Patents Issued in December 2, 2004
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Publication number: 20040237864Abstract: A multi-needle quilting machine (10) and method are provided, in most embodiments of which needles (132) reciprocate horizontally through material (12) supported in a vertical quilting plane (16). Two or more bridges (21,22) are provided having separate motion control. Each bridge (21,22) has a row of selectively operable stitching element pairs (90), which may be fixed to or transversely moveable on the bridges (21,22). Either the material or the bridges may be moved relative to the frame. The bridges (21,22) each move transversely and vertically with the stitching elements (90) on each bridge can operate at different speeds. Each of the needle drives (25) and, in some embodiments the looper drives (26), can be selectively activated and deactivated. Control schemes are provided to quilt continuous patterns, discrete patterns, linked multiple patterns, 360 degree patterns, closely spaced patterns. A plurality of small presser feet (158) are provided, each for one or more needles (132).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: James T. Frazer, Jeff Kaetterhenry, Michael A. James, Terrance L. Myers, Richard Villacis, Roland Keller, David Brian Scott
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Publication number: 20040237865Abstract: The present invention relates to a rebuilt double hull tanker and a method of rebuilding an existing single hull tanker into a rebuilt double hull tanker. The rebuilt double hull tanker includes an internally rebuilt double bottom hull comprising the existing outer bottom hull and a new inner bottom hull that is disposed internal and spaced apart from the existing outer bottom hull and externally rebuilt double side hulls (e.g., port and starboard) comprising the existing inner side hulls and new outer side hulls disposed external and spaced apart from the existing inner side hull. The method includes forming the new double hull, including a new double bottom hull and new double side hulls, over at least the cargo carrying portion of the tanker by installing at least a portion of the new inner bottom hull internally over the existing outer bottom hull through cut-outs in the topside decking.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Maritrans, Inc.Inventor: Thomas R. Hagner
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Publication number: 20040237866Abstract: A steering apparatus for a marine craft has a first bracket connectable to the stern of the marine craft. There is a second bracket connectable to the propulsion unit of the marine craft. The second bracket is rotatably connected to the first bracket for relative rotation about an axis of rotation. The propulsion unit can be rotated about the axis of rotation relative to the stern of the craft. The second bracket has a cylindrical bore extending therethrough. A piston is reciprocatingly received within the bore. The piston slidingly engages the bore and has a piston rod connected thereto. The piston rod is operatively connected to the propulsion unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Arthur R. Ferguson
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Publication number: 20040237867Abstract: This boat docking system allows small or medium size boats to dock under adverse conditions of swift currents and contrary winds with limited crew and no assistance from shore. The invention includes a docking stick to be used from the boat and a small vertical post that is permanently attached to the dock. The docking stick is comprised of a rigid handle with a stiffened loop at one end and a flexible adjustable loop at the other end. As the boat approaches the dock the flexible end of the docking stick is attached to the boat amidships, and the stiffened loop is dropped over the post, or a cleat, on the dock. The boat is then powered slowly forward. The resultant pull on the boat forces it to move sideways towards the dock where it will remain stationary, under power, until securing lines can be attached to the boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: John S. Dunn
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Publication number: 20040237868Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid transfer system, in particular for LNG in which an articulated vertical and horizontal mooring arm are suspended from a support on the processing vessel. Independently moveable ducts, for instance cryogenic hard piping are placed parallel to the mooring arms such that a transfer system is obtained in which is the mooring forces are insulated from the fluid transfer line with which rapid connection and disconnection is possible and which provides a large yaw resistance. In a preferred embodiment, the mooring system comprises two vertical arms connected to a triangular horizontal yoke attached to the bow of the LNG-carrier for improved yaw resistance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Leendert Poldervaart, Jack Pollack
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Publication number: 20040237869Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrocarbon transfer system comprising a first structure (8) carrying an articulated arm (4,5,61,62). The system has at a free end (64) a first connector part (13,43,65), and a vessel (7) comprising a second connector part (47,48,70), wherein each connector part comprises a housing (72,73) with at least two fluid ducts (66,67,68,69) within said housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Leendert Poldervaart, Jack Pollack, Jean-Pierre Queau, Rene Perratone
