Abstract: Smoke control systems and processes for controlling tobacco smoke, in association with a gaming table in which the smoke control system does not interfere with the gaming and allows the table to be used for both smoking and non-smoking applications.

Abstract: A cigarette filter material useful for selectively and efficiently reducing formaldehyde while maintaining a palatable component such as nicotine or tar is provided. A cigarette filter material is obtained by adhesively treating a substrate (such as a cellulose acetate fiber) with a dispersion comprising a particulate polysaccharide having an amino group (e.g., chitosan) and a medium. The medium may be a polar solvent (e.g., water, and an alcohol), and a plasticizer for the substrate. A cigarette filter comprising such cigarette filter material can efficiently and selectively reduce formaldehyde. For example, the cigarette filter ensures a retention of formaldehyde of not more than 65% while maintaining retentions of nicotine and tar of not less than 75%, respectively.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and kits for making and using a graphic film laminate to decorate fingernail and/or toenail are provided. In one aspect, a thermally-curable vinyl-based pressure-sensitive self-adhesive nail cover/coating laminate is provided.

Abstract: A device and method isolate at least one lock of hair to which a product can be applied. An application set includes the device. A method of applying a product uses the application set. The device includes a base and first and second prongs extending from the base, the prongs including first and second longitudinal parts, respectively. The first and second longitudinal parts extend along respective first and second longitudinal axes, the first and second longitudinal parts defining between them an interior space configured to receive a lock of hair. The device further includes first and second projections extending from the first and second longitudinal parts, respectively, into the interior space. The first and second projections face one another. The first and second projection axes extend in first and second distinct planes. In other words, the first and second projection axes do not extend in a common plane.

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: 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 in 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: A curling iron includes a steam generator, a heating unit, a condensed water discharging unit, and a check valve. The steam generator is configured to generate steam using water. The heating unit is configured to receive steam from the steam generator and transfer heat of the steam to a target material. The condensed water discharging unit is configured to collect condensed water from the heating unit and to return the condensed water to the steam generator for recycling the condensed water, and the condensed water discharging unit is disposed between the heating unit and the steam generator. The check valve is configured to prevent the steam in the heating unit to flow into the steam generator and to allow the condensed water in the heating unit to flow into the steam generator, and the check valve is disposed between the condensed water discharging unit and the steam generator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly for applying a cosmetic or dermatological product, comprising a cosmetic or dermatological product and/or an applicator configured for applying the product to keratinous materials, and a device, devoid of product, for assisting in the application of the product, this device comprising means for removably fastening it to at least one finger and a vibrating source for producing vibrations.

Abstract: A dusting tool comprises a selectively activated duster actuator, and a duster member carrying a number of bristles and connected to the duster actuator. The bristles of the duster member have an enhanced electrostatic charge build-up capability. The duster actuator can be activated to actuate the duster member, which causes said bristles to become electrostatically charged and concomitantly causes dust to be dislodged from said bristles.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and an apparatus for cleaning a magnetic head slider, and a method for manufacturing the same, which can achieve a magnetic head slider having high cleanness. According to one embodiment, in a rinsing process, a magnetic head slider is accommodated within a receptacle portion formed in a receptacle tray and the receptacle tray is immersed into rinsing liquid and is moved therein. As a result, the magnetic head slider receives a lifting force from the rinsing liquid which has entered the receptacle portion from through holes, so it flies over and at the same time receives water pressure from the rinsing liquid. Consequently, it is possible to effect rinsing to a satisfactory extent.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for accurately controlling the directional and turning movement of a self-propelled robotic pool cleaner having at least one pair of rotational support members for propelling and cleaning along a surface of a pool or tank include accelerating at least one pair of the rotational support members from a stopped position to a first predetermined rotational rate for a first predetermined time period to propel the pool cleaner in a first direction along the pool surface, continuing the rotation at the first rotational rate for a second predetermined time period; and increasing to a second higher rotational rate, such that the cleaner is propelled at a maximum normalized rate during straight-line movement for cleaning the pool. The duration of straight-line movement is incrementally advanced by a signal that is manually generated by a user switch or a magnet that is brought into proximity of a reed switch mounted inside the cleaner's housing.

