Patents Issued in November 8, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070256706
    Abstract: A method is provided for processing parts in more than one bath of dense phase carbon dioxide wherein the processing includes transferring dense phase carbon dioxide from a storage tank to a cleaning chamber, processing said parts in said cleaning chamber with said dense phase carbon dioxide, withdrawing at least a part of said dense phase carbon dioxide from said cleaning chamber, distilling said withdrawn dense phase carbon dioxide, and transferring said distilled carbon dioxide back to said storage tank, wherein said distilled carbon dioxide is cooled prior to being transferred to said storage tank and said cooling is carried out depending on the temperature and/or the pressure in the storage tank and/or the cleaning chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Esko Ahlbom, Josefine Andreassen, Joachim Karthauser, Kenneth Lindqvist, Anders Marcusson
  • Publication number: 20070256707
    Abstract: A concrete pump washout system which is mountable to transport vehicle(s); the system provides for the quick safe, and easy removal of all waste water and concrete used in the washout of concrete pumps and concrete truck chutes on a construction site. When applied to concrete pump washout, washout water and waste concrete are deposited into a tub, and a fluid vacuum pump is used to separate the water into a holding tank for later disposal. The waste concrete is left behind to harden in the tub, which may be disposable, for later removal to a disposal site, thereby freeing the concrete pump for the next job. When applied to concrete truck chute washout, water is removed from washout of the chute into the concrete pump hopper and pumped back into the truck hopper or into the washwater holding tank for later disposal, at which point the truck may leave and the pump is ready for the next load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Onsite Washout Corp.
    Inventors: Ernest Kim Leonardich, Norman P. Gruczelak
  • Publication number: 20070256708
    Abstract: A dishwasher is provided, wherein the protruding wash residues can be automatically cleaned in the most efficient manner possible in the washing liquid lines, in order to maintain the cleaning effect of the washing device. The dishwasher comprises at least one washing compartment, and a washing device that is used to spray the liquid into the inner chamber of the washing container, in addition to at least one washing liquid line which is used to supply the liquid to the cleaning device. The washing liquid line comprises at least one first opening and one second opening that is arranged at a distance from the first opening, over which the respective alternative cleaning liquid can be supplied in a pressurized manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Rosenbauer, Bernd Schessl
  • Publication number: 20070256709
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of operating a inkjet printing system that may include a print head parking structure and a print head cleaning station. A print head parking structure may include a solvent and/or nozzle surface treatment bath for inkjet print heads. Print heads may be returned to the print head parking structure after a substrate has been printed, after one or more printing passes, and/or frequently enough to prevent ink from drying on or clogging the print heads. Once sealed within the print head parking structure, the print heads (or a portion thereof) may be dipped in a solvent bath to dissolve or wash away any ink that has been deposited on the print heads. The print heads may be coated with a surface treatment that improves jetting reliability. The print heads may be dried and moved to the print head cleaning station where they may be wiped and pre-jetting may be performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: QUANYUAN SHANG, Shinichi Kurita, Lizhong Sun
  • Publication number: 20070256710
    Abstract: Post-etch cleaning of through-holes, or deep vias, in a wafer includes introduction of a cleaning agent to a first major surface of the wafer establishing a pressure differential across the wafer, and removing the cleaning agent from both sides of the wafer. An apparatus provides for receiving and holding a wafer within a chamber; establishing a reservoir adjacent each of a first and second major surface of the wafer; each reservoir being an enclosed space defined by the inner surface of a portion of the chamber, and a major surface of the wafer. In some embodiments a gasket, such as an O-ring, is provided to form the seal between the chamber and the wafer. Alternatively, a seal between chamber and wafer is obtained by contacting the chamber directly to an outer annular portion of the wafer and applying pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Sophia Wen, Anthony Humpage
  • Publication number: 20070256711