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Publication number: 20040237870Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus, method and system for delivery of commercial cargo containers shore side without container terminals. The present invention utilizes containers made autonomous by coupling a container with a detachable propulsion system, having a motor and navigation and steering controls, permitting the rapid, controlled, efficient and safe delivery of cargo containers individually by water. Ballast units, deployment systems and control via remote units are also disclosed. These improvements allow the containers, utilizing their inherent buoyancy, to approach a shore autonomously according to a preplanned or remote controlled route to a specific location and in a specific order of arrival, thereby reducing the number of cargo handlers required, speeding the delivery process to the shore, and eliminating the need for high-technology pier-side equipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Robert A. Clarke, William M. Teppig
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Publication number: 20040237871Abstract: An improved lift boat includes a hull, a plurality of legs (preferably three), a plurality of pads, one pad attached to each leg, and a jacking mechanism for moving each upward and downward. Recesses in the hull receive the pads when the lift boat is underway. Preferably, the total bottom surface area of the pads is at least 30% of the surface area of the deck of the lift boat Preferably, the total bottom surface area of the pads is large enough such that, when the boat is loaded to capacity and is jacked up, the pads exert pressure of less than 7 p.s.i. on the sea floor. Preferably, the pads are partially recessed into the hull and extend laterally outward from the hull when the boat is underway to provide increased stability to the lift boat when it is underway.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Benjamin Clay Moise, Anthony V. Barrois
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Publication number: 20040237872Abstract: A retractable-airfoil vessel has surface-effect wings (1) that are hinged or otherwise attached extendedly to a vessel (3). The surface-effect wings are extendable to a use mode in proximity to a surface of water (5) at sides (2) of the vessel for surface-effect lift of the vessel at elevated speeds. At low speeds when pleasure cruising or fishing, when stopped for water activities or when adjusting to rough waters and storm conditions, the surface-effect wings can provide wide-area buoyance on water at sides of a center of gravity of the vessel. The best of all worlds, it can be made to ride-out a storm as safely and securely as an anchored buoy and yet have high-speed efficiency, low-speed pleasure cruising and stopping for swimming and marine exploration. Then for docking in vessel slips and for maneuvering in close proximity to docks and harbor structures, the surface-effect wings can be retracted onto the vessel in a non-use mode for non-interference storage and for docked-living shelter.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: William J. Markie
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Publication number: 20040237873Abstract: The invention relates to an improved watercraft cover, as well as its method of use. In some embodiments, the watercraft cover's support structure is normally irreversibly integrated into or retained by a sheet of the watercraft cover, and the support structure and the sheet are collapsible together for portability without separating the support structure and sheet. The invention also provides for improved retention systems useful for retaining the watercraft cover on the watercraft. Watercraft covers in accordance with the present invention are particularly useful for providing improved portability while preventing water collection.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Gary C. Brooks, Gregory T. Kassuelke
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Publication number: 20040237874Abstract: A gunwale for a boat. The gunwale can include an inner side and an outer side coupled at first ends to a top side forming a deck and at second ends to a bottom side. The gunwale can also include a first slot opening downwardly adjacent the inner side receiving a side panel of the boat, and a second slot opening downwardly adjacent the outer side receiving a hull of the boat. The outer side of the gunwale can also include a groove receiving a hook of a cover for the boat. A portion of the gunwale can also have an inner surface forming a closed channel and an outer surface forming an open channel through which lines can be run, and can also include a removable keeper coupled to the gunwale to at least partially close the open channel. The outer side of the gunwale can also include a laterally facing channel configured to receive a bumper.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Leon C. Raiter
