Patents Issued in August 19, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040159310
    Abstract: A fuel injector is operably couplable to a cylinder head, a clamping mechanism being in operable engagement with the fuel injector and the cylinder head for exerting a clamping force tending to hold the fuel injector in engagement with the cylinder head and includes a retainer assembly for retaining the fuel injector in operable coupling with a cylinder head, the retainer acting in cooperation with the clamping mechanism. The retainer assembly has a split dowel, the split dowel being statically engagable with the cylinder head by a clamping action of the clamping mechanism acting on the fuel injector and being engagable with a spring component for imparting a bias to the spring component. The spring component is in operable engagement with the fuel injector for imparting a reactive force to the fuel injector responsive to the bias imparted by the split dowel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Seymour, James H. Yager
  • Publication number: 20040159311
    Abstract: The following describes an apparatus for and method of clamping a device, such as a fuel injector, to a platform, such as a cylinder head, and thereafter removing the device from the platform together with the clamp. A retaining sleeve is deformed such that the retaining sleeve is held in place between the clamp and a ledge on a fastener disposed within the clamp. The retaining sleeve secures the fastener to the clamp during removal of the fastener, thereby providing that the clamp assembly and the device, such as a fuel injector, are removed together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony M. Anello, Daniel W. Jensen
  • Publication number: 20040159312
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for determining the performance of a secondary air charging system for an internal combustion engine in order to determine the amount of secondary air supplied in the secondary air charging system. This is achieved by measuring the heat generated by the compression of the secondary air with temperature sensors. Insofar as the secondary air charging system is powered by a turbine arranged in parallel with the throttle valve in the intake tract, the measured temperature value for the compressor can be compared with a reduction in temperature of the intake air behind the turbine. Reliable information concerning the amount of secondary air supplied can be determined by simple sensors, thereby obviating the need for an air-mass sensor which is expensive to produce and sensitive to contamination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventor: Karl-Ernst Hummel
  • Publication number: 20040159313
    Abstract: An oil separating mechanism to be attached to a cylinder block having a concave portion includes a cover member for forming a closed space; a partition wall for dividing the closed space into an inner chamber and an outer chamber; a dividing wall for dividing the inner chamber into a first inner chamber and a second inner chamber; a gas inlet for introducing gas into the first inner chamber; a gas outlet for discharging the gas; a first gas port for communicating the first inner chamber with the outer chamber; and a second gas port for communicating the outer chamber with the second inner chamber. The gas introduced into the first inner chamber flows from the first inner chamber to the outer chamber. Then, the gas flowing from the outer chamber to the second inner chamber is discharged through the gas outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicants: NIFCO INC., MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Noboru Obayashi, Tomohide Okuta, Nobuhiro Takamatsu, Fusatoshi Tanaka, Megumu Fukushima, Katsunori Kuremiya, Akinori Gondai
  • Publication number: 20040159314
    Abstract: An apparatus for circulating a blowby gas to engine cylinders in an internal combustion engine, including a cylinder head cover including a first wall defining a first passage, and a first flange outwardly extending from the first wall, and a cylinder head including a second wall and a second flange cooperating with the first flange to form an abutting surface therebetween on which a second passage is arranged. The second passage is connected with the first passage and extending in a direction of a row of the engine cylinders. The second wall defines a plurality of third passages each having one end that is open to the second flange and communicated with the second passage and an opposite end open to an intake port of each of the engine cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicants: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD., AICHI MACHINE INDUSTRY CO., LTD., RENAULT s.a.s. societe par actions simplifiee
    Inventors: Takashi Ishizuka, Michihiro Yamane, Norio Ito, Takashi Satake, Munehiro Sagata
  • Publication number: 20040159315
    Abstract: A portable saw has a depth or blade lowering control and an adjustable stop for selecting the maximum depth of the blade to which the blade can be lowered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: David R. Howard, Richard M. Tremain
  • Publication number: 20040159316
    Abstract: The sawing device comprises a holding device (22) arranged so as to hold in the course of wire sawing the different sawed slices (23) substantially parallel and such that the width of the sawing gaps (24) is held constant. It comprises for this purpose holding members (25), for example in the form of a bar (30) whose resilient coating (31) is applied by springs (35) against a lower portion (26) of the slices (23).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Andreas Muller, Alexander Bortnikov
  • Publication number: 20040159317
    Abstract: A cooking oven includes a heatable oven chamber (6) that can be loaded with product from the outside area (A) through a loading port (8). An oven door (10) serves to close off the loading port (8) of the oven chamber (6) from the outside area (A). An inner pane (50) faces the oven chamber (6), an outer pane (48) faces the outside area (A), and one or several intermediate panes (52) are positioned between the inner pane (50) and the outer pane (48). An outer cavity (54) is between the outer pane (48) and the neighboring intermediate pane (52) and an inner cavity space (56) is between the inner pane (50) and the neighboring intermediate pane (52). A cooling system moves cooling air (K1) through the outer cavity (54) while thermally insulating air (I) can be held stationary in the inner cavity (56).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.
