Abstract: A surface treatment system (200) comprises a conveying unit (100) for loading and conveying an object of surface treatment including one or more members which are already processed; and a surface treatment unit for forming a deposition layer on a surface of the object of surface treatment conveyed by the conveying unit (100) using a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reaction. Thereby, massive surface treatment can be performed so as to form deposition layer on entire surface of members constructing a product by performing the surface treatment forming the deposition layer on the product continuously, and therefore, function of the product can be improved.

Abstract: An etching apparatus comprises a workpiece holder (21) for holding a workpiece (X), a plasma generator (10, 20) for generating a plasma (30) in a vacuum chamber (3), an orifice electrode (4) disposed between the workpiece holder (21) and the plasma generator (10, 20), and a grid electrode (5) disposed upstream of the orifice electrode (4) in the vacuum chamber (3). The orifice electrode (4) has orifices (4a) defined therein. The etching apparatus further comprises a voltage applying unit (25, 26) for applying a voltage between the orifice electrode (4) and the grid electrode (5) to accelerate ions from the plasma (30) generated by the plasma generator (10, 20) and to pass the extracted ions through the orifices (4a) in the orifice electrode (4). A first collimated neutral particle beam is generated and applied to the workpiece (X) for etching a surface of a processing layer (60) of the workpiece (X).

Abstract: A HF matching device 14 and a LF matching device 17 are separately structured, the HF matching device 14 being configured such that it is disposed at a center portion on a lower side of a bottom electrode 2 so as to be positioned in a space 13 provided on the lower side of the bottom electrode 2 and an output side thereof is electrically connected to the bottom electrode 2 via a non-coaxially structured feeding rod 19 (not via a coaxially-structured feeding rod). A radio-frequency power from a second radio-frequency power source 18 is supplied from an outer peripheral portion of the bottom electrode 2 via the LF matching device 17 and a LPF 16. This configuration makes it possible to suppress the increase in power loss even when a radio-frequency power with a high frequency is used and to facilitate matching without using any special matching element.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for an atomic layer deposition process. The apparatus includes a chamber adapted to receive a first precursor gas, at least one surface interior to the chamber, and an acoustic wave driver coupled to the at least one surface and adapted to drive acoustic waves along the interior surface.

Abstract: Disclosed are a surface treatment system that includes a deposition chamber (100) for forming a deposition layer at a surface of an object of surface treatment (900); a carrier (910) for carrying the object of surface treatment (900) by mounting thereon, and a power applying unit (230) for forming a deposition reaction by applying a power to the object in the deposition chamber (100), wherein the power applying unit (230) includes a fixed power applying unit (220) installed in the deposition chamber (100) and connected to an external power source (210); and a movable power applying unit (230) installed at the carrier (910) for being electrically connected to the fixed power applying unit (220) movably as the carrier on which the object of surface treatment (900) is mounted goes into the deposition chamber and thereby applying a power to the object of surface treatment mounted on the carrier by contacting thereto.

Abstract: A more uniform plasma process is implemented for treating a treatment object using an inductively coupled plasma source which produces an asymmetric plasma density pattern at the treatment surface using a slotted electrostatic shield having uniformly spaced-apart slots. The slotted electrostatic shield is modified in a way which compensates for the asymmetric plasma density pattern to provide a modified plasma density pattern at the treatment surface. A more uniform radial plasma process is described in which an electrostatic shield arrangement is configured to replace a given electrostatic shield in a way which provides for producing a modified radial variation characteristic across the treatment surface. The inductively coupled plasma source defines an axis of symmetry and the electrostatic shield arrangement is configured to include a shape that extends through a range of radii relative to the axis of symmetry.

Abstract: An ion implantation method is disclosed that includes a step of carrying out a built-in early check to ensure accurate and correct operation parameters are employed when the setup operation is started. By applying built-in check processes, the repeatability of ion beam setup processes can be enhanced. The ion beam setup method includes a formula-based searching algorithm to accurately and rapidly determines the atomic mass unit (AMU) using a feedback data other than the beam current. The same formula is used to check for subsystems consistency and reliability to ensure accuracy of the ion beam being set up. The searching algorithm further implements a peaking algorithm to avoid the common pitfalls of misinterpretation of data and achieve an accurate, reliable, and fast tuning with the help of “Trusty Recipes” as initial conditions and “Limits Parameters” as constraints.