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Publication number: 20040237875Abstract: A marker device for increased road safety due to a flexible design is provided. The marker device includes a base with an opening and a flexible means that is positioned over the base. The flexible means has a fast impulse response to direct (contact) and indirect (no-contact) perturbations with one or more parts of the flexible means capable of deflecting up to about 180 degrees from their original position. In one example the deflection ranges from about 15 degrees to about 180 degrees. The marker device increases the likelihood for the marker device to remain upright once the perturbations disappear, therewith increasing the likelihood for the marker device to remain serving as a marker device safely alerting traffic; i.e. its intended purpose.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Guadalupe C. Garcia
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Publication number: 20040237876Abstract: A flexible foldable triangular warning device is provided. The warning device is made from at least one panel and can be moved between a compact or storage position and an expanded position in which the warning device can be made to be free standing. The device can comprise a single panel, in which case, the device includes a base which will enable the panel to be free standing or to be mounted to the window of a vehicle. The device can also comprise two, three, four, or more panels, in which case, the device will set up to form a triangular or rectangular pyramid.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Sunny En Liung Huang
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Publication number: 20040237877Abstract: A foldable warning device is described. The warning device includes a container for storage therein, at least one panel attached to the container, and at least one fastener that is adapted to allow repeated engagement and disengagement of the panels to and from the container and each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Sunny en Liung Huang
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Publication number: 20040237878Abstract: A drink container includes a vessel capable of holding a fluid, the vessel having a filling scale disposed thereon. The filling scale has graduations for indicating varying amounts of the fluid. A device for indicating the total quantity of fluid indicated on the filling scale in multiple fillings is provided, the device including a scale for the quantity of fluid, a marker, and a rotary element which is rotatable relative to the vessel so as to adjust the scale and the marker relative to each other and enable an adding up of amounts of fluid indicated on the filling scale.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Helmut Bucksch
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Publication number: 20040237879Abstract: The invention is a high-temperature liquid phase growth method using a very thin Si melt layer and characterized in that there is no need of strict temperature difference control between the growing crystal surface and a raw material supply polycrystal, and control of impurity addition is possible. The grown single crystal SiC is characterized in that no fine grain boundaries exist therein, the density of micropipe defects in the growth surface is 1/cm2 or less, and the crystal has a terrace of 10 micrometer or more and a multi-molecular layer step as the minimum unit of a three-molecular layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Tadaaki Kaneko, Yasushi Asaoka, Naokatsu Sano
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Publication number: 20040237880Abstract: A method for manufacturing an optical member of a fluoride crystal includes: a growing step of growing an ingot of a fluoride crystal; a cutting-out step of cutting out from the ingot a cylindrical basic material with two parallel planes which have a certain crystal plane orientation; an orientation-determining step of determining a crystal orientation of a side surface of the cylindrical basic material; a birefringence-measuring step of measuring birefringence in a specific crystal axis direction at the side surface determined based on the crystal orientation determined in the orientation-determining step; and an evaluating step of evaluating the fluoride crystal on the basis of a result of measurement of the birefringence. A fluoride crystal is obtained in which a maximum value of birefringence in a specific crystal axis direction at a side surface is not more than 10 nm/cm at a measurement wavelength of 633 nm.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Nikon CorporationInventors: Shigeru Sakuma, Kenichi Muramatsu, Kazuhiro Kido
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Publication number: 20040237881Abstract: Methods of cleaning substrates and growing epitaxial silicon thereon are provided. Wafers are exposed to a plasma for a sufficient time prior to epitaxial silicon growth, in order to clean the wafers. The methods exhibit enhanced selectivity and reduced lateral growth of epitaxial silicon. The wafers may have dielectric areas that are passivated by the exposure of the wafer to a plasma.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Jingyan Zhang, Er-Xuan Ping
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Publication number: 20040237882Abstract: A method of manufacturing potassium niobate single crystal thin film on a single crystal substrate that epitaxially grows orthorhombic potassium niobate single crystal at a temperature near room temperature at a high deposition rate. A surface acoustic wave element, frequency filter, frequency oscillator, electronics circuit, and electronic device employ the thin film manufactured by the method, and are high in k2, wideband, downsized, and economical in power consumption. The method includes the steps of coating liquid drops of a potassium niobate solution on a SrTiO3 single crystal substrate by a liquid drop emission method, and precipitating potassium niobate single crystal layer by epitaxial growth from the liquid drops.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Takamitsu Higuchi, Katsuyuki Morii, Setsuya Iwashita, Hiromu Miyazawa
