trachea of a patient by tying the ends to the nose or jaw of a veterinary patient. The plastic tape may be made of polyvinyl chloride. The tape is twisted along its length to form a rounded cord. The cord is heat treated so that it keeps the rounded form.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Billy B. Davis
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Publication number: 20040154623Abstract: A tracheostomy tube having a flange selectively attachable to and detachable from the tubular body. Utilizing an attachable flange that is not attached to the tracheostomy tube body until the flange has been inserted into the trachea enables the tracheostomy tube to be inserted by way of a radially expandable introducer sheath, thereby preventing substantial deformation of the body being dilated in the direction of movement of a dilator. In another embodiment, a tracheostomy tube/loading dilator combination is provided. The loading dilator has a larger-diameter proximal portion and a smaller diameter distal portion tapered at its distal end. The smaller-diameter distal portion is sized for insertion through the longitudinal bore of the tracheostomy tube such that the tapered distal portion extends axially beyond the tapered distal tip of the tracheostomy tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Cook Critical CareInventors: Darin G. Schaeffer, Daniel J. Sirota
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Publication number: 20040154624Abstract: A surgical device comprises a mounting element provided by a first ring element 200 and a second ring element 201. A sealing member in the form of a sleeve 202 of pliable material has ends mounted to the rings 200, 201. The sleeve 202 is twisted to have a normally closed access opening 207 and is movable on insertion of a surgeon's hand/arm 210 to open the access opening 207 whilst maintaining substantial sealing engagement to the arm 210. A biassing means is provided to bias the sleeve into a configuration in which the access opening 207 is normally closed. The biassing may be provided by pre-tensioning the sleeve 202 and/or by using a separate spring element 220, 215.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Frank Bonadio, John Butler, Trevor Vaugh, Shane Joseph Macnally, Alan Reid
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Publication number: 20040154625Abstract: A mouthguard to protect an arch of a user includes an outer wall covering a buccal surface of teeth. The outer wall includes a force absorbing inner layer, a force absorbing outer layer and a force transmitting layer positioned therebetween the force absorbing inner layer and the force absorbing outer layer. An inner wall is positioned opposite the outer wall to cover a palatal surface of the teeth, and includes the force absorbing inner layer and the force absorbing outer layer. A lower wall is disposed between the outer wall and the inner wall to cover an occlusal surface of the teeth. The lower wall includes the force absorbing inner layer and the force absorbing outer layer. The outer wall, inner wall and lower wall form a U-shaped channel that is molded into the shape of the arch. The method of making the mouthguard includes the steps of casting a model of a user's arch, molding a force absorbing inner layer of material to the model to form a force absorbing inner layer of the mouthguard.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Timothy W. Foley
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Publication number: 20040154626Abstract: A mouthguard that includes a U-shaped base with an anterior portion situated between posterior portions. The U-shaped base is made of a first softenable material and includes a top side and a bottom side. The mouthguard further includes an outer wall that extends up from the top side of the base. Each of the posterior portions includes an end portion that is made of a second material that is harder than the first material. Another mouthguard includes a U-shaped base with an anterior portion between posterior portions. The U-shaped base is made from a first material and includes a top side, a bottom side and an outer wall that extends up from the top side of the U-shaped base. The mouthguard further includes a pair of pads such that each of the pads extend posteriorly out from a unique one of the posterior portions on the U-shaped base.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc.Inventors: Steve J. Washburn, Jon Wong
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Publication number: 20040154627Abstract: An orthopedic traction apparatus includes in coaxial arrangement, a first tubular member anchored to a operating table or other stationary structure supporting a patient, and a second tubular member telescopically moving within the first one. A hand-crank and jack-screw mechanism is used to vary the position of the second member in relation to the first member. A tensiometer is provided at the distal end of the second member proximate a fixture adapted for attachment to a part of a patient's body. The tensiometer is based on a compressible, calibrated coil spring and is provided with a vernier scale for convenient and precise adjustment of the traction force. Alternately, the tensiometer uses a load-cell driving a digital read-out.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Roger J. Malcolm, Tim M. Salter, Rob D. Kelley, Ward L. Sanders, Bryan P. Peterson
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Publication number: 20040154628Abstract: An arm board for supporting the forearm, wrist and hand during IV therapy which includes a contoured brace with removable straps for securing the forearm and middle two fingers of the patient's hand to the support, allowing some limited movement of the middle two fingers, and free movement of the little finger, thumb and index finger to reduce fatigue without altering the position of the IV tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: James J. Callaway
