Abstract: A barrel plating device is disclosed, wherein hollow support shafts placed to be approximately level with each other are mounted in a piercing form to support members combined together to face each other at a prescribed interval, the opposite ends of a barrel having a hollow drum part whose opposite ends are closed with end plates are supported to the above support shafts in a rotatable condition, a lead wire having an electrode at a tip end and coated with an insulation layer is inserted in watertight and non-rotatable conditions into a hollow part of each support shaft in such a manner as to allow the above lead wire to pierce through the corresponding end plate of the barrel, and a collar formed with a low friction member is mounted to each lead wire portion that pierces through the above corresponding end plate of the barrel.

Abstract: Reactors with agitators and methods for processing microfeature workpieces with such reactors. The agitators are capable of obtaining high, controlled mass-transfer rates that result in high quality surfaces and efficient wet chemical processes. The agitators generate high flow velocities in the fluid and contain the high energy fluid proximate to the surface of the workpiece to form high quality surfaces when cleaning, etching and/or depositing materials to/from a workpiece. The agitators also have short stroke lengths so that the footprints of the reactors are relatively small. As a result, the reactors are efficient and cost effective to operate. The agitators are also designed so that electrical fields in the processing solution can effectively operate at the surface of the workpiece.

Abstract: An apparatus for metal plating on a substrate with through-holes includes a chamber that the substrate is disposed inside the chamber to be divided into two sections. A pressure generator and a pressure controller are connected to this and correspond to two sides of the substrate respectively. The pressure generator is used for pumping a electrolyte flowed parallel to the surface of the substrate into the chamber. The pressure controller is used for channeling the electrolyte off the chamber and controlling the pressure differences between the two sides of the substrate. So that the electrolyte flowed parallel to the surface of the substrate is pumped by the pressure generator and it passes several through-holes to control the thickness of metal plating on the.substrate and inner walls of the through-holes.

Abstract: An electrolyzer with principal and supplemental electrodes configured and made from materials, which decomposes distilled water into a highly efficient clean burning fuel composed of hydrogen, oxygen and their bonds, called HHO or hydrogen-enriched gas that can be used as an additive to combustion engine fuels or in flame or other generating equipment such as torches and welders.

Abstract: A magnetron comprises an anode, a cathode disposed at a center of the anode, a plurality of vanes radially protruding from an inner surface of the anode towards the cathode, and an upper end shield and a lower end shield respectively coupled to an upper end and a lower end of the cathode so that a length of an effective heating portion of the cathode may be less than a height of the vane.

Abstract: A method for electronically detecting an electrostatic based biological binding event. This same binding event can be detected optically via complicated experimental setups. A balanced coil system is incorporated into a hand held unit with a plug-in chip. The chip may further be made to act like an array with a different surface molecule for detection of different bio-molecules.

Abstract: A sensor control device, and a gas sensor and sensor control device for applying a voltage to a sensor element of the gas sensor including an oxygen ion conductor and a pair of electrodes formed on the oxygen ion conductor of the gas sensor. The sensor control device includes a potential output terminal electrically connected to one of the pair of electrodes and a potential reference terminal electrically connected to the other of the pair of electrodes constituting the sensor element. The sensor control device applies a target voltage to the sensor element via the potential output terminal, corrected to take into account variation in the potential of the potential reference terminal.

Abstract: A hydrogen detector with a porous layer of alumina. Pores with average pore diameters in the range of from about 10 to about 200 nanometers (nms) and average pore depths in the range of from about 10 to about 1000 nms have Pd nanoparticles in the pores forming a film. Electrodes on the Pd film measure changes in electrical resistance of the Pd film in the presence of hydrogen. Pd may be in the form of nanotubes. The alumina is anodized for various times to form the nanowalls or pores and vary the pore depths.