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Publication number: 20040237883Abstract: A method of forming a planar waveguide structure, comprising forming a first graded layer on a substrate, wherein the first graded layer comprises a first and a second optical material, wherein the concentration of the first optical material increases with the height of the first graded layer; forming a second graded layer on the first graded layer, the second graded layer comprising the first and second optical materials wherein the concentration of the first optical material decreases with the height of the second graded layer. The method further including forming a uniform layer on the first graded layer, the uniform layer containing first and second optical materials wherein the first optical material concentration is constant.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Dan Maydan, Arkadii V. Samoilov
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Publication number: 20040237884Abstract: A treatment equipment, which is intended to be installed in connection with a moving surface. The treatment equipment includes a frame and a blade holder formed from composite material as a single piece and connected to the frame. In addition, a blade is fitted to the blade holder, the bevelled edge belonging to which is arranged to be brought into contact with the moving surface by moving the blade holder. In the blade holder, there is also a separate backing blade, which is fitted at one edge into the blade holder, the other edge extending closer than the blade holder to the said bevelled edge.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Metso Paper. Inc.Inventors: Ilkka Rata, Reijo Hassinen
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Publication number: 20040237885Abstract: A device (510) for the direct or indirect application of liquid or pasty application medium (516) by means of an applicator unit (512) to a material web (520), in particular of paper or board, comprises a device (570) upstream of the applicator unit (512) in the running direction (L) of the substrate (U) in order to attenuate the air boundary layer (G) carried along by the substrate (U). The attenuation device can in this case comprise a sealing element (570) which is pressed in a sealing manner against the substrate (U) and rolls on the latter substantially without slippage, and/or can comprise an electrode arrangement and/or can comprise an ultrasound source and/or can comprise a resilient diaphragm element acting without contact.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Voith Paper Patent GmbHInventors: Bernert Richard, Mendez-Gallon Benjamin, Ueberschar Manfred
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Publication number: 20040237886Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing fluid includes a base member having a feed channel and a slot nozzle having first and second spaced apart members. A slot-shaped outlet channel is in fluid communication with the feed channel and is defined between the first and second spaced apart members. A slot-shaped outlet opening is in fluid communication with the slot-shaped outlet channel and has a width defined between the first and second spaced apart members. A valve is coupled with the base member and selectively interrupts and releases the flow of fluid through the slot-shaped outlet opening. An adjustment device infinitely adjusts the position of the first member relative to the position of the second member to change the width of the slot-shaped outlet opening. A method for dispensing fluid onto a substrate includes directing the fluid through the slot-shaped outlet channel while continuously increasing the pressure of the fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Hans-Jurgen Meissner, Gerd Ostermann, Uwe Lehmann, Juergen Steckelberg
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Publication number: 20040237887Abstract: The equipment for preparing for electrostatic painting three-dimensional articles (P) with a predominantly flat extension, made from dielectric or low-conductivity material, which move on and are supported by a horizontal conveyor (T), presents the feature that the conveyor is made from an electrically insulating material, having a resistivity greater than that of the panels (P) to be painted. One or more electrodes (E, 12) are placed in isolated positions, at suitable distances from each other and from the edges of the panels, under the said panels, at least while the powdered paints electrostatically charged to an electrical potential are being fed on to them.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Silver Santandrea, Stefano Beneditti
