Abstract: A hybrid actuation system comprises first and second actuator arrangements (10, 12) arranged to apply first and second output loads respectively to a common element (14). A control method for controlling the operation of the hybrid actuation system includes the steps of supplying first and second demand signals to the first and second actuator arrangements (10, 12) respectively to cause movement of the common element (14) into a demanded position, monitoring the first and second output loads applied by the first and second actuator arrangements (10, 12) and generating an output signal indicative of the difference between the first and second output loads. The first and second demand signals are corrected in response to the output signal to compensate for any difference between the first and second output loads, thereby to ensure the first and second output loads applied to the common element (14) are substantially identical and synchonised.

Abstract: An actuator includes a hollow cylinder which has a first portion and a second portion. The inner diameter of the first portion is larger than that of the second portion. A piston is inserted in the cylinder. The actuator has a gas generator which supplies a gas into the cylinder to move the piston toward the first portion. The seal member keeps airtightness between the piston and the cylinder when the piston stays in the second portion and flows the gas when the piston stays in the first portion. A hollow stopper is arranged in the first portion and stops the piston. The stopper has a vent groove which is provided on the inner surface and connects the interior of the cylinder to the open end. A piston rod is jointed to the piston and housed in the cylinder. The piston rod moves along the axis with the piston.

Abstract: A cyclic process for controlling environmental emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from vapor recovery in storage and dispensing operations of liquids maintains a vacuum in the storage tank ullage. In the first part of a two-part cyclic process ullage vapor is discharged through a vapor recovery system in which VOC are stripped from vented gas with a selectively gas permeable membrane. In the second part, the membrane is inoperative while gas pressure rises in the ullage. In one aspect of this invention, a vacuum is drawn in the membrane separation unit thus reducing overall VOC emissions.

Abstract: The gas mixture comprises at least a main constituent to be produced and impurities to be separated from said mixture. The treatment method consists in using at least two adsorbers which follow in offset manner a common cycle during which there are successively an adsorption phase and a regeneration phase using a regenerating gas. Furthermore, it consists in subjecting at the beginning of the adsorption phase (steps I or IV) and/or at the beginning of the use of regenerating gas (step VI), to only part of the gas mixture flow to be treated, respectively the regenerating gas flow, until said adsorber is saturated, respectively substantially discharged, in at least one of the main constituents to be produced, while maintaining at least another adsorber in adsorption phase. The invention is useful for treating a mixture rich in carbon monoxide and hydrogen.

Abstract: The invention provides a gas separation method and apparatus that can recover efficiently principal gas components from a feed gas that includes a plurality of components, and enables supplying the product gases continuously at a stable flow rate and component concentration. In the present invention, a first separation step using a first adsorption column and a second separation step using a second adsorption column are provided, a circulating feed gas, which is consisting of the recovered exhaust gases discharged in each of the steps and the feed gas, is used as a gas to be separated, the outflow rate and component concentration of a second gas product are maintained at a constant by controlling the outflow rate of the first gas product.

Abstract: A dehydrator breather is provided that includes a vessel, a desiccant container, a valve housing coupled to the vessel, and a vent assembly coupled to the valve housing. The vent assembly includes screened ports disposed along a vertical axis of the vent assembly body that allow air to enter and exit the dehydrator breather. The vent assembly, along with a filter placed between a desiccant container and the valve housing, individually and jointly, prevent desiccant that escapes the desiccant container from clogging the valve assembly.

Abstract: Efficient removal of mercury from the exhaust gases of an industrial process or combustion process can be achieved using an adsorbent that can be regenerated by a simple and efficient method. The mercury is contacted with a sorbent material, the sorbent material being hydrogen mordenite or hydrogen clinoptilolite, for adsorbing mercury and causing the mercury to react with the sorbent material to produce mercury-laden sorbent material. The mercury-laden sorbent material can be heated to a temperature of at least about 400° C. so as to remove mercury from the mercury-laden sorbent material and to regenerate the sorbent material to allow reusing of the sorbent material for mercury removal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for particle collection (30) that is characterized by co-aerosolizing fluids (62) into an air stream (34) containing the particles to be analyzed to significantly enhance their collection and identification efficiency is provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for removing components from technical gases, said components being scrubbed from the technical gas, the scrubbing agent laden with said components being purified in a separate regeneration process and the scrubbing to remove these components taking place at a temperature of +15° to ?60° C. The scrubbing agent is ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (EGDME) or a mixture of various EGDMEs, said scrubbing agent having a solidification point of <?30° C., a boiling temperature of <275° C. at normal pressure and a molar mass of <230 g/mol.

