Abstract: A turbine shaft to which a turbine is fixed is supported by a bearing supporting member via bearings so as to rotate freely. The bearing supporting member is supported by a housing via the damper member. The damper member is formed by knitting a wire made of metal.

Abstract: A rocker box assembly for a motorcycle engine having a cylinder head. The rocker box assembly includes a base, a cover, and a breather assembly. The base is configured to be coupled to the cylinder head. The cover is coupled to the base and cooperates with the base to it least partially define a rocker chamber and to at least partially define a breather assembly housing within the rocker chamber. The breather assembly is positioned within the breather assembly housing and is operable to vent a pressure pulse from within the engine.

Abstract: An intake passage has an upstream portion in an upstream side of a supercharger, an intermediate portion between a supercharger and a throttle valve, and a downstream portion in a downstream side of the throttle valve. A first breather passage connects an interior of an engine with the downstream portion. A second breather passage connects the interior of the engine with the upstream portion. Introduction passages communicate the upstream portion with the interior of the engine at a non-supercharging time, and connect at least one of the intermediate portion and the downstream portion with the interior of the engine at a supercharging time. Thus, the interior of the engine is efficiently ventilated.

Abstract: An oven with a baking chamber includes a crossflow fan with a connected cooling air duct configured to generate a cooling air stream that is exhausted to outside the oven. A vapor exhaust duct opening is included into the cooling air duct so as to exhaust vapors from the baking chamber therethrough. The vapor exhaust duct has an opening area disposed in an immediate vicinity of an exhaust area of the crossflow fan where a suction capacity for the vapors from the vapor exhaust duct is generated at a minimum rotational speed of the fan propeller.

Abstract: An outdoor cooking cooker having a lid biased towards an open position by a torsional spring and able to remain partially open at a plurality of partially open positions by increased friction against the lid along a pivot. The outdoor cooking cooker may also include a vertical lifting device for lifting a single rack or multiple racks out from the outdoor cooking cooker and a device for coupling the racks together. The outdoor cooking device can include a firebox that is double-walled and may be mounted upon a trailer for easier transportation between locations. A flexible peripheral seal damps sound and seals against leakage when the lid is moved to a closed position.

Abstract: A kitchen device includes a first body part, to be fixedly mounted, a second body part, mobile in relation to the first body part, and a locking mechanism for locking the second body part in a locked position. In order to provide a kitchen device of the aforementioned kind that can be flexibly adapted to the space available in a kitchen, the locking mechanism is adjustable.

Abstract: A monitoring system is connected to a hot water heating system. The monitoring system includes a controller and various controls and sensors. Sensors are connected to the components of the hot water heating system including the thermostats, pipes, pumps and valves. Controls are connected to the pumps and valves to control operation of the hot water heating system for testing. During normal operation of the hot water heating system, the sensors are monitored to ensure proper operation. If the heating system does not operate within certain defined time parameters, the system is activated to test components of the heating system. An alarm is activated if the system does not operate properly.

Abstract: A space heater has a microprocessor control that is configured to receive signals from at least the (i) ignition sensor associated with the burner, (ii) the flue pressure sensor, (iii) the secondary header temperature sensor, (iv) the fire box thermistor, and (v) the condensate sump level sensor, and in response thereto, control at least the operation of (a) the inducer, (b) the convection fan, (c) the condensate pump, (d) the burner ignitor, (e) the burner gas valve, and (f) the main gas valve.

Abstract: Examples and variations of apparatus and Methods for concentrating solar radiation are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a variant of a parent Termamyl-like alpha-amylase, which variant has a-amylase activity and exhibits an alteration in at least one of the following properties relative to said parent a-amylase: substrate specificity, substrate binding, substrate cleavage pattern, thermal stability, pH/activity profile, pH/stability profile, stability towards oxidation, Ca2+ dependency and specific activity.

Abstract: A nebulizer for efficiently and reliably delivering aerosolized fluid to an inhaling patient is disclosed. The nebulizer, in one embodiment, includes a fluid channel air inlet and fluid channel air inlet valve responsive to either a manual force external of the nebulizer, or a patient's breathing, to begin the nebulization process. The nebulizer also includes a fluid return channel to a fluid source, such as a removable vial, containing fluid to be aerosolized.