    Inventors: Christoph Walther, Harald Porner, Vladmir Pelic, Robert McKechnie, Patrice Murguet, Dietmar Hildner
  • Publication number: 20040159318
    Abstract: A solar radiation concentrator rotated about a straight line vertical to the reflector arrangement surfaces so that the incident solar radiation can be led onto the reflector arrangement surface along the specified direction and a method of concentrating solar radiation; the concentrator, comprising a plurality of reflectors (10) disposed on reflector arrangement surfaces, a plurality of reflector vertical bars (20) connected to the plurality of reflectors, rotating center holding members (30) for holding the center points of the rotating motions of the plurality of reflector vertical bars, motion members (40) for collectively rotating the plurality of reflector vertical bars, and guide members (50) for guiding the motions of the plurality of reflector vertical bars so that the plurality of reflector vertical bars can be rotated along specified reflector vertical bar routes, wherein the motion members perform motions along the specified motion member routes according to a variation in the incident angle of th
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Mikio Kinoshita
  • Publication number: 20040159319
    Abstract: A microstructured filter for a fluid, the filter having an inlet for unfiltered fluid and an outlet for filtered fluid, the filter comprising: a plurality of projections which are arranged in at least two rows in mutually juxtaposed relationship and which project out of a base plate and which are an integral component of the base plate, a plurality of passages between the projections and a cover plate which is securable to the base plate to cover the projections and the passages, wherein the passages form a plurality of through paths from the inlet to the outlet, said inlet comprises an elongate inlet slot for the unfiltered fluid, which extends over approximately the entire filter width and which is approximately as high as the projection projecting out of the base plate, on the outlet side of the filter. The filter according to the invention remains operational, even if a part of the filter area is obstructed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Kadel, Johannes Geser, Joachin Eicher, Bernhard Freund, Stephen Terence Dunne, Wulf Bachtler
  • Publication number: 20040159320
    Abstract: A device for opening nasal passages is provided. The device including: a strip of material having an adhesive on one surface thereof for applying the strip across a human nose; at least one biasing member attached or embedded in the strip, the at least one biasing member being fabricated from a material which exhibits a shape memory effect upon being heated toward a human body temperature, the at least one biasing member having a shape upon being heated toward the human body temperature which biases the nasal passages of the human nose toward an open position. In a variation of the device, the strip itself is at least partly fabricated from the material. In another variation, the shape memory material is replaced with a biasing material, which does not need the application of heat to bias the nasal passages open, such as spring steel or a resilient thermoplastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas Spinelli, Jahangir S. Rastegar
  • Publication number: 20040159321
    Abstract: An inhaler for producing an inhalable aerosol of a powdered medicament includes an aerosolising device in the form of a vortex chamber (1), The vortex chamber (1) has a curved wall (12), a tangential inlet port (3) and an axial exit port (2). The radius R of the vortex chamber (1) decreases with angular extend &thgr;. The reduction in effective cross-sectional area of the vortex chamber accelerates the gas flow between the inlet (3) and the outlet (2) to reduce deposition of the medicament.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Stephen William Eason, Raymond Anthony Edgson, Quentin John Harmer, Roger William Clarke
  • Publication number: 20040159322
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel capsule for receiving an active substance to be administered by inhalation, which is preferably intended for use in a powder inhaler operating on the Bernoulli principle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
    Inventors: Heinrich Kladders, Burkhard Metzger, Dieter Hochrainer
  • Publication number: 20040159323
    Abstract: Methods and systems for supplying respiratory oxygen to users when the users are inhaling are disclosed. The methods and systems may rely on delivery devices that are selectively placed in fluid communication with either a respiration sensor or a source of oxygen. The methods and systems may actively monitor for exhalations, as well as monitor for oxygen in the oxygen source. The respiration sensor may preferably be a flow sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Minnesota Innovative Technologies and Instruments
    Inventors: Matthew F. Schmidt, John S. Buan, Catherine A. Nordman
  • Publication number: 20040159324
    Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by imposing a secondary shape on a resilient structure, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. The resilient structure is then restrained by the walls of the fallopian tube, imposing anchoring forces as it tries to resume the secondary shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Conceptus, Inc.
