Abstract: A modular storage system having a plurality of carts, each cart having a base, end panels, and sides, the end panels and platform defining a storage space accessible through the sides. The carts further include wheel assemblies and a track follower mechanism. The modular storage system further includes a track positioned on the floor, the track follower being engageable with the track. The end panels have a plurality of apertures to allow air movement in the storage space allowing contents positioned in the storage space to dry when the plurality of carts are in the abutting side-by-side position.

Abstract: A manufacture called “earthquake protector” to shield a building structure against destructive earthquakes as well as to secure its stability under strong winds, comprising two ring-shaped segmented slide tracks containing plurality of freely revolving rollers made of hard material, said rollers in each track stretched parallel to one another, said tracks positioned above each other with their axes of rotational sliding being set horizontal and mutually orthogonal, said tracks comprising three properly configured race pads, namely: a lower pad resting on the building footing, an intermediate pad, and an upper pad supporting the building superstructure; top surface of the lower pad and bottom surface of the intermediate pad encompassing a lower track; top surface of the intermediate pad and bottom surface of the top pad encompassing an upper track; said pads being able to slide mutually along their tracks; a column stub underpinning and framed into the building superstructure, said column stab having its lower

Abstract: Elevated bulk storage structures are used to contain materials for various applications. This invention relates to a composite elevated bulk storage system where the form for the concrete pedestal remains as an integral part of the system to be the finished surface of the pedestal.

Abstract: A flat wall panel at least substantially made of cellulose material, a special feature being the fact that the wall panel is at least substantially made of layers of paper/cardboard, each layer at least substantially being made up of a corrugated sublayer and a flat sublayer provided on one side thereof, which layers of paper/cardboard are interconnected via an adhesive applied to the corrugations of the corrugated sublayers, wherein the wall panel is impregnated, in particular with a resinous material, and wherein at least one strengthening layer which is stiffer (i.e. less deformable) than the layers of paper/cardboard is provided, which strengthening layer is connected to a layer of paper/cardboard on one side of the wall panel via an adhesive.

Abstract: The invention is a joint cover assembly for covering a gap adjacent an edge of a panel that covers a sub-surface, and a method of covering such a gap. The assembly includes a molding having a foot, a first arm, and a second arm. The foot is positioned along a longitudinal axis, and the first arm extends generally perpendicularly from the foot. The second arm extends generally perpendicularly from the foot. A tab depends generally perpendicularly from the first panel engaging surface. At least one of the tab and the foot engage the edge in order to tightly fit within the gap. The method includes the steps of placing the foot in the gap, pressing the respective panel engaging surfaces into contact with respective panels, and configuring at least one of the tab and the foot to cooperate to retain the molding in the gap when the assembly is in an installed condition.

Abstract: A method for positioning a vapor retarder within an insulation system to reduce condensation within the insulation system is provided. The incremental change in temperature per R-value of insulation is calculated by determining the temperature differential between the exterior temperature and the interior temperature and dividing this temperature differential by the R-value of insulation. Various possible temperatures for the vapor retarder within the insulation may be determined using the incremental change in temperature. The R-values of the insulation layers on either side of the vapor retarder may be determined by a condensation potential analysis. Preferably, the vapor retarder is positioned within the insulation system at a location where its temperature remains above the interior dew point temperature in the summer and above the exterior dew point temperature in the winter. An insulation system including a variably positioned vapor retarder is also provided.

Abstract: An anchor device having a primary central element made from a tube or rod and one or several holding arm(s), pointing in the direction of insertion, which is fixed to the primary element through a transversal revolving connection and a wire connecting the outer part of the holding arms counting from its revolving connection and the second extremity of the wire connected directly or indirectly to the primary central element. When introduced into the ground the holding element is held in a folded position against the central element. When the anchor device has been introduced to a chosen depth into the ground the holding element is released and forced to turn outwards by its shape and the torque exerted on the holding element in relation to its revolving connection during insertion. The turning force is improved by the shape of the arm or by pushing it outwards by a built in part in the device or a separate tool.

