Patents Issued in February 1, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070022808
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a sensor device includes a step of forming a sensor chip including a sensing element and a wiring portion connected to the sensing element on a substrate, a step of connecting the wiring portion to a lead, and a step of molding a member for covering a connecting portion between the wiring portion and the lead by injecting a molding material in a mold, while the sensing element is exposed. In the molding step, a buffering member is disposed between an area to be covered with the molded member and the sensing element. Furthermore, in the molding step, the buffering member is deformed by a pressure from the mold, and the molding material is injected in the deformed state of the buffering member so as to form the molded member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masaaki Tanaka, Tsutomu Onoue
  • Publication number: 20070022809
    Abstract: To provide a torque detecting device having a sufficient mechanical strength, capable of accomplishing an accurate torque measurement, having a processability excellent for mass-production, and effective to eliminate problems associated with damages which would be brought about during a heat treatment. This torque detecting device includes a target area subject to torque detection (3) provided in a surface region of a torque transmitting shaft (2) made of a steel material; a detecting coil (4) provided in a non-contact fashion in face-to-face relation to an outer periphery of the target area subject to torque detection (3); and a detection signal processing circuit (5). The target area subject to torque detection (3) is a layer of magnetostrictive material comprised of an Al diffusion layer. This diffusion layer contains Al diffused in a steel material in a concentration which gradually decreases from the surface in a direction radially inwardly of the torque transmitting shaft (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Yoshida, Takashi Koike, Kenichi Iwamoto
  • Publication number: 20070022810
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring device for measuring contents, such as liquids and granulated solids, having a usable volume for measuring. The adjustable measuring device includes a housing, a platform having a lower position and an upper position, and an adjusting system for moving the platform between the lower position and the upper position. When the platform is in the lower position, the usable volume is maximized. When the platform is in the upper position, the usable volume is minimized. The adjusting system comprises a restraint system adapted to maintain the platform between the lower position and the upper position. Also, the adjusting system comprises a discrete locking system adapted to temporarily lock the platform into a plurality of predetermined positions, which represent discrete usable volumes. By applying a first adjusting force, the platform moves toward the upper position. By applying a second adjusting force, the platform moves toward the lower position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: Lifetime Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Price, Jeremy Brotchner
  • Publication number: 20070022811
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an accelerometer mechanism having a proof mass that is suspended for out-of-plane motion between first and second damping plates, wherein at least one of the first and second damping plates is movable between first and second positions relative to the proof mass under the control of a position control structure that is coupled to the movable damping plate for positioning the damping plate in the second position relative to the proof mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Becka
  • Publication number: 20070022812
    Abstract: The inertial sensor comprises a piezoelectric plate having a vibrator member defined therein that carries excitation electrodes connected to an excitation circuit comprising conductor tracks carried by the piezoelectric plate, the excitation circuit including a disturbing circuit portion in which two conductor tracks extend on either side of a midplane and present a width less than 50 ?m, and preferably equal to 10 ?m, and are spaced apart by a distance of less than 100 ?m, and preferably equal to 40 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: SAGEM DEFENSE SECURITE
    Inventors: Raphael Brisson, Paul Featonby
  • Publication number: 20070022813
    Abstract: There is provided an acceleration sensor that is capable of detecting acceleration with high precision and capable of reducing the size and cost due to its simple structure. The acceleration sensor comprises: a pair of cantilevers arranged on a same straight line or almost in parallel in such a manner that positions of fixed ends and free ends are arranged to face in opposite directions from each other, and each of the free ends has a degree of freedom to deflect along a same direction; a pair of magnetic field generating devices mounted respectively to each of the free ends for generating magnetic fields; and a pair of magnetic field detecting devices arranged to face each of the magnetic field generating devices, respectively, for detecting directions of the magnetic fields generated by each of the magnetic field generating devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: SAE MAGNETICS (H.K.) LTD.