Abstract: A apparatus includes a waveguide (21) including a first conductive plate (23) having a plurality of slots (26) and a second conductive plate (22) arranged opposite to the former plate, a cylindrical waveguide (13) connected to an opening of the second conductive plate (22), and a bump (27) provided on the first conductive plate (23) and projecting toward the opening (25) of the second conductive plate (22). At least part of the bump (27) is made of a dielectric. The cylindrical waveguide (13) larger in characteristic impedance than in a coaxial waveguide is used to generally reduce a transmission loss. The bump (27) can reduce power reflection at the connecting portion of the cylindrical waveguide (13) and waveguide (21). A transmission loss and power reflection thus reduced can enhance an electromagnetic field supply efficiency.

Abstract: A processing unit of the invention is a processing unit of an object to be processed, which includes: a stage on which an object to be processed is placed; a processing container that contains the stage; and a stage-tilting mechanism that can tilt the stage with respect to a horizontal direction and that can change a direction of the tilt without rotating the stage as time passes.

Abstract: Affords a holder for use in semiconductor or liquid-crystal manufacturing devices—as well as semiconductor or liquid-crystal manufacturing devices in which the holder is installed—in which temperature uniformity in the processed-object retaining face is heightened. Configuring the holder with, furnished atop a ceramic susceptor, a composite of a ceramic and a metal improves the temperature uniformity in the holder's processed-object retaining face and makes for curtailing the generation of particulates and other contaminants. In addition, putting a coating on at least the retaining face improves the durability of the holder. Installing a holder of this sort in a semiconductor manufacturing device or a liquid-crystal manufacturing device contributes to making available semiconductor or liquid-crystal manufacturing devices whose productivity and throughput are excellent.

Abstract: A selection system for animals comprising: (a) a milking area (20) arranged to enable milking of one or more lactating animals (b) a drinking station (30) remote from the milking area (20) in which is positioned an attractant configured to attract an animal from a grazing paddock (50) (c) an entry race (70) connecting the drinking station (30) and the milking area (20) (d) a control mechanism (60) configured to permit entry of a lactating animal meeting a predefined criterion into the entry race (70) from the drinking station (30). Also a method utilising the above system and comprising: (a) attracting an animal from a grazing paddock (50) into the drinking station (30) remote from the milking area (20) (b) determining whether the animal in the drinking station (30) meets a predefined criterion (c) permitting entry of the animal meeting the predefined criterion into the entry race (70).

Abstract: The invention refers to an arrangement and a method for milking of animals. The arrangement includes a number of milking stations (1). Each milking station includes a set of teatcups to be attached to the animal to be milked, a local milk-collecting unit, a local milk discharge conduit (10) and a local feeding member. At least a first main milk conduit (31) is arranged to connect each local milk discharge conduit (10) to a central milk-receiving unit (30) for the transport of milk from each milking station (1) to the central receiving unit. Each local feeding member is arranged to feed the milk by pressure from the local milk-collecting unit to the central milk-receiving unit via the local milk discharge conduit (10) and the first main milk conduit (31).

