Abstract: Semiconductor device manufacturing equipment includes a plurality of process chambers in which one or more fabrication processes takes place, a transfer chamber selectively communicating with the process chambers by means of doors, a vacuum pump and a source of vent gas which are connected to the transfer chamber via vacuum/vent lines to regulate the (vacuum) pressure in the transfer chamber, and a respective diffuser connected to at least one of the vacuum/vent lines. The diffuser includes a tube connected in series with the line and having a plurality of radial through-holes, a case including a cylindrical support surrounding the tube as spaced from the tube, and a particulate filter extending along an inner surface of the case. The cylindrical support has a plurality of pores smaller than the holes in the tube. The filter, on the other hand, has a plurality of micro pores smaller than the pores of the support.

Abstract: A microwave plasma generator is provided in which a gas in a vacuum vessel is directly excited by an evanescent wave from a microwave resonator disposed in the vessel without using an ECR system. The microwave plasma generator of the present invention includes a microwave source to generate an excitation microwave, a discharge gas source, a plasma generation vacuum vessel to be supplied with a gas from the discharge gas source, a coaxial waveguide to introduce the excitation microwave into the vessel, and a parallel plate launcher disposed in the vessel. In the parallel plate launcher, a resonant cavity is constructed from a first conductor plate connected to an outer conductor of the coaxial waveguide, a dielectric plate, and a second conductor plate connected to a central conductor of the coaxial waveguide and provided with a plurality of openings to emit evanescent microwaves into the vacuum vessel.

Abstract: A susceptor at least a surface thereof being coated with SiC, includes a recess where an wafer is mounted, the recess having an round portion disposed on a lower portion of an outer circumferential portion of the recess, a ring-shaped SiC crystal growth surface portion provided within the round portion in a range of 0.05 mm or more and 0.3 mm or less defined from an outer circumference vertical portion of the recess and a contact portion, where the susceptor contacts with the wafer on the recess, having a surface roughness Ra in a range of 0.5 ?m or more and 3 ?m or less.

Abstract: A vapor deposition apparatus of the present invention has a substrate holder having a substrate holding surface for holding a substrate thereon, and a flow channel for supplying a source gas onto the substrate. The flow channel has an upper wall and a lower wall. An aperture portion is provided in the lower wall of the flow channel. The substrate holding surface of the substrate holder fits in the aperture portion while forming a space between the substrate holding surface and the aperture portion. A means for reducing leakage of gas through the space between the aperture portion and the substrate holder is provided. With this structure, since a means for reducing leakage of gas through the space between the aperture portion and the substrate holder is provided, the conductance with respect to outflow of gas increases, which in turn reduces variations in the amount of outflow gas. This results in high yield production of nitride semiconductor devices with a long life and high light-emission efficiency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a milking system for animals. In particular, the present invention relates to a milking system implantable within the teat of an animal which provides improved milking rapidity and decreased mastitis incidence.

Abstract: The gravity filling feeder is a vertically positioned pipe shaped material including a feed reservoir and a feeding bowl at the bottom. The feeder is adjustable in size with many size options to choose from. Inside the feeder, a piece of cone shaped material acts as a funnel and regulates the amount of feed being supplied to the feeding bowl. A cap is placed on top of the feeder to protect the feeder from the weather. The feeder has brackets with straps attached to them for the purpose of attachment to a tree or a post.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method, composition and kit for preventing spoilage of feed in a bird feeder by use of a spoilage reducing composition that comprises an effective amount of a moisture absorbing material, an optional support material, and an optional functional additive that are formed into a shaped body that is combined with an bird feeder, bird feed and/or bird seed to effectively absorb water and water vapor thereby reducing spoilage of feed.

Abstract: A combination pet collar and water reservoir adapted to be worn around the neck of an animal, such as a dog, allowing the dog to be easily hydrated during a walk or hike. The water reservoir contains a dispensing device connected to a combination stopper and telescoping cup. Prior to hydration, the stopper is removed from a dispensing device and extends to form a cup. Water is squeezed from the interior of the water reservoir, allowing it to flow through the dispensing device, thereby filling the cup. In this manner, a dog will be allowed to hydrate itself without the necessity of removing the water reservoir from around the dog's neck or body.