Abstract: A plant includes an absorber (103) that operates in a gas phase supercritical region and removes an acid gas from a feed stream (9) at high recovery of the feed stream (10) while producing a high purity acid gas stream (36). Particularly preferred plants include gas purification plants that receive a feed gas with at least 5 mol % carbon dioxide at a pressure of at least 3000 psi.

Abstract: An adjustable eddy electrostatic precipitator, comprising a main body, an electrode array, an adjustable opening and a precipitating device. The main body has an inner space with an air guiding plate of helical shape, an entrance for air and an exit for air. The electrode array is placed close to the entrance, ionizing air as well as particles floating therein. The adjustable opening is located at the exit, having an adjustable aperture. The precipitating device is connected with a bias high voltage for adsorbing ionized particles. Air entering the main body through the entrance is ionized, ionizing particles floating therein. Ionized particles are driven towards a single zone and are collected depending on size and charge in an adjustable manner.

Abstract: An evaporative emissions filter for an engine air induction system. The evaporative emissions filter includes a hydrocarbon vapor-adsorbent member disposed within the air induction system. Hydrocarbon vapors present in the air induction system after engine shut-down are substantially retained in the adsorbent member until air flows through the air induction system after the engine starts.

Abstract: Provided are an adsorption sheet and an air-purifying filter, which can have low air-flow resistance and high deodorizing performance and be resistant to clogging by dust, from which a powdered adsorbent can hardly drop off, and in which any attached agent can hardly lose its effect. Such a product can be obtained by a process including the steps of: sufficiently premixing an agent-bearing activated carbon powder and a powdered thermoplastic resin to form a mixed powder; then spreading the mixed powder on a base sheet having a certain bulkiness and bearing an agent; stacking an air-permeable sheet thereon; and hot-pressing them.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device which is used to separate gas or liquid from microfluidic flow-through systems. The gas or liquid separation is achieved independently of the spatial orientation of the device. In addition the invention concerns a microfluidic flow-through system in which a device according to the invention enables bubble-free fluid transport.

Abstract: A system and corresponding methods for purifying and removing contaminants from gaseous fluids includes a housing including an inlet, an outlet, and an elongated UV chamber disposed within the housing. The UV radiation source is disposed longitudinally within the UV chamber. At least one baffle structure is disposed at an upstream location within the housing to restrict flow as well as to generate a turbulent flow of the gaseous fluid within the UV chamber. In addition, a fan is disposed at a selected location within the housing to facilitate a flow of the gaseous fluid through the housing at a selected flow rate. The dimensions of the UV chamber and UV source and the configuration of the baffle structure are selected to increase the exposure time and mixing of fluid flowing through the UV chamber as well as increase the proximity of the flowing fluid to the UV source.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for feeding capsules containing a substance to be extracted in an extraction system under pressure for the preparation of a drink. The device includes a supply of capsules arranged in several series, and a mechanism for individually unloading one capsule into a reception part of the extraction system. The extraction system injects water into the capsule to form the drink as a liquid extract of the substance. The reception part is arranged beneath the unloading mechanism in such a way as to allow the direct descent of the released capsule into the reception part and includes structure for opening the capsule for releasing the liquid extract therefrom.

Abstract: An oven conveyor alignment system for maintaining a conveyor belt centered on its supporting rollers is disclosed. The system comprises a camera that generates an image of alignment and stores it as a digital pixel representation. Thus, the system is able to take advantage of new improvements in digital camera resolution. The image information is used by interactive software that is able to transmit an electrical signal to a tension adjustment assembly.