Abstract: A purge drain valve including a spool spliced in a fluid line includes a control valve and an actuator coupled to the control valve for regulating fluid flow. During a washing operation, fluid flows between a supply end and a delivery end of the spool, and during a purging operation, the control valve diverts fluid entering the supply end from the delivery end towards a drain leg. A washing system includes a fluid supply coupled to an input of a wash delivery system and a delivery line coupled to an output of the wash delivery system. The purge drain may be spliced into the delivery line to permit fluid to reach a wash apparatus during a washing operation and to prevent fluid from reaching the wash apparatus during a purging operation. A rinse cycle sensor apparatus may be employed to indicate to an operator if a washing operation is complete based upon a conductivity of fluid exiting from a device being washed.

Abstract: An adjustable nozzle dispenser and a multi-nozzle dispenser are disclosed for washing an aerofoil of a gas turbine engine. The dispensers are characterised by their nozzle arrangements being capable of washing at least two different parts of the aerofoil. A system and a method of operating such a nozzle dispenser is included.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for a smelt spout of a recovery boiler, which apparatus comprises a motorized cleaning member (7) for cleaning the smelt spout (1). The cleaning apparatus further comprises a path (5) and a cleaning unit, which comprises motorized transfer means for transferring the cleaning unit to the location of the smelt spout (1) along the path.

Abstract: Core rods or other glass components associated with optical fiber preforms are cleaned by loading them into a number of first sleeves, and partially obstructing entrance and exit ends of the sleeves to retain the components. The sleeves are contained inside a second sleeve so that the entrance ends of the first sleeves face an entrance end of the second sleeve. A fluid delivery system supplies cleaning fluids to the entrance end of the second sleeve, so that the fluids enter the first sleeves and contact exposed surfaces of the loaded components. The fluids leave the exit ends of the first sleeves and purge from an exit end of the second sleeve. Separators may be placed between the components in the first sleeves to enhance cleaning action and to cushion adjacent end faces of the components. Cleaned components may be unloaded from the first sleeves without risk of contamination.

Abstract: A system and method of processing a substrate. The method and system applies a liquid to a surface of the substrate so as to form a film of the liquid on the surface of the substrate, wherein a boundary layer exists at the interface of the surface and the film of the liquid. The cleaning system then applies a force that penetrates the boundary layer so as to create a localized area on the surface of the substrate that is substantially free of the liquid. The application of the force in combination with the liquid removes particles from the surface of the substrate.

Abstract: A dust suppressant for suppressing dust that is otherwise lifted from an earthen surface, such as by wind, comprises a mixture of expired beverages. The expired beverage dust suppressant may be applied to any surface for which dust suppression is desired and may be applied using a water truck, for example. The expired beverage dust suppressant may also comprise additional substances that improve dust suppression.

Abstract: The present invention provides a part washer for cleansing various parts using cleansing solution, in particular to a part washer, which discharges the high-pressure air to be sprayed to the parts and the solution for cleansing the parts at the state where they are heated by means of heating means and heats the high-pressure air moving at high velocity smoothly, thereby improving cleansing and drying efficiencies in comparison with conventional art.

Abstract: A dishwasher includes a tub defining a washing chamber, a door for opening/closing the tub, a condenser provided inside the door to condense steam discharged from the tub, a fan assembly connected to the condenser, and an outside air guide for supplying outside air to the fan assembly. The fan assembly includes a discharge opening through which steam from inside the tub is discharged into the condenser.

Abstract: A washing and recycling system for use with removing paint from a coated article. The system includes a basin, a reservoir connected to the basin and which holds a solvent which removes the paint from the coated article, a washing system connected to the reservoir and to the basin such that the solvent from the reservoir is moved past a first filter, and the filtered solvent is moved into the basin so as to remove the paint from the coated article. The system includes a recycling system connected to the reservoir and to the basin such that the solvent from the reservoir is moved past a second filter to remove portions of the paint in the solvent. A control system controls the washing system and the recycling system to supply filtered solvent from the reservoir to the basin during a washing operation and a recycling operation.

Abstract: A device is provided for monitoring a wash process inside a mechanical washing apparatus, comprising sensor means for measuring physical and/or mechanical parameters of the wash process and recording means for recording the measured parameters within the device. This device comprises means for conducting a washing liquor past the sensor means and means for determining a certain contact time between the washing liquor and the sensor means.

Abstract: A walking-stick umbrella (1) comprises a grip element (2), a walking stick (3) and a covering (4). The walking stick (3) is made from an at least partially transparent or light-transmitting material (10). The grip element (2) contains an energy storage element (6), a luminous element (5) with which light can be irradiated into the walking stick (3), and an electronic device (7) with which the luminous element (5) can be automatically controlled.