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Publication number: 20040154629Abstract: Use in the tobacco rod of a smoking article of tobacco mixed with a reconstituted tobacco sheet which includes activated carbon particles, surrounded by a paper of CORESTA 20 permeability or greater results in an article having reduced sidestream smoke and selective reduction of certain ingredients in mainstream smoke, whereby the smoker has a perception of increased smoothness.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: John Roger Sampson
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Publication number: 20040154630Abstract: A double wrapper cigarette produced by a manufacturing machine and method according to the invention includes an inner wrapper (6) wrapped around a rod-like filler including a tobacco material, an outer wrapper (8) surrounding the inner wrapper (6), and a perfume emitting layer (10) provided between the inner wrapper (6) and the outer wrapper (8). The perfume emitting layer (10) includes a perfume material for weakening odor of sidestream smoke of the cigarette.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Hiromi Tabuchi, Masaomi Fukamachi, Hidetoshi Okuyama
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Publication number: 20040154631Abstract: The invention is a new device for creating and holding the classic French twist hairstyle. It uses existing Velcro or other self-hold/self-grip hair roller technology, but the newness is in the design and utility.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Arlene Marie Nawrocki
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Publication number: 20040154632Abstract: A hair connecting fastener for securing two sections of hair together. The hair connecting fastener comprises a first elastic looped hair band with an attaching member attached to it and a second elastic looped hair band with an attaching member attached to it. In use the first band is attached to a section of hair; the second band is attached to a separate section of hair; and both attaching members are attached together.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: David Alan Silva
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Publication number: 20040154633Abstract: A hair holding device and spring concealment mechanism including a pair of opposed, hingedly connected body members adapted to pivot about a hinge axis between closed and open positions. A torsion biasing spring biases the device into a predetermined position. The spring is concealed in multiple casings, which are unattached to either body member of the hair holding device. The casings do not bear any torque exerted by the spring and do not encase the entireties of the spring's first and second projecting arms. Consequently, they can be made relatively thin-walled and compact to closely conform to the size and shape of the coil portion of the spring. The thin walls and small diameter of the spring casings minimize the extent to which the casings protrude from the hair holding device, thereby improving its aesthetic appeal.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Bruce A. Rogers, David Livingston
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Publication number: 20040154634Abstract: A new style of a compact case for cosmetics and a powder puff is provided with a smooth outer surface without protruding portions. Due to the soft and elastic front structure connected to the latching device, it is convenient and easy to open and close simply by pressing the front surface of the circumference frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Jong Nam Lee
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Publication number: 20040154635Abstract: A toothbrush system for efficiently integrating toothpaste within a toothbrush. The toothbrush system includes a handle portion having a reservoir, a plunger member positioned within the reservoir actuated by a control knob and threaded shaft, a head unit threadably attached to the handle portion having a passageway, a plurality of dispensing nozzles within the head unit, and a plurality of bristle member extending from the head unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Ignacio S. Segura
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Publication number: 20040154636Abstract: A method for cleaning teeth by drawing at least one cleaning thread in a reciprocating movement along teeth, at least one end of which cleaning thread is fastened to an elongate handling member, the other end of the thread is grasped with the hand, and the cleaning thread at least partially encircles the teeth during the movement. Thorough cleaning is hereby possible, so that the risk of teeth decay and/or gum disorders is avoided. The invention also relates to a device for cleaning teeth, comprising at least one elongate handling member with at least one opening formed close to an end of the member for passage of a cleaning thread, wherein the end of the member comprising the opening is adapted such that gums around the teeth are hereby not adversely affected. The device can be provided with means for holding the end of the handling member located opposite the opening, for instance in the form of a handle. The invention also relates to a handle for use in such a device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Louis Jose?apos; Paz-Soldan
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Publication number: 20040154637Abstract: A system and method of cleaning a substrate includes a megasonic chamber that includes a transducer and a substrate. The transducer is being oriented toward the substrate. A variable distance d separates the transducer and the substrate. The system also includes a dynamically adjustable RF generator that has an output coupled to the transducer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: LAM RESEARCH CORPORATIONInventors: John Boyd, Andras Kuthi, Michael G. R. Smith, Thomas W. Anderson, William Thie