Abstract: A gas sensor element is disclosed having a solid electrolyte body having oxygen ion conductivity, a measuring gas detecting electrode and a reference gas detecting electrode formed on both surfaces of the solid electrolyte body, respectively, a diffusion resistance layer formed on the one surface of the solid electrolyte body so as to surround the measuring gas detecting electrode and available to permeate measuring gas to the measuring gas detecting electrode, and a catalyst-supported trap layer formed on an outer side surface of the diffusion resistance layer. The catalyst-supported trap layer has an average film thickness of a value ranging from 20 to 200?m, and an amount of the supported catalyst with respect to a gross weight of the catalyst-supported trap layer lies in a value ranging from 0.1 to 2 wt %.

Abstract: Methods and systems that employ hybrid fluid flow profiles for optimized movement of materials through channel networks. These systems employ hybrid pressure-based and electrokinetic based flow systems for moving materials through interconnected channel networks while maintaining interconnection among the various channel segments. In particular, the invention is generally directed to channel networks where flow in a first channel segment is driven by pressure flow with its consequent parabolic flow profile, while flow in an interconnected channel segment is dominated by electrokinetic flow with its consequent plug flow profile. The invention also provides channel networks wherein fluid flow in channel segments is driven by both pressure and electric field and the multiple species contained in a fluid plug are separated by altering the applied pressure and electric fields in the various channel segments of the channel networks.

Abstract: Gels, such as polyacrylamide gels, are provided that include linear polyacrylamide in the stacking gel. Native gels that include linear polyacrylamide in the stacker can be used to separate biomolecular complexes, such as protein complexes. Gel cassettes in which the gap width between front and back plates does not vary by more than 5% at the upper edge of the cassette are also provided. The gel cassettes can be used for electrophoretic separation of proteins and protein complexes on native gels, such as native gels that include linear polyacrylamide in the stacker. The native gels can have multiple wells for electrophoresing at least one sample and/or at least one molecular weight standard.

Abstract: A device providing an arrangement for the separation of a sample mixture for analytical reasons based on multidimensional gel electrophoresis and method thereof are disclosed. The separation involves a first separation in a first dimension of the device on the basis of isoelectric points and a second separation in a second dimension of the device on the basis of molecular size. At least two gel strips for the first dimension separation step and a corresponding gel for the second dimension separation step are provided. The two gel strips are arranged on a single carrier either on the same side or on opposite sides. By having at least two gel strips arranged in such a manner at least two analytical processes can be executed in parallel on the single carrier without the use of valves.

Abstract: The invention relates to a microfluidic system, in particular in a cell sorter, including a first carrier power supply (1) which is used to supply a first carrier flow having particles (4) suspended therein, a first carrier power output line (15) which is used to withdraw at least one part of the carrier flow having particles (4) suspended therein, a process chamber (3) which is used to examine, observe, manipulate and/or select the particle (4). The first carrier power supply (1) flows into the process chamber (3) when the first carrier power output line (15) is discharged from the process chamber (3). According to the invention, at least one second carrier power supply (2) flows into the process chamber (3) in order to supply a second carrier flow having particles (5) suspended therein. The invention also relates to a corresponding operational method.

Abstract: A fluidic device is provided that includes a body and a contiguous electrically conductive layer. The body has interior and exterior surfaces. The interior surface defines at least a well and a fluid-transporting feature, e.g., a microfeature in fluid-communication with the well. The well has a sidewall and an exterior opening terminating at the exterior surface. The contiguous electrically conductive layer is located on at least the sidewall of the well and selected regions of the interior and exterior surfaces so as to form a contact pad region on the exterior surface in electrical communication with any fluid within the fluid-transporting feature. Also provided is a method for forming a fluidic device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an oxygen conducting membrane includes a dense, mixed-conducting, multi-metallic oxide membrane having one surface which is coated with dispersed particles based on noble metals or magnesium oxide

Abstract: The present invention concerns an electrochemical pattern replication method, ECPR, and a construction of a conductive electrode for production of applications involving micro and nano structures. An etching or plating pattern, which is defined by a conductive electrode, a master electrode, is replicated on an electrically conductive material, a substrate. The master electrode is put in close contact with the substrate and the etching/plating pattern is directly transferred onto the substrate by using a contact etching/plating process. The contact etching/plating process is performed in local etching/plating cells, that are formed in closed or open cavities between the master electrode and the substrate.