    Inventor: Tamon KASAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20070022814
    Abstract: A disclosed semiconductor sensor includes a proof-mass, a frame disposed around the proof-mass and including at least a silicon layer, a beam for supporting the proof-mass, the beam being disposed at a first surface side of the frame between the proof-mass and the frame, a piezoresistor disposed on the beam, a metal wiring pattern and a pad electrode formed on the first surface of the frame and electrically connected to the piezoresistor, a cover plate disposed above and spaced apart from the proof-mass and the beam at the first surface side of the frame and fixed to a cover plate fixing area disposed on the first surface of the frame, and a projection disposed on the proof-mass at the first surface side to prevent the proof-mass from sticking to the cover plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Masami Seto
  • Publication number: 20070022815
    Abstract: A method of inspecting a substrate is provided comprising applying ultrasonic waves to a substrate, receiving echo pulse signals transmitted through the substrate, and analyzing received echo pulse signals to detect defects in the substrate. Thus, defects in the substrate may be detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kwang-Soo KIM, Chung-Sam JUN
  • Publication number: 20070022816
    Abstract: A pressure indicating apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus indicates pressure change in a device, the apparatus comprises: a pointer, optical sensing means, a planar element and indicating means. The pointer moves in response to the change in pressure, which in turn moves the planar element. Light from the optical sensing means is incident on the planar element. The planar element varies the incident light, which is picked up by a conversion means. The conversion means converts light energy to electrical energy that is used to illuminate LED from an array of LED's or activates any one LCD component from the array LCD's in the display provided in the indicating means to indicate pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Anand Jain
  • Publication number: 20070022817
    Abstract: The ultra-precision micro-differential pressure measuring device comprises a device body 1 having an inner space part therein, a pressure receiving plate 3 which is installed inside the inner space of the device body 1 and divides the said inner space hermetically into a lower space 7 and an upper part space 8, an electronic weighing and pressure converting device 2 which is installed in the lower space 7, and supports and secures the pressure receiving plate 3, and a liquid sealing part R which liquid-seals the outer peripheral part of the afore-mentioned pressure receiving plate 3 and maintains the air-tightness between the lower space 7 and the upper space 8. A micro-differential pressure between a pressure P1 inside the upper space 8 and a pressure P2 inside the lower space 7 is measured by the electronic weighing and pressure converting device 2 through the pressure receiving plate 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicants: FUJIKIN INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Kotohiko SEKOGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20070022818
    Abstract: An object detecting apparatus includes a piezoelectric sensor provided at an edge portion of an opening/closing body for emitting an output voltage which changes corresponding to an external force applied to the edge portion and a detection circuit for receiving the output voltage of the piezoelectric sensor and for judging an entrapment. The detection circuit includes a voltage-measuring circuit for measuring the output voltage of the piezoelectric sensor, a time-measuring circuit for measuring time, and a judging circuit configured to judge the entrapment. The judging circuit judges the entrapment corresponding to the output voltage of the piezoelectric sensor. The judging circuit calculates a changing value of the output voltage after the output voltage of the piezoelectric sensor reaches a predetermined first level. The judging circuit judges that the entrapment has not occurred in a situation where the changing value of the output voltage is larger than a predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Takehiko Sugiura, Masayoshi Takeuchi
  • Publication number: 20070022819
    Abstract: An object detecting apparatus includes: a piezoelectric sensor including a first electrode, a piezoelectric material surrounding the first electrode, and a second electrode surrounding the piezoelectric material and provided at an outer edge portion at a side of an opening of a door for a vehicle having a door panel; a signal processing circuit measuring a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode; and a connecting line connecting the first electrode and the second electrode to the signal processing circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Masayoshi Takeuchi, Takehiko Sugiura, Nobuhiro Yamauchi
  • Publication number: 20070022820
    Abstract: A substrate detection system is disclosed to include a conveyer that delivers the substrates, a sensor that detects the length of each substrate being delivered by the conveyer over the top side of the sensor, and a processor that compares the detection length value of each substrate detected by the sensor with a predetermined length value stored therein so as to immediately stops the conveyer when the detection length value of one substrate is unequal to the predetermined length value. In an alternate form, the time value in which each substrate passed over the sensor is used as a parameter for judgment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: Quanta Display Inc.