Abstract: A hummingbird feeder having a cover portion and a bottom portion of a base, as well as a nectar reservoir, is disclosed. The cover portion includes a reservoir coupling region, a feeding region, and a first mating region. The reservoir coupling region is configured to be coupled to the nectar reservoir. The feeding region is configured to accommodate a beak of a hummingbird to access nectar. The a bottom portion includes a second mating region, which is configured to mate with the first mating region of the cover portion. Preferably, the bottom portion further includes a retaining wall located within an outer ridge of the bottom portion. The retaining wall retains liquid within an inner region of the bottom portion and restricts liquid from flowing to an outer region of the bottom portion, providing easier maintenance and less mechanical force on the cover portion during feeder use. The reservoir optionally contains a wide opening for easy maintenance.

Abstract: A litter sifter, litter sifter system and method for using. A litter sifter includes a lower portion having a through-holes. An upper portion is connected to the lower portion. Handles are connected to the upper portion. A distance between any two through-holes is equal to a distance between any other two through-holes.

Abstract: A method of culturing aquatic animals utilizes a habitat including at least one habitat unit, each habitat unit being constructed of a plurality of concentric tubes with a fixed radial spacing. The habitat is immersed in an aquatic environment containing larvae of aquatic animals to be raised so that the larvae settle on the habitat, the aquatic animals are fed until the animals grow to a desired size, and the cultured animals are then harvested.

Abstract: The Aquarium Backup Life Support System provides a method of delivering air and circulation to an aquatic environment that does not rely on pumps, batteries or chemicals. The system utilizes a source of compressed air that is delivered into the aquarium or container transporting live aquatic animals in the form of automatic bursts of air that deliver oxygen, circulate the water and provide gas exchange to aid in the elimination of carbon dioxide. The duration, volume and timing of the automatic bursts of air can be preset or controlled. This automatic delivery of air enables an interchangeable tank of compressed air to provide long-lasting life support to an aquatic environment. The automatic delivery of the bursts of air may be initiated by a solenoid valve that senses a loss of power to the aquarium system.

Abstract: A bird housing module is used to form a housing complex in a system for creating a habitat for nesting birds. The module includes a housing shell with an open front and an open-topped nest drawer that slideably fits into the shell. The nest drawer has a front drawer panel with an entryway for nesting birds. Ventilation openings and drain openings may be employed, and a predator guard panel may also be disposed in the nest drawer. A plurality of such modules may be connected to and extend radially from a carriage to form the housing complex. The system then includes a pole assembly having a pole and having a pulley and a cord for raising and lowering the carriage and housing complex on the pole. A plurality of housing complexes may be stacked for increasing the number of housing modules available for nesting.

Abstract: A feed dish for use in combination with a cage. The feed dish has at least one or a plurality of protrusions or elongated members that are capable of receiving a sliding member in adjustable positions so that the feed dish can be mounted on cages comprising on cage walls having different widths, thickness or sizes.

Abstract: An enclosure with floor panel entrance 100 including a floor panel 118 attached with the lower portion of said enclosure 100; a means to raise said floor panel 118 off the ground to a height that enables a pet to maneuver beneath said floor panel 118; and an aperture 124 disposed in said floor panel 118 by which the pet may access said enclosure 100.

Abstract: A portable gate assembly for use in combination with a corral or holding pen to capture wild or renegade cows is disclosed. The portable gate assembly includes a frame defining a frame opening extending therethrough, the frame opening being sized such that the cow sought to be captured can pass therethrough. A gate is pivotally connected to the frame such that the gate is selectively movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the gate is positioned in at least a portion of the frame opening such that the lower end of the gate is disposed a distance above the ground to permit at least a portion of the cows head to the position thereunder, in the second position the gate being moved inwardly and upwardly into the corral or holding pen and over the back of the cow when the cow moves through the frame opening and into the corral or holding pen.

Abstract: A coupling structure of a lead to a pet accessory is provided. In this structure, an arc-shaped guide bar is provided in a pet accessory such as a harness, which is put on one of the periphery of the body and the periphery of the neck of a pet. The guide bar extends above the periphery of one of the body, the neck, and the border between the body and the neck of the pet. A ring to which a hook at an end of a lead is coupled is slidably attached to the guide bar. Thus, when the lead is horizontally pulled, it is possible to reduce rotation moment functioning so as to try to topple the pet sideways, or reduce force functioning so as to rotate the pet accessory, and hence it is possible to provide the pet accessory tender to the pet.