Abstract: The present invention refers to an arrangement and a method for milking of animals. The arrangement includes a number of milking stations (1), a central milk-receiving unit (30-32), a transport conduit (15). Each milking station (1) includes a set of teatcups to be attached to the animal to be milked, a local milk-collecting unit, a milk discharge conduit (12) and a feeding member. The transport conduit (15) connects each milk discharge conduit to the central milk-receiving unit for the transport of milk from each milking station to the central receiving unit. The feeding member of each milking station is arranged to feed the milk from the milk-collecting unit to the transport conduit (15) via the milk discharge conduit (12). The transport conduit (15) is arranged to permit said transport of milk by means of the gravity force.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for milking an animal, in particular a cow, according to which a characteristic (KG) of the milking operation is first determined. Said characteristic (KG) is composed of at least one of the following variables: the actual value (IW) of the milk flow (MF), the temporal modification of said flow and/or the accumulated quantity of milk (MM). A threshold value (SK) for determining the end of a milking operation is determined in accordance with the characteristic(s) (KG). The end of the milking operation is predicted using the characteristic (KG) and the threshold value (SK). An evaluation variable (BG) of the milking operation is determined during said milking operation, whereby this/these evaluation variable(s) (BG) take(s) into account at least one of the following variables: the actual value (IW) of the milk flow (MF), the temporal modification of said flow and/or the accumulated quantity of milk (MM).

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and device for checking the teat rubber of a teat cup. The object of this invention is providing a simple and reliable method for checking the teat rubber and a device suitable for implementing the method. In this respect, this invention suggests that the behavior of the teat rubber is acquired with a pressure difference profile acting between the pulse cavity and the pressure cavity and this currently determined behavior is compared with a reference behavior. The device according to the invention comprises a device for the direct checking of the teat rubber behavior.

Abstract: An adjustable support system for a bird feeder comprises a support assembly that includes a support member adapted to be fixedly secured to a base structure, and an arcuately-shaped body member having a first end pivotally coupled to the support member and a second end extending outwardly from the support member. The support system further comprises a hanger assembly that includes a cable having a first end operably coupled to the body member along the length of the body member, and a second end adapted to support a bird feeder therefrom, and a planar member operably coupled to the cable along a length of the cable such that the planar member extends substantially orthogonal to the cable, wherein the planar member is adapted to prevent rodents from transiting the cable between the body member and the second end of the cable.

Abstract: A portable deer and game feeder includes a tub-like feeder box, a support frame for supporting the feeder box, the support frame including a plurality of removable legs for supporting the feeder box above the ground, and a roof extending over the feeder box and being large enough to overhang the edges of the feeder box. A plurality of removable roof support posts are provided for supporting the roof over the feeder box, and the removable legs and the removable roof supports are sized and configured to be detached and stowed in the feeder box for transport.

Abstract: A new kind of insect-resistant food container is presented which uses physical means including a sticky polymer to trap insects and prevent them from reaching the food. The typical implementation of this invention is a bowl on a pedestal with a sticky polymer trap under the bowl rim, where it cannot be seen.

Abstract: A hummingbird feeder and kit including a solution reservoir, a feeding assembly, and a coupler for unreleasably coupling said feeding assembly to said solution reservoir. The reservoir includes either a dissolvable solid or a premixed feed solution. The unreleasable coupling between the reservoir and the feeding assembly prevents the subsequent re-use of the hummingbird feeders, minimizing the user's contact with bacteria-infested feeding solution and the spread of disease among birds.

Abstract: A stem for a watering nipple for use in supplying water to poultry is provided. At least a portion of the stem is hollow and formed of coiled material in a manner similar to that of a coiled spring such that the stem has a number of turns and minuscule gaps provided between adjacent turns. Upon actuation of the nipple, a water-tight seal is broken such that a portion of the water is directed to flow through the hollow interior of the stem, and preferably directly into the mouth of the poultry. Some water, though, will flow along the outer surface of the stem. Where the coiled material is provided, this water will either be drawn into the hollow interior of the stem through the minuscule gaps, or this water will adhere to the outer surfaces of the stem to attract and allow poultry to drink the water thereon.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an animal breeding material or article having excellent antibacterial properties, deodorization characteristics and safety. More particularly, the present invention relates to an animal breeding material or article composed of a basic amino acid cellulose partial ester (i.e., partial ester of cellulose with a basic amino acid) or a salt thereof as the effective constituting component.