Abstract: A mechanism for opening and collapsing an umbrella includes a runner which has two lockers pivotably connected thereto and an operation collar is movably mounted to the shaft of the umbrella so as to operate the two lockers. Each of the lockers is a curved member and pivotably connected to the runner by a pivot. Two ends of the each locker are pivotable relative to the pivot in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the runner. The user simply moves the operation collar to pivot the lockers to open and collapse the umbrella.

Abstract: A crutch enabled to fold on itself so the crutch can be stored in small places or confined areas. The crutch attaches to the forearm of a user with a flexible cuff during use. After use, an upper section and lower section of the crutch rotate toward one another using a pivoting joint. Further, the lower section of the crutch has telescoping sections, allowing the crutch to use substantially less space during storage.

Abstract: A structure that is foldable and expandable to support a canopy when a covering is placed on top of the framework includes a plurality of upright supports and a plurality of edge scissor assemblies that interconnect adjacent ones of the upright supports. Mounting brackets are disposed on the upright supports and also between scissor assemblies to fasten outer, end portions of the edge scissor assemblies together or to the upright supports. The mounting brackets each have a plurality of unique single side wall sockets each including a means for limiting torsional twisting of the scissor assemblies fastened in the socket. The limiting means comprises a complementary groove or rib for matingly engaging, in a complementary fashion, a complementary rib or groove, respectively, formed on the end of the scissor member received in the socket and secured therein with a pivot pin.

Abstract: A thermoelectric material comprises core-shell particles having a core formed from a core material and a shell formed from a shell material. In representative examples, the shell material is a material showing an appreciable thermoelectric effect in bulk. The core material preferably has a lower thermal conductivity than the shell material. In representative examples, the core material is an inorganic oxide such as silica or alumina, and the shell material is a chalcogenide semiconductor such as a telluride, for example bismuth telluride. A thermoelectric material including such core-shell particles may have an improved thermoelectric figure of merit compared with a bulk sample of the shell material alone. Embodiments of the invention further include thermoelectric devices using such thermoelectric materials, and preparation techniques.

Abstract: Disclosed is a thermoelectric fan for use with radiant heaters, particularly catalytic heaters. The thermoelectric fan of the present invention comprises a housing sub-assembly coupled to a thermal plate sub-assembly, the housing sub-assembly comprising a shrouded circulating air moving member, such as a fan blade, powered solely by the conversion of heat from a separate heater into electricity via an integrated thermoelectric module. Also disclosed is a self-powered fan that can safely perform in hazardous atmospheres while converting radiant heat to circulate air. The thermoelectric fan of the present invention ensures that the air within the space to be heated is more effectively distributed and temperature gradients are minimized. Also disclosed are methods for assembling, installing and safe operation of the thermoelectric fan.

Abstract: A thermoelectric system which comprises two substrates spaced apart from each other to form a gap and a plurality of electrically-connected semiconductor elements disposed between the substrates in the gap. The thermoelectric system further comprises at least one sensor and a seal which extends between the substrates and encloses the sensor and at least one of the plurality of semiconductor elements. The sensor is disposed between the substrates at an interior location spaced from the peripheral edge of at least one of the substrates. Additionally, at least one of the semiconductor elements is disposed between the sensor and the peripheral edge.

Abstract: A thermoelectric transducer is provided, where a decrease in conversion efficiency due to uneven characteristics of semiconductors is resolved and a decrease in adhesion strength between each element unit and an electrode due to a heat expansion coefficient between the respective thermoelectric transducers. In addition, an improvement of electro thermal conversion efficiency is intended by modifying the structure of the single device. Single element unit (13), which are made off semiconductor of the same type constructed of sintered body cells each containing oxide of a metal element, an oxide of a rare-earth element, and manganese are arranged on a board (5, 12) of a thermoelectric transducer (10). Film-shaped thin-film electrodes are arranged on cooling and heating surfaces so to be integral with the sintered body cell. On these sides, lead wires (16) are connected to each other in series.

Abstract: An improved elastic compression type solar tracking device includes a photoelectric plate or solar energy collecting device supported by an elastic element. A compression status of the elastic element can be changed by filling water into a water tank mounted on the photoelectric plate or solar energy collecting device to adjust the angle between the photoelectric plate or solar energy collecting device and a horizontal plane for maximum solar energy absorbing effect. The elastic compression type solar tracking device can be mounted on both sloping roofs and flat roofs of buildings.