Abstract: A method of forming a copper interconnection including at least one of: Forming an interlayer dielectric layer over a silicon substrate. Forming a plurality of via holes and trench patterns in an interlayer dielectric layer; forming a photoresist pattern over an interlayer dielectric layer between a plurality of via hole and trench patterns. Performing an electroplating process on a silicon substrate so that copper may be filled in a plurality of via holes and trench patterns. Planarizing a copper layer so that a photoresist pattern is removed.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a method for forming a copper metal interconnection of a semiconductor device. In embodiments, a copper metal interconnection may be formed through a damascene process. The method may include forming a first copper plating layer on an interlayer dielectric layer of the semiconductor substrate by performing an electrical-chemical plating scheme with a first plating distance, measuring surface uniformity of the first copper plating layer, and forming a second copper plating layer on the first copper plating layer by adjusting a plating distance according to the surface uniformity of the first copper plating layer.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a process sequence and related hardware for filling a patterned feature on a substrate with a metal, such as copper. The sequence comprises first forming a reliable barrier layer in the patterned feature to prevent diffusion of the metal into the dielectric layer through which the patterned feature is formed. One sequence comprises forming a generally conformal barrier layer over a patterned dielectric, etching the barrier layer at the bottom of the patterned feature, depositing a second barrier layer, and then filling the patterned feature with a metal, such as copper.

Abstract: Single bath electrodeposition of polycrystalline Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin films for photovoltaic applications is disclosed. Specifically, Cu(In,Ga)Se2 was deposited onto Mo electrodes from low concentration buffered (pH 2.5) aqueous baths containing CuCl2, InCl3, GaCl3 and H2SeO3. Moreover, buffered aqueous baths are disclosed wherein Se4+/Cu2+ concentration ratios were controlled to optimize Se and Cu levels, while In3+ concentration was adjusted to control deposited In and Ga. Further disclosed are pre- and post-deposition processing methods resulting in smooth, compact, crack-free films of near stoichiometric values. Post deposition heat treatments on electrodeposited CuInSe2-based films in selenium and sulfur containing atmosphere are described. CuInSe2-based films from a single bath deposited onto Mo electrodes from low concentration aqueous baths.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electroplating solution for the deposition of silver; said solution containing silver in the form of a complex of silver with hydantoin or a substituted hydantoin compound; said solution also containing an excess of the hydantoin or substituted hydantoin compound employed, together with an effective quantity of a nonprecipitating electrolyte salt, and also an effective quantity of 2,2? dipyridyl for the purpose of obtaining a mirror-bright to brilliant deposit.

Abstract: A pH adjusting apparatus includes an electrolytic chip receiving a solution, an electrolytic chip loading station receiving the electrolytic chip, an input unit inputting electrolysis conditions, a control unit receiving the electrolysis conditions and controlling electrolysis performed in the electrolytic chip, and a display unit displaying the electrolysis conditions and a progress of the electrolysis. Thus, the pH of a solution can be adjusted easily and accurately, by precisely controlling a constant current, a constant voltage, and current and voltage application times, thereby enabling useful application in various biological assays such as cell lysis. Furthermore, the pH adjusting apparatus has small size and weight and can be operated for a long time after charging once due to low power consumption.

Abstract: An electrolyzer cell (10) for the electrolysis of water comprises a cathode (12) of generally tubular configuration within which is disposed an anode (16) separated from the cathode (12) by a separation membrane (14) of generally tubular configuration which divides the electrolyte chamber (15) into an anode sub-chamber 15a and a cathode sub-chamber (15b). An electrolyzer apparatus (36) includes an array (38) of individual cells (10)across each of which an electric potential is imposed by a DC generator (40) via electrical leads (42a, 42b). Hydrogen gas generated within cells (10) from electrolyte (18) is removed via hydrogen gas take-off lines (20) and hydrogen manifold line (21). By-product oxygen is removed from cells (10) by oxygen gas take-off lines (22) and oxygen manifold line (23). The electrolyzer apparatus (36) may be configured to operate either batchwise or in a continuous electrolyterecycle operation to produce high purity hydrogen at high pressure, e.g.