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus to remove organic substances deposited onto a substrate, the apparatus includes a transport unit configured to transport the substrate, a water steam ejection unit configured to eject a heated water steam to a face of the substrate to be transported deposited with the organic substances, and a physical force applying unit configured to apply a physical force to the organic substances deposited onto the substrate to be transported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Toshihide HAYASHI, Tsutomu Makino, Takahiko Wakatsuki, Naoya Hayamizu, Hiroshi Fujita, Akiko Saito
  • Publication number: 20070256712
    Abstract: A wash fluid containment system includes an elevated, fluid impervious surface upon which items to be washed are placed for washing. The surface is configured to cause wash fluid to flow to an edge of the surface and off of the surface to prevent buildup of wash fluid on the surface. A collecting trough is positioned in fluid flow communication with the edges of the surface to which the fluid flows to catch and collect the fluid as it flows from the surface. Used wash fluid is taken from the collecting trough for disposal or recycling and solids and debris can be easily removed from the trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: James McCormick, Alan McCormick, Kerry Smith
  • Publication number: 20070256713
    Abstract: A method for treating a surface to decontaminate the surface by chemically altering contaminants on the surface. The method comprises applying to the surface particles of a zero valent metal capable of reacting with oxygen and water to form hydroxyl radicals, and exposing the particles to oxygen and water. The method may be carried out in the presence of air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Andrew Feitz, Trevor Waite, Sung Joo
  • Publication number: 20070256714
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning device, for the cleaning of welding torches, comprising a device, for cleaning the welding torch, made of a coil with an opening, for the introduction of the welding torch, and optionally, a device for the application of cleaning fluid to the tip of the welding torch. According to the invention, such a cleaning device, which provides a rapid and possibly automated cleaning, particularly suitable for welding robot applications and which is of the simplest and cheapest construction, may be achieved, whereby at least one second device, for cleaning the welding torch, embodied to clean the welding torch by means of a cold medium, in particular with CO2-dry ice, is arranged in a common housing, in addition to the device for magnetic cleaning and a common controller, a common input/output device and a common power supply or current source for the control, adjustment and energy supply of the cleaning devices are arranged in the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Georg Binder, Harald Langeder
  • Publication number: 20070256715
    Abstract: The aim of the invention is to provide an electric household appliance, especially a dishwasher, comprising a child-proof lock which has a simple and reliable design and is easy to operate. According to the invention, a means for selectively blocking or slide which can be moved between two positions blocks, in a first position, the movement of the locking member, thereby activating the child-safety feature, and in a second position of the means for selectively blocking, does not block the movement of the locking member, thereby deactivating the child-safety feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate, GmbH
    Inventors: Anton Oppel, Erich Schmid
  • Publication number: 20070256716
    Abstract: A weather forecasting umbrella includes a display device in the umbrella's handle that provides a visual indication of the day's weather, such as the probability of precipitation. The display device may take the form of one or more lamps that emit a color, or flash at a varying rate, to indicate forecast weather conditions. The weather forecast that is displayed is preferably obtained using a wireless receiver built into the umbrella that receives data via a wireless paging or cell broadcast network. A display screen may be used to display forecasted information in more detail, including the likelihood of precipitation and/or the forecast high and low temperature for the day.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Ambient Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Resner, Pritesh Gandhi, Nicholas Negroponte, Robert Dredge, David Rose
  • Publication number: 20070256717
    Abstract: A decorative theme patio umbrella slipcover includes: (a.) a flexible, water resistant, air tight sheet member having a top view of footprint area of a patio umbrella and having a center orifice adapted to permit an elongated top center member of the patio umbrella to pass therethrough; and, (b.) a connection mechanism for removably affixing the flexible sheet member atop said patio umbrella. The connection mechanism may be for connection to the permanent top fabric or the ribs of the umbrella, or both. It may be a single element, such as a band or pull, or it may be a plurality of disparate elements, such as clips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Wendy Stollar
  • Publication number: 20070256718