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Publication number: 20040237888Abstract: An optical monitoring system for a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) apparatus includes a light source for generating an input light beam, and a first port configured within the PECVD apparatus for receiving the input light beam from the light source. The first port is configured to direct the input beam upon a workpiece within the PECVD apparatus. A second port is configured within the PECVD apparatus for receiving an output light beam passed through the workpiece, and a comparing mechanism for comparing the output light beam with the input light beam is configured to determine a deposited layer thickness upon the workpiece.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: Peter Joseph Codella, Manisha Tinani, George Theodore Dalakos, Eric Michael Breitung
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Publication number: 20040237889Abstract: An improved chemical gas deposition process includes delivering materials to be deposited through a heating pipe for heating then conveying the materials to a gas dispensing head. The temperature of the gas dispensing head is controlled to maintain the ejecting deposition materials in a stable temperature condition. The invention also provides an improved apparatus for the chemical gas deposition process that includes a heat exchanger to control the temperature of the gas dispensing head. By means of the process and apparatus of the invention, the process of chemical gas deposition or dry etching is more stable and efficient.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Winbond Electronics CorporationInventors: Wei-Tsong Chen, Ching-Chung Yang, Chung-Chieh Juan
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Publication number: 20040237890Abstract: A method and metal equipment for use in wells, wherein metal equipment is used in the operation and drilling of a well, and wherein the metal equipment has a surface. In one embodiment, the method comprises applying a polyphenylene sulfide coating to the surface and curing the polyphenylene sulfide coating. In other embodiments, the method further comprises cleaning the surface before applying the polyphenylene sulfide coating. Additional embodiments include the method further comprising applying a primer coating to the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Daniel L. Bour
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Publication number: 20040237891Abstract: A lid liner for a chemical vapor deposition chamber includes an annular portion having an inner surface for surrounding a reaction volume within the chemical deposition chamber; a mounting tab formed on an outer surface of the annular portion; and a hole formed in the mounting tab for receiving a fastener wherein the hole does not penetrate the inner surface of the annular portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: David Stacey, Zachary Prather, Jonathan Allinger
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Publication number: 20040237892Abstract: An improved gas precursor delivery system for a deposition chamber is disclosed. The system includes, in a preferred embodiment, a shower head containing holes through which the gas precursors will be delivered to the deposition chamber. Each hole within the shower head has associated with it a flow regulating micromachine, such as a microvalve or micropump, for independently regulating the flow of the precursor into the deposition chamber, and if necessary, for vaporizing the source chemical. Each micromachine is preferably associated with a single precursor source, and hence precursor lines are not shared and thus do not need to be purged with the introduction of each new precursor, saving manufacturing time and decreasing wasted precursor gas. Precise control of precursors into the chamber via the micromachines allows film stochiometry and thickness to be carefully controlled.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Cem Basceri, Gurtej S. Sandhu
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Publication number: 20040237893Abstract: A layer deposition method includes: feeding a reactant with a first flow of an inert gas as a carrier gas into a reaction chamber to chemisorb the reactant on a substrate; feeding the first flow of the inert gas to purge the reaction chamber and a first reactant feed line; and feeding the second flow of the inert gas into the reaction chamber through a feed line different from the first reactant feed line.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: In-Sung Park, Young-Wook Park, Myeong-Jin Kim, Eun-Taek Yim, Han-Mei Choi, Kyoung-Seok Kim, Beung-Keun Lee
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Publication number: 20040237894Abstract: An apparatus for a semiconductor device includes: a chamber having upper and lower portions, a volume of the lower portion being greater than a volume of the upper portion; a susceptor in the chamber, the susceptor having a substrate on a top surface thereof; an injector injecting process gases into the chamber; a coil unit over the chamber; a radio frequency power supply connected to the coil unit; and an exhaust through the chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Jung-Hun Han, Young-Suk Lee, Soon-Bin Jung, Jeong-Beom Lee, Chul-Sik Kim, Chang-Yeop Jeon, Jae-Euk Ko, Young-Rok Kim, Seong-Eun Sim, Yeng-Hyun Lee, Jin-Hyuk Yoo, Dae-Bong Kang
