Abstract: A panel carrying device, comprising a panel holding device 5 holding a panel 1; a second link mechanism connected to the panel holding device; a first link mechanism pivotally fitted to the second link mechanism; a slide mechanism 20 which moves the first link mechanism in a panel carrying direction; and a swing mechanism 22 which swings the second link mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for the individual distribution of small stick-shaped objects (7), this device (1) making use of: a conveyor (2) comprising an endless conveyor belt (3) circulating around at least two pulleys or rollers (4, 4?), the outer side of this belt (3) being provided with transversal separators (5) which delimit a succession of compartments (6); a hopper (9) wherein the small stick-shaped objects (7) contained in compartments (6) are successively dumped; an individual distributor (10) arranged in the base of hopper (9) and wherein the small stick-shaped objects (7) become engaged via gravity, and comprising: a support and guide casing (8) comprising a semi-cylindrical form, substantially coaxial to the downstream pulley (4?), this casing (8) being oriented in such a way that it maintains the small stick-shaped objects (7) inside their respective compartments (6) during the passing of the belt (3) on said pulley (4?); a flexible vertical partition (11) separating the internal spac

Abstract: A positive operating combine unloading discharge door which operates independent of the presence of grain in the unloading tube and is attached to the unloading tube to minimize opposition and obstruction to grain flow and completely cover the open end of the unloading tube when the unloading cycle is complete to minimize or eliminate grain loss due to grain dribble.

Abstract: A device and method for transport of flexible, two dimensional products and performance of associated production processing of those products, by which the flexible, two-dimensional products are serially conveyed to a workstation and are conveyed away from the workstation again by the same gripper transporter, which enables the workstation to be selectively removed from the production process being performed along the transport path of the printed products, and to be selectively re-introduced again the transport path, in a flexible manner.

Abstract: A conveyor device for containers having a receiving rail for receiving a neck area of the containers, the containers being held by the receiving rail and are movable within this receiving rail. Guide mechanisms are provided with guide elements that are arranged beneath the receiving rail and guide the movement of the containers. The guide elements are movable in the longitudinal direction of the containers and the movements in the longitudinal direction of the containers of a plurality of different guide elements are mechanically linked to one another.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a power window switch apparatus (1) having a switch housing (5) supporting at least one actuation element (2) for user access at a first surface (4) of the switch housing (5). The actuation element (2) is arranged to be slideable from a zero position in directions perpendicular to the first surface (4). The actuation element (2) being operable upon user manipulation to slide in a first direction outwards of the housing (5) for closing of an associated first switch element (8) for energizing an associated motor for lift of an associated window. The actuation element (2) being operable upon user manipulation to slide in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, for closing of an associated second switch element (9) for energizing the associated motor for lowering the associated window.

Abstract: An interlock assembly comprising: an interlock plate comprising at least one slot disposed about a central portion thereof, a first locking tab disposed perpendicular to a first side of the interlock plate, and a second locking tab disposed perpendicular to a second side of the interlock plate; and a base disposed adjacent to a bottom surface of the interlock plate, the base comprising at least one perturbation disposed on a surface of the base opposite to the bottom surface of the interlock plate, such that the perturbation is disposed within the slot of the interlock plate, thereby providing the interlock plate with reciprocating movement in relation to the base

Abstract: This invention consists of a plastic rod designed to turn a toggle light switch on and off. Dual mounting positions allows anyone to reach different heights when turning on a light switch that may not normally be accessible, such as a child who can not reach the light switch from the top of a bunk bed. With the longer end of the rod facing upward, a person on the top bunk can now turn the light on and off by sliding the rod up or down. Mounted in the opposite direction with the longer end of the rod facing downward, a small child or someone confined to a wheelchair can easily and safely turn the light switch on and off by sliding the rod up or down. The actuating arm has two different lengths, the upper being 8 in. from center, the lower being 15½ in. from center.

Abstract: A configurable keypad assembly adapted for vehicular controls. A kit for assembling such a configurable keypad is also disclosed. The overlay is provided with identification markings. The keypad assembly includes a configurable keypad circuit provided with a plurality of switches responsive to pressure thereon. The keypad circuit is encased in a flexible sleeve that is shaped to fit over the circuit. The top surface of the sleeve has a number of independently pressable button areas in alignment with the switches, such that any pressure exerted on a given button area activates the switch under it. The assembly also includes means for securing the rigid fascia overlay over the button areas. The identification markings on the overlay, once installed, are in alignment with the button areas. The configurable keypad assembly has the flexibility of being distributed with or without the fascia overlay and can be made waterproof for marine applications.

Abstract: A switch sheet is used in combination with a substrate having a first contact and a second contact. The switch sheet is comprised of an elastically deformable dome of a conductive material; and a sheet covering the dome and including an embossment projecting from a top of the dome. The sheet is so dimensioned as to have the dome suspended over the first contact and in contact with the second contact.