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Publication number: 20040154638Abstract: A method for performing the edge clean operation on a semiconductor wafer. A laser beam is used to accurately clean the edge of the wafer. The wafer is clamped concentrically to a chuck and rotated at a selectable speed, preferably in the range of 10 rpm to 1,000 rpm. A laser beam of variable power is directed onto toward the edge of the wafer at an oblique angle through a nozzle through which an inert purge gas is simultaneously passed. The laser beam removes unwanted deposits at the edge of the wafer and the gas is used to blow away the residue and prevent slag buildup on other parts of the wafer. The process is preferably carried out in an exhausted chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Steven Reder, Michael J. Berman, Rennie Barber
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Publication number: 20040154639Abstract: In a first aspect, a first apparatus is provided. The first apparatus includes (1) a tank adapted to contain fluid; (2) at least one support component mounted in the tank and adapted to support a substrate in a supported position at least partially submerged in the fluid; (3) a transducer adapted to output sonic energy into the fluid; and (4) a reflector positioned at a side of the substrate and adapted to reflect the sonic energy toward an edge of the substrate so as to provide a 100% duty cycle. The reflector is positioned such that the reflector does not obstruct a path employed to load the substrate into the supported position and to unload the substrate from the supported position. Numerous other aspects are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.Inventors: Robert Tolles, David P. Alvarez, Jianshe Tang
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Publication number: 20040154640Abstract: A cleaning composition is provided. The cleaning composition includes an anionic surfactant and a water hardness anti-precipitant mixture. The water hardness anti-precipitant mixture includes a dispersant and at least one of a sheeting agent and a humectant. The weight ratio of the dispersant to the total amount of the sheeting agent and the humectant can be at least about 1:75 and less than about 75:1. Methods for providing and using a ready to use cleaning composition are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Mark D. Levitt, Stephen Engel, David J. Falbaum, Jerry D. Hoyt
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Publication number: 20040154641Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing materials from a substrate contained in a closed, pressurized processing vessel. An exemplary method includes the steps of inserting a substrate to be processed into the processing vessel, closing the processing vessel gas-tight, and then pressurizing the processing vessel. A pressurized processing solution is introduced to the processing vessel while the processing vessel is maintained under pressure. The substrate is exposed to the processing solution, so that a processing step ensues and the desired material is removed from the substrate by reaction with the pressurized processing fluid. The processing is performed at greater than atmospheric pressure to maintain a high concentration of active components of the processing solution by increasing the solubility of active solution components, and to inhibit evaporation of volatile components of the processing solution.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2002Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: P.C.T. Systems, Inc.Inventor: Garry L. Montierth
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Publication number: 20040154642Abstract: A method of controlling a drum-type washing machine facilitates the removal of laundry from the drum after the completion of a wash cycle, by controlling the rotational speed/direction of a drum motor so that a force is applied to the drum, thereby separating the laundry from the inner surface of the drum, which becomes adhered thereto during a dewatering step. The method includes steps performing a wash cycle by respectively completing washing, rinsing, and dewatering steps according to a wash course; controlling the driving of the motor, after completion of the dewatering step, to apply a force to the drum; stopping the driving of the motor to allow the motor to freewheel and slow to a stop; and detecting a rotational speed of the motor as the motor freewheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Kwang Soo Kim, Jae Mun Kim, Sam Je Park, Hyun Jae Lee
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Publication number: 20040154643Abstract: A method of controlling a combined washing and drying machine is provided, which decreases the time required for completing the overall process from washing to drying. The method includes steps of inputting an operational command; performing washing and rinsing steps according to the operational command; simultaneously performing a dewatering step and a first drying step after completion of the watering and rinsing steps; and performing a second drying step after completion of the dewatering step. The first drying step may include the driving of a pump, a fan, a heater, and a drum motor, while the second drying step may include the driving of a supply valve in addition to the pump, fan, heater, and drum motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC. WASHING MAInventors: Kwang Soo Kim, Jae Mun Kim, Sam Je Park, Hyun Jae Lee