Abstract: A blower for a water heater having a flue defining a flue axis. The blower includes a housing at least partially defining a first chamber and a second chamber and having an inlet opening into the first chamber and an outlet communicating between the second chamber and atmosphere, the inlet being alignable with the flue, a ramp extending through the second chamber and having a surface, the surface being oriented at an acute angle with respect to the flue axis, and an impeller positioned in the second chamber and being operable to draw exhaust from the flue into the first chamber through the inlet and being operable to direct the exhaust through the second chamber and across the surface of the ramp, the surface of the ramp directing the exhaust through the outlet in a direction substantially parallel to the flue axis.

Abstract: A Nuclear Steam Supply Stem (NSSS) Mode 5 Steam Generator Chemical Cleaning system is disclosed which applies chemical cleaning solvent (formulated to remove SG deposits) to the secondary side of the SG using primary side supplied heat during NSS Mode 5 shutdown to maintain the desired application temperature. Mixing is achieved via nitrogen sparging.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides a steam generation apparatus that is liquid fuel fired and addresses conversion of gaseous fuel SIB units to operate with liquid fuel. The invention also relates to a conversion unit for a steam injection boiler, a method for converting a steam injection boiler from gas firing to possible liquid fuel firing and a method for generating steam from a liquid fuel source. The invention employs a fired heater for heating the liquid fuel to a temperature suitable for firing and preheats the water to compensate for the shortfall in beat liberation when a gas boiler is converted to use liquid fuel. In another aspect of the invention, production of steam is achievable consistently by employing step-up heaters with a steam injection boiler. The heaters being connected in parallel to continue heating the water/steam to achieve a higher quality steam over that produced in the boiler while minimizing consideration as to the adverse effects of coil fouling in the boiler.

Abstract: A hydrogen fuel system for an internal combustion engine includes an electrolyzer for generating hydrogen and oxygen gases. The engine exhaust may be recycled through the electrolyer where it is converted to hydrogen and oxygen. A water reservoir in fluid communication with the electrolyzer maintains the water level in the elctrolyzer. The hydrogen and oxygen generated by the electrolyzer may be routed to the internal combustion engine and provide the fuel for the engine. Hydrogen and oxygen not consumed by operation of the engine is stored in separate pressurized storage tanks. Expanders lower the pressure of pressurized hydrogen and oxygen for use to power the engine and provide electric power to the electrolyzer.

Abstract: An engine cooling structure for a water cooled engine includes water pump and a thermostat. The water pump pumps coolant to a water jacket of the engine. The water pump and thermostat are provided on a cover member installed on an outside of a crankcase of the engine, and a coolant passage, which communicates with the water jacket through the water pump from the thermostat, is integrally formed in the cover member, so as to obtain arrangement of the cooling structure that is efficient in terms of space. The engine cooling structure increases the degree of freedom of layout around a cylinder head by keeping the projection amount on a side of the cylinder head small, simplifies the piping construction, and reduces the number of assembly steps.

Abstract: A portable engine generator, has a box-shaped case defining an internal space for holding an engine and an electric generator to be driven by the engine. The case is provided with carrying handles. The portable engine generator is provided with a cooling air passage through which fresh air as cooling air flows into the internal space while the engine is in operation. An inward depressed part is formed in a front cover of the case on the side of the internal space with respect to the carrying handles The carrying handles and the inward depressed part define the cooling air passage. The cooling air passage serves as a hand space into which human hand is inserted to grip the carrying handles.

Abstract: An oil supply device for an engine includes a first oil suction passage, a second oil suction passage, a first pump for sucking and discharging oil from the first oil suction passage, a second pump arranged in series with the first pump, the second pump for sucking and discharging oil from at least one of the first pump and the second oil suction passage, a check valve for blocking oil circulation, a first oil passage, a second oil passage, a third oil passage for establishing communication between the first oil passage and the second oil passage, and a supply volume control device for varying oil supply volume to a lubrication system portion, to a cooling system portion, or to the lubrication system portion and the cooling system portion in accordance with a change in at least one of an engine oil temperature, an engine rotation speed, and an engine load.