Abstract: An inhalation device for delivering doses of medicament to a user comprising:—a canister (5), said canister being adapted to accommodate the medicament to be dispensed to a user, and—a counter (15) which is connected to the canister (5). According to the invention—the canister (5) is adapted to receive the counter (15) on a base end (6a),—the counter and/or the canister further having contact parts (18, 20) for their attachment having means for increasing the friction and thereby allowing the counter to fixedly be attached onto the canister in a range of different positions in the lengthwise direction,—the counter further being adapted to during the process to assemble the counter to the canister, be urged onto the canister until the length of the counter and canister together is within a predefined tolerance of a predefined length.

Abstract: An inhaler has a cap body (150) for defining a flow path (101) through which an airflow moves and having, formed in it, first and second air inhalation openings (152a, 152b) for introducing outside air into the flow path (101) from the outside of a nebulizer (100A); an air inhalation valve (140) for opening and closing the first air inhalation opening (152a) by using the difference in pressure between the flow path (101) and the outside of the nebulizer (100A); and a shielding section (132) capable of selectively shielding either of the first and second air inhalation openings (152a, 152b).

Abstract: A respiratory protective hood design that aligns rigid components of the respiratory protective hood into a predetermined geometric configuration suitable for a visor to overlay without causing the visor to crease while in the packaged state. An exhalation unit abuts two filtration units on each side to create a substantially uniform surface area over which a visor is disposed while in a packaged state.

Abstract: A particulate respirator facepiece has photocatalyst in the airflow path and a light source that illuminates the photocatalyst. Photocatalyst may include titanium oxide, tin oxide and other semiconductor photocatalysts. Strong oxidizers generated by the illuminated photocatalyst kill infectious agents and decompose toxic organic compounds. The particulate respirator facepiece can be used outdoors, illuminated by natural sunlight; indoors, illuminated by ambient lighting, and; in the dark, with the built-in light source. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) or another source of light built in to the particulate respirator facepiece illuminates the photocatalyst. Light conductors may be incorporated to distribute light from the built-in light source over the photocatalyst.

Abstract: Headgear for a patient interface includes at least one headgear strap and an indicator provided to the at least one headgear strap structured to indicate attainment of a desired adjustment setting of the headgear in response to headgear tension applied to the at least one headgear strap.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting an injection port subcutaneously implanted in a patient includes a magnetic device, such as a permanent magnet or a solenoid, that emits a local magnetic field, and a magnetic detector, preferably including at least one Hall element, that detects the local magnetic field. The magnetic device is designed to be subcutaneously implanted in the patient at the implanted injection port, and the magnetic detector is movable externally along the patient's body to establish an injection position at the patient's skin in front of the implanted injection port where the local magnetic field emitted by the magnetic device is detected by the magnetic detector. As a result, an injection needle can be placed in the established injection position, in order to insert the injection needle through the patient's skin directly into the injection port substantially in the centre thereof.

Abstract: Surgical monitoring techniques determine various time periods associated with various surgical contexts based on information received from a patient monitor. The time periods can include start and end times and be determined by comparisons with predetermined data patterns, which can be based on heuristic and/or statistical classifications, as well as in conjunction with information received from other medical equipment. Various monitors and/or detectors and/or controllers can also operate in conjunction therewith.

Abstract: A hair care applicator of the present invention is one that can, while combing hair by a comber made up of comb members and a porous application body arranged along the comb members, apply an application liquid in a container being attached to the hair by means of the porous application body. The porous application body of the hair care applicator has a porosity (Vd) falling within a range of 70 to 85%. With this arrangement, the hair care applicator and the applicator-equipped cosmetic container can deliver a suitable supply of application liquid without liquid leakage of the application liquid and, in addition, can assure sufficient application performance, preventing the application liquid or the like from being directly applied to the scalp. Here the porosity is defined as Vd={1?(w/?sh)}×100, where w is the mass of the porous application body, s is the cross-section of the porous application body, ? is the mean density of the porous application body and h is the length of the porous application body.

Abstract: A kiosk apparatus that may select for a person a recommended footcare product based on pressure measurements collected from pressures sensors or calculated biomechanical data estimates. Pressure measurements and calculated biomechanical data estimates may be used to determine if a foot is unshod on the pressure sensor and also group a person into a classified subgroup. The pressure measurement and calculated biomechanical data estimates may also be used to select a recommended footcare product.

Abstract: A brush for applying mascara or the like, having a cross-sectional bristle array with two visibly distinct portions for respectively performing different mascara-applying and combing functions.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an application tool (1) and methods to use the same. The application tool (1) comprises two plates (22), connected together. At least one of said two plates (22) comprises a fluid control zone (50), which run along the perimeter edge (30) of said at least one plate (22), a displacement zone (60), which at least partially separate said fluid control zone (50) from a containment zone (70). A hair treatment composition may be loaded onto the containment zone (70). Application of hair treatment compositions through the application tool (1) according to the invention allows for a precise, non-messy and clean targeting of the hair treatment composition on a hair strand and it is especially useful for highlighting and dyeing compositions.