Abstract: A base 12 supports small disposable containers 18 in an array. Each container holds a portion of litter 20. Containers are preferably transparent or translucent. In preferred embodiments a hinged grille 14 assists in the locating of containers within the base and serves to conceal the upper rims of the containers. A containment rim 16 is optionally provided for better keeping litter within the box. Container may be reused, or sealed with a snap-on lid 26 and disposed of without cleaning. Veterinary urine samples can be collected at home without stress to the cats. Amount of urine can also be determined even when litter has absorbed it completely by weighing the individual used container before and after soiling.

Abstract: A tray contains a bag of litter and provides four sides to form a litter box. An enclosure folds into a flat configuration against the top of the tray. In use, the panels of the enclosure unfold and form an enclosure for the tray. Closure panels fold upwardly from the tray and interlock with the unfolded panels to add stability. The closure panels are provided with openings to allow the ingress and egress of cats. When desired, the panels can be folded back into the flat configuration and the entire unit disposed of.

Abstract: A liner and method of making an animal litter box liner that has a sufficient amount of sodium bicarbonate incorporated into the sheet-like material of the liner to facilitate the control of odors from the litter box when the litter box is used by an animal. The amount of sodium bicarbonate used is small enough that it does not compromise the structural integrity of the liner. The method includes forming first pellets of a first plastic and deodorant. The first pellets are mixed with second pellets and extruded and then formed into liners.

Abstract: A cat litter product is provided and includes manufacture primarily from modified corn starch which is processed through mash distillation. The litter product is pelletized via an extrusion technology process so as to form particles the size of wheat grain. The litter product provides, collectively, a non-toxic and naturally safe, biodegradable, odor-eliminating, scented, anti-bacterial litter that clumps in a convenient size for easy disposal and which has little dust and reduces tracking by cats.

Abstract: Process for reconditioning a hermetic package (12) containing water (14P) and at least one alive aquatic animal (16), in particular intended for aquariums, the aim being to extend the maximum duration of transportation while keeping the animal alive, which includes the following steps:

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the flow of fish. The system includes a vessel containing water and having an exit aperture. The system also includes a sensor configured to sense a first fish moving through the exit aperture. In addition, the system includes a jet device in communication with the sensor. The jet device is positioned adjacent to the exit aperture and is configured to spray a jet to prevent a second fish from moving through the exit aperture. In one embodiment, the system also includes a gate positioned at the exit aperture, the gate being normally closed and configured to be pushed open by a fish moving through the exit aperture. The system may be employed for providing spacing between fish or may be employed to provide a single fish on demand.

Abstract: A method for achieving a biocidal effect by means of the application of quinone compounds similar to menadione in the prevention of development or eradication of the presence of autotrophic or heterotrophic microorganisms in masses of water, preferably ballast water in marine practice, or in animals. When the method is performed in water it provides for a simple mixing of a series of compounds into the mass of liquid to be treated, whereas if one intends to use the biocidal properties of the described compounds in the zootechnical field, the compounds are incorporated in medicinal compositions, which are then administered to the animals to be treated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of imprinting fish in freshwater with at least one odorant for the fish and causing the imprinted fish to react to the odorant in seawater, wherein the fish are maintained in freshwater prior to transfer to seawater, The method includes: adding at least one Polyvalent Cation Sensing Receptor (PVCR) modulator to the freshwater in an amount sufficient to modulate expression and/or sensitivity of at least one PVCR, the PVCR modulator being one which alters olfactory sensing of the fish to the odorant; adding feed for fish consumption to the freshwater, the feed containing the odorant and an amount of NaCl sufficient to contribute to a significantly increased level of the PVCR modulator in serum of the fish upon consumption of the feed, whereby the fish are imprinted with the odorant; transferring the imprinted fish to seawater; and providing a source of said odorant in the seawater to which the imprinted fish are transferred, thereby causing the imprinted fish to react to

Abstract: The present invention relates to a two-stage biofilter reactor system for removing nitrogenous compounds from a recirculating aquaculture system. The system includes a aerobic nitrification unit and a downstream anaerobic denitrification unit, wherein both units have a mobile bed of suspended media whereon bacteria can grow and reduce nitrate and/or ammonia levels in the recirculating aquaculture system. Use of the two-stage system has the advantage of reducing the water exchange rates and consumption of salt when maintaining a saline effluent.