Abstract: In a method of reinforcing an existing concrete electric pole having an annular side wall, an inner hollow portion provided therein and an opening portion formed to a position of the annular side wall to be penetrated therethrough, at least one of a predetermined amount of mortar, a predetermined amount of sand and a predetermined amount of gravel is injected into the inner hollow portion of the electric pole through the opening portion. A reinforcing member for reinforcing the electric pole is injected into the inner hollow portion of the electric pole through the opening portion.

Abstract: Methods of making slide-zippered reclosable packages are provided. In one embodiment, a pair of opposing film extensions are provided on each package between which a zipper and slider are attached. In another embodiment, sliders are inserted on to zippered packages output from a form-fill-seal machine or the like. In yet another embodiment, during package formation a reclosable zipper is sealed to each package and then a slider is inserted on to the zipper. In yet another embodiment, during package formation a reclosable zipper is sealed to each package and a slider is inserted on to each zipper, either before or after zipper sealing.

Abstract: A system for providing a shipping label and a packing list on a container is provided which enables rapid and automated sequential application of a packing list and a shipping label to the container. The shipping label is configured complemental to the packing list whereby the packing list may first be adhered directly to the container and then the shipping label may be placed thereover. The shipping label may be applied over the packing list while the container moves continuously down a conveyor. The invention further includes an apparatus for sequentially applying the packing list and then the shipping label, and a method for applying the packing list and shipping label in registry.

Abstract: Selectively reconfigurable shrink-wrap machine (30) for use with a loading device (34) for individually wrapping products (58) sequentially with shrink-wrap material (92) as delivered in sequence to the machine. It includes a sensor (62) sensing product position on the loading device. Shrink-wrap material is delivered from a roll at a wrapping station (40). A first conveyor (42) carries wrapped products between the wrapping station and a film sealing and cutting apparatus (44). First conveyor delivers products sequentially in synchronized velocity with the loading device in response to sensor signals. Film sealing and cutting apparatus has upper and lower heads (156, 164), at least one of which is driven into and out of engagement with the other between adjacent wrapped products received by the first conveyor for effecting a sealed cut between them. Heads are each maintained at a fixed angle of orientation. A second conveyor (43) receives wrapped products sequentially from the sealing and cutting apparatus.

Abstract: A process for preparing a water-soluble container which comprises: a) thermoforming a first poly(vinyl alcohol) film having a water content of less than 5 wt % to produce a pocket; b) filling the pocket with a composition; c) placing a second film on top of the filled pocket; and d) scaling the first film and second film together.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for producing laminate materials in packaging a transdermal drug delivery system comprising a rubber modified acrylonitrile methyl acrylate copolymer film, alone or in combination with a polyester film, wherein the active drug incorporated in the transdermal system remains substantially solubilized and stable in the system during storage prior to use. The packaging laminate is preferably translucent to allow visual inspection of its contents, and has sufficient tear resistance to substantially provide child resistant and/or proof properties.

Abstract: A filling and closing system for reusable concentrate containing cartridges having integral closures slidable between open and closed positions. The system includes a sealing station having an axially moving reciprocating member for sliding the integral closure from an open to a closed position.

Abstract: A packaging system includes a cushioning conversion machine for converting stock material into relatively low density cushioning material or dunnage and a packaging system controller. The packaging system controller provides packaging instructions related to a part or parts to be packaged and instructs the cushioning conversion machine to produce the cushioning material. In one aspect of the present invention the packaging system controller provides packaging instructions by retrieving a predetermined set of packaging instructions associated with a particular part. In another aspect of the present invention the packaging system controller provides packaging instructions by determining an optimized packaging methodology using one or more characteristics of the part or parts to be packaged. The packaging system also provides for automated inventory control and productivity monitoring.