    Inventor: Wen-Cheng Yu
  • Publication number: 20070022821
    Abstract: The apparatus for testing of a fuselage structure (10) having longitudinal and circumferential curvature comprises an assembly of means (80) for applying forces to the fuselage structure. It comprises a central shaft (20) that extends in the longitudinal direction at the center of the fuselage structure and that is capable of being interlocked with the fuselage structure (10). The assembly of force-application means is mounted between the fuselage structure and support means (70, 90) interlocked with the central shaft (20). Use in particular to perform tests on an airplane fuselage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: Airbus France
    Inventor: Cyrille Saves-Saint-Germes
  • Publication number: 20070022822
    Abstract: A quality evaluating apparatus has an inspection table for placing a first or second metal separator, and a light-permeable plate for applying a predetermined pressure to a ridge of the first or second metal separator to deform the ridge and allowing a deformed state of the ridge to be inspected through the light-permeable plate while the predetermined pressure is being applied to the ridge. The quality evaluating apparatus also has an image capturing mechanism for capturing an image of the deformed state of the elastic member through the light-permeable plate, and a comparing mechanism for comparing the captured image with a preset image to evaluate the quality of the ridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Soushi Rinoie, Daisuke Okonogi, Masao Utsunomiya
  • Publication number: 20070022823
    Abstract: A magnetic transducer (109) for measuring the flow of a fluid (108) has electrodes (102) and an alternating magnetic field (107), an electrode (102) having lower noise energy at frequencies below 5 Hz than an electrode comprising carbon or corrosion-resistant metal alloy. The noise characteristic of the electrode (102) at magnetic field frequencies around 1 Hz is lower than that of an electrode comprising carbon or corrosion-resistant metal alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Alexander Knill, Antony Glauser
  • Publication number: 20070022824
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining at least one characteristic of a fluid flowing within a pipe is provided and includes at least one sensing device. The at least one sensing device includes a first sensor segment having a first segment polarity and being associated with a first outer portion of the pipe and a second sensor segment having a second segment polarity and being associated with a second outer portion of the pipe, wherein the first sensor segment and the second sensor segment generate sensor data responsive to the fluid flowing within the pipe. The apparatus further includes a processing device communicated with the at least one sensing device, wherein the processing device receives the sensor data and processes the sensor data to determine the at least one characteristic of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Timothy Bailey, Mark Fernald
  • Publication number: 20070022825
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) is provided for determining the flow rate of a gas. The apparatus comprises a housing (12) forming a vaporization chamber (14) for converting a fluid into a gas vapor when subjected to heat (22). An oscillation flow meter is formed within the housing (12), thereby being integrated with the vaporization chamber, for receiving the gas vapor and providing a frequency signal (60) indicative of the rate of flow of the gas vapor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Stephen Samms, Chowdary Koripella
  • Publication number: 20070022826
    Abstract: The invention relates to a new method and a new apparatus to accurately measure flow rates in injection systems such as gasoline, direct injection gasoline and diesel downstream of the injector where the fuel (liquid in general) is discharged from a nozzle (e.g. an injector). More specifically, it measures the flow velocities and volumetric flow rates in highly transient flows discharged cyclically with injection duration within a few hundred microseconds. Moreover, it is able to resolve multiple injection shots produced within an engine cycle with high volumetric (0.01 mm3) and temporal (10 ?s) sensitivities. The main uses of this instrument in automotive industry are manufactures of FIE, injection test machines and injection diagnostic systems. In other industries the uses maybe represented by measuring and controlling of highly transient flows with a need to accurately perform quantitative flow data in wide range of timing and dosing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Frank Palazzolo, Murad Ismailov
  • Publication number: 20070022827
    Abstract: An angular velocity sensor includes a first gimbal portion, a second gimbal portion connected to the first gimbal portion by first torsion bars provided at opposing sides of the first gimbal portion, a frame portion connected to the second gimbal portion by second torsion bars provided at the opposing sides of the second gimbal portion, first electrostatic coupling portions provided at the opposing sides of the first gimbal portion to electrostatically couple the first gimbal portion and the second gimbal portion, and second electrostatic coupling portions provided at the opposing sides of the second gimbal portion to electrostatically couple the second gimbal portion and the frame portion. In the first gimbal portion, a maximum width of sides of a direction of the first torsion bars is greater than that of the sides where the first torsion bars are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ishikawa, Satoshi Sano, Takashi Katsuki, Yuji Takahashi, Fumihiko Nakazawa, Takayuki Yamaji