    Inventors: Julian Nikolchev, Dai Ton, Amy Thurmond
  • Publication number: 20040159325
    Abstract: A patient positioning device includes a table for supporting the patient, and having opposite sides with male indexing nodules extending outwardly along each side edge of the table. A lock bar extends across the table and has opposite ends with a female recess to retentively engage opposing pairs of nodules on the side edges of the table. A patient restraint member mates with the lock bar to provide for repeatable and accurate positioning of the patient on the treatment table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Med-Tec
    Inventors: Clayton P. Korver, Vince S. Hursh
  • Publication number: 20040159326
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aerosol spray device (10, 20, 30, 40) for administration of a substance, specifically a substance having a disagreeable taste, such as nicotine, to the oral cavity of a subject; to an actuator (16, 26, 36, 46) included in said spray device and to methods for delivering the substance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Karl-Olov Fagerstrom, Henri Hansson
  • Publication number: 20040159327
    Abstract: A smoking article includes a cylinder of smoking material, a filter attached to the cylinder of smoking material, and a tube of preferably porous and/or perforated material adapted to collapse at an open end upon exposure to thermal energy and preferably extending from one end portion of the smoking material to the junction of the filter and the cylinder of smoking material. Thermal energy generated by a burning portion of the tobacco filler material within the cylinder of smoking material is transferred by convection through the open portion of the tube after the end portion of the tube has collapsed closed by the heat from the burning portion of the tobacco.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Henry M. Dante
  • Publication number: 20040159328
    Abstract: Cut filler compositions, cigarettes, methods for making cigarettes and methods for smoking cigarettes are provided, which involve the use of an oxyhydroxide compound that is capable of decomposing to form at least one product capable of acting as an oxidant for the conversion of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide and/or as a catalyst for the conversion of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide. The oxyhydroxide compound and/or the product formed from the decomposition of the oxyhydroxide can be in the form of nanoparticles. Cut filler compositions are described which comprise tobacco and at least one such oxyhydroxide compound. Cigarettes are provided, which comprise a tobacco rod, containing a cut filler having at least one such oxyhydroxide compound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Mohammad Hajaligol, Ping Li
  • Publication number: 20040159329
    Abstract: A hair coloring applicator for applying a hair coloring material to one or more strands of hair using a rotating brush. The hair coloring applicator may include one or more brushes rotatably coupled to a body. The body may include a housing having at least one opening for receiving one or more strands of hair. The brush may include a plurality of bristles configured to contact the one or more strands of hair without tangling or snagging the hair. The bristles of the brush receive a hair coloring material and apply the material to strands of hair by contacting the hair. The hair coloring applicator may simultaneously apply one or more colors of hair coloring material to strands of hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Melvin R. Kennedy, Jose Longoria, Robert G. Robbins
  • Publication number: 20040159330
    Abstract: A toilet brush holder is disclosed, which automatically stores, cleans, and sanitizes a toilet brush. The toilet brush holder may include a reservoir or pool of sanitizing liquid in which the toilet brush can reside. The toilet brush holder may include a door for accessing the toilet brush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Paul Anemone, Kristine Anemone
  • Publication number: 20040159331
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cleaning apparatus and a method of for using the apparatus to remove foreign matter, e.g., dirt, dust, accumulated lubricant, moisture and the like, from the areas in and around a mechanical component having a void space. The cleaning apparatus includes an elongated flexible member terminated by first and second ends, and a tapered end disposed on at least one of the ends of the elongated member. The apparatus can be threaded into the void space and contacted with a surface of the void space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel H. Katsin
  • Publication number: 20040159332
    Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning toilets, bathroom fixtures, and other surfaces. The device encloses a reservoir contained in a hollow handle for storing a cleaning solution, with a cap connected to one end of the handle and a base connected to the other end of the handle. A brush, sponge or other scrubber or cleaning surface is preferably attached to the base. A manually operated flow control mechanism opens a valve which seals at least one exit or dispensing orifice at or near the base of the reservoir, and thereby allows volume of cleaning solution to be dispensed at a reasonably fast, controlled rate of flow. In one embodiment, manually operated vacuum pressure release orifices are located at the opposite end of the reservoir from the exit orifice and are normally closed, but may be opened to minimize or eliminate any vacuum (subatmospheric pressure) in the reservoir, thereby aiding the flow of liquid from the reservoir through the exit orifice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: John Francois Brumlik