Abstract: A beverage bottling plant for filling bottles with a liquid beverage filling material, and a method for the operation of a closing machine and a closing machine for the closing of bottles or similar containers with closures or screw caps by screwing on the closure or cap, with a plurality of closing positions formed on the periphery of a rotor that circulates around a vertical machine axis, to which positions the containers to be closed are transferred at a container inlet and the closed containers are removed at a container outlet, whereby each closing position has a container carrier and a screw shaft that is provided on its lower end with a screw head and is mounted so that it can rotate around an axis, whereby each of these screw shafts can be driven by its own drive motor, whereby above the closing positions a mounting space (13) is formed which rotates together with the main column. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.

Abstract: A carrier apparatus is provided to ship or store products of various sizes and shapes. The carrier apparatus comprises a platform. Grooves are formed on the platform on which a product is placed, and fixing members are placed within the grooves to allow the fixing members to be moved to various positions on a support surface of the platform. Moreover, space is provided between the upper board and lower board of the platform to insert a fork part of a freight handling vehicle. Bumpers are inserted between the upper side of upper board member and the lower surface of the product placed on the support surface. The support surface on the upper side of the board member is formed as a planar surface on which casters, installed to the bottom of the product, are able to roll. Void spaces are formed within the lower part of board member.

Abstract: A system for sealing thermoplastic film includes one or more bag sealing units, each comprising a lower vacuum platen and a vacuum chamber cover adapted for sealing engagement on the platen to form a vacuum chamber. A sealing bar assembly includes a sealing bar designed for constant heated operation and a pair of cooling plates which function as heat sinks. The sealing bar assembly is pneumatically reciprocated between a raised, disengaged position and a lowered position with the sealing bar engaging the neck of a bag for hermetically sealing same. The cooling plates clamp the bag neck against a sealing support assembly. A method of sealing a thermoplastic film bag includes the steps of placing a packaging object in a thermoplastic bag and placing the bag on a cradle with the bag neck extending over a bag support assembly. A. vacuum chamber cover is placed on the platen and evacuated to form a vacuum chamber. A sealing bar assembly melds the thermoplastic to form a sealed area across the bag neck.

Abstract: An improved handgrip and stirrup support device for bareback horse riding. The device comprises a handgrip having opposing arms to which are attached at an angle side members having openings therein. The handgrip is improved by being made generally straight and elongated and by having ridges formed into the handgrip. The handgrip is further improved by having opposing arms to increase the elevation of the handgrip over the side members. The side members are improved by having a greater surface area. The openings in the side members are improved so that a hand can enter the openings to adjust a girth and so that a breastplate can be attached to the device. The improvements enable the device to be used with any horse and increase the security and comfort of the device for both the horse and the rider.

Abstract: A protective sleeve is provided for use with a low-profile boot to provide a resilient layer that prevents penetration of debris accumulated at the interface of the boot with the pastern of the horse, especially at the rear of the hoof. The form of the sleeve is tailored so that it conforms to the natural shape of a typical hoof and pastern without creases or other unnecessary accumulations of material that might provide discomfort to the horse. The lower portion of the sleeve is adapted to wrap around and cover the heel bulb, but not the rest of the hoof, in order to retain the ease with which the boot is put on the hoof of the horse. The lower portion of the sleeve is designed to wrap around the pastern and overlap for fastening with a loop-and-hook strap.

Abstract: Chemical processing apparatuses which incorporate a process vessel, such as a crucible or retort, and which include a gas separation or filtration system. Various embodiments incorporate such features as loose filtration material, semi-rigid filtration material, and structured filtration material. The vessel may comprise material that is a microwave susceptor. Filtration media may be selected so that if it inadvertently mixes with the chemical process or the reaction products of such process, it would not adversely affect the results of the chemical process.