  • Publication number: 20070022828
    Abstract: An interdigital electronic device comprises a conductor, an interdigital electrode, and a composite material disposed between the conductor and the interdigital electrode for electrically connecting the conductor and the interdigital electrode under application of sufficient pressure therebetween. The composite material comprises conductive particles at least partially embedded in an electrically insulating layer. The conductive particles have no relative orientation and are disposed so that substantially all electrical connections made between the conductor and the interdigital electrode are in the z direction. At least one of the conductor and the interdigital electrode is movable toward the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Ranjith Divigalpitiya, Pei-Jung Chen
  • Publication number: 20070022829
    Abstract: A sensor pad for controlling the deployment of an automobile airbag. Weight sensing pad 10 is used in the seat 54 of an automobile, (not illustrated), to detect the presence of an occupant on the seat. Weight sensing pad 10 is used in conjunction with the vehicle's airbag control module in order to allow deployment of the airbag, in the event of a collision, only if the seat is occupied by a person of a preselected weight. Weight sensing pad 10 is defined by a bladder member 15 having an interior volume subdivided into a plurality of individual cells 42 in fluid communication with each other and that is filled with a non-compressible fluid 18, such as silicon or a silica gel of medium viscosity. A pressure tube 22 is in fluid communication with bladder 15 and is in further fluid communication with a pressure activated electronic transducer 26 which in turn is in electronic communication with the airbag controller 30.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Frank Speckhart, Robert Baker
  • Publication number: 20070022830
    Abstract: A sensor body for use in a pig for determining characteristics of a pipeline wall though which the pig passes includes a circuit board and a single coil wrapped around the circuit board. A microcontroller is mounted to the circuit board and connected to the single coil and configured to induce a waveform on the coil to thereby create an eddy current in the pipeline wall adjacent the sensor body. The microcontroller is also configured to measure changes in a characteristic of the induced waveform on the single coil that correspond to the presence of anomalies on an inside diameter of the pipeline wall. The sensor body also includes a sensor body cover molded about the circuit board, the microcontroller and the single coil. The sensor body cover consists essentially of a wear resistant, non-conductive material that includes a polymer material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Michael Mandziuk, Paul Gies
  • Publication number: 20070022831
    Abstract: A substrate inspection system includes two or more inspection modules supported on a plate. A chamber is supported beneath the plate by a translation system, which is configured to provide horizontal displacement of the chamber under the plate to permit loading and unloading of a substrate to/from the chamber. Thus, when the chamber is in a loading/unloading position it is at least partially uncovered from the plate. The translation system may be further configured to provide vertical displacement of the chamber with respect to the plate so as to position an upper surface of a wall of the chamber in close proximity to a lower surface of the plate when the chamber is in an inspection position. In such a position, the upper surface of the wall of the chamber and the lower surface of the plate may be separated by an air gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Ron Naftali, Yoram Uziel, Ran Vered, Eitan Pinhasi, Igor Krivts (Krayvitz)
  • Publication number: 20070022832
    Abstract: A battery powered sensing device for diagnosing a processing system and method for using the same are provided. The support platform generally has physical characteristics, such as size, profile height, mass, flexibility and/or strength, substantially similar to those of the substrates that are to be processed in the processing system, so the sensor device can be transferred through the processing system in a manner similar to the manner in which production substrates are transferred through the processing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Reginald Hunter
  • Publication number: 20070022833
    Abstract: A reverse gear system for a motorcycle includes a shifter for rotatably supporting the idler gear, locating the idler gear in a separation position to disengage the idler gear from the main-shaft-side gear when the shifter is set in a retracted position, and for locating the idler gear in an engagement position to engage the idler gear with the main-shaft-side gear when the shifter is set in a forward position; and a holding unit for provisionally holding the shifter selectively in a state with the shifter being set in the retracted position and in a state with the shifter being set in the forward position. The idler gear is combined with the shifter so that the idler gear has a shaft member formed thereon so as to be rotatably inserted in bearing apertures formed in the shifter. The bearing apertures are formed so as to have a length along a shifting direction of the shifter, the length being larger than a diameter of the shaft member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: CUSTOM MOTORCYCLES MAMBA Inc.