  • Publication number: 20040159333
    Abstract: Wafer holder cleaning devices, systems and methods that are capable of removing contaminants from a wafer holder. An embodiment includes a particle removal surface on the cleaning device. An embodiment of the surface is a brush. An embodiment includes moving the surface into contact with the wafer holder. An embodiment includes moving the surface into a close, non-contacting relationship to the wafer holder. An embodiment includes a vacuum removing the particles from the wafer holder. In an embodiment, the wafer holder is a spindle chuck. In an embodiment, the spindle chuck is in a fabrication station. In an embodiment, one of the cleaning device and wafer holder rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Shirley, Craig Hickman
  • Publication number: 20040159334
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method using the apparatus for cleaning a mechanical component with a void space. The apparatus includes a planar backing layer made of a resilient material and a woven layer attached to the backing layer to form a laminate, wherein the laminate is substantially flat and shaped to have an elongated body portion and at least one tapered end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel H. Katsin
  • Publication number: 20040159335
    Abstract: Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide methods and apparatuses for heating a substrate with radiation during processing of substrates. Radiation in the radio or microwave portion of the electromagnetic spectrum is applied to a substrate housed within a processing chamber to promote desirable chemical reactions involving the substrate. Processing in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may utilize pressurization of the processing chamber in conjunction with the application of microwave, RF, IR, or UV radiation, or electromagnetic induction, to heat the substrate or a component of the processing chemistry present within the chamber. Alternative embodiments of the present invention may use combinations of these energy types for more effective processing. For example, UV radiation may be introduced into the chamber in conjunction with microwave heating in order to generate reactive species from the processing chemistry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: P.C.T. Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry L. Montierth, Robert R. Matthews
  • Publication number: 20040159336
    Abstract: The present invention relates in general to the field of the process technology of washing plants, and in particular to mobile cleaning systems for shopping trolleys consisting of a plurality of cleaning stations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Manfred Feistmantl
  • Publication number: 20040159337
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a pump assembly which functions to chop all fluid entrained soil prior to directing fluid to upper and lower wash arms. A flow conduit leading to the upper wash arm is provided with a sampling port which directs a percentage of the fluid flow into a filter chamber having one or more fine mesh filter screens that open into the dishwasher tub basin. The filter chamber is exposed to a collection chamber that leads to a drain. In the event the filter chamber becomes clogged, a pressure relief valve opens a pressure regulation port to permit washing fluid in the filter chamber to enter the tub basin. In one embodiment, the pressure relief valve is constituted by a check ball which is displaced by a pressure build up in the filter chamber. In another embodiment, the pressure relief valve is constituted by a flapper valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas M. Johnson, John Trevor Morrison
  • Publication number: 20040159338
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a pump assembly which functions to chop all fluid entrained soil prior to directing fluid to upper and lower wash arms. A flow conduit leading to the upper wash arm is provided with a sampling port which directs a percentage of the fluid flow into a filter chamber having one or more fine mesh filter screens that open into the dishwasher tub basin. The filter chamber is exposed to a collection chamber that leads to a flapper valve and then to a drain port. A sealing chamber joins the filter chamber with the collection chamber. A sealing member is positioned in the sealing chamber to selectively seal the filter chamber after a portion of the fluid is drained. Once sealed, a drain pump expels the fluid from the washing tub. After the tub is empty, the remainder of the fluid is drained from the filter chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Elick, Barry E. Tuller
  • Publication number: 20040159339