Abstract: An enclosure for a pet litter pan, having a moisture and odor-resistant plastic rattan-like material woven on a wire frame. The enclosure is quickly and easily assembled from multiple panels using pin connectors and connector feet. An openable panel provides access to remove the litter pan for cleaning, and has low-friction rails along its interior for facilitating easier removal and replacement of the pan.

Abstract: An enclosure is provided having openings for entry of rodents within the enclosure. There is arranged one or more applicators in the form of a suspended flexible web configured to contact rodents entering the chamber and having a chemical on the web for application to the rodents.

Abstract: A retrieving device for use in training dogs, the device being adapted to be cast, retrieved, and released from a casting line. The devices includes a body portion adapted to be grasped by a dog, a casting mechanism adapted to permit the body portion to be releasably connected to a casting line, and/or one or more components adapted to impart a desired path as the body portion is pulled through water. Such paths can include, for instance, to skim along the top of the water, or to dive or bob periodically.

Abstract: A toy for animals, especially for dogs, is provided. The toy has a body having optional recesses on an outer surface thereof.

Abstract: A pet product such as a dental chew is made of animal hide that has been infused with flavor ingredients and one or more dental aids that promote the dental health of the pet. The dental aids promote calculus and plaque reduction, whiter teeth and healthier gums.

Abstract: A novel pet chew comprising a plurality of contrasting animal hide strips joined together, where at least one of the plurality of contrasting animal hide strips is treated to be non-staining, is disclosed. The chew is configured to display substantial portions of each of the plurality of contrasting animal hide strips on the exterior surface of the chew. A method of making a non-staining pet chew is also disclosed.

Abstract: The claimed device, incorporating an adjustable electrode design, where the filaments of the electrode are positioned in an array pattern by the “halo” housing cap improves the art of deterring deer from browsing on desirable garden plants, by taking advantage of the browsing habits of deer, and the capacity of the claimed device to create an electric shock barrier between the protected plant and an approaching deer. This design improves the art as it uses the plant itself as the “bait” rather than a scent or bait component in the device, and interdicts the deer as it approaches the plant to feed, thus repelling the deer from the plant, not a bait component in a device, as other deer repellent/deterrent designs incorporate.

Abstract: An animal control arrangement in which there is provided a plurality of leashes which may be attached to the collars of animals to be controlled while walking, exercising, training or the like and which reduces the likelihood of the leashes becoming tangled.

Abstract: A pet step device comprising a lightweight, portable, foam-based stair that may be positioned next to a vehicle, bed, couch or other piece of elevated place for enabling a pet to easily and safely reach and navigate the elevated location, wherein the pet step device comprises a plurality of elevated platforms or steps made in sections from polyurethane foam that are stacked and bonded together. The cover preferably comprises a soft, pile-height, low-impact fabric cover, but may comprise a waterproof material having rubber pads on the bottom of the device and on the steps to prevent slipping.

Abstract: A prosthetic device suitable for treating canine hip dysplasia and lumbosacral disorders and method of use. The prosthetic device comprises a harness attachable to the canine. Complementary rear braces are provided comprising a right brace and a left brace wherein the right brace comprises a right leg strap for encircling the right leg of the canine, and the left brace comprises a left leg strap for encircling the left leg of the canine. The right brace and left brace are engageable to apply force to persuade the hip towards a natural position. A tether between the harness and the complementary rear braces draws the right brace and left brace forward.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pet diaper garment that includes an absorbent garment portion and a bib strap. The absorbent garment and bib strap may be customized to securely and comfortably fit an animal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pet diaper garment that includes an absorbent garment portion and a bib strap. The absorbent garment and bib strap may be customized to securely and comfortably fit an animal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a combined liquid foam stop and insulator for a tank assembly including a fibrous material strip and a nonflammable insulating skirt connected to the fibrous material strip. In an alternative embodiment the invention is the liquid foam stop in the form of a fibrous material strip and in the absence of the nonflammable insulating skirt. Further, the invention includes a gas water heater incorporating the liquid foam stop or the combined liquid foam stop and insulator of the present invention.