    Inventor: Ichiro Mamba
  • Publication number: 20070022834
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission device between a primary drive shaft and an output shaft (1), such as a wheel drive shaft, of an automotive machine, such as a lawnmower, of the type comprising a housing (2) inside of which is housed at least partially a reduction gear mechanism that consists of an engine-driving element (3), such as an endless screw, meshed with a driven element (4), such as a gearwheel, the driven element (4) being likely to be coupled to or uncoupled from said output shaft (1) by means of a clutch mechanism that is activated/deactivated by axial movement of the gearwheel (4) on the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Blanchard
  • Publication number: 20070022835
    Abstract: New alternatives for integration of electric machines (EM1 to EM6) in an extensively integrated dual-clutch transmission (1) having one dual clutch (2), one first input shaft (8) designed as a hollow shaft and one second input shaft (9) co-axially supported in the first input shaft (8), the same as a first countershaft (10) designed as a hollow shaft and a second countershaft (11) co-axially supported. The possibilities of construction of such dual-clutch transmission are improved, and new areas of use under limiting installation space conditions are disclosed. The efficiency of the same, relative to certain possible uses, is optimized by adequate location of at least one electric machine (EM1 to EM6) and using it for a multiplicity of modes of operation are proposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Stefan Kilian, Rafel Pascual
  • Publication number: 20070022836
    Abstract: A motor with a helical pinion is made available as the motor for a hypoid geared motor. The hypoid geared motor includes a motor with a helical pinion formed on a motor shaft; a shaft member having an engagement portion integrally rotatable with the helical pinion at one end and having a hypoid pinion formed at the other end; and a hypoid gear to engage with the hypoid pinion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Takao Shigemi, Masanori Egawa, Tetsushi Isozaki
  • Publication number: 20070022837
    Abstract: On a high-voltage power switch there is provided a shaft for transmitting a rotary motion through a wall. A deflection lever is disposed on the shaft. The shaft and the deflection lever are part of a kinematic chain. For adjustment of the deflection lever in its position on the shaft, the deflection lever has an adjusting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Thomas Chyla, Friedrich Lobner
  • Publication number: 20070022838
    Abstract: A wave gear drive, wherein a rigid internal gear is formed in a spur gear with a module m and a flexible external gear is formed in a conical gear having an opening side front end with a module m. The number of the teeth of the external gear is reduced by the quantity of 2n (n is a positive integer) less than that of the internal gear, and the amount of the deflection of the major axis of the elliptic rim neutral line of the external gear is set to 2 ?mn (?>1) at the opening side front end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: Harmonic Drive Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Shoichi Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20070022839
    Abstract: The present invention relates to syntheses of nano-sized iron particles formed by mixing a source of ferrous iron with a combination of reducing agent and base, and the particles formed therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Changzai Chi
  • Publication number: 20070022840
    Abstract: A method of efficient separation/purification for obtaining high-purity silver chloride which eliminates the necessity of a pretreatment of a refining intermediate comprising sparingly soluble silver compounds and impurity elements when silver chloride is separated from the refining intermediate and purified to a high degree and which enables the silver chloride to be used as a raw material to give high-purity silver metal without necessitating the pyrometallurgical refining or electro-refining of the silver metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: SUMITOMO METAL MINING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shinichi Heguri, Masushi Kasai, Satoshi Asano, Yoshiaki Manabe, Harumasa Kurokawa
  • Publication number: 20070022841
    Abstract: A casting system includes a filtration assembly including a filter vessel housing spaced filters pre-heated to a temperature approximating a pouring temperature of molten material to be filtered to prevent breakage of the filter due to thermal shock from contact with the molten material. Preferably, an induction coil is used to inductively heat a susceptor adjacent the filter vessel or inductively heat filters which themselves serve as susceptors. Typically, the filter vessel is disposed below a pouring vessel and above a mold, pour cup and any sprue system used and is heated independently from the same. The filters are heated during pouring to facilitate flow of the molten material therethrough whereby very fine filters may be used. Spacing of the filters enhances flow control and allows a head of molten material to form whereby dross floats to the top of the head to prevent its entry into the mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas Todaro, David Warren, David Lazor, Karl Schwenk, Michael Kohler
  • Publication number: 20070022842
    Abstract: A device for removing dross from the bottom of a molten metal bath comprises a perforated basket assembly for receiving said dross, pumping means for pumping said bottom dross and molten metal from the bottom of the molten metal bath into the perforated basket assembly when the perforated basket assembly is in a pumping position, lifting and/or rotating means for moving said perforated basket assembly from its pumping position out of said molten metal bath in a separation position and in a disposal position and separation means for separating said bottom dross from said molten metal, wherein the separation means comprise a paddle assembly capable of contacting said dross inside the perforated basket assembly with a cutting action in a first position followed by a cutting action in at least one adjacent second position, when the perforated basket assembly is in the separation position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: George Missiriotis, Romain Frieden, Dominique Rocchi