Abstract: A method for processing a surface of a substrate is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes pretreating a conductive layer of the substrate by exposing the substrate to a pretreatment fluid, and planarizing the pre-treated substrate in the system.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method with fluid flow assist elements for electrochemical mechanical processing is provided in this invention. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first conductive layer having an upper surface adapted to contact a substrate, a second conductive layer disposed below the first conductive layer, an isolation layer disposed between the conductive layers, and a plurality of apertures, each having a first end formed through the first conductive layer and a second end formed through the second conductive layer, wherein the second ends of at least two apertures are laterally coupled by a channel.

Abstract: An electrode system for determining an analyte concentration in a human or animal may comprise first and second electrodes. The first electrode may be configured to produce a first signal from which the analyte concentration can be determined, and may have a first measuring sensitivity that is optimized for a first analyte concentration range. The second electrode may be configured to produce a second signal from which the analyte concentration can be determined, and may have a second measuring sensitivity that is optimized for a second analyte concentration range that is different from the first analyte concentration range. An analytical unit may be configured to determine the analyte concentration based on the first signal if the analyte concentration falls within the first analyte concentration range, and to determine the analyte concentration based on the second signal if the analyte concentration falls within the second analyte concentration range.

Abstract: A small diameter flexible electrode designed for subcutaneous in vivo amperometric monitoring of glucose is described. The electrode is designed to allow “one-point” in vivo calibration, i.e., to have zero output current at zero glucose concentration, even in the presence of other electroreactive species of serum or blood. The electrode is preferably three or four-layered, with the layers serially deposited within a recess upon the tip of a polyamide insulated gold wire. A first glucose concentration-to-current transducing layer is overcoated with an electrically insulating and glucose flux limiting layer (second layer) on which, optionally, an immobilized interference-eliminating horseradish peroxidase based film is deposited (third layer). An outer (fourth) layer is biocompatible.

Abstract: Embodiment of this holder is a configuration of elongated compartments, one adjoined to another. End pieces of a handle are attached to a perimeter of the embodiment. Placement of a handle determines which perimeter open end of said compartments will rest and the position as to how items contained within are stored.

Abstract: A novel pacifier storage assembly which comprises a pouch with a top opening for containing the pacifier and a strap for attaching the assembly to an external means, such as to a means for carrying the assembly.

Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises a key case with a body having a compartment where one end of the compartment has an opening. The key case body is preferably composed of two covers detachably connected in a clamshell style which can include a lens in one cover for displaying objects. A lid is pivotally attached to the body and is operatively arranged to cover the compartment opening when the lid is closed. A clasp, with two components that magnetically interact, is disposed on the key case to lock the lid closed. An elasticized cord connected to the key case enables the use and then later retraction of keys into the compartment. Distal to the lid is a swivel attached to the key case body that can hold a secondary key holder.

Abstract: A glued three piece folding basket carrier which has two partitions for dividing the carrier into six cells with each partition being constructed of a different material than used to construct the outside basket carrier. Each partition is glued to a handle panel and a divider flap on the end of the basket carrier and a to a side wall to form a bottle cell with walls that are perpendicular to the divider between the two sides of the carrier and which are also formed as part of the partition.

Abstract: A liquid-absorbing, impact-absorbing packaging container for protecting packaged items such as bottled liquids, while providing absorbency in the event of a liquid spill. The container material is created from a mixture of an inorganic liquid-absorbing agent such as vermiculite, and a cellulosic material such as paper pulp, which mixture is then formed into a container material, for packaging an article such as a glass bottle. The containers and container materials of this invention are substantially free of dust and/or loose particles.