    Abstract: A mobility device for enhancing movement of a user limited by illness or injury made from an elongated element with a plurality of longitudinally adjacent sections with a sloped forearm cradling section and a correspondingly sloped handgrip section which together align the hand with the forearm to ergonometrically support the body of the user and reduce muscular activity needed during ambulation and while stationary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: R. Diaz
  • Publication number: 20070256719
    Abstract: A flexible waterproof flood protection container for protecting possessions from flood water, comprises a variable volume housing into which possessions can be placed and which can be water tightly sealed; means for stabilising the sealed housing when subjected to flood water, and two or more one-way valves for discharging air from the housing. The in use stabilising means defines two or more chambers in the housing as the interior volume of the housing varies. The chambers stabilise the housing when buoyant in flood water. The two or more one-way valves discharge air from the housing via the chambers, each one-way valve in use being in direct communication with one of the chambers defined by the stabilizing means. Due to the variable volume housing, when the housing is subjected to external pressure, the housing at least partially conforms to the possessions therein. Preferably, the housing has at least an expandable base by which the volume of the housing varies in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Thomas Hill
  • Publication number: 20070256720
    Abstract: A new method/device to secure beach umbrellas from movement using materials readily available on the beach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Lee Deane
  • Publication number: 20070256721
    Abstract: A tent support system includes a stake and rope made with flourescent material so they will be visible in low ambient light conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Cori Spain
  • Publication number: 20070256722
    Abstract: First and second conductive members having different Seebeck coefficients are formed on an insulating substrate. The first and second conductive members are connected by ohmic contact, and the surfaces connected by ohmic contact are covered with a material sheet having a superior heat conductivity and an electric insulating property in the junction surface, such as an aluminum sheet formed with surfaces provided with electric insulating property by alumite treatment or the like. On the opposite side, bonding wires are connected with the first and second conductive members by ohmic contact. The bonding wires are insulated from one another, and used as output terminals of an integrated parallel Peltier Seebeck element chip. The thus produced integrated parallel Peltier Seebeck element chips are connected by one or more serial or parallel cables, to form energy conversion apparatus from electricity to heat and thermal energy transfer apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Yoshiomi Kondoh
  • Publication number: 20070256723
    Abstract: Supporting frame structure for installing plain solar cell module plates and incidental facilities on a house roof is provided. The supporting structure is in the shape of pluralities of slope structured solar cell plate mount accompanied by cleaning accesses mounted on a rectangular cube frame. Side view of the solar cell plate mount forms a rectangular triangle on a square. The angle between the sloped top surface and the horizontal base is 3 to 75 degrees, depending on the latitude of the geometric location of the place where the solar cell plate modules are installed. Pluralities of ‘T’ shape fins are welded to the solar cell module plate mount and adhered to the bottom of the solar cell module plate to eliminate heat accumulated in the solar cell module plates and maintain the temperature of the solar cells therein under 80° C. The maintenance access is a space through which a worker may easily access the solar cell module plates to clean the surface thereof and also to replace the plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Eugene Oak
  • Publication number: 20070256724
    Abstract: A Cassegrain-type concentrating solar collector cell includes primary and secondary mirrors disposed on opposing convex and concave surfaces of a light-transparent (e.g., glass) optical element. Light enters an aperture surface surrounding the secondary mirror, and is reflected by the primary mirror toward the secondary mirror, which re-reflects the light onto a photovoltaic cell. The photovoltaic cell is mounted on a central portion of heat spreader that extends over the primary mirror. The heat spreader transmits waste heat from the photovoltaic cell in a manner that evenly distributes the heat over the optical element, thereby maximizing the radiation of heat from the aperture surface into space. The heat spreader includes a thick copper layer formed on a flexible substrate (e.g., polyimide film) that is patterned with radial arms that facilitate mounting onto the convex surface of the optical element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated
    Inventors: David Fork, Stephen Horne
  • Publication number: 20070256725
    Abstract: A Cassegrain-type concentrating solar collector cell includes primary and secondary mirrors disposed on opposing convex and concave surfaces of a light-transparent (e.g., glass) optical element. Light enters an aperture surface surrounding the secondary mirror, and is reflected by the primary mirror and the secondary mirror onto a photovoltaic cell, which is disposed in a central cavity formed in the optical element. A resilient, optically transmissive material is disposed in the central cavity between the PV cell and the optical element. The photovoltaic cell has a squarish upper surface including metal electrical contact structures disposed on each of the four corners of the upper surface and arranged to define a circular active area. The PV cell is mounted on a heat slug that is disposed in the central cavity during assembly. The heat slug includes resilient fingers that contact the surface of the cavity to facilitate self-alignment of the PV cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated
    Inventors: David Fork, David Duff, Michael Weisberg, Thomas Zimmermann, Stephen Horne
  • Publication number: 20070256726
    Abstract: A solar concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) device in which concentrator elements (optics, PV cells and wiring) are laminated to form a composite, substantially planar structure. The concentrator optics are implemented by a solid (e.g. glass) optical element that defines a focal point at which solar light received by the optical element is concentrated. Using vacuum lamination techniques, a printed circuit structure attached by way of an adhesive layer onto a surface of the optical element. The printed circuit structure includes one or more non-conductive layers and conductors that are disposed on the non-conductive layers. The PV cell is connected to printed circuit structure, and is positioned at the focal point of the optical element. Optional front and/or back protective layers are also attached prior to the lamination process. A CPV array includes multiple devices formed on an optical tile using a string-like flexible printed circuit structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated
    Inventors: David Fork, Stephen Horne
  • Publication number: 20070256727
    Abstract: The present invention is for a system and method of creating a continuous, seamless, waterproof, weatherproof, electrically generating surface that can be applied over a great variety of structural components. The method comprises coating the selected surface with a base elastomeric coating thus sealing holes, cracks and other surface imperfections. In one embodiment, the base elastomeric coating is allowed to dry and at least one photovoltaic module is placed on the base elastomeric coating by using another coat of elastomeric material applied to the underside surface of the photovoltaic module or on the surface of the base elastomeric coating where the photovoltaic module will be applied. Another layer of an elastomeric coating is applied covering the perimeter edges of the photovoltaic module creating a continuous, seamless, waterproof, weatherproof surface capable of generating electricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Gumm
  • Publication number: 20070256728
    Abstract: A silicon solar cell has doped amorphous silicon contacts formed on a tunnel silicon oxide layer on a surface of a silicon substrate. High temperature processing is unnecessary in fabricating the solar cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: SunPower Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Cousins
  • Publication number: 20070256729
    Abstract: A method of passivating current-shunting defects in a photovoltaic device and such passivated photovoltaic devices are described. The photovoltaic device includes a thin film body with a superposed electrode comprised of a layer of transparent electrically conductive electrode material. The method includes converting the transparent, electrically conductive electrode material to a material having a higher electrical resistivity than the transparent electrically conductive electrode material or by removing the transparent conducting electrode material, by simultaneously: 1) immersing at least a portion of the electrode in a conversion reagent, 2) illuminating the immersed electrode with a suitable source of illumination, and 3) applying an appropriate electrical bias to activate the conversion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO
    Inventors: Aarohi Vijh, Xunming Deng
  • Publication number: 20070256730
    Abstract: The invention relates to a solar cell which comprises photoactive semiconductor layers extending between the front and the back contact, and an integrated protective diode (bypass diode), said protective diode having a polarity opposite to that of the solar cell and is provided at its front with a p-conducting semiconductor layer, and the protective diode is connected to the front contact. The aim of the invention is to provide a highly stable protective diode and to prevent a migration of metal atoms. For this purpose, a tunnel diode (38) extends on the p-conducting semiconductor layer (36) of the protective diode (32), said tunnel diode being connected to the front contact (14) via an n+ layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Gerhard Strobl