  • Publication number: 20070022843
    Abstract: A process of recovering platinum group metals (PGMs) from a pregnant solution or leachate containing PGM values and base metals, typically a cyanide solution or leachate. A non-selective precipitation of the PGM values and base metals to form an insoluble precipitate comprising the PGM values and base metals is followed by selective leaching of the precipitate. The selective leaching forms a leach solution containing the base metals and a residue containing the PGM values, or a leach solution containing the base metals and PGM values and a depleted residue. The base metals are recovered from the leach solution and the PGM values are recovered from the residue or the leach solution, depending on the selective leaching. The non-selective precipitation of the PGM values and base metals is carried out by controlled reduction of the pH of the pregnant solution or leachate to a pH of about 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Alan Bax, Greenvil Dunn, John Lewins
  • Publication number: 20070022844
    Abstract: A jar opening apparatus for opening a jar having a screw-on lid which comprises a base having a jar supporting surface, a generally vertically extending guide column connected to the base and a carriage assembly connected to the guide for movement relative to the guide between a first raised position and a second lowered position. The carriage assembly comprises a carriage; a lid engaging member connected to the carriage for engaging the screw-on lid when the carriage is in the second position, and rotating means for imparting rotation to the lid engaging member. The rotating means uniquely comprises a drive screw connected to the carriage and a cooperating driven tube connected to the lid engaging member. A novel operating mechanism is operably associated with the carriage for moving the carriage between the first and second positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Flanagan
  • Publication number: 20070022845
    Abstract: The heavy duty pull bar is a hand tool for installing tongue and groove floor boards tightly together. The pull bar includes a flat elongated base plate, having a downward overhang lip on one end which is placed along the edge of the floor board while the other end having a triangle formation affixed to the top surface producing an immensely durable impact area to strike a mallet or hammer to exert the force required to pull the floor boards tightly together. Extending from both sides and from the impact zone end are small 45° bends outward and upward that add to the overall rigidity of the tool. There is also a handle assembly affixed lengthwise to the top centre surface of the base plate to provide better control, stability and handling, and may be used right-handed or left handed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Andre Lee-Rodrigues, Susan Lee-Rodrigues
  • Publication number: 20070022846
    Abstract: A power wrench comprises a length of rigid bar to be held in one hand, thesw bar having a socket member for fitting a nut or head of a bolt rotatably mounted therein at one end, an adaptor adapted to be driven by a power driver rotatably mounted therein at an opposite end, and a drive means for driving said socket member from said adaptor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Matthew Fryatt
  • Publication number: 20070022847
    Abstract: A positioning device for hand tools includes a driving member engaged with a hole in a wrench head and a groove is defined in an outer periphery of the driving member so as to receive a C-shaped clip therein. The clip includes an engaging section which is matched with a straight positioning part defined in an inner periphery of the groove so that the clip does not rotate relative to the driving member. The clip further has at least one curve biasing portion which extends out from the groove and is engaged with an inner periphery of the groove to position the driving member in the hole of the wrench head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Terence Chen
  • Publication number: 20070022848
    Abstract: Tongue and groove pliers include a first member having a slot, and a second member connected to the first member by a pin in the slot. The first member has a plurality of arcuate ribs defining open ended grooves on the side adjacent to the second member. The second member has a tongue on the side facing the first member. The tongue fits in a selected groove to adjust the spacing between opposing jaws on the respective first and second members. The pliers have at least one visual alignment feature to align the tongue with a desired groove. The alignment feature can be readily visible marks indicating locations of the tongue and/or grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Anthony Bitonto, John Jacobsen, Wilfrido Loor
  • Publication number: 20070022849
    Abstract: A multi-function hand tool with a pivotally collapsible jaw-type tool that has a jaw lock which mechanically prevents the jaw-type tool from collapse is disclosed. The jaw lock mechanism is contained within the jaw pivot joint of the jaw-type tool, and may be partially extended as a push button to prevent unwanted handle collapse. A plurality of blades are pivotally attached to the opposite end of the multi-function tool and has a blade locking mechanism wherein the blade lock is pivoted about an axis located distal to the blade fastener/pivot axis. Each handle of the multi-function tool may be made of two individual handle halves that unite to form the handle, but that provide very precise tensioning, or the handles may be of a single channel shape using an infinitely adjustable threaded fastener and sleeve to provide precise adjustment of the multiple blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Poehlmann