Abstract: A cyclone separator (14) for use in a suction apparatus (4) of a hand-held power tool (2) includes a dirty air inlet (12), a suction ventilator (38) for aspirating, through a suction opening (8) which is connected with the dirty air inlet (12), abrasion particle-carrying suction air, a pure air outlet for letting out purified air, a vortex chamber (16) arranged between the dirty air inlet (12) and the pure air outlet, with the dirty air inlet (12) opening substantially tangentially into the vortex chamber (16) for generating a swirling stream in a direction toward the pure air extraction element (24), a collection chamber (36), and particle outlet having at least two particle outlet openings and connecting the vortex chamber with a collection chamber (36), with the dirty air inlet opening into the vortex chamber between the two particle outlet openings.

Abstract: A cyclone separator provided with a tube with an axial inflow opening and an axial outflow opening, a stationary swirl body arranged in the tube, designed for imparting a spiraling movement to an axially directed gas liquid flow entering the tube in use, while in the case wall of the tube, a slot has been provided for discharging from the inside space of the tube liquid in the gas/liquid flow thrown outwards, while the slot runs in a spiral-shaped path over the case wall of the tube and/or wherein in the case wall of the tube, downstream of the at least one slot, at least one bypass opening is provided, while means are provided for creating, at the location of the at least one bypass opening, a reduced pressure in the tube relative to the pressure prevailing out-side the tube. The invention also provides a liquid collecting box with such cyclone separator and a pressure vessel provided with such liquid collecting boxes.

Abstract: A fluid pleated filter assembly arrangement including a method and structure wherein crests of the pleated medium are sharp and narrow being enhanced by alignment of the fibers with the direction of fluid stream flow with the crests being supported by a preselectively controlled breadth and thickness support strip and adhesive fastening band disposed intermediate opposed side edges of the support strip.

Abstract: A device is provided for monitoring the economic performance of a machine for harvesting an agricultural product, the device having a plurality of sensors mounted on the machine for detecting operational information about the machine. A controller is provided that is connected to the sensors for receiving the operational information to determine settings for the machine that produce maximum economic return. Means are provided for adjusting settings of the machine either by the operator or by an automatic controller based on the determined settings to achieve maximum economic return. A method for adjusting the settings of an agricultural harvesting machine to produce maximum economic return also is provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multilinear fronted machine comprising rotary elements for cutting corn. The inventive machine is intended to cut corn and, simultaneously, to insert said corn into a silo filler. Said machine comprises a reversal box (1), a toothed wheel (2), a clutch (3), a groove (4), four outlet boxes (5), two boxes with one outlet (6), two drums (7), two rotary elements (8), a clutch (9), boxes (10), two grooves (11), cutting elements (12), two lateral guides (13), nine guides (14), an angle piece (15) and corn inlet guides (16).

Abstract: A gas turbine engine comprising a nacelle having an intake, the intake defining a generally annular chamber, an engine accessory and a heat exchanger for cooling a fluid of the accessory. The chamber is closed and the heat exchanger is disposed within the chamber operable to provide heat to prevent ice forming on the intake during engine operation.

Abstract: Methods and systems for processing uncalcined coke are provided. The methods and systems provide for combusting effluent gas from a refinery unit and a stream of uncalcined coke. The refinery unit effluent gas may be the offgas from a rotary kiln calciner. The refinery unit effluent gas and the uncalcined coke stream are combusted in an integrated gas/solids incinerator. Heat released during the combustion of these streams may be used to generate steam or electricity. The methods and systems disclosed provide low cost energy production at calciner effluent gas incinerator locations where uncalcined coke is available.

Abstract: The invention concerns a throttle control device for an aircraft turbine engine. It comprises a control assembly acting on the native command of the turbine engine (MT1-MT3) as a function of a manual input defined by a pilot control element (1). The pilot control element gives a lever angular position signal (CL, 10JS). The control assembly comprises: an automatic device (4) for converting the lever angular position signal into a transformed angular position signal following a selected command law, and an interface (70) for converting the transformed angular position signal into two sinusoidal signals of the resolver type, thus allowing control by the same device of different turbine machines such as turbine machines which have native command by sinusoidal type signals.