Abstract: A smokeless grill assembly or kit includes a grill stand supporting a grill pan. A grill support spans said grill pan and supports a grill top above a burner unit supported in the grill stand. A handle extends from the burner unit and allows easy removal and replacement and the ability to manipulate at least one combustion regulation mechanism. A diverting mechanism diverts dripping oil from an inner heated region of the grill top to a peripheral region reducing an oil temperature below a smoke point.

Abstract: A food winding apparatus, system, and method of forming a rolled food item utilizing a slotted spool or cup and a push plate to eject the rolled food item from the spool. A food winding unit utilizes a motor to rotate a slotted spool. The leading end of a supported strip of food is detected by a sensor and directed into the slot of a spool. A micro-controller triggers a motor in response to the sensor signal to rotate and form a rolled food item after a predetermined number of rotations. An actuator is activated to displace an ejection plate to eject the rolled food item from the slotted spool. The winding unit can be integrated into a system including an extruder to deposit food onto support strips, a series of conveyors, and a rotary knife to cut the supported strip of food into predetermined lengths suitable for being rolled into a food item by the winding unit.

Abstract: A locking system for an appliance has lid and feed chute locking components that include a spring-biased, ramp surfaced pivoting arm that is adapted to be activated to extend or retract a rod that activates or de-activates a motor drive of a food processor. The arm is activated by rotational movement of the lid relative to the bowl, as an extension member attached to the lid, which is activated by insertion of the plunger, extends downwardly from the lid and engages the ramp surface of the pivoting arm when the lid is rotated. Thus, the plunger can remain inside of the food chute of the lid while the lid is removed or replaced.

Abstract: There is disclosed a tool for engaging, capturing and depositing food items, said tool including: a bracket arranged to couple the tool to a device for imparting controlled movement to the tool, preferably a programmable robot arm; a plurality of penetration pins arranged to facilitate the capture of food items by impalement; a penetration pin support member attached to said bracket and to which are anchored said pins, said pins being arranged such as to extend away from said support member; an ejection member for interacting with said support member, having apertures through which said pins project, means for imparting relative movement between the support member and the ejection member; wherein penetration and capture of said food items is effected by movement of the tool via said device; and wherein deposition of said food items is effected by said relative movement of the support member and the ejection member thereby to push said food items off the end of said pins.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portioning device for foodstuffs, in particular ice cream. Said device comprises a handle consisting of two handle halves that are interconnected by an articulation and can be pivoted in relation to one another, a scoop that is attached to said handle and a blade that is adapted to the interior shape of the scoop. Said blade is mounted so that it can pivot close to the surface of said scoop and carries out a pivoting displacement when the handle is operated. The handle is equipped, between the articulation and the scoop, preferably in the vicinity of the articulation, with a resilient pad consisting of an elastic material, preferably a rubber ring.

Abstract: A food cooler with separate ice and food compartments includes an insulated outer container having an interior partitioning wall, defining a plurality of recessed regions; a peripheral lip extending from the perimeter rim of each recessed region; a plurality of interchangeable inner containers having lids, adapted to form a liquid tight seal with the peripheral lip extending from the perimeter rim of a recessed region of the outer container; a plurality of openings in the base of the outer container having threaded rims; lids adapted to form a liquid tight seal with the threaded rims and; an insulated outer lid adapted to fit with the outer container.

Abstract: An efficiency is further improved in comparison with a conventional manual operation by automatically applying a material to a film-like body by a machine. A film-like body is delivered from a supply apparatus and is taken up by a take-up apparatus. A material is applied by a squeegee of a squeegee apparatus in the middle of the above, and is heated and dried by a reflow apparatus and an application of the material is executed by a rotation of a screen mask supported to a mask support body in a cylindrically wound state in correspondence to a moving speed of the film-like body, a slidable contact of the squeegee of the squeegee apparatus installed in an inner portion of the screen mask with an inner surface of the screen mask, and a downward extrusion of the material.