Abstract: A method for metallization of a semiconductor device. This method includes a) metallizing a set of collection fingers with a low-temperature serigraphy paste on at least a front surface of the semiconductor device, b) sintering, at a temperature below a temperature that would damage the semiconductor device, the serigraphy paste forming the set of metallized collection fingers, by performing a pressing operation on the collection fingers with a press, and c) metallizing at least one collection bus on the set of metallized collection fingers, electrically connecting the collection fingers to one another, with a low-temperature serigraphy paste.

Abstract: A photovoltaic array includes a plurality of elongated rails and rectangular photovoltaic modules. Each rail can have an extruded resin construction and can include a lower base and an upper cap that cooperate to define a pair of grooves that open in opposite directions from each other. The elongated rails can be mounted on a support surface and extend in a spaced and parallel relationship with each other. During mounting, edges of the photovoltaic modules can be received by the grooves. In this way, the photovoltaic modules can be mounted above the support surface in a spaced relationship from the support surface.

Abstract: An extensive photovoltaic array for generating electric power from concentrated solar radiation, formed of an extensive planar structural grid wherein a multitude of power generating modules are installed, said structural grid being positioned by a primary servomechanism to keep incident solar radiation perpendicular to the plane of the array at all times.

Abstract: A counter electrode and a dye-sensitized photovoltaic cell having the counter electrode are provided. The counter electrode includes a conductive substrate, an adhesive layer formed on the conductive substrate, and a porous carbon material layer formed on the adhesive layer.

Abstract: A concentrator solar photovoltaic power generating apparatus including a primary optics for concentrating sunlight, a solar cell, a columnar optical member which is vertically disposed above the solar cell so that a bottom end surface of the columnar optical member is opposed to the solar cell, and which is used for guiding the sunlight which is concentrated by the primary optics to the solar cell, a transparent resin member which is interposed between the bottom end surface of the columnar optical member and the solar cell, comprises a shielding member for shielding the transparent resin member from sunlight.

Abstract: Photovoltaic cells with silole-containing polymers, as well as related systems, methods and components are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel dye for use in a photoelectronic device, wherein the photoelectronic device is comprised of a photoanode comprising the dye. According to the novel dye, the dye is derived through the introduction of a group which narrows the dihedral angle of the dye ligand as well as through the introduction of conjugated groups. Since the dye has improved light sensitivity and absorption properties, it can be used to fabricate a photoelectronic device with high power conversion efficiency.

Abstract: An antenna layer is provided separate from an active layer in a solar cell device based on organic materials, enabling improved energy conversion in the solar cell devices by increasing the efficiency and spectral cross-section for the capture of incident light. The antenna layer may be anthracene or an anthracene derivative, for example. The antenna layer is operable to harvest light and transfer captured excitation energy to the active layer of the solar cell device using an energy transfer mechanism, wherein the charge separation and/or the formation of free carriers takes place. The antenna layer also limits the ultraviolet exposure of the active layer thus extending the operating life of the solar cell. The active layer and the antenna layer of a solar cell device may be independently optimized such that there is an increased spectral range and/or cross-section of light absorption and thus a higher photovoltaic efficiency.

Abstract: Disclosed are an organic dye having a specific structure, a photoelectric conversion material containing the dye, a semiconductor electrode formed of a substrate having an electrically conductive surface, a semiconductor layer coated on the electrically conductive surface and the above dye adsorbed on the surface, and a photoelectric conversion device to which the above dye is applied. The present invention uses the above dye and can therefore provide a photoelectric conversion device excellent in photoelectric conversion efficiency, and the photoelectric conversion device is suitable for use in a solar cell or the like.

Abstract: A method for transport of natural gas through a pipeline from a gas field to a terminal, where there is a risk of condensation of heavy hydrocarbon components in the pipeline during the transport, wherein dry gas is added to the natural gas to reduce the cricondentherm and the cricondentherm of the gas and thus prevent condensation in the pipeline, is described. A plant for carrying out the method is also described.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided that provides a common opening for air flow and speaker outflow. The apparatus includes a compartment with an opening. The compartment has a top surface and a bottom surface and includes a fan and a speaker. The fan is positioned to rotate one or blades around an axis. The one or more blades spin in a direction substantially towards an opening during at least one point during the spinning. The fan directs the air flow towards the opening. The speaker is positioned such that its movement is along the axis.