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Publication number: 20040154644Abstract: A water supply method of a washing machine optimizes a washing performance by sufficiently supplying water according to an amount and type of laundry. The method includes steps of setting first and second water levels based on an amount and type of laundry in a washing machine; supplying water to the washing machine according to the set first water level; sensing a current water level to determine a degree of absorption of the water into the laundry during a predetermined time, the degree of absorption being determined by comparing the currently sensed water level to the second water level; re-supplying water to the washing machine to compensate for the degree of absorption; resetting the second water level according to a comparison of a water re-supply count to a predetermined value; and performing washing if the currently sensed water level is greater than the second water level.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Young S. Kim
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Publication number: 20040154645Abstract: A washing machine control method reduces washing time and component stress from a repetitious re-supplying of water, due to absorption and evaporation after an initial supplying of water according to a selected wash course, by determining an optimum water re-supply amount according to a water level reduction rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventor: Young Soo Kim
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Publication number: 20040154646Abstract: Disclosed are a method and system for removing scratches from a planar panel of translucent or transparent material, such as glass, without removal from its frame. A heat source supplying a controlled amount of heat is moved across the surface of the planar panel at a controlled velocity and at a controlled distance from the surface so as to progressively melt a thin surface layer at portions of the surface heated by the moving heat source. The melted material re-flows under surface tension to smooth scratches in the surface layer. Movement of the heat source is repeated over different portions of the surface until all scratched areas have been treated. The treated panels have a smooth surface with scratches removed, and have good optical and structural qualities.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Shane Y. Hong
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Publication number: 20040154647Abstract: A vacuum chuck for holding a semiconductor wafer during supercritical processing comprising: a substantially smooth wafer holding region for holding the semiconductor wafer; a vacuum port for applying vacuum to a portion of the wafer holding region; and a material applied between the semiconductor wafer and the wafer holding region, the material being conformable to provide substantially intimate contact between the surface of the semiconductor wafer and the wafer holding region. The material is preferably a polymer, monomer or any other suitable material is contemplated. The vacuum chuck further comprising a vacuum region configured within the wafer holding region, wherein the vacuum region is coupled to the vacuum port.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Supercritical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Alexei Sheydayi, Joe Hillman
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Publication number: 20040154648Abstract: A mobile cleaning workbench that may be used for manually washing equipment components, parts or other articles is provided. The cleaning station provides a source of water or other cleaning liquid for use in the washing of an article in a wash basin. A drain is provided for removal of cleaning liquid from the wash basin. Since some chemicals produce vapors which are emitted as chemical-laden articles are moved about, alternative embodiments of the invention include a ventilation exhaust system that removes the vapors from the washing area and transfers them to a remote location via appropriate ducting.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Christopher A. Stout, Alan R. Lappen
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Publication number: 20040154649Abstract: Disclosed is a control panel of a washing machine, in which buttons on a display panel are disposed independent from corresponding switches on a display substrate. The present invention includes a frame provided on a cabinet to form an exterior, a display panel on a front side of the frame to have at least one button formed thereon, a display substrate in rear of the display panel to have at least one switch formed thereon, and a lever between the corresponding button and switch to operate the switch by receiving an external force applied to the button.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventors: Yang Hwan No, Han Ki Cho, Seong Jin Cho
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Publication number: 20040154650Abstract: A cleaning device for a hair removing apparatus such as a dry shaver has a basin that receives a shaver head and is supplied with a cleaning liquid for cleaning the head. A single pump is utilized for supplying the liquid from a tank to the basin. The tank is hermetically sealed and is selectively open to the atmosphere by way of an air valve. The valve and the pump are actuated in a controlled manner to selectively give a supply mode for supplying the liquid to the basin from the tank and a recovery mode for recovering the liquid from the basin to the tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Atsuhiro Saito, Jyuzaemon Iwasaki, Hiroyuki Kameoka, Yasuo Ibuki, Fumio Taniguchi, Kotaro Yanagi, Hiroshi Shigeta
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Publication number: 20040154651Abstract: The present invention provides a processing liquid tank and a processing system which take smaller spaces for the tank and the heat exchanger and can be realized at low costs. The processing liquid tank 100 for storing a prescribed processing liquid comprises an inner cylinder 130 in the processing liquid tank 100. The processing liquid is stored outer of the inner cylinder 130. The pipes 160a, 160b, 160c for passing a heat medium are disposed in the processing liquid. The flow of the heat medium passing through the pipes 160a, 160b, 160c is opposite to the flow of the heat medium. The processing device comprises a processing liquid tank 100, a processing unit for processing objects-to-be-processed and a processing liquid supply line for supplying a processing liquid from the process liquid tank to the processing unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Shori Mokuo