Abstract: A flat roll gift wrap package has an elongated form with planar opposed sides and convex arcuate transitions between the sides. Flexible material in sheet form, such as, for example, paper or plastic, can be wound about the form without formation of creases or folds at the arcuate transitions. Printed patterns applied to the flexible material in sheet form are visible in full or repeated one or more times on the material which extends over the planar opposed sides of the form. Multiple flat roll gift wrap packages are combined in display packages or envelopes, poly bags or boxes and stacked on the planar sides of the flat rolls or with the arcuate transitions of the flat rolls arranged side-by-side.

Abstract: A smoker's pouch for carrying material capable of being smoked comprising at least a first and a second compartment wherein at least one of said compartments is releasably sealable to retain material capable of being smoked or smoking accoutrements in the compartment.

Abstract: An odor absorbing system for use by a person to reduce odor emanation from the person into an environment surrounding the person. The system includes a container having a substantially airtight interior chamber and an odor absorbing insert stored in the interior chamber. The insert includes a layer of breathable material and an odor absorbing agent on the layer of breathable material. The insert is configured for removable attachment to the article of clothing adjacent the vent.

Abstract: A watch box for storing and displaying at least a watch includes a display arrangement having a watch support having a ring shape adapted for detachably holding the watch in position, a folding panel extended from the watch support, a pivot hinge pivotally connecting the folding panel with said box body to form a hidden cavity, such that the watch support is adapted to fold between a display position and an accessing position. At the display position, the watch support is pivotally folded to enclose the hidden cavity. At the accessing position, the watch support is pivotally folded to lift up for allowing the watch detaching from the watch support; and a security locker having a breakable locking loop is provided to encircle the watch support within said hidden cavity for tying up the watch with the watch support.

Abstract: This invention provides a golf bag with a mesh bag body having good air permeability and portability, which includes a cylindrical bag body with a mesh structure and a rigid frame to maintain the shape of the cylindrical bag body. The cylindrical surface of the bag body can be completely made of mesh materials, or partially made of mesh materials. The golf bag with a mesh bag body can remarkably decrease the weight of golf bag, making it more portable; significantly improve the air permeability of the golf bag and help the moisture inside the golf bag to evaporate; enable the golfers to see the clubs inside the bag because of the transparency of the cylindrical bag body; and improve the appearance and the style of the golf bag. The invention applies to various kinds of golf bags.

Abstract: A stabilizer to aid in the installation and removal of transmissions from vehicles is a receptacle with a bottom and a sidewall. The sidewall is shaped and of sufficient strength to support the underside of the transmission while the bottom is flat so as to rest in a stable manner on the lift platform of a hydraulic jack. The stabilizer allows one person to quickly and safely remove a transmission from a vehicle for repair, then re-install the transmission when repaired.

Abstract: A carrying case has a storage section that has at least one storage compartment for receiving articles. An amusement feature is provided with the carrying case. The amusement feature can be an electronic device, or a non-electronic device. The amusement feature can be provided on an outer surface of the carrying case, on an inner panel disposed inside the storage section, on a pouch attached to the storage section, or at any internal or external location of the carrying case.

Abstract: This assembly of elements comprises a plate with housings for receiving the objects for bulking, each housing being delimited by lateral walls and comprising a support zone for receiving the object for bulking. According to the invention, each housing is formed by a cell; the lateral walls delimiting the cells adjoin one another from one cell to an adjacent cell and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the plate; each cell is shaped in order to at least partially receive in it the proximal part of an object for bulking; and each cell comprises at least one means for immobilizing each object for bulking.

Abstract: This invention is a skid or pallet that arrives at a “using location” with a pre-installed hermetically integrated base sheet, produced from a flexible packaging material. It is built, such that one of several methods of securing any given asset to the skid can be utilized in a fashion that eliminates the possibility of compromising the integrity, or air-tightness, of the base sheet. An asset(s) can be secured to the invention rapidly with minimal labor expenditures without worrying about, precision registration of machine feet with skid bolts or the dangers associated with manual guidance of equipment over protruding bolts. This invention can reduce the amount of time spent in the preparation of an asset for export shipment or placement into long-term storage multi-fold; due to the elimination of measuring, punching, drilling, calking and alignment operations all of which will save money and enhance employee safety protection.