Abstract: The present invention describes a hair treatment application system, comprising at least one or more hair treatment compositions (15) having a viscosity of from 3,000 cPs to 150,000 cPs and a hair treatment application device (1) comprising a first plate (10) and a second plate (20) positionable in a juxtaposed relationship when said hair treatment application device (1) is in a closed state. The hair treatment application device (1) is characterized by having a first zone comprising at least one absorbent substrate (40) on the internal surface (101) of said at least said first plates (10) and a second zone (50) on said internal surface (101) which is free of said absorbent substrate (40). Said at least one absorbent substrate (40) has a median pore radius of from 300 microns to 3,000 micron. The present invention describes also methods of treating the hair with said hair treatment application system (10) and kit comprising said hair treatment application system.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hair treatment application system (10) and methods to use the same. The hair treatment application system (10) comprises the combination of at least one absorbent substrate (30) having specific median pore radius of from about 300 microns to about 3,000 microns and of one or more hair treatment composition (15), each having a viscosity of from about 3,00 cPs to about 150,000 cPs. The hair treatment application system (10) according to the invention allows for easy, non-messy and precise application of hair treatment compositions (15) in particular of highlighting compositions.

Abstract: A molded plastic applicator for cosmetics, such as a mascara brush, including an integral molded plastic panel that lies substantially in a mold plane when formed and is bent out of the mold plane to surround an extended longitudinal axis when the applicator is assembled. A plurality of openings, or projections such as bristles, are formed in or on the panel so as to be oriented substantially in a common pull direction transverse to the mold plane when the panel lies in the mold plane and to be oriented substantially radially of the longitudinal axis in directions distributed around the axis when the panel is bent to surround the axis. A retainer holds the panel bent out of the plane in surrounding relation to the axis.

Abstract: A hair clip is provided. The hair clip has a lower clip piece and an upper clip piece connected through a pivot connection with a hinge pin and coil spring. The upper clip piece has a bottom portion that defines a concavity portion for defining a hair holding space to hold hair in a bundled state. A finger is connected to the upper clip piece through a pivot connection and for holding hair in a bundled state. A guide loop is connected to a rear end portion of the finger through a pivot connection. The guide loop prevents hair from entering a joint portion defined by the finger and the upper clip piece.

Abstract: This applicator for cosmetic products, or lipstick, is a single or multiple ply card with an embossed pattern that retains a sample of lipstick from a separate container. The pattern shears lipstick from a tube onto the applicator. Also, the pattern assists a consumer in placing the cosmetic upon the applicator. In use, a woman selects a lipstick and moves the applicator, with the raised pattern, or field, down, across the lipstick source. The lipstick collects between the embossing of the raised field. A woman folds the applicator, moves it to her mouth, and transfers the sample to her lips. Following use, a woman reverse folds the applicator and encloses the raised field and sample residue for disposal.

Abstract: The Lotion Maid is used to apply creams, lotions, sunblock and other preparations to the back and difficult to reach areas of the body. By simply attaching your favorite applicator by means of the clip on the end, lotions etc. can be spread on hard to reach areas. Since the applicator can be cotton balls, washcloths or other household items they can be either disposed of or washed therefore a clean pad can be used for different lotions and several persons can use the same lotion maid making it cost effective for the entire family. The lotion maid has a pivot near the clip so that it can glide easily across the skin and the rubberized handle makes it easy for anyone to grip it even if they have limited mobility.

Abstract: A flame torch can be used to clean the surface of a contact-sensitive object, such as a glass optic, extremely thin workpiece, or semiconductor wafer by providing a reactive precursor gas to the feed gases of the torch. Reactive atom plasma processing can be used to clean the surface of a contaminant that chemically combines with the atomic radicals of the precursor without affecting the surface. The torch can also be used to modify the surface after cleaning, without transferring the object or engaging in any intermediate processing, by supplying a second reactive precursor that reacts with the surface itself. The flame torch can be used to shape, polish, etch, planarize, deposit, chemically modify and/or redistribute material on the surface of the object. This description is not intended to be a complete description of, or limit the scope of, the invention. Other features, aspects, and objects of the invention can be obtained from a review of the specification, the figures, and the claims.