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Publication number: 20040237895Abstract: A pressure-regulating device for use with a vapor reaction chamber, and methods of its use, are disclosed. In one embodiment according to the invention, the device comprises a magnetically-actuatable valve having an aperture, a plug containing a plug magnet within the valve, a magnet disposed around the valve and magnetically associated with the plug magnet, and an actuator associated with the magnet. The actuator moves the magnet to magnetically bias the plug magnet thereby moving the plug into and out of sealing engagement with the aperture and regulating pressure within the reaction chamber. Plug movement is achieved without interconnecting mechanical parts disposed through the body of the valve that provide surfaces on which adduct, from depositing vaporous by-product material, can accumulate. Since magnetic interaction moves the plug rather than mechanical parts attached to the valve body, build-up of adduct on the internal surfaces of the valve is reduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Craig M. Carpenter, Ross S. Dando, Randy W. Mercil, Philip H. Campbell
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Publication number: 20040237896Abstract: A plating apparatus for plating a substrate comprises a processing section (12) defined in a clean room, processing units (5, 6) disposed within the processing section (12) for processing the substrate, a plating section (14) defined in the processing section (12), and a plating unit (4) disposed within the plating section (14) for plating the substrate (W). Air can be supplied to and discharged from the plating section (14) independently of the processing section (12) outside of the plating section (14). The plating apparatus further comprises a partition wall (10) for isolating the plating section (14) from the processing section (12), and at least one opening defined in the partition wall (10) for transferring the substrate (W) between the plating section (14) and the processing section (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Akihisa Hongo
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Publication number: 20040237897Abstract: An electrostatically shielded toroidal plasma and radical source is provided. The plasma source includes a grounded metallic plasma source chamber that defines an interior for plasma generation. The plasma source chamber is configured from two L-shaped portions arranged to form rectangularly shaped enclosure. Dielectric breaks are defined by gaps between the two L-shaped portions. A drive inductor is configured such that the metallic plasma source chamber is positioned between loops of the drive inductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Hiroji Hanawa, Kenneth S. Collins, John R. Trow, David Stover, Fernando Silveira
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Method and installation for the densification of substrates by means of chemical bapour infiltration
Publication number: 20040237898Abstract: A method of densifying porous substrates by chemical vapor infiltration comprises loading porous substrates for densification in a loading zone of an enclosure (10), heating the internal volume of the enclosure, and introducing a reagent gas into the enclosure though an inlet situated at one end of the enclosure. Before coming into contact with substrates (20) situated in the loading zone, the reagent gas admitted into the enclosure is preheated, at least in part, by passing along a duct (30) connected to the gas inlet and extending through the loading zone, the duct being raised to the temperature inside the enclosure, and the preheated reagent gas is distributed in the loading zone through one or more openings (33) formed in the side wall (32) of the duct, along the duct.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Bruno Bernard, Stephane Goujard, Sebastien Bertrand -
Publication number: 20040237899Abstract: A chew-resistant pet bed is disclosed comprising a mattress, a plurality of rims, and a plurality of spherical joints. The mattress comprises a plurality of insert sections. The components of the pet bed are preferably configured to be integrally molded and comprise a chew-resistant homogeneous resilient non-toxic bitter material. In alternative embodiments, the components of the pet bed are configured to detachably couple to one another and comprise a chew-resistant homogeneous resilient non-toxic bitter material. Preferably, the chew-resistant pet bed ranges in size such that the pet bed will fit within 24-54 inch deep dog shipping crates. Preferably, at least one of the plurality of insert sections comprise cloth; in other embodiments, at least one of the plurality of insert sections comprise a chew-resistant non-toxic non-bitter material pet toy, a plurality of bristles, or a combination thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Bryan Fung
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Publication number: 20040237900Abstract: Food dispensing apparatus minimizes the likelihood that food particles dispensed into an aquarium will contaminate the water filtration system or will stick to the sides of the aquarium. The food dispensing system suspends a hollow food dispensing member in water in the aquarium such that the food dispensing member guides food to the bottom of the aquarium free from being transported by prevailing currents in the aquarium.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Robert J. Berry