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Publication number: 20040154652Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for medical and/or dental tool provides a possibility to clean the burrs and brushes (files) of the remained tooth material on them after operation on patient. An improved cleaning apparatus for medical and/or dental tool includes a container, comprising a neck with an opening and at least one of a plurality of apertures located in the lower part of the neck, a fluid stream reflector of a lid, which includes a connector comprising a fluid inlet pipe which is coupled by a tubular means with a fluid line via controllable valve, and a cylindrical stand connected to the base, providing a stable position of the container during cleaning process.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Armen Karapetyan
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Publication number: 20040154653Abstract: A device for operating a sun shade, an umbrella or the like, of the type which mainly consists of an upward directed support (1) and an arm (2) which is fixed to the support (1) by means of a hinge pin (28) and onto which is hinge-mounted a shade (3), whereby this shade (3) at least consists of a flange (50) onto which ribs (48) are hinge-mounted, and of a bush (35) which is connected to the aforesaid ribs (48) by means of spokes (45), wherein the device is provided with means for folding and unfolding the arm (2) between the folded position, whereby the arm (2) lies against or practically against the support (1), and an unfolded position whereby the arm (2) is mainly directed crosswise to the support (1); means for rotating the shade (3), when unfolding or folding the arm (2), in relation to the aforesaid arm (2); and means for opening and closing the shade (3).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Louis Brutsaert
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Publication number: 20040154654Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in solar cell and solar panel photovoltaic materials which cause the solar cells/panels to operate more efficiently. In particular, the present invention focuses primarily on matching or modifying particular incident light energies (e.g., from the sun) to predetermined energy levels in a solar cell photovoltaic substrate material required to excite, for example, electrons in at least a portion of the substrate material in a desirable manner. In this regard, for example, energy levels of incident light, and thus, corresponding particular wavelengths, such as desirable wavelength (&ggr;1), or frequenices of incidient light, can be at least partially matched with various desirable energy levels in a substrate material by filtering out at least a portion of certain undesirable incident light, such as that of wavelength (&ggr;2), that comes into contact with at least a portion of a surface of a solar cell photovlataic substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Mark G. Mortenson
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Publication number: 20040154655Abstract: An attaching structural unit used for installing a quadrangular solar-battery module onto a slanted roof: comprisingType: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Masao Tanaka
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Publication number: 20040154656Abstract: A radiation power source having a source of radioactive material disposed in at least one hole extending partially through a substrate. A PN junction extends around a predetermined portion of the hole walls. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a significant gain in power output is obtained by fabricating the hole so that the ratio of its depth to perimeter is as large as possible. In another embodiment of the present invention, the PN junction surrounding the hole has P and N portions that extend outwardly to opposite sides of the substrate wherein they connect to an associated power . cell lead. This arrangement advantageously simplifies the interconnection of multiple power cells formed on the same substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Science & Technology Corporation @ UNMInventors: Harry T. Weaver, Stephen D. Hersee, Steven R.J. Brueck
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Publication number: 20040154657Abstract: An apparatus and method for solar energy production comprises a multi-layer solid-state structure including a photosensitive layer, a thin conductor, a charge separation layer, and a back ohmic conductor, wherein light absorption occurs in a photosensitive layer and the charge carriers produced thereby are transported through the thin conductor through the adjacent potential energy barrier. The open circuit voltage of the solar cell can be manipulated by choosing from among a wide selection of materials making up the thin conductor, the charge separation layer, and the back ohmic layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: Adrena, Inc.Inventor: Eric W. McFarland
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Publication number: 20040154658Abstract: A solar cell has phosphorus included in a lead-free solder layer that covers silver electrodes. The amount of phosphorus in the lead-free solder is preferably 0.00001 to 0.5 mass %. The silver electrodes are silver paste electrodes formed by firing silver paste. A solar cell string interconnects such solar cells with an interconnector coated with the lead-free solder. A solar cell module incorporates such a string. Thus, a solar cell of high reliability, improved in wettability of lead-free solder, exhibiting thin coating of an electrode by lead-free solder, suppressed in detachment of interconnector a solar cell string, or a solar cell module can be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Satoshi Tanaka, Masaomi Hioki