Abstract: A cylinder head cooling structure and an oil temperature control system are provided for an internal combustion engine having a plurality of cylinders, each having a plurality of intake ports and a plurality of exhaust ports. The engine includes cooling oil jackets surrounding the spark plugs in the cylinder head, a thermostat attached to the front surface of the crankcase independently of an oil filter, and an oil temperature sensor disposed on a rear face of the cylinder block above the crankcase in an oil supply path formed on the cylinder rear face for supplying oil to the oil jackets. Oil passages conducting oil into the oil jacket are provided between two separate parts of a bifucated intake port and between two separate parts of a bifurcated exhaust port, and only cooling system oil reaching high temperatures is allowed to flow through the thermostat, thereby improving temperature control response.

Abstract: A combustion-engined setting tool (10) for driving in fastening elements such as bolts, nails, and the like in a constructional components includes an inlet/outlet valve arrangement (20) that connects the combustion chamber (13) of the setting tool (10), which is filled with an air-fuel mixture, with at least two tool openings (33, 34), has an inlet (21) connectable with a first tool opening (33) and an outlet (22) connectable with the second tool opening (34).

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention comprises a polymer matrix pushrod comprising a composite rod having an annular collar affixed over each end portion of the composite rod and an endcap affixed at each end. The composite rod comprises a thermosetting polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers within the polymer matrix.

Abstract: A method of controlling an engine having a valve actuation system is provided. The engine is started. A first parameter indicative of a first temperature of the engine is sensed. A second parameter indicative of a second temperature of the engine is sensed. The valve actuation system is disabled to prevent the implementation of a variation on conventional engine valve actuation timing in response to each of the first and second temperatures being below a predetermined value.

Abstract: A disassembly aid for a sealed assembly is disclosed. The sealed assembly defining a fluid-containing cavity includes a first component cooperating with a second component to define the fluid containing cavity, the first and second components having cooperating sealing surfaces. A mounting opening in the first component includes a threaded jack hole with a clearance hole that is used for assembly while the threaded jack hole is configured for use during disassembly of the first component from the second component with a jack screw. The mounting opening is configured to allow a mechanical fastener to extend therethrough for securing the first component to the second component providing a compression force between the first and second components.

Abstract: In a method of shutting down an internal combustion engine, the shutdown of the internal combustion engine is executed upon initiation of the shut-down procedure starting from a defined operating condition which is selected in such a way that a desired rest position of the crankshaft is achieved from which the engine can be rapidly restarted.

Abstract: A manual pull-cord start system of a combustion engine has a remote start assist device such as a choke of a carburetor or a compression relief valve that is automatically actuated upon the initial pull of a pull-cord of a recoil starter assembly. The assembly has a releasable coupling which intermittently engages a recoil pulley of the recoil starter assembly about which the cord is wound. Upon the initial pull of the cord, a shuttle of the coupling moves generally with the pulley, to move a linkage connected to actuate the external start assist device. Upon release of the cord, the shuttle and the remote start assist device automatically return to their normal state during engine operation.

Abstract: An intake manifold of an engine has a common pipe disposed downstream of a throttle valve, a plurality of first through fourth branch pipes connected to the common pipe, and a bypass pipe connected between the common pipe and the first through fourth branch pipes. The bypass pipe has a plurality of branches connected respectively to the first through fourth branch pipes. An amount of intake air flowing through the intake manifold is detected by an air flow meter disposed in the bypass pipe.

Abstract: An intake manifold for an internal combustion engine having a number of cylinders; for each cylinder, the intake manifold has a respective intake pipe connecting the intake manifold to the cylinder and regulated by an intake valve; and the intake manifold also has an air vessel having, for each intake pipe, a respective hollow body defining an empty chamber, which communicates with the intake pipe by means of a high-speed compensation valve.

Abstract: A valve stem seal of an internal combustion engine is described wherein the valve stem seal includes an outer peripheral surface and an inner sealing surface. The inner sealing surface minimizes ingress of a liquid upwardly from an intake port area into an overhead engine area by having at least one sealing lip disposed on an upper portion of the inner sealing surface and extending away from the inner sealing surface. The sealing lip includes a generally square lower corner.