Abstract: A pyrolyzer and method is provided for devolatizing coal and other volatile materials. The pyrolyzer has a pyrolyzer furnace housing having at least two screws laterally positioned adjacent and overlapping rotatably mounted within the furnace for moving volatile material through the pyrolyzer furnace housing. The screws have hollow drive shafts with a diverter inside for converging heated fluid to heat the volatile material moving through the pyrolyzer furnace housing. A combustion chamber combusts fuel to create heated exhaust gas for directing through the hollow drive shafts to heat the volatile material. The pyrolyzer furnace housing may have a double wall with a cavity between, capable of receiving heated fluid for further heating of volatile material moving through the pyrolyzer furnace housing.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for increasing the fluorine content of at least one compound selected from halohydrocarbons and hydrocarbons. The process involves (a) directing light from a light source through the wall of a reactor to interact with reactants comprising chlorine and said at least one compound in said reactor, thereby producing a halogenated hydrocarbon having increased chlorine content by photochlorination, and (b) reacting said halogenated hydrocarbon produced by the photochlorination in (a) with HF; and is characterized by the light directed through the reactor wall being directed through a poly(perhaloolefin) polymer.

Abstract: A magnetron sputtering apparatus includes a target, a substrate holder, a magnetic field generator and a driving device. The substrate holder is arranged in front of the target. The magnetic field generator is arranged in back of the target. The driving device moves the magnetic field generator between a first position and a second position. The second position is closer to the target than the first position. The magnetic generator is arranged at the first position during a thin film formation. Repeated thin film formation may induce a sputtering particle to grow to be a lump on the target. If the lump is not removed from the target, the lump may fall on a substrate on the substrate holder. During cleaning of the target, the magnetic field generator is arranged at the second position and generates magnetic field to remove the lump from the target.

Abstract: A structured diamond tool having a predefined grayscale grating profile shape allows a corresponding grayscale grating profile to be machined into a work piece with a single pass with high accuracy. Manufacture of grayscale gratings using this technique saves time compared to the situation where the profile is machined by a single-point diamond tool with multiple passes. Also, more time-saving is realized if more than one period is machined in the diamond tool. Such a tool can be manufactured using a high precision focused ion beam (FIB), which is a true nanomachining tool that can machine features on the order of tens of nanometers. The diamond tool made by FIB therefore has extremely fine resolution and features required by the grayscale grating.

Abstract: There is disclosed a cleaning device for a heat exchanger which safely and effectively cleans the heat exchanger and which can sufficiently obtain a deodorizing effect and a sterilization effect. The cleaning device for the heat exchanger includes an electrolysis unit for treating dew condensation water of the heat exchanger by an electrochemical technique, a supply unit for supplying electrolytic water produced by the treatment performed by this electrolysis unit to an outer surface of the heat exchanger, and an control unit for controlling the electrolysis unit and the supply unit, and the control unit allows the electrolysis unit to electrolytically treat the dew condensation water of the heat exchanger and produce the electrolytic water, and allows the supply unit to supply the produced electrolytic water to the outer surface of the heat exchanger.

Abstract: Disclosed is an anode for electrochemical reactions, such as electrolysis and electrodeposition, comprising a titanium substrate covered with metal oxide, in which the amount of platinum group element(s) is decreased in comparison with the ordinary anode of platinum group element oxides so as to decrease the cost and to mitigate the problem of natural resources, and further, durability of the anode is improved. The electrocatalyst of the anode is multiple oxide of platinum group element(s), and Sn and Sb. The cationic ratio of Sn to Sb is 1-40 and the sum of Sn and Sb is 1-90 cationic %. The electrocatalyst is prepared by coating mixed solutions of the soluble salts on the substrate and baking, so as to convert the metal salts to metal oxides.

Abstract: Methods for manufacturing sputtering target assemblies and assemblies thereof are provided, particularly targets made of powders. Powders are adhered to a backing plate by use of a vacuum hot press, the powder preferably contacted by non-planar surfaces, and is compressed with at least about 95% density and substantially simultaneously diffusion-bonded to the backing plate.

Abstract: Portable device for the measurement and control of analytes in biological fluids comprising: one disposable measuring cell suitable for application to the patient's skin, one measuring unit combined with said measuring cell by means of an electro-fluidic wiring and one remote control unit combined with said measuring cell and with said measuring unit and suitable for setting, adjusting and monitoring the measurement.