Abstract: A fluidic diverter valve includes valve element freely disposed within a valve bore. The valve bore has a cross sectional area that varies. As a result, the clearance between the valve element and an inner surface of the valve bore also varies. This variation in cross sectional area, and thus clearance, is such that a force of sufficient magnitude to move the valve element from a seated position is initially applied to the valve element, but the force on the valve element is reduced once it is moved from the seated position. Thus, the impact force upon attaining another seated position is reduced.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting deterioration of a catalyst in an internal combustion engine initially biases an air/fuel ratio of an air-fuel mixture supplied to the internal combustion engine to a rich amount so that an amount of oxygen stored in the catalyst is substantially zero. Then, the apparatus detects deterioration of the catalyst by alternating the air/fuel ratio lean or rich based on an amount of oxygen given to the catalyst. If the catalyst has deteriorated, a bias amount of the air/fuel ratio is set so that the amount of oxygen stored in the catalyst is substantially saturated. If the catalyst is normal, a bias amount of the air/fuel ratio is set so that the amount of oxygen stored in the catalyst is not saturated.

Abstract: A method for diagnosing a secondary-air system of an internal combustion engine. The secondary-air system introduces secondary air into the exhaust-gas region of the internal combustion engine, the secondary air exothermically reacting together with combustible exhaust-gas components, and a thermoreactor being formed in the reaction region. The method provides for a measure of the secondary air to be ascertained from the thermal behavior in the thermoreactor and evaluated. The measure of the secondary air, which reflects, for example, the volumetric flow rate of the secondary air, the mass flow rate of the secondary air, or the amount or mass of secondary air flowing in a time interval, is compared to at least one threshold value. At least one diagnostic signal is then generated as a function of the comparison result.

Abstract: In an arrangement for reducing exhaust emissions and utilizing the throttling energy of an internal combustion engine, a compressor and a generator are operatively connected to a turbine by which the intake air flow is controlled while transferring the throttling energy recuperated by the turbine to the compressor and the generator and, in the engine start-up phase, the compressor supplies fresh air to an engine air intake duct, the intake air flow volume being controlled by the energy withdrawn from the turbine via the compressor and the generator thus eliminating the need for a throttle valve in the fresh air intake line.

Abstract: A method of operating an emission abatement assembly includes separating the exhaust gas flow entering through the gas inlet port of the fuel-fired burner into a combustion flow which is advanced through the combustion chamber, and a bypass flow which bypasses the combustion chamber. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: Described is a method for controlling a temperature downstream of a catalyst in the exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine including a first control loop in which a first control variable is calculated from a first deviation that is calculated from a first actual value and a first setpoint value and influences an intra-engine heat generation. In the process, the first actual value is determined as a measure of a temperature downstream of the catalyst. The method features a second control loop in which at least one second control variable is calculated from a second deviation that is calculated from a second actual value and a second setpoint value; a temperature upstream of the catalyst being determined as the second actual value. Also described is a controller which controls the sequence of such a method.

Abstract: A pressure detection mechanism for a catalyst of an engine, in which the catalyst includes an upstream NSR catalyst and a downstream DPNR catalyst stored in a catalyst casing, which includes a DPNR front pressure detection pipe connected to a space formed by the NSR catalyst, the DPNR catalyst and the catalyst casing, a DPNR rear pressure detection pipe downstream of the DPNR catalyst connected to a space formed by the DPNR catalyst and the catalyst casing, and a pressure difference transducer connected to the DPNR front pressure detection pipe and the DPNR rear pressure detection pipe.