Abstract: Combustion devices described herein comprise a compliant combustion chamber wall or segment. The compliant segment deforms during combustion in the combustion chamber. Some devices may include a compliant wall configured to stretch responsive to pressure generated by combustion of a fuel in the combustion chamber. A coupling portion translates deformation of the compliant segment or wall into mechanical output. One or more ports are configured to inlet an oxygen source and fuel into the combustion chamber and to outlet exhaust gases from the combustion chamber.

Abstract: The use of an oil cooler in an internal combustion engine for a personal watercraft is controlled, whereby excessive cooling of the engine during warmup with cold water operation is avoided, and dilution of oil is substantially prevented. The internal combustion engine includes a bypass oil path connecting respective oil paths upstream and downstream of the oil cooler. The bypass oil path permits oil to be selectively detoured around the oil cooler. An oil thermostat is provided in the upstream oil path for selectively opening either a path to the oil cooler or the bypass oil path, and the oil thermostat is operable to switch the flow of oil therebetween. The oil thermostat opens the bypass oil path when the temperature of the oil is below a predetermined temperature, and directs oil to the oil cooler when the temperature of the oil is equal to or exceeds a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine for a personal watercraft in which cooling water in an oil cooler housing is naturally discharged when the personal watercraft is pulled up on land. An oil cooler is disposed within an oil cooler housing on an upper front side of the engine. The oil cooler housing enables cooling water taken from the cooling water intake port at the positive pressure side of the jet propulsion pump to flow about the oil cooler thereby cooling lubricating oil. A water pipe connects the pump to a cooling water inflow opening at a lower end of the oil cooler housing. Cooling water discharged from an upper end of the cooler housing is directed to the engine. The oil cooler housing resides above the water pipe and the crankshaft of the engine, and the pump intake lies below the crankshaft permitting free discharge of cooling water therefrom.

Abstract: An air cleaner device for a vehicle is provided with an air cleaner body containing an air cleaner element and a snorkel connected to the air cleaner body to introduce the outside air into the air cleaner body. The snorkel extends forward of the vehicle past a side of a cylinder portion which projects upward from an engine, and a front end of the snorkel opens between right and left seats of the vehicle. With this configuration, even if the air cleaner body of the air cleaner device should be flooded, it is difficult for water to enter into the interior. Further, it is difficult for the air cleaner body to be influenced by heat, and difficult for dust to get into the air cleaner body.

Abstract: In an engine comprising a compression unit, an expansion unit and a connecting structure disposed between the compression and expansion units and also means for supplying energy to the engine, wherein the connecting structure includes an air inlet area for receiving compressed air from the compression unit and an air outlet area for appropriating gas to the expansion unit, the connecting structure includes a gas volume which is delimited by the compression unit in the air inlet area and by the gas expansion unit in the air outlet area and the gas in the expansion unit is expanded to a pressure corresponding essentially to the pressure of the ambient air.

Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary engine which can improve sealing performance between a cylinder chamber and a rotor, achieve an enhancement in the efficiency of fuel combustion and engine output, prevent waste of fuel and air pollution due to the discharge of uncombusted gas, and achieve a further enhancement in the efficiency of fuel combustion and engine output by supercharging the uncombusted gas into the cylinder chamber in which an intake stroke is implemented. The rotary engine comprises a cylinder body having the cylinder chamber, an intake port, an exhaust port, and a spark plug, and a rotor which is received in the cylinder chamber to eccentrically rotate while coming into contact at seal faces thereof with an inner circumferential contact wall of the cylinder chamber to thereby implement intake, compression, expansion, and exhaust strokes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method defining particular exceptional situations in the operation of an HCCI internal combustion engine, whereby an HCCI operation is either suppressed or enforced.

Abstract: In control method and apparatus for a direct injection spark ignited internal combustion engine, the internal combustion engine comprising a fuel injection valve configured to perform an injection of fuel through an engine cylinder and a spark plug, a super retard combustion comprising: an ignition through the spark plug at a timing after a compression top dead center; and at least once fuel injection in which the injection of fuel is started at a timing after the compression top dead center and before the ignition, during a cold start of the engine, is executed, and an execution of the super retard combustion is inhibited for a predetermined interval of time immediately after the cold start of the engine.