  • Publication number: 20070256731
    Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide a gel electrolyte precursor for use in a dye-sensitized solar cell which is easy to handle when used to fabricate solar cells and provides a solar cell excellent in photoelectric conversion efficiency and to provide dye-sensitized solar cells. Dye-sensitized solar cell 10 is made up of: an electrode consisting of transparent substrate 12a with transparent conductive film 14a and metal oxide semiconductor layer 16 deposited on its surface and sensitizing dye layer 18 supported thereon; and an electrode consisting of transparent glass plate 12b with transparent conductive film 14b deposited on its surface and a good-conducting metal sputter-deposited thereon, wherein between the two electrodes a closed space is defined by separator 20, and electrolyte layer 22, which is a gelled electrolysis solution, is arranged in the closed space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION KYUSHU INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Shuzi Hayase
  • Publication number: 20070256732
    Abstract: A photovoltaic module includes at least one photovoltaic cell and a transparent layer. The transparent layer is positioned above the photovoltaic cell, wherein the transparent layer has a plurality of protruding parts arranged on at least one surface of the transparent layer, which faces the outside, inside or both of the photovoltaic module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Ming-Hsien Shen
  • Publication number: 20070256733
    Abstract: A solar cell includes a photoelectric conversion substrate, a first electrode on one surface of the substrate, a second electrode on the other surface of the substrate, and a third electrode on the other surface of the substrate. The third electrode extracts electric power from the second electrode, and overlaps the second electrode at the periphery in the in-plane direction of the photoelectric conversion substrate. The thickness of the second electrode is larger than that of the third electrode, and the difference between the thickness of the second electrode and that of the third electrode is not less than 10 micrometers and not more than 30 micrometers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Shoichi Karakida, Takahiko Nishida, Mitsunori Nakatani, Hiroaki Morikawa
  • Publication number: 20070256734
    Abstract: A semiconductor device of p-i-n type configuration includes a p layer which is comprised of a p-doped semiconductor material, an n layer comprised of an n-doped semiconductor material and an i layer comprised of a substantially intrinsic, nanocrystalline semiconductor material interposed therebetween. The crystalline volume in the i layer decreases as the thickness of said layer increases from its interface with the n layer to its interface with the p layer. The grain size of the substantially intrinsic nanocrystalline semiconductor material may also decrease as the thickness of the i layer increases from its interface with the n layer to its interface with the p layer. The volume of regions of intermediate range order in a portion of the i layer commencing at the interface of the i layer and the p layer, and comprising no more than 50% of the thickness thereof, is greater than is the volume of regions of intermediate range order in the remainder of the i layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Subhendu Guha, Chi Yang, Baojie Yan, Guozhen Yue
  • Publication number: 20070256735
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a porous body containing an oxide semiconductor in which more efficient photocatalytic reactions and photoelectrode reactions occur. The present invention relates to a porous body having a network structure skeleton wherein 1) the aforementioned skeleton is composed of an inner part and a surface part, 2) the aforementioned inner part is substantially made of carbon material, and 3) all or part of the aforementioned surface part is an oxide semiconductor, and to a manufacturing method therefor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuka Yamada, Masa-aki Suzuki, Nobuyasu Suzuki, Yasunori Morinaga, Hidehiro Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20070256736
    Abstract: The disclosed invention relates to a process, comprising: conducting unit operations in at least two process zones in a process microchannel to treat and/or form a non-Newtonian fluid, a different unit operation being conducted in each process zone; and applying an effective amount of shear stress to the non-Newtonian fluid to reduce the viscosity of the non-Newtonian fluid in each process zone, the average shear rate in one process zone differing from the average shear rate in another process zone by a factor of at least about 1.2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Anna Lee Tonkovich, Ravi Arora, David Kilanowski, Eric Daymo