Abstract: A stencil printer of the present invention perforates, or cuts, a thermosensitive stencil with a thermal head to thereby make a master. The stencil printer includes a stencil distinguishing device for automatically identifying the kind of the stencil or a master setting device for allowing the operator of the printer to set the kind of the stencil. An adjusting device selects, among master making conditions experimentally determined beforehand, a master making condition matching with information output from the stencil distinguishing device or the stencil setting device. The operator can easily change the master making condition in accordance with the kind of a stencil to use.

Abstract: Printing machine with a machine frame (10) and at least two cylinders (16, 20) which cooperate during printing, and which are mounted in a framing (12, 14; 24) formed by the machine frame (10). The framing (12, 14; 24) includes a material which has, at least in a direction transverse to the axes of rotation on the cylinders (16, 20), a linear thermal expansion coefficient that is less than 2×10?6 K-1. The material can be a composite material, particularly a carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

Abstract: Printing machine having at least one impression cylinder (16), characterised in that the impression cylinder (16) has a cylinder body (44) made of a material which, in circumferential direction of the impression cylinder (16) has a linear thermal expansion coefficient of less than 2×10?6 K?1. The material may be a composite material, for example, a material containing carbon fibers, in particular a synthetic resin reinforced with carbon fibers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for dividing a color image in at least three, preferably four separation colors. The inventive system allows to enter the separation colors in a free and location dependent manner. Further for each separation color a location dependent boundary value can be specified. Corresponding separation values are deduced therefrom. In addition, variations of the generated image relatively to the color image are calculated. This allows to perform a color separation into arbitrary colors, which is particularly useful in the field of security printing.

Abstract: A method of inspecting a workpiece during a production run in which workpieces are supplied to workstations by an autoloader. In accordance with the method, the supply of the workpieces by the autoloader is performed in accordance with a supply control routine. When it is desired to inspect a workpiece in a workstation, the supply control routine is interrupted after its then current cycle and the autoloader is used to move the workpiece to a quality control station. The supply of the workpieces in accordance with the supply control routine is then resumed. While the autoloader is operating in accordance with the supply control routine, the workpiece is inspected. If the workpiece is acceptable, the supply control routine is again interrupted after its then current cycle and the autoloader is used to move the workpiece to an output area. The supply of the workpieces in accordance with the supply control routine is then resumed again.

Abstract: A method for presetting motor phase in a web printing press includes providing a mark on a printing form, the mark being a function of a desired preset phase for a motor driving the printing form during printing. The mark is read using a sensor, the sensor having a sensor output. The phase of the motor is preset as a function of the sensor output. A printing form and web printing press are also provided.

Abstract: A mechanism is used for mounting a dressing on a cylinder of a printing press. The mechanism is fitteed with at least one stop which is effective in an axial direction of the cylinder. The stop allows the cylinder dressing to be arranged on the cylinder with pressure in the axial direction. The stop is situated outside of the cylinder.

Abstract: Blasting apparatuses and methods control actuation of a plurality of detonators, and involve the use of one or more authorization keys each associated with a blasting machine. The authorization key(s) are transferable from the blasting machine(s) to a central command station, each authorization key storing a data package comprising a randomly generated access code generated by its corresponding blasting machine. Transfer of the one or more authorization keys to a central command station allows the data packages (and associated randomly generated access codes) to be transmitted by the central command station for receipt by the blasting machine(s).

Abstract: A missile includes a payload assembly that has a pair of nosecones. The nosecones may be optimized for different environments and/or phases of flight, for example, having different shapes, different shell materials, different types of seals, and/or different separation mechanisms. The first (outer) nosecone may have a more streamlined shape, be made of more thermally-protective material, and may meet less stringent sealing requirements, than the second (inner) nosecone. Separation of the outer nosecone from the payload assembly may cause backward movement of a center of pressure of the payload assembly, bringing the center of pressure of the assembly closer to a center of gravity of the assembly. This may make the payload assembly easier to maneuver, for example, reducing or eliminating the need for intervention by an attitude control system, to maintain the payload assembly on a desired course.