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Publication number: 20040237901Abstract: A pet mat is provided with an upper surface having a pattern of raised bumps, the configuration and spacing of which is such that a common pet bowl or dish can be placed on any part of the upper surface and the bowl will normally fall within the interstices between the pattern of bumps. The bumps prevent a bowl from moving around the mat, and a raised peripheral edge bordering the upper surface prevents spillage from escaping onto the mat support surface or floor. The mat is preferably formed from a tacky material, such a natural rubber, which further aids in the goal of reducing slippage of both the mat and the bowl placed thereon.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Jonathan Willinger, Klaus Woltmann
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Publication number: 20040237902Abstract: A container 10 for rearing aquatic animals includes a floor portion 12 which defines a plurality of openings. A wall portion 100 bounds the floor portion 12 to form, together with the floor portion 12, a chamber for receiving the aquatic animals to be reared. A filter 105 is arranged in the openings of the floor portion 12. A closure plate 103 openably closes the openings in the floor portion 12. The invention extends also to a system which includes a plurality of the containers 10. The containers 10 are supported, in a partially immersed state in a vessel of the system. A circulating arrangement of the system circulates water through the containers 10.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Peter Malcolm Cattin, Philip Stanley Crosier
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Publication number: 20040237903Abstract: A stringed cat toy to encourage playful activity and exercise in cats and healthy interaction between cat owners and their pets. The cat toy comprises an elongated music string with a small handle securely connected at one end and an object which is attractive to cats secured at the opposite end. The preferred cat toy string is selected from a group of composite strings used for instruments such as the cello, bass or violin, which are of low tensile strength and are designed for low-frequency vibration on the order of about 100 Hertz or less. The dynamic properties of the composite string facilitate interesting movements of the attractor, preferably a horse hair tassel, when the handle is rotated. The motion of the attractor appears to be a life-like and erratic movement that simulates prey and stimulates natural predatory instincts within the cat to encourage the animal to leap at the object. Such playful activity both exercises the cat and promotes beneficial interaction between cat and owner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Steve Telford, John Telford
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Publication number: 20040237904Abstract: A dental dog chew roll is cut from a flavored and colored hide piece. The hide pieced is rolled to form into a cylindrical body with two ends, with strips of the hide extending from the cylindrical body. Optionally, cuts are made in the body to provide more surface area. Preferably, the hide piece is made from a large animal hide that is cleaned, infused with flavor and dried.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Tiandong Jia, Sharon McNamara, Robert Sulikowski
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Publication number: 20040237905Abstract: A toy is provided that includes a clear plastic ball to be readily movable along a supportive surface, such as the ground. Within the ball there is located a motorized character assembly. The character assembly has an upper housing cover in the form of a mouse or other rodent that would visually trigger an instinctive response in a cat or some breeds of (hunting) dogs. Beneath the upper housing cover is a motor which operates a drive wheel assembly. The drive wheel assembly is to be in continuous contact with the inner surface of the ball. The wheels further are made of soft rubber that does not slide in the internal ball surface, but rather causes the ball to roll and be propelled forward.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Steven Tsengas
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Publication number: 20040237906Abstract: A retractable leash device is comprised of a housing with a handle, and a leash wound around an internal reel. The reel is biased by a spring to automatically retract the leash. A momentary unidirectional lock in the housing is arranged to be normally disengaged from unidirectional teeth on the reel. When the momentary unidirectional lock is actuated, the reel is engaged by a ratchet to prevent rotation in the release direction but permit rotation in the retract direction. A toggle lock in the housing is movable between an unlocked position away from the reel, and a locked position between cogs on the reel. A geared rotation damper is engaged with a concentric gear on the reel to limit retraction speed. A clip attached to the housing may be clipped around the leash when the leash is wrapped around a fixed object.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Jared Waxman, Andrew Johnston
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Publication number: 20040237907Abstract: The invention relates to a retractable leash for animals, having a housing containing a spring-biased reel in which the remaining length of leash can be taken up and which is stoppable by an actuating mechanism for adjustment of the maximum extension length of the leash as required, and by providing for the slack section of the leash to be taken up automatically by the reel when this maximum extension length is not being used, thus ensuring that the leash is always taut without restricting the animal's freedom of movement unnecessarily.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: ELEONORE MEISSNERInventor: Roland Muller