  • Publication number: 20070256737
    Abstract: A gaseous fuel management system for an automotive vehicle includes at least one gas sensor for detecting the presence of gaseous fuel outside of the confines of the vehicle's fuel storage tank, fuel lines, and prime mover. In the event that fugitive gas is detected and the concentration exceeds a predetermined threshold, the fuel supply to the vehicle's prime mover will be shut off and, if so equipped, the vehicle may then be operated in a battery power mode for the convenience of the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Suriyaprakash Janarthanam, John Blankenship, Steven Szwabowski, Anthony Grabowski, Arun Jaura, Theodore Filippi, Michael Brown, Richard Soltis, John Grabowski
  • Publication number: 20070256738
    Abstract: A dishwasher is provided having a controller for switching on or off, or for selection of operational functions for the dishwasher, the controller thus providing improved ease of operation and being relatively unaffected by wear and contamination. The controller has at least one touch-sensitive surface with switching functions allocated to at least one operating function, whereby the switching functions of the touch-sensitive surface may be operated with a light contact and the relevant operating function is then switched on or off, or selected. The touch-sensitive surface of the controller preferably reacts to the change in the electromagnetic field, resulting from a touching of the touch-sensitive surface, whereupon the relevant operating function is switched on or off, or selected. Improved ease of use may be achieved, whereby only a slight effort is required for selection, or to switch on a particular rinsing program, or operating function on the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Haugerate, GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Rosenbauer, Bernd Schessl
  • Publication number: 20070256739
    Abstract: “SINGLE SYSTEM FOR CONTROL OF HIGH OR LOW PRESSURE GASES FLOW RATE AND VALVE FOR CONTROL OF HIGH OR LOW PRESSURE GASES”, consists essentially in a system (S), which has active control of the movement of the valve (1) ram (E) solely by the concept of measurement of the flow rate and by the difference of pressure between the input and output of said valve (1), which, based on certain preconceived parameters, opens or closes the ram (E) so as to compensate the error between the actual and programmed flow rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: THERMOJET DO BRASIL LTDA.
    Inventors: Ricardo Passos, Alfredo Jose De Castro, Caio Peret, Eduardo Polati, Heldai Ferreira, Sergio Donke, Rodrigo Muzzutti, Renato Giacomini, Renato Gallina
  • Publication number: 20070256740
    Abstract: A split flapper check valve includes a torsion spring wear reduction mechanism. In particular, the valve includes a pair of bushings on a shaft to which a pair of valve plates is rotationally mounted. A torsion spring is also mounted on the shaft and is configured to bias the valve plates toward a closed position. The wear reduction mechanism is implemented using a pair of bushings that are disposed between the shaft and the torsion spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Maureen Sugai, David Tornquist, Lisa Sedacca
  • Publication number: 20070256741
    Abstract: In a control valve for use in both-hand operation provided with an AND valve (20) and a shuttle valve (21) connected to a main input ports (11a and 11b), a main switching valve (23) connected between the AND valve (20) and a main output port (12), and a tank (30) connected to an output port (21b) of the shuttle valve (21) through an aperture (26) in a valve body (10), valve holes of the AND valve (20), the shuttle valve (21), and the main switching valve (23) are pierced from an upper surface of the valve body (10), and a plate (33) for closing end portions of the valve holes and a cover (31) for forming the tank (30) are fixed in an airtight manner at the upper surface of the valve body (10), and continuous holes (33a and 33b) necessary for connecting the tank (30), the main switching valve (23), and the aperture (26) are pierced in the plate (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: SMC Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Hanne
  • Publication number: 20070256742
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing tool includes parallel spaced first and second manifolds supporting therebetween an elongated actuator unit having a tubular body confining a piston connected to move a valve actuator stem projecting into a releasable coupler mounted on the second manifold. The manifolds also support therebetween a plurality of elongated valve units each having a tubular valve body defining a valve chamber and a chamber receiving a piston connected to move an elongated valve member. Each valve body has a port for receiving a corresponding fluid supply line or an evacuation line. The first manifold has separate passages connecting air control lines to the piston chambers for moving the actuator stem and each valve member axially. The second manifold has a fluid passage connecting each valve chamber to the coupler, and a handle supports the tool and a finger actuator connected to the coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Randy Robinson, Glenn Danner, Matthew Smith