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a wash and rinse system that operates to dislodge soil particles that adhere to internal surfaces of a washing chamber. During wash and rinse cycles, the washing chamber is initially filled to a first level with washing fluid. The washing fluid is drawn into a wash system through operation of a pump, that causes the washing fluid in the washing chamber to fall to a second level, and directed to a spray arm that sprays jets of washing fluid onto the kitchenware. Thereafter, the wash system enters a pause period during which the washing fluid is caused to return to the first level in the washing chamber to loosen particles from walls of the chamber. After the pause period, the trajectory of the jets of washing fluid is varied to further clean the kitchenware and the internal surfaces of the washing chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Elick, Scott D. Raches
  • Publication number: 20040159340
    Abstract: A programmed material consolidation apparatus includes at least one fabrication site and a material consolidation system associated with the at least one fabrication site. The at least one fabrication site may be configured to receive one or more fabrication substrates, such as semiconductor substrates. A machine vision system with a translatable or locationally fixed camera may be associated with the at least one fabrication site and the material consolidation system. A cleaning component may also be associated with the at least one fabrication site. The cleaning component may share one or more elements with the at least one fabrication site, or may be separate therefrom. The programmed material consolidation apparatus may also include a substrate handling system, which places fabrication substrates at appropriate locations of the programmed material consolidation apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: William M. Hiatt, Warren M. Farnworth, David R. Hembree, Peter A. Benson
  • Publication number: 20040159341
    Abstract: A photoresist stripping apparatus and a corresponding method for removing photoresist layers after a patterned polyimide layer is developed. The photoresist-stripping apparatus includes a transporting unit, a stripping unit, a washing unit, a drying unit and a control unit. The transporting unit connects the stripping unit, the washing unit and the drying unit. The control unit is responsible for controlling the transport sequence and timing of the transporting unit. The method of stripping the photoresist layer off the OLED panel includes providing a stripping solution to the stripping unit to remove photoresist layers. The OLED panel is jet-cleaned with a washing solution in the washing unit so that any residual stripping agent is removed. Finally, the surface of the OLED panel is blown dry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Yih Chang, Tien-Rong Lu
  • Publication number: 20040159342
    Abstract: A customizable car wash blending system and method is provided. The method includes the steps of positioning a vehicle adjacent a set of sensors (step 10), measuring a variety of parametric data relating to macroscopic debris and surface film formed on a surface of the vehicle, calculating the quantity of presoak components to be added to a presoak solution (step 70), blending the presoak solution (step 80), and applying the presoak solution to the vehicle (step 110). Quantities of presoak enhancing agents are also calculated from the sensor readings (step 120) along with the calculation of the number and type of wash cycles required for the vehicle (step 130). The method is implemented by customizable car wash blending system (200) which incorporates a plurality of sensors (210, 220, 230, 240, 250) in communication with a computer control system (270). Computer control system (270) communicates with a series of sub-systems (280, 290, 300, 310) in order to apply the presoak solution and wash the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Murray Ewing, Jeff Ousborne, Erik Eden, David Honigs, Fred J. Eden
  • Publication number: 20040159343
    Abstract: A substrate treatment method for treating a substrate by supplying a treatment liquid to the substrate while rotating the substrate. The method comprises the steps of: performing a first substrate rotation process for rotating the substrate while clamping the substrate by a first clamping member set; performing a second substrate rotation process after the first substrate rotation step for rotating the substrate while clamping the substrate by the first clamping member set and a second clamping member set provided separately from the first clamping member set; and performing a third substrate rotation process after the second substrate rotation step by unclamping the substrate from the first clamping member set for rotating the substrate while clamping the substrate by the second clamping member set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaoru Shimbara, Masaharu Kimura, Yasuhiro Kurata, Takashi Hara
  • Publication number: 20040159344
    Abstract: A programmed material consolidation apparatus includes at least one fabrication site and a material consolidation system associated with the at least one fabrication site. The at least one fabrication site may be configured to receive one or more fabrication substrates, such as semiconductor substrates. A machine vision system with a translatable or locationally fixed camera may be associated with the at least one fabrication site and the material consolidation system. A cleaning component may also be associated with the at least one fabrication site. The cleaning component may share one or more elements with the at least one fabrication site, or may be separate therefrom. The programmed material consolidation apparatus may also include a substrate handling system, which places fabrication substrates at appropriate locations of the programmed material consolidation apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: William M. Hiatt, Warren M. Farnworth, David R. Hembree, Peter A. Benson