Abstract: The invention relates to a packaging system for medical consumables, in particular test elements. The packaging system comprises an outer packaging, which accommodates a first desiccant supply, and a magazine with an unused test element supply. In the closed state of the outer packaging, the first desiccant supply of the outer packaging acts on the interior of the magazine via a connection that permits water vapor diffusion. In exemplary embodiments, the magazine includes a second desiccant supply. The communication of water vapor between the magazine and outer package reduces the load on the desiccant supply in the magazine.

Abstract: The present invention provides an easy open package for personal care products which has sensory cues as to the location of the opening of a wrapper component. In addition, the present invention provides a wrapper component which has a gradient seal which allows the user to effectively open the wrapper without unnecessarily tearing the wrapper.

Abstract: A combination award base and concealed storage container device, wherein a riser device supports a selected decorative award, and wherein a substantially disguised internal compartment enables concealed storage of selected memorabilia within the riser device, thereby retaining all of the aesthetic pleasure of a traditional trophy while also enabling some utilitarian benefit therefrom.

Abstract: A flexible package has a top surface, a bottom surface and at least one side wall together defining an interior volume of the package. An opening device is attached to the top surface and is at least in part detachable from the top surface to provide access to the interior volume. An article is secured to the opening device for conjoint movement with the opening device upon detachment of the opening device from the top surface of the package. In another embodiment, a portion of the side wall extends outward beyond the top surface to a free edge. A closure system is operable on the extended portion of the side wall to permit selective closing and opening of the package.

Abstract: A packaging unit with a packaging pouch (10) of a flexible film-shaped first material and an essentially shape-stable outer packaging (28) of a second material is such that the outer packaging (28) is tube-shaped with open ends (31, 33) which are situated in a plane perpendicular to a tube axis (z). In a first position, the ends (31, 33) form a hexagon with two parallel sides (a, b) and two pairs of sides (c1, c2; d1, d2) each enclosing an angle ?<180° lying symmetrically mirror imaged to a plane of symmetry (E), and in a second position form a rectangle with two parallel sides (a, b) and two sides (c, d) lying perpendicular to the plane of symmetry (E). In the first position a straight folding edge (g, h) runs between the corners of the sides (a, b) of both ends (31, 33) lying mirror imaged symmetrical to the plane of symmetry (E), and in the second position the sides (a, b) of both ends lying mirror image symmetrical to the plane of symmetry (E) form an angle ?=180°.

Abstract: Packaging for a medical catheter guide wire or the like includes an elongate tubular body having a bore for reception of the guide wire. The body has integral complementary interengagable male and female formations on an exterior of the body. These formations interengage when the body is coiled into a spiral hoop for packing and handling, to neatly and securely hold the body in the hoop shape.

Abstract: A tongue shaped friction lock is integrally formed in a dust cover or a bottom panel of an open-topped container and positioned to capture the stacking tabs of an adjacent open-topped container. The friction lock provides a small opening through which a stacking tab may be inserted, while at the same time pushing up a locking flap, which pivots up and frictionally engages the stacking tab. A strip of reinforcing tape is embedded within the dust cover and allows one to remove and reuse the dust cover without tearing the tongue lock or the surrounding portions of the dust cover.

Abstract: The metal storage box is formed from a sheet of metal, which is cut in such a manner to allow assembly of the box from the cut sheet. The construction uses the elastic properties of the sheet metal to ensure stability and strength in the assembled box.

Abstract: A stackable tray obtained by vacuum molding of a sheet of plastic material, said tray comprising, in open position: a) a top and a bottom; b) at least one receiving cavity opened upwardly, c) a hinge portion dividing said tray into a cover portion and a base portion; said receiving cavity being at least provided in said base portion; d) spacing means to keep, in a stack of trays, the top portion and the bottom portion of neighboring trays at distance from each other to thereby prevent interlocking therebetween; and e) at least one two-part locking means, each part being provided in the top of the sheet and positioned to engaged one into the other when the cover portion is folded over the base portion along the hinge portion to bring the tray into a closed position defining a box. A stack of said trays and a method using said trays.