Abstract: Chemical method of cleaning metallic residue from forming tools utilizing the application of a caustic material including base or mild acid to the tool for a short period of time. The caustic material is held in substantially fixed relation for a period of time to dislodge the metallic residue followed by neutralization or removal.

Abstract: A method for removing residue from a workpiece includes preparing a liquid including de-ionized water, sulfuric acid, and optionally hydrofluoric acid. Carbon dioxide gas is provided into the liquid. The liquid is maintained at a desired temperature. The liquid is applied onto a workpiece in a process chamber. The liquid may be formed into a liquid layer on the workpiece having a controlled thickness. Ozone gas may be introduced into the chamber and chemically reacts with residue on the workpiece. In a second separate method the liquid includes de-ionized water, highly dilute hydrofluoric acid and carbon dioxide, with no need for ozone gas.

Abstract: A method of washing a vehicle with a gantry-type apparatus in only two passes uses the first pass to apply a pre-wash solution while subsequently brushing the top and sides of the vehicle and a second pass to initially brush the sides of the vehicle, then apply a spot-free rinse solution to the vehicle, then brush the top of the vehicle and subsequently apply a drying agent alone or mixed with a spot-free rinse. When the drying agent is applied alone, a spot-free rinse is applied separately and subsequent to the application of the drying agent.

Abstract: A flap for a hood on a mechanized sweeper comprises a cartridge, a rubber member, and connectors. The cartridge is configured to extend perpendicularly downward from an upper surface on the hood. The rubber member is configured to attach to the cartridge and further configured to extend perpendicularly downward from the upper surface of the hood in line with the cartridge. The connectors are configured to attach the cartridge to the hood such that the rubber member extends downward to a depth equal to the depth of the hood.

Abstract: A flap for a hood on a mechanized sweeper comprises a rubber member and connectors. The rubber member has a horizontal portion configured to overlay an upper surface of the hood and attach to the hood. The rubber member further has a vertical portion configured to extend perpendicularly downward from the upper surface of the hood. The connectors are configured to attach the horizontal portion of the rubber member to the hood such that the vertical portion of the rubber member extends downward to a depth equal to the depth of the hood.

Abstract: A device for a mechanized sweeper includes a hood and a moveable connector. The hood has a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the hood is configured to attach to the sweeper. The moveable connector is configured to connect the hood to the sweeper. The connector is configured to lift the front portion of the hood.

Abstract: A method of laundering a fabric load is disclosed including the steps of processing a fabric load in an aqueous-based working fluid, substantially replacing the aqueous-based working fluid with a non-aqueous working fluid of the type which extracts some of the aqueous-based working fluid from the fabric load.

Abstract: A dishwasher comprising at least one partial program step “drying” in which air from a washing container of the dishwasher and/or ambient air is directed through a sorption column with reversibly dehydratable material into the washing container by a fan, and humidity is removed from the air when the same is directed therethrough. The fan is operated at different rotational speeds in accordance with a main controller of the dishwasher in order to influence the adsorption process.

Abstract: A washing apparatus has a housing comprising a spray element such that in use, fluid is forced through at least one aperture creating a substantially elongate spray onto at least one roller wheel or roller sleeve substantially causing the roller wheel to spin and be washed or cleaned. A method of washing a roller in a washing apparatus is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing comprising a spray element such that in use, fluid is forced through at least one aperture creating a substantially elongate spray onto at least one roller wheel or roller sleeve substantially causing the roller wheel to spin and be washed or cleaned wherein the following steps include: inserting roller therein by opening the apparatus or sliding the roller therein; connecting the apparatus to a fluid supply element such as a faucet or hose; and initiating fluid flow to wash or clean the roller.

Abstract: This invention provides a method of inhibiting corrosion on a vessel with particular relevance to storage or transport vessels holding corrosive materials. The invention also provides a method for preventing contamination and maintaining quality of materials stored or transported within a vessel. The method includes providing a new or freshly cleaned storage or transport vessel and applying a water-based corrosion inhibitor or an organic solvent-based corrosion inhibitor to the inner surface of the vessel. The vessel is optionally exposed to heat or airflow to facilitate drying of the surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for wet processing individual wafers comprising; a means for holding the wafer; a means for providing acoustic energy to a non-device side of the wafer; and a means for flowing a fluid onto a device side of the wafer.

Abstract: An apparatus for wet processing individual wafers comprising; a means for holding the wafer; a means for providing acoustic energy to a non-device side of the wafer; and a means for flowing a fluid onto a device side of the wafer.