  • Publication number: 20070022850
    Abstract: Cutting and transport roller (1) for material webs, that comprises of media outlet openings (14) in its peripheral surface (7) to which varying pressure can be applied to control the seating pattern of the material web on the peripheral surface (7) of the roller (1) and that comprises of a system of pressure feed lines (3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 13) by means of which the media outlet openings (14) are connected to means for supplying the media. The present invention differs from the prior art by at least one pressure reservoir (3, 4) that (3, 4) is a part of the pressure feed line system (3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 13) and that can be connected by a valve to at least one part of the media outlet openings. In the present invention, a process is introduced and claimed for controlling the seating pattern of a material web on the peripheral surface of a cutting- and transport roller (1). Said process can be implemented using the roller (1) in accordance with the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas Altesellmeier, Oliver Koser, Rolf Kammann, Werner Decker
  • Publication number: 20070022851
    Abstract: A method of cutting a plastic functional film, in particular a protective film, which has been applied to a hard substrate, such as a glass sheet. The film is cut using an ultrasound cutting device having characteristics and parameters selected such that a cut is only made through the thickness of the functional film, leaving the underlying substrate intact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Applicant: SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS FRANCE
    Inventor: Ronan Garrec
  • Publication number: 20070022852
    Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for lifting a retractable lower safety-guard on a circular saw. In one representative implementation, an actuator is attached to the circular saw and an elongated arm is coupled to the actuator such that operating the actuator causes the elongated arm to lift. In addition, an engagement element is attached to the retractable lower safety-guard of the circular saw. When lifted, the elongated arm engages the engagement element, thereby retracting the retractable lower safety-guard of the circular saw. Preferably, the actuator is configured, and is located sufficiently close to a power switch for the circular saw, so that the actuator can be operated simultaneously with the power switch using a single hand. Also provided are retrofitting techniques for attaching such a device to an existing circular saw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Jack Tracy, Samuel Grimaldo, James Larkin
  • Publication number: 20070022853
    Abstract: A miter saw has a remotely actuated bevel angle locking system and a bevel angle adjustment assistance system with a remote override actuator so that the user does not need to reach around to the back of the miter saw to adjust the bevel angle. The remote actuator for the bevel angle locking system can be provided on the front of the miter saw's turntable to form a suite of actuators with the miter lock and miter detent override lever. The remote override actuator for the bevel angle adjustment assistance system can be provided on the handle in proximity to the power switch. Also disclosed is a bevel angle adjustment assistance system in which each of the preset bevel angles can be fine tuned simultaneously and which exhibits other advantages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Craig Carroll, Brent Stafford
  • Publication number: 20070022854
    Abstract: A machine dedicated to the recovery of paper, generally of pure cellulose and therefore of optimal quality which may be integrally reused in the same productive cycle, a different recovery from that of the cardboard composing the core of the source roll which does not permit the reuse of the paper around it. Indeed, here the trimming rolls are recovered coming from the cutting of rolls for domestic or sanitary use. The recovery occurs after having arranged the rolls with the axis vertical, operating the insertion in the rolls of a guide bar which, with appropriate actuators, cuts them along the generatrix of the roll, maintaining the tube on the bar and allowing the paper to fall and then suctioning it and sending it to recovery, separately from the tube which remains gripped on the bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Giovanni Gambini
  • Publication number: 20070022855
    Abstract: Mechanism (8) for adjusting the resistance value of an earth electrode (7) connected to an electrification unit (2) of an electric fence (1), includes a control element (13) for causing the resistance value of the earth electrode to vary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventors: Valery Hamm, Yves Mulet-Marquis
  • Publication number: 20070022856
    Abstract: A mitre angle transferring device comprising two sets of interconnected pivoting arms slidably mounted on a base in the from of a parallelogram. The arms are pivoted by moving a pair of captive pivot assemblies back and forth along a slot in the base. A first pair of the arms is able to gauge and transfer an interior angle to a table or mitre saw, while extension arms on a second set of pivoting arms is able to gauge and transfer an exterior angle to a table or mitre saw. The base of the device is made to be mounted in the guide slot provided in a table or mitre saw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2005
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Don Paine
  • Publication number: 20070022857
    Abstract: A cutter for flexible wrapping material is structured to be slidably secured around a lip defined along a top edge of a side of the container of the wrapping material. The cutter includes a blade extending inward from one of its inside surfaces. The lip securing the cutter to the box may be made by folding the top edge of the side of the box, or by attaching a separate lip to the top edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 1, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Schreiter