Abstract: A method of monitoring ash buildup in a particulate filter includes determining particulate accumulation in the filters subsequent to filter regeneration to determine when the filter is in need of servicing to remove ash therefrom. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating an emission abatement assembly to remove soot from the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine includes determining if the engine is operating with predetermined operating conditions and regenerating a particulate filter if the engine is within such conditions. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating an emission abatement assembly includes energizing an electrode assembly of fuel-fired burner for a period of time prior to the introduction of fuel to clean any fouled surfaces of the electrode assembly. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of starting up a fuel-fired burner of an emission abatement assembly includes lowering the fuel rate being supplied to the burner once flame ignition is detected. The fuel rate is maintained at this lower level as the assembly preheats. Once preheated, the fuel level is ramped up to a predetermined operational fuel level. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating a fuel-fired burner of an emission abatement assembly includes monitoring soot loading in a particulate filter as a function of exhaust mass flow. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating an emission abatement assembly includes determining the temperature of the heat generated by a fuel-fired burner during regeneration of a particulate filter and adjusting the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel-fired burner based thereon. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of monitoring engine performance as a function of soot accumulation in a particulate filter includes determining characteristics of soot accumulation in the filter, analyzing the characteristics, and generating an error signal if the characteristics are indicative of predetermined engine performance conditions. An electronic controller configured to monitor soot accumulation in such a manner is also herein disclosed.

Abstract: An emission abatement assembly includes a first particulate filter having a first fuel-fired burner associated therewith and a second particulate filter having a second fuel-fired burner associated therewith. A control unit controls operation of both the first fuel-fired burner and the second fuel-fired burner. A method of operating an emission abatement assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to exhaust system assemblies and, more particularly, to a one piece catalytic converter can with an integral exhaust manifold. Disposed within the catalytic converter can are the catalytic conversion components. Coupled to the one piece converter can and integral exhaust manifold is a second end cone to provide a substantially air tight seal to the assembly.

Abstract: A plurality of individual shape memory alloy (SMA) wires are formed into a SMA bundle to increase force output therefrom. The SMA bundle has a parent shape and a deformed shape. The SMA bundle in the deformed shape resumes its parent shape once the SMA bundle is heated to generate increased force output. The SMA wires can be configured into strands, ropes, arrays or other shapes. The SMA material is also used in a variety of actuators for generating substantially continuous motion.

Abstract: A hydraulic oil well pumping installation includes a down hole pump positioned down a well, the down hole pump including a master cylinder and at least one slave cylinder in axial alignment with the master cylinder. A master piston is positioned in the master cylinder and divides the master cylinder into a first portion and a second portion. A slave piston is positioned in the at least one slave cylinder and divides the slave cylinder into a first portion and a second portion. The slave piston is connected by a rigid linkage to the master piston, such that movement of the master piston results in movement of the slave piston.

Abstract: This patent describes a method for power generation combining a solar concentrator and a pneumatic power tube system. Solar energy is concentrated to solar thermal receivers by a plurality of heliostat mirrors placed along the embankment of an open pit mine. The air in the pneumatic tubes is heated by direct and/or waste heat energy recovered from a solar power system and/or from a variety of sources. The invention is novel in its integration of a solar powered heat engine and a modular design, pneumatic power tube wherein a means of structural support for the tube(s) can be provided by the geophysical surroundings. The novel design features of the power tube pit include: its use of state-of-the art wind turbine power recovery, solar reflective surfaces for solar energy collection, heat pipe arrays for ground source heat recovery and air diffuser subsystems for enhanced wind turbine efficiency.

Abstract: A thermal storage unit having at least one annular flow channel formed between an inner and outer member is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional mill products to create annular flow channels that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass included in the inner and outer members. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the annular channel.

Abstract: A steam power plant (100) implementing an improved Rankine cycle (55) wherein steam is injected (82, 96) directly into the energy addition portion of the plant, and the resulting two-phase flow is pressurized by multiphase pumps (88, 98). By relying more heavily on pump pressurization than on a temperature difference for energy injection, plant efficiency is improved over prior art designs since energy injection by pump pressurization results in less irreversibility than energy injection by temperature difference. Direct steam injection and multiphase pumping may be used to bypass the condenser (20), to replace any one or all of the feedwater heaters (24, 32, 34), and/or to provide additional high-pressure energy addition.