  • Publication number: 20070256743
    Abstract: Pressure regulators find uses in a variety of applications such as, for example, pneumatic tools, water systems, and paintball markers. Pressure regulators may substantially benefit from a separate seal carrier adapted to facilitate maintenance, improve performance, and open independent of piston movement; poppet bypass bores to increase regulated fluid flow; and, an outlet poppet adapted to operate independent of the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Dale Carpenter
    Inventors: Dale Carpenter, Jason Henley
  • Publication number: 20070256744
    Abstract: An internal housing for a sanitary fitting has a receiving opening for receiving a control cartridge. The receiving opening is bounded along its circumference by a wall and at its lower end by a base. In order to supply water to the control cartridge, the internal housing has an inlet opening passing through the base. A discharge opening for the discharge of the water flowing out from the control cartridge also passes through the base. In order to ensure a leak-tight transition between the internal housing and the control cartridge, an inlet seal groove open on its upper side and completely surrounding the inlet opening, and a discharge seal groove open on its upper side and completely surrounding the discharge opening are formed in the base. The inlet seal groove is for receiving an inlet seal element and the discharge seal groove is for receiving a discharge seal element that consequently bear against the internal housing and against the control cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: KWC AG
    Inventors: Andre Leutwyler, Herbert Gloor
  • Publication number: 20070256745
    Abstract: A detent apparatus for water temperature regulation of induction faucets includes a mixer located in a faucet and a swiveling mechanism located in the mixer. The swiveling mechanism has a rotary valve and a handle located outside the mixer and the faucet. The handle is fastened to an end seat located on one end of the rotary valve through a coupling member. The detent apparatus includes a detent portion preferably formed integrally with the mixer and located on the outer surface of the mixer body in a protrusive manner. The detent portion has a top end surface spaced beneath a bucking portion of the end seat at a selected distance. When the end seat is swiveled the bucking portion hits a left bucking angle or a right bucking angle of the top end surface thereby the swiveling angle of the end seat is confined within a limited range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Jan Chen
  • Publication number: 20070256746
    Abstract: A ball valve includes a valve seat having a chamber therein and bores communicated with the chamber, a ball, which has a plurality of channels, received in the chamber, a shaft connected to the ball, and a plurality of lids connected to the valve seat to close the bores. The ball valve further includes two plugs received in the chamber, each of which has a through hole and a concave portion fitting the ball to completely cover the ball therein when the first plug is combined with the second plug, a first recess, two second recesses at opposite sides of the first recess and two slot around the second recesses respectively, wherein the slots form two receiving slots when the first plug is combined with the second plug, and two pads, each of which has a through hole, received in the receiving slots respectively to cover the ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Hung-Chung Chang
  • Publication number: 20070256747
    Abstract: Embodiments of the motor driven valve 100 are suitable for selectively allowing or restricting fluid flow through a cavity, orifice, passageway, etc. Generally described, the motor driven valve 100 includes a motor 120, a pintle valve 140 drivenly connected to the motor 120 through a transmission assembly 160, and a casing 102 that houses at least one of the aforementioned components of the motor driven valve 100.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: GT Development
    Inventor: John Morris
  • Publication number: 20070256748
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser device (1) for associating with a fluid reservoir (3), the device including at least one check valve (12, 2) that is suitable for controlling the flow of fluid through the device, the check valve comprising a seat (12), and a movable valve member (2) that defines a contact zone that is suitable for bearing against the seat (12) in leaktight manner, the device including resilient prestress means (23) that urge the valve member in leaktight contact against its seat (12) at rest, the device being characterized in that the prestress means (23) are formed integrally with the valve member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: VALOIS SAS
    Inventor: Xavier Brahim