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Publication number: 20040154659Abstract: A backflow prevention system that helps prevent contamination of potable water distribution systems from backflow at fire hydrant connections.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Anthony P. Lafalce
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Publication number: 20040154660Abstract: A system serves to prevent or remove particle build-up in flowing systems, wherein a fluid flows in a conduit to a valve body. A mechanical shock is periodically generated in the valve body that is of a sufficient magnitude to disturb any particle attachment in the conduit or the valve body. The shock may be generated via direct impact with the valve body or passively using the fluid flowing in the conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Robert James Law, David Phillip Siegwarth
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Publication number: 20040154661Abstract: A liner for positioning in a cabinet or area to collect any fluids that either intentionally or unintentionally are released in the area. The liner generally includes a substantially planar bottom portion with a plurality of upwardly extending walls to substantially enclose a volume on most sides. The upwardly extending walls are substantially affixed to the liner and each other. Moreover, the planar bottom and the walls are also formed of a substantially water impermeable material, such that a fluid is collected within the liner and not allowed to escape. Moreover, the liner may be customized to fit any particular cabinet or area. For example, a portion of the planar bottom may be cut out and a wall extending from a cut-out portion to substantially surround any obstructions in a cabinet area. Moreover, a modular liner may be formed, which includes a plurality of liner portions that can be fixed together in a substantially water impermeable manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Eric Branden Cohen
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Publication number: 20040154662Abstract: A unitary protective pipe cover for disposition about a pipe configuration under a conventional sink, and which is sized and shaped so as to cover the J-trap, as well as the waste arm, in the undersink pipe configuration. In the event that the waste arm extends at an acute angle with respect to the J-trap, the pipe cover can be severed and the two severed pipe cover sections can be secured together in a generally tamper proof arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Gabriel Lechuga
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Publication number: 20040154663Abstract: A blow-off valve for a hydraulic dashpot comprising a fluid charged cylinder (1) and a piston (3) that travels back and forth therein on the end of a piston rod. The piston partitions the cylinder into two compartments (6 & 7) and is provided with breaches (4) and shock-absorbing valves. The piston rod (2) or an extension (8) thereof is hollow and accommodates operating components (13).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Michael Honig, Gunter Poetsch, Hendrik Kloss, Stefan Mages
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Publication number: 20040154664Abstract: A fluid supply apparatus with a plurality of flow lines branching out from one regulator for adjustment of pressure, the flow lines being arranged in parallel, wherein a measure is taken that the operation, that is, opening or closing of one flow passage will have no transient effect on the steady flow of the other flow passages. For this purpose, each flow passage is provided with a time delay-type mass flow controller MFC so that when one closed fluid passage is opened, the mass flow controller on that flow passage reaches a set flow rate Qs in a specific delay time &Dgr;t from the starting point.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicants: Fujikin Incorporated, Tokyo Electron Ltd.Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Satoshi Kagatsume, Kazuhiko Sugiyama, Yukio Minami, Kouji Nishino, Ryousuke Dohi, Katsunori Yonehana, Nobukazu Ikeda, Michio Yamaji, Jun Hirose, Kazuo Fukazawa, Hiroshi Koizumi, Hideki Nagaoka, Akihiro Morimoto, Tomio Uno, Eiji Ideta, Atsushi Matsumoto, Toyomi Uenoyama, Takashi Hirose
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Publication number: 20040154665Abstract: The fitting, in particular a safety valve, operates according to the relief principle or according to the loading principle. The fitting is opened and closed by a plurality of control parts. The control parts are connected in series in the control line of the fitting and are each actuated by a control valve. The control parts open the fitting only when all the control parts are in a position which opens the fitting. The fitting closes as soon as even only one of the control parts is in a position which closes the fitting.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Hermann-Josef Conrads, Erwin Laurer, Jurgen Model
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Publication number: 20040154666Abstract: The invention relates to a combined check and pressure control valve (10), comprising a check valve element (34) which is adjustable between an opened position and a closed position, and a pressure control valve element (42) which on exceeding a predetermined pressure can be lifted off a valve seat (40), so that at least one outflow channel is opened, characterized in that the check valve element (34) is a valve plate which in the closed position lies against at least one annular sealing seat (30, 32), which is impressed in a thin-walled component, preferably a sheet metal part (22).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: Jochen Gessat, Michael Scholand, Martin Jordan