Abstract: The present invention is a water conservation safety shut-off valve assembly for use on locations which normally have intermittent water usage but need to indicate when there is constant water usage, such as a leak. The valve assembly has a valve body with a fluid pathway and a valve plug held in an open position allowing water to flow through the pathway. As water flows through the pathway, a flow detection switch monitors water flowing through the pathway and begins timing duration of water flowing through the pathway. If the water flow through the pathway stops, the timer value is reset to zero. If the water flows through the pathway, and the timer circuit reaches a predetermined value, the valve closes the pathway, stopping the flow of water through the valve assembly.

Abstract: A coupling frame formed at a connecting portion on an out-port side of a first safety valve, and a coupling frame formed at a connecting portion on an in-port side of a second safety valve are brought into contact with each other, directly or by causing a plate-shaped member to intervene in between. Coupling projections, facing each other, formed in the coupling frame of both the safety valves are sandwiched between a pair of latch portions of a latch member, and a pair of latch members facing each other, are mutually drawn by tightening rod members. The coupling projections of both the safety valves are thereby pressed in a mutually approaching direction with the latch portions of each of both the latch members, and thereby both the safety valves are coupled.

Abstract: Progressive cavity pump assemblies including one or more mechanisms adapted to regulate intake pressure of the main pump between a minimum intake pressure and a maximum intake pressure. In one embodiment, the mechanism is a sealing member configured to open at a threshold pressure to discharge wellbore fluid and close after falling below the threshold pressure. In an alternative embodiment, the mechanism may be a regulator assembly that adjusts the volume of output from the charge pump to the interconnect according to the pressure in the interconnect.

Abstract: A mobile liquid conveying apparatus includes a service liquid area (10) having a service liquid outlet (18) for communicating with the power tool (4), a dirty liquid area (12) having a dirty liquid inlet (28) through which dirty liquid from the power tool (4) can flow into the dirty liquid area (12) with both the service liquid area and the dirty liquid area being provided in a common storage space (7), and a separation element for separating the service liquid area (10) from the dirty liquid area (12).

Abstract: A device for converting a valve to a supervised valve is disclosed. The device includes a housing in which a coupling member is movably mounted. The coupling member is engageable with the actuating member of the valve when the device is mounted on the valve. A sensor is also mounted within the housing. A movable carriage is mounted on the coupling member. The carriage moves between different positions depending upon the state of the valve as open or closed. The carriage interacts with the sensor to produce a signal indicative of the state of the valve.

Abstract: A process fluid pressure measurement system includes a process fluid pressure transmitter coupled to a coplanar manifold. The coplanar manifold includes a first bore coupleable to a source of process fluid, and a vent passageway connected to the first bore and terminating in a vent hole. The coplanar manifold includes at least one port configured to receive a valve stem. Directly engaging the valve stem with the coplanar manifold selectively vents the coplanar manifold. Aspects of the present invention also include a coplanar manifold for coupling fluid to a process fluid pressure transmitter, and a method of venting such a coplanar manifold.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid-processing apparatus which can uniformly mix or react fluids with each other by discharging the fluids from many nozzles at a uniform discharge pressure to collide them.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for supplying hydraulic fluid to a wet clutch, including a pump that transports the hydraulic fluid from an oil reservoir to the wet clutch through a control valve that is operated electromechanically, in particular by means of a solenoid. The control valve is a selector valve, and includes a valve position in which a pressure side of the pump is connected to a suction side of the pump, or alternatively, to the oil reservoir.

Abstract: Device for treating water with a supply (3); a treatment tank (4); a drain (9); a regulator (13); and a bypass (22) which connects the supply (3) to the drain (9), characterised in that in the main canalisation (2), on either side of the regulator (13), is provided a shut-off valve (12, 14); in that the device (1) comprises a first shunt canalisation (18) which bridges the first shut-off valve (12) and the regulator (13) and comprises a second shunt canalisation (20) which bridges the regulator (13) and the second shut-off valve (14), whereby both shunt canalisations (18, 20) comprise a shut-off valve (19, 21), and whereby the shut-off valves (12, 14) are open on either side of the regulator (13) during the treatment phase, whereas the other shut-off valves (19, 21) are open during the rinse or regeneration phase.