Abstract: A soft removable thermal shiled for protecting a heat-sensitive element of a projectile. The shield includes a main body and an attachment arrangement for connecting the main body to the projectile. The main body is designed to cover part of a window of the the projectile, behind which the element is disposed. The main body is desgined also to thermally protect the element during part of the flight of the projectile, and to be soft enough when released from the projectile, so that the main body does not harm the projectile after it is released.

Abstract: Described herein is a round of ammunition for firing from a gun having a rifled barrel, especially a small arms weapon. The round comprises a body core (7) which has a plurality of knurl lines (9) and associated grooves (6) formed over a portion of the body core (7). Jacket material (11) is provided over the body core (7) such that the inner diameter (10) of the jacket material (11) makes contact with the knurl lines (9). During firing of the round, the jacket material (11) deforms into the grooves (6) formed between the knurl lines (9) enabling the rifle engraving to take place with a substantially reduced axial force.

Abstract: A railway car drive system comprising a first railway car 1 mounting a power generation means 10, a power converter 20, a driving motor and a power storage means 50; a second railway car 2 mounting a power converter 20, a driving motor and a power storage means 50; and a power transmission means 40 connecting each said means; wherein said system further comprises a power management means 100 for controlling the generated power of the power generation means 10 and the power storage quantity of the power storage means 50, the power storage means 50 storing the power generated by the power generation means 10 and a regenerative power, the driving motor being driven via the power converter 20 using as power source the power generation means 10 and the power storage means 50 to thereby run the train.

Abstract: This invention comprises wood preservative compositions based on alkaline copper quaternary formulations having reduced corrosivity to metals by addition of a soluble nitrite salt and a dicarboxylic acid and methods for their use in reducing corrosivity of metals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a preparation method of solvent-free water-dispersible hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate nanoparticle, and more particularly, to a preparation method of solvent-free water-dispersible hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate nanoparticle, which is environment-friendly and advantageous in disintegration and dissolution when used as an enteric coating material, which is prepared by obtaining suitable hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate (HPMCP) particle through aqueous emulsification process and regulating content of remaining electrolyte through ion exchange process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dispersible pigment concentrate, in particular for coloring of cement based building materials like concrete, and for coatings, paints and the like, that contains at least one pigment as well as, if necessary, bonding, dispersion and wetting agents, with a content of a disintegration agent, which, when contacting water (in sufficient amount), causes an essentially complete disintegration of the primary structure of the concentrate with subsequent release the pigment particle within one minute without any mechanical operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to wax-based opacifier preparations containing (a) at least one amphoteric surfactant, (b) at least one fatty acid partial glyceride, (c) at least one fatty acid polyglycol ester and optionally (d) a polyol, with the proviso that the ratio by weight of (a) to (b) is between 10:1 and 4:1 and the ratio by weight of (b) to (c) is between 1:1 and 5:1 and the preparations are free from anionic surfactants.

Abstract: A fresh aqueous cement composition suitable for building purposes is described. It contains, besides a hydraulic cement, a methyl ethyl cellulose ether having a DS methyl of 0.4-2.2, a DS ethyl of 0.050.8 and a MS hydroxy-(C2-C3)-alkyl of 0-2. The celulose ether imparts excellent rheology properties, including a high water-retention combined with a long open time, to the cement composition. A dry blend and a rheology additive containing the cellulose ether are also described.

Abstract: In a cold-curing mortar or concrete composition comprising calcareous and siliceous materials as predominant components, 0.3-2.5 wt % based on the calcareous material of a silicone oil having formula (1) is added. R is C3-12 alkyl, R? is C1-4 alkyl, y is such an integer that the number of R is 5-50 mol % of the total number of substituent groups directly attached to silicon atoms in a molecule, z is an integer of 0-5, and 3?x+y+z?30. The set composition is improved in water repellency without incurring a drop of strength.

Abstract: A binder mix containing a hydraulic binding agent and an admixture mixed therewith, a process for preparing a hydraulically hardened binder mass, a calcinated kaolin product and a process for preparing the same. A paste-like composition is formed from the hydraulically hardening binding agent, a pozzolanically reacting admixture and water, which, when so desired, contains stone aggregate or similar filler, the paste-like composition is worked and the worked composition is allowed to harden to form the binder mass. The admixture comprises spherical, porous metakaolin agglomerates, the size of which is 2-200 microns and which have an open pore structure. The invention can be used to improve the manufacturing methods of cast concrete products and shorten the manufacturing times, and to provide concrete with better mechanical and chemical properties, as well as improve the fire and frost resistance of concrete.