  • Publication number: 20070256749
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a venturi tube 10? having a certain fluid flow direction is provided. The method provides a first core member 11 in a mold. The first core member has a periphery and an end 21 of a certain size. A second core member 17 is provided in the mold upstream of the first core member. The second core member has a periphery and an end 22 with a size that is less than the certain size. At least a portion of the end of the second core member is disposed adjacent to at least a portion of the end of the first core member such that a step is defined between the first and second core members. Material is molded about the peripheries of the first and second core members such that the peripheries define a stepped fluid flow surface of a venturi tube, and so that any resulting flash occurs only in the certain flow direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: Paul Briggs
  • Publication number: 20070256750
    Abstract: A centraliser for centring one pipe within another comprises a plurality of skids which extend outwards from the outer surface of an inner pipe into contact with the inner surface of an outer pipe The skids are independent of one another and are secured to the outer surface of a pipe with the skids extending radially from the pipe surface. The skids have apertures to receive a securing band or bands which can be passed around the pipe, received in the apertures of the skids and tensioned to secure the skids to the pipe surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Applicant: U.W.G. Limited
    Inventor: Mark CROOK
  • Publication number: 20070256751
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a corrugated pipe made of thermoplastic plastic, which includes an inner pipe and a corrugated outer pipe connected thereto, wherein the profile of the outer pipe includes first sections with a first average diameter, second sections with a second average diameter greater than the first average diameter, and, disposed therebetween, flanks that connect the first sections to the respective adjacent second sections. The geometric relationships of the corrugated pipe are designed to yield not only high rigidity against pressure forces acting on the corrugated pipe in the radial direction and high flexibility with regard to bending of the corrugated pipe transversely to its longitudinal axis, but also, at the same time, a low weight in comparison to conventional corrugated pipes. This reduces the consumption of plastic during production and makes the corrugated pipe easier to handle when it is being laid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Michael Kellner, Claus Hetzner
  • Publication number: 20070256752
    Abstract: A laying pipe (1) for a laying head for winding rounded rods comprises a first external pipe (5) with a first rectilinear section (2) and a second spiral section (3). A second internal pipe (10) in a single piece, with external diameter equal to the internal diameter of the first pipe (5) is inserted inside it in the first section (2). The laying pipe also has a sleeve (6) fixed at the rod entry end (4) which has the entry edges with fillet or a chamfer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Andrea De Luca, Alfredo Poloni
  • Publication number: 20070256753
    Abstract: Stethiclean is an apparatus for cleansing the stethoscope head on the stethoscope. The stethoscope is the most widely used piece of medical equipment in patient care settings and performs a variety of functions necessary to caring for patients. The cleansing apparatus of the present invention includes a housing unit, bactericidal fluid chamber that communicates with a cleansing surface pad. The cleansing pad allows health care providers to disinfect the stethoscope head of microbes with one downward sliding movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Madeline Riley
  • Publication number: 20070256754
    Abstract: In the case of a filling level sensor (1) for detecting a fuel filling level in a fuel tank (2), a lever arm (7) which secures a float (6) has a guide part (14). The guide part (14) interacts with an installation opening (3) in the fuel tank (2) and deflects the lever arm (7) in a designated direction. This avoids the filling level sensor (1) being damaged during installation in the fuel tank (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: Hans-Guenter Benner, Bernd Pauer
  • Publication number: 20070256755
    Abstract: A connector is provided for use with an orifice with internally-retained cap. Unlike conventional connectors, the invention provides a passage for the restraint that retains the associated cap internal to the orifice and a fitting which engages the method used for the cap to seal the orifice. As a result the invention may be used to safely engage any neck, whether threaded, keyed or otherwise sealable, of any vessel, whether by threading, being keyed, or having a press-fit connection. The connector may also be eccentrically constructed so that it may be aligned nonconcentrically to the orifice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Sawyer King