Abstract: A process of stripping a coating according to the invention comprises subjecting a coated substrate to an aqueous medium containing a peroxide and an interfacial mixing agent, and to heating preferably by either ultraviolet (UV) and/or infrared (IR) radiation. The substrate is completely stripped of the coating and suffers no damage to itself as a result of the paint debonding/dislodging process. No toxic wastes are generated from this process, nor are particulates associated with air pollution generated. The metal substrates being stripped also do not undergo corrosion or other damage as a result of the described process.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a laminated substrate fabrication apparatus that efficiently cleans a surface used to attract a substrate while enabling stable cleaning. A cleaning unit, which includes an attraction surface for attracting and holding the substrate, is arranged in a processing chamber to clean the attraction surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides a microbubble washing composition for washing a human body or an animal, a microbubble washing method using the microbubble washing composition, and a microbubble washing apparatus suitable for carrying out the method are provided which are capable of safely removing sebum and old keratin adhering to the surfaces of the pores in a short period of time, keeping the skin clean for a long period of time, preventing an odor. Specifically, the present invention provides a microbubble washing composition for washing a human body or an animal including a protease and a lipase, a microbubble washing method for washing a human body or an animal including washing a human body or an animal using a washing liquid containing the washing composition and microbubbles, and a microbubble washing apparatus.

Abstract: An adjustable beach umbrella assembly has a securing mechanism to attach it to the beach or ground, and then has an umbrella securing mechanism to securely and adjustably hold a beach umbrella in a desired place through an attachment mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus for assisting a user in walking is provided. The apparatus includes a shaft with an axis through the center. The shaft has an elongated portion and a tip on one end for contacting the ground. A handle with a plurality of finger receiving portions are present that extend around a portion of the outer perimeter of the handle. The handle has an axis through the center and the finger receiving grooves are oriented at an angle to the axis of the handle so that the finger receiving grooves extend along a portion of the length of the axis of the handle. The top of the handle is oriented so that the finger receiving grooves are between the top and the shaft.

Abstract: A collapsible and portable enclosure, for providing covering concealment to a user, includes one or more flexible plastic window panels which function as one-way mirrors during daylight hours. The enclosure includes a fabric cover having at least one side wall, and a support structure for supporting the fabric cover. The support structure may include a plurality of collapsible hub-and-strut assemblies. The fabric cover has at least one window opening formed through the side wall, and a flexible panel extending across the window opening. The flexible panel has a partially reflective exterior surface which partially reflects light and partially transmits light, allowing the flexible panel to effectively function as a one-way mirror. Optionally, the flexible panel may be removable and replaceable, allowing a hunter to shoot through the panel and to replace it later.

Abstract: A solid state energy conversion device along with its production methods and systems of use is provided. The device in its most basic form consists of two layers, in contact with each other, of dissimilar materials in terms of electron density and configuration, sandwiched between metal layers, which serve as the anode and cathode of the device. One of the inside layers is made of a stabilized mixture of carbon and an ionic material (carbon matrix). The other inner material consists of a stabilized oxide mixed with an ionic material (oxide matrix). This device takes advantage of the built-in potential that forms across the barrier between the carbon matrix and the oxide matrix. The built-in potential of the device (when not attached to a resistive load at the terminals), which is determined mathematically by integrating the electrostatic forces that have created themselves across the barrier, will rise or fall in direct proportion to the rise and fall of the device temperature (in kelvins).

Abstract: A thermoelectric generator assembly includes a thermoelectric generator with hot and cold junction flanges. The hot junction flange includes an adapter shaped for thermally coupling to a process vessel. The thermoelectric generator producing a thermoelectric power output. A heat sink thermally couples to ambient air and has a heat sink flange. A heat pipe assembly includes fluid in a circulation chamber. The circulation chamber has an evaporator flange mounted to the cold junction flange and a condenser flange mounted to the heat sink flange. At least a portion of the fluid transports heat from the evaporator flange to the condenser flange. When a heat pipe assembly on a cold junction flange is used with many of the types of heat flows that are available in process industries, more efficient thermoelectric power generation can be provided in the process industries.

Abstract: A thermoelectric generator assembly. The thermoelectric generator assembly comprises a thermoelectric generator. The thermoelectric generator has a hot junction flange, a cold junction flange and a thermoelectric power output. The thermoelectric generator assembly generates electrical power from heat differentials for use in powering field devices in industrial process monitoring and control systems.