  • Publication number: 20040159345
    Abstract: A flexible fabric barrier may be formed to provide an enclosure for buildings and other structures to protect the structures from the effects of windstorms. The barrier is mounted to the building or structure by a track system that has a cleat with an elongated channel. A series of slides are dimensioned to move within the channel about turns in the channel and under side loads. Each of the slides has a D-ring slidably mounted thereon. The D-ring is connected to the barrier. The barrier may be stacked in a folded position with the slides in close proximity with each other and deployed by moving the slides along the channel to form an enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Ted Gower
  • Publication number: 20040159346
    Abstract: A greenhouse is handy and convenient to use. The greenhouse includes a frame assembly that stands on the ground and a dual protection assembly attached to the frame assembly to enclose the frame assembly. The dual protection member includes an airtight member and a mesh member. The mesh member is attached to the frame assembly to protect plants in the greenhouse from pests. The airtight member is attached to the mesh member to enclose the mesh member. Therefore, the airtight member provides protection for the plants in the greenhouse from the weather. When the airtight member is opened, the mesh member allows fresh air to flow into the greenhouse. Therefore, the plants in the greenhouse will be fully protected from not only the weather but also pests.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Hsi-Chin Huang
  • Publication number: 20040159347
    Abstract: A photography tent is constructed of panels of light weight, color corrected translucent nylon fabric, supported by a flexible frame. The frame allows the tent to be collapsed to a substantially flat condition. The translucent material allows an external light source to be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Bernadette Brown, E. Ralph Emmett
  • Publication number: 20040159348
    Abstract: Collapsible structures include one or more add-on panels that are coupled to the underlying collapsible structure to improve the variety of play, entertainment value, and utility of these collapsible structures. Each of these collapsible structures incorporate at least one foldable frame member, and fabric covering portions of the frame member. The collapsible structures can be collapsed into a smaller configuration by twisting and folding the at least one frame member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Publication number: 20040159349
    Abstract: An improved thermal relief vent for a fuel tank, and a method of manufacturing the same, includes a thermal relief ring that is used to create a mechanical seal within the vent. The thermal relief ring, at room temperature, is crimped in place by use of the vent cap itself. The crimped thermal relief ring creates a mechanical seal between the vent and the vent cap, up until a predetermined thermal relief point, at which time the thermal relief ring will soften and/or yield and release the vent cap from the vent body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Neal L. Keefer, Kenneth A. Watson, John A. Loffink
  • Publication number: 20040159350
    Abstract: An inflation valve includes a valve body having a head portion and an extended portion extending integrally from the head portion, and a needle holder disposed within the valve body. The extended portion has a central passage with a length that is sufficient to prevent an inflation needle from extending therethrough. The needle holder includes a central inflation hole that is in fluid communication with the central passage and that is adapted to permit extension of the inflation needle therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: I-Chuan Lai
  • Publication number: 20040159351
    Abstract: Complex fluidic micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) are incorporated into high purity chemical delivery systems, while maintaining valve sealing integrity, quality and performance of the system. In particular, fluidic MEMS systems are incorporated into high purity chemical delivery systems for semiconductor fabrication processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Dmitry Znamensky, Alan Zdunek
  • Publication number: 20040159352
    Abstract: a compressed-gas tank system has at least two gas vessels, the gas vessels having a base part and a removal part and openings which are assigned to the removal parts. The removal parts of the gas vessels are directly connected to a connecting rail, without any pipelines therebetween. The openings are in communication with a gas passage which runs inside the connecting rail, the connecting rail being assigned a shut-off valve which is common to all the gas vessels. The gas vessels are mechanically connected to a supporting rail, the supporting rail and the connecting rail forming a holding frame for the gas vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Gerardo Friedlmeier, Bernd Loeper