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Publication number: 20040237908Abstract: A supplemental water heater tank and system features a supplemental tank with an inner vessel surrounded by an outer jacket. The space there between is generally evacuated of air so that the inner vessel is vacuum insulated. The supplemental tank includes water inlet and outlet ports. Water is heated in a water heater and transferred from the upper portion of the water heater tank to the lower portion of the vacuum-insulated supplemental tank through an insulated line and a dip tube that extends between the water inlet port and the bottom portion of the inner vessel. Hot water is withdrawn from the upper portion of the inner vessel of the supplemental tank for use in a home or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Timothy A. Neeser, Thomas J. Shaw, David A. Wondra, Paul A. Drube
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Publication number: 20040237909Abstract: A method and apparatus to conduct 02/CO2 combustion or oxygen-enriched combustion. The boiler exhaust gas passes through a Gas Primer Sector (GPS) combined with the boiler to effect heat transfer to the combustion gas in indirect counter-flow heat exchange. Sharply reduced gas flows result from using largely moisture-free CO2 as diluent for O2 in the combustion gas which allows long residence time at low velocity for maximum heat transfer from the exhaust gas to the combustion gas. Most particulate drops out and most moisture is condensed from the cooled mostly CO2 exhaust gas. The larger portion is blended with oxygen for the combustion gas and reheated and returned to the boiler through the integrated GPS; the smaller portion is cleaned and separated, the CO2 released or recovered. The complete exhaust gas-combustion gas cycle may be 30 to 90 seconds and preferably about 60 seconds.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Krebs & SislerInventor: William P. Krebs
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Publication number: 20040237910Abstract: The present invention aims at expanding an operation range for allowing a compression ignition combustion operation. The present invention provides an internal combustion engine of a compression ignition type that is capable of operating with a compression ignition combustion scheme in a given operation range. The ECU of the internal combustion engine detects an operating condition of the internal combustion engine and determines, according to the detected operating condition, which mode is to be used operate the internal combustion engine, a 4-cycle compression ignition mode or a 2-cycle compression ignition mode. The ECU controls the internal compression engine to perform the compression ignition mode determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Tohru Kitamura, Tomio Kimura, Shohei Okazaki, Akira Kato, Toshihiro Yamaki, Katsura Okubo, Moriyoshi Awasaka, Junji Yasuda, Yasuhiro Urata, Takashi Kakinuma, Yoshimasa Kaneko
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Publication number: 20040237911Abstract: The present invention removes the problem conventionally confronted by electronically controlled thermostats that implementation of improved fuel consumption is difficult, and implements high cooling-water temperature controllability, improved fuel consumption, and an improvement of the heater function and so forth with high accuracy and at low cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: NIPPON THERMOSTAT CO., LTD.Inventor: Mitsuhiro Sano
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Publication number: 20040237912Abstract: The present invention advantageously proposes an electrical coolant pump (1), in particular for the coolant circuit of internal combustion engines for automotive vehicles, comprising a coolant pump motor for driving an impeller (6) through the intermediary of a pump shaft (10), and a valve (36) that is integrated into the pump inlet, wherein for the first time the coolant pump motor constitutes the switching element for the valve (36). Moreover the present invention for the first time specifies a method for controlling the valve (36), wherein the work necessary for switching is afforded by the coolant pump motor and is transmitted to the valve (36), in particular a 3/2-port directional control valve, via the shaft (10) of the pump motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Franz Pawellek, Andreas Schmidt
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Publication number: 20040237913Abstract: The differences in the Nanninga Diesel, as pertaining to any other diesel engine, is The lack of cylinder heads, valves, valve operating mechanisms and camshafts. What is Unique about the Nanninga Diesel is the use of 4 crankshafts, 32 pistons and 16 cylinders In a box configuration. The pistons uncover ports for intake and exhaust, leaving no need For valves, a blower pushes the air through the cylinders and supercharges. The Gear Reduction from the 4 crankshaft gears to the output gear will increase torque by about 7 Times. There are 4 cylinders firing at exactly the same time, one in each row of banks. This puts 2 impulses on each crankshaft during one time of injection. All cylinders fire in One revolution of the crankshafts. To my knowledge a diesel engine of this design has Never been built.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Jeffrey Karl Nanninga