Abstract: A method and system for operating an engine wherein ignition of the engine is activated according to a predetermined timing schedule that references engine speed, and the ignition is suppressed above a predetermined engine speed threshold to allow engine speed to fall below the predetermined engine speed threshold. Thereafter, ignition is reactivated according to timing that is retarded relative to the predetermined timing schedule for a predetermined number of engine revolutions substantially when the engine speed has fallen below the predetermined engine speed threshold, thereby mitigating undesirable spikes in combustion chamber maximum pressure.

Abstract: In an intake system for an engine incorporated with a resonance chamber (32), a variable communication unit (50) for controlling the communication between an intake passage with the resonance chamber comprises an outer tube (51) having an open axial end (51a) and an opening (51b) defined in a circumferential wall thereof for communication with the resonance chamber and an inner tube (52) rotatably and coaxially received in the outer tube, the inner tube being provided with a communication inlet port (52a) at an axial end on a same side as the axial end of the outer tube and an opening (52b) in a circumferential wall thereof for defining a communication outlet port (50a) jointly with the opening in the outer circumferential wall of the outer tube.

Abstract: The invention inhibits a blown-back fuel from flowing into an air screw passage and a starter passage, and a stable engine idling operation is obtained.

Abstract: A performance control system is provided that is adapted to regulate the output of an engine while maintaining stable combustion whereby the perceived operational feel and exhaust efficiency is improved. The performance control system includes an accelerator position sensor for detecting the position of an accelerator by a driver, an electronically controlled throttle adjuster for adjusting the opening of a throttle valve mounted in the intake pipe of an engine with a motor, and a control unit for controlling the throttle adjuster based on the output of the accelerator position sensor. When the engine output, characterized by engine speed or vehicle speed, reaches a predetermined value, the opening of the throttle valve is reduced from the standard opening of the throttle valve, based on the position of the accelerator.

Abstract: A fuel injection apparatus for use in an internal combustion engine includes a fuel injector having a valve member which is operable to control injection of fuel through an injector outlet, a first supply path having a first path length for delivering fuel to an injector control chamber, a second supply path having a second path length for delivering fuel to an injector delivery chamber and a control valve for controlling fuel pressure within the injector control chamber so as to control movement of the valve member. An actuation means is arranged to vary at least one of the first and second path lengths in response to one or more injection parameters. Varying the first and/or second path length enables resonant pressure pulses within the control chamber and/or delivery chamber to be optimised so as to minimise the pressure differential across the valve needle at the instant of closure of the control valve to terminate injection, thus reducing needle closure response.

Abstract: A control valve is constructed as a two-position three-way valve. A switching port of the control valve and a control chamber of a pressure intensifier are connected to the control valve through a reciprocation passage. Fuel pressure in the control chamber is controlled by the control valve. The reciprocation passage is formed of two fuel passages for connecting the switching port of the control valve with the control chamber in parallel. One fuel passage is provided with a check valve for preventing fuel from flowing from the control chamber to the control valve and the other fuel passage is provided with a hydraulic valve for preventing the fuel from flowing from the control valve to the control chamber and a restrictor.

Abstract: A pressure-reduction valve that returns fuel in a common rail to a low-pressure system is such one that a valve-opening pressure of the valve device is changed by an actuator into a target common rail pressure. Thus, when the actual common rail pressure in the common rail exceeds the target common rail pressure, the pressure-reduction valve opens at once. On the contrary, when the actual common rail pressure in the common rail decreases to reach the target common rail pressure, the pressure-reduction valve closes at once. Accordingly, the pressure-reduction valve limits an overshoot and an undershoot of the actual common rail pressure to a minimum without being influenced by a fuel temperature or by detection timings of the common rail pressure sensor.

Abstract: A high-pressure fuel supply system is suitable for an internal combustion engine having an in-cylinder injector for injecting a fuel into a cylinder. The high-pressure fuel supply system includes a high-pressure fuel pump driven by an engine, a high-pressure delivery pipe supplying the fuel from the high-pressure fuel pump to the in-cylinder injector, and an actuation valve provided with a leakage function provided between the high-pressure fuel pump and the high-pressure delivery pipe. An amount of leakage in the actuation valve provided with the leakage function is set to an amount not smaller than a discharge amount of the high-pressure fuel pump.