  • Publication number: 20040159353
    Abstract: The invention recirculates and/or recycles fluids normally lost down the drain during the time it takes for a desired temperature to be attained for usage of the hot fluids. A recirculating/recycling valve, through which hot fluids may flow, has an additional port fitted to the valve body, which by positioning the handle in a singularly unique position, fluids not at the desired temperature are sent back to the source from which they came, to a recycling toilet tank system or to a recycling standpipe at atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Nelson J. King
  • Publication number: 20040159354
    Abstract: A closed loop pressure controller system that sets, measures and controls the process pressure within a semiconductor process is shown. The system is commonly composed of a pressure sensor to collect the pressure information, a controller box that hosts the control electronics, and a valve to physically affect the conductivity of the inlet or outlet gas line and accordingly the process pressure. The present invention differs from the prior art by using closed-loop motor control of the valve, rather than the method of the prior art, where the valve position is controlled by a stepper motor actuator driven in an open loop fashion. It is demonstrated that the utility of such prior art open-loop configurations is limited by the fact that the achievable precision of the valve position is hindered by static friction in the valve system, and the non-linear character of the torque versus shaft-angle of the motor (among other error components).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Per Cederstav, Emmanuel Vyers, William Ballard, Sean Mallory
  • Publication number: 20040159355
    Abstract: A valve assembly for use in winterizing a swimming pool has a plurality of flow apertures and opens to allow water to flow out of the swimming pool pipes and conduits through a valve flow conduit and the flow apertures and into the pool, and closes under the pressure of the water in the pool to prevent the water from flowing back through the flow apertures, thereby enabling one to empty the pipes and conduits without having to drain the pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Dimce Vasilev
  • Publication number: 20040159356
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for isolating hydraulic devices in a stacked hydraulic circuit of modular design employing an isolator valve module which enables partial and/or complete isolation of components in a hydraulic system to be isolated for inspection, testing, maintenance or replacement, by selective operation of the isolator valves in the isolator valve module. The isolator valve module may be a sub-plate module supporting other modules or a plurality of stacks of modules or may be a “sandwich” type module sandwiched between a sub-plate and another module or between two sandwich-type modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Peter Vari
  • Publication number: 20040159357
    Abstract: An arrangement for separating a fluid from admixtures comprises at least a first (36) and a second separation unit (45). The separation units are of the type needing an increased pressure or pressure difference for their function of showing improved performance with increased pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: DCT Double-Cone Technology AG
    Inventors: John Herman Stark, Hans Jorg Wagenbach, Paul Werner Straub
  • Publication number: 20040159358
    Abstract: A honeycomb body is produced with a number of sheet layers, of which at least a part are at least partly structured sheet layers, which lend the honeycomb the property of permitting fluid to flow through the same as a result of the structure thereof. The honeycomb body has a given, continuous, free volume in the interior thereof, for receiving a measuring probe. The method includes selecting a section of a sheet strip from a feed roll, identifying the sheet layer and reading a corresponding hole position and a corresponding hole boundary from a memory, generating a hole with the hole boundary in the sheet layer at the given hole position before the further preparation of the honeycomb body, and winding, stacking and/or entwining of several such pre-prepared sections to give a honeycomb structure, such that a free volume for a measuring probe is formed from the individual holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Rolf Bruck
  • Publication number: 20040159359
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a junction where a branch line joins a header having a packer. The packer has an inflatable packer sleeve for the header and an inflatable side sleeve for the branch line that protrudes from said header in the inflated state. A tunnel passes from an end of the packer through an interior space to a collar, in which a feed line for introducing sealing material runs to the junction at the collar. In a deflated state, the side sleeve is inverted in the interior space of the packer sleeve. When the packer is placed, the packer sleeve to which compressed air is admitted comes to rest against the inside wall of the header and, subsequently, the side sleeve moves into the branch line by inversion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: RS TECHNIK AG
    Inventor: Kurt Schmidt