Abstract: A single electron transistor device for sensing at least one particle, includes at least two electrodes positioned with a gap formed between the electrodes and an activation object positioned in the gap with an insulating layer between the activation object and each electrode. The activation object which is able to transfer electrons is arranged with at least one binding structure bonded to it for receiving the at least one particle. The electrodes are formed with an inter distance of less than 50 nm and the electrodes are connectable directly or indirectly to a signal acquisition system. The sensing device is arranged to allow a tunnelling current proportional to the presence of the at least one particle in the binding structure, to flow through the activation object. A method, and system using a single electron transistor device fabricated with micro/nano fabrication methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: Devices for determining the concentration of a constituent in a physiological sample that comprise gel matrices to filter red blood cells are provided. Examples of such devices include a biosensor comprising, on a support substrate, a sample reception region for receiving a blood sample; at least one electrode; and a reaction reagent system that is located in a gel matrix. The gel matrix disclosed herein is sufficient to prevent at least some of the red cells in the blood sample from contacting the electrode, and thus reduce the hematocrit sensitivity in the measurement.

Abstract: A portable test station is disclosed in a unitary package that integrates a typical Copper-copper sulfate reference electrode with test apparatus. The electrode is maintained in a state of equilibrium by way of immersion in a liquid environment which prevents the solution contained within the electrode from leaching out of the electrode's porous end. This feature enables extended periods of reliable service not otherwise possible. The liquid environment also serves as a conductive bridge between the electrode's porous end and the installation site's environment. Continuity is achieved by way of an adjustable porous ceramic plug located in the base of the apparatus, which may be manipulated by the user prior to installation, i.e. water is allowed to leech from the apparatus into the environment through the exposed surface area of the ceramic plug which may be increased or decreased to suit a particular installation's need.

Abstract: Reference electrodes for potentiometric measurement of pH and ion concentration typically use mercury calomel or silver/silver chloride element combined with a saturated solution of potassium chloride (KCl) for the development of a stable potential with respect to a sensing electrode when immersed in solution. The salt KCl is preferred because of it is almost equitransferent and thus minimizes the diffusion potential set up between the reference solution and the solution being tested. However, reference electrodes using concentrated solutions of KCl suffer a drawback, which is its propensity to develop a creeping salt discharge that rapidly covers surfaces with KCl crystals. This “salt creep” phenomenon appears to be unique to KCl; Salt creep is a major nuisance, particularly for reference electrodes used on semi-dry surfaces such as skin.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an exhaust gas sensor that includes positioning at least a portion of a subassembly of the exhaust gas sensor in a mold fixture, overmolding at least a portion of the subassembly with a ceramic material, and removing the overmolded subassembly from the mold fixture.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for detecting an interaction between an analyte and a biomolecule. The method comprises separating at least one biomolecule according to its isoelectric point in the presence of a given analyte and detecting an interaction between the analyte and a biomolecule using fluorescence anisotropy. The method may further comprise collecting the analyte-biomolecule complex and analyzing the biomolecule.

Abstract: A system and process for de-halogenating ballast water before releasing the ballast water from the vessel. In one embodiment, the system comprises a means for measuring the halogen content of the ballast water, a reducing agent source in fluid communication with the ballast water, and a means for controlling the amount of reducing agent supplied to the ballast water. In one aspect, the means for measuring the halogen content comprises one or more oxidation/reduction potential analyzers. In another embodiment, the system comprises one or more hypochlorite electrolytic cells for generating hypochlorite to treat the ballast water. One embodiment of the process for de-halogenating ballast water comprises measuring the oxidation/reduction potential of the ballast water and adding one or more reducing agents to the ballast water to de-halogenate the ballast water in response to the measured oxidation/reduction potential.

Abstract: Performance of equipment, such as a desalter, in a refinery is monitored in real-time and on-line to minimize fouling of downstream equipment. Using an instrument to measure particles and droplets in-process allows monitoring of the various operations to optimize performance. Such measurement can also be used during crude oil blending to detect asphaltene precipitates that can cause fouling and can be used for monitoring other fouling streams.

Abstract: A via plating system and method are provided. A preprocessing procedure is performed such that a pre-wetting solution is absorbed into a via hole, forming a wetting layer thereon. A plating process is then performed to form a plating layer inside the via hole. The preprocessing procedure to form the wetting layer improves the absorbing characteristics inside the via hole, allowing the plating layer to be more effectively formed.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a solvent-soluble stamp for nano-imprint lithography is provided. According to the method, a stamp is formed on a master substrate made of an ultraviolet-transparent material, using a material which is soluble in a solvent, and then a metal stamp or another stamp for a nano-imprint lithography is manufactured using the solvent-soluble stamp. Next, the stamp for nano-imprint lithography can be achieved by melting the soluble stamp. Therefore, it is possible to reuse the master several times. Further, it is possible to solve a problem in which a mold cannot be separated from the stamp. Furthermore, a uniform and clean stamp with a nano size can be obtained.

Abstract: A holder-wafer conjugate, including a wafer in a wafer holder, is tilted so that the planar wafer surface makes a small angle with a plane parallel to the liquid surface of a liquid bath. Then, the holder-wafer conjugate is moved downward and a leading edge of the holder-wafer conjugate makes initial contact with the liquid surface of a liquid bath at a slow piercing speed to minimize generation of shock