Abstract: A controller determines and adjusts system parameters, including cleanliness levels or sootblower operating settings, that are useful for maintaining the cleanliness of a fossil fuel boiler at an efficient level. Some embodiments use a direct controller to determine cleanliness levels and/or sootblower operating settings. Some embodiments use an indirect controller, with a system model, to determine cleanliness levels and/or sootblower settings. The controller may use a model that is, for example, a neural network, or a mass energy balance, or a genetically programmed model. The controller uses input about the actual performance or state of the boiler for adaptation. The controller may operate in conjunction with a sootblower optimization system that controls the actual settings of the sootblowers. The controller may coordinate cleanliness settings for multiple sootblowers and/or across a plurality of heat zones in the boiler.

Abstract: A device for introducing hot gas into a heating surface pipe of a waste heat boiler includes an outer pipe that is connected to the boiler wall, preferably to the bottom of the pipe. The device also includes an inner pipe or entry pipe that has an admission section that is cylindrical or conically narrows and also has a discharge section that is connected to the heating surface pipe. The inner pipe is connected to the outer pipe via a rounded reversible cap while forming an entry opening for the hot gas. The inner pipe is surrounded by the outer pipe at a distance. The device also includes a coolant guiding pipe, which is placed between the outer pipe and the inner pipe and which extends into the proximity of the reversible cap.

Abstract: The 4-stroke internal combustion engine with angular and alternate movement of the pistons is different in relation to the existing actually because the movement of their pistons will be neither linear alternate, like in OTTO engine, nor integrally rotative, like in the WANKEL engine. Then, the presented engine gives up the pieces, which have the purpose to change the linear and alternate movement of the pistons into rotative movement, i.e. connecting rods/cranks, like in OTTO engine, because it is possible make the transmission of the angular and alternate movement of the pistons to the motor shaft without any change of the fundamental characteristics of the piston movements. Also the piston movements of the presented engine are not integrally rotative like in WANKEL engine, but alternate, like in OTTO engine. This situation is advantageous because it is possible increase the compression rate, according the rotation level of the engine and so, increases the energetic output to the high rotation levels.

Abstract: A method and system for extending the load range of Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) in an internal combustion engine includes detecting a current state of the engine, detecting a load demand placed on the engine, determining if the load demand is beyond a power generating capacity of a four-stroke engine cycle based on the current state of the engine and the load demand, and switching from the four-stroke engine cycle mode to a two-stroke engine cycle mode when it is determined that the load demand is beyond the capacity of the four-stroke engine cycle.

Abstract: A control method for modulating the torque in an internal combustion engine with mechanical power transmission and with pneumatically, hydraulically or electromagnetically controllable valves that are open and closed based on signals from a control system, by which method a torque that is requested in an operative situation at a certain moment is provided by a selection of the frequency with which power strokes are performed by controlling the number of power strokes in relation to the number of idle strokes. The power strokes take part in 2-stroke cycles or 4-stroke cycles, and one or more 2-stroke cycles are alternated with or more 4-stroke cycles.

Abstract: Arrangement in connection with a diesel engine comprising an air supply system for the diesel engine for supplying suction air to the engine from the environment, the air supply system comprising at least a channel arrangement, a compressor and a heat exchanger for suction air and a cooling circuit for the diesel engine, to which circuit at least one heat exchanger is connected. The heat exchanger connected to the cooling circuit, which recovers waste heat from the diesel engine, is arranged to evaporate water by the heat received from the cooling circuit. The invention also relates to a corresponding method.

Abstract: A four-stroke engine includes a cylinder block, a cylinder head mounted on the cylinder block, multiple cooling fins formed on the cylinder block and the cylinder head, a combustion chamber and an intake port and exhaust port formed in the cylinder head and in communication with the combustion chamber. A cooling jacket is formed in the cylinder head only between a virtual object generated by the intake port or exhaust port being rotated about a cylinder axis. A mating surface of the cylinder head on the cylinder block.