Abstract: A recreation deck includes a plurality of inlay foundation boards. Each inlay foundation board has corresponding and alternately disposed fastening assemblies at two adjacent sides thereof, such that a recreation deck is assembled by joining the fastening assemblies. Each inlay foundation board also has a recess at a surface thereof, so as to allow a surface of an assembled to be formed with a recessed recreation plane for arranging platforms of diverse recreation activities. Each inlay foundation board further has various indentations near a periphery of the recess, and apparatus of different recreation activities can be placed in the indentations. The recreation deck according to the invention is a structure provides practicability like occupying minimal space as well as offering simple assembly, easy portage and usage adaptations.

Abstract: A pallet support unit includes a plurality of legs extending outwardly at an angle from a load-bearing upper surface to a floor-contacting lower surface. An opening is defined between each adjacent pair of legs both receiving a forklift. Each leg is formed of multiple angled sections to improve the strength of the leg and resistance to impact from the forklift.

Abstract: A security device for transporting monies from a cash acceptance terminal to a bank or similar safe location includes a note tube and a pair of flexible bags containing dye. Cutters operated by explosive devices when an unauthorised attempt is made to break into the note tube pass down the sides of the bags and rip them open. There is provided spring loaded pressure plates which serve to compress the bags to cause the dye to be ejected effectively into the note tube to stain all the notes therein.

Abstract: A sewing machine comprises: a head portion having a sewing needle driven to vertically reciprocate; a lower shaft having a shuttle connected thereto which is driven to rotate synchronized with the vertical movement of the sewing needle cooperating to form stitches; a table positioned above the lower shaft; a retainer positioned above the table to retain a material for forming stitches thereon; a holding frame placed parallel to the table, the head portion being mounted at a position on the holding frame; and supporting posts adapted to support opposite ends of the holding frame for positioning the holding frame above the table. The sewing machine allows a material to be sewn, which is retained retainer, to be easily mounted or removed.

Abstract: A sectional, self-propelled barge for use in lake, island and waterfront communities for the transportation of equipment and supplies to construction sites, for example, to a site where a septic system is to be installed and methods of use thereof. The barge is operable with a vacuum tank and transportable therewith to a waterfront property for draining a septic system at the waterfront property. A containment box is provided for confining potential leaks from the vacuum tank.

Abstract: A cargo carrying nautical vessel (1) is provided, having a plurality of cargo carrying hulls (2a, 2b) connected by at least two connecting structures (3, 4), each connecting structure including legs (5a, 5b, 7a, 7b) of which each is upstanding from a hull and substantially rigidly connected thereto. The connecting structures (3, 4) include flexible sections whereby the hulls (2a, 2b) are to a predetermined extent capable of movement relative to each other. Such movement is provided to reduce the stresses and strains associated with movement in a seaway. Relative movement of the hulls (2a, 2b) is permitted by deflection of the connecting structures (3, 4), a majority of the deflection in each connecting structure occuring remotely from points of connection between said legs (5a, 5b, 7a, 7b) and said hulls. The vessel (1) is intended to be of comparatively low structural weight, draft and cost for its load capacity and particularly well suited to accessing small ports.

Abstract: A multi-hull design suitable for various size boats ranging from racing craft to the large military ships. The apparatus is a polygonal boat hull apparatus having a bow and stern wave penetrating feature. The hull is made from triangular-shaped essentially flat panels which provides for substantially stability and strength. The hull can be made in various configurations ranging from catamarans, triamarans to multiple hull designs in accordance with the projected use of the vessel. The invention includes a drive pod system having a plurality of propulsion units. The invention also provides at least one hydropneumatic cylinder that adjusts the angle of attack of the propulsion unit. The hull may also be rigged as a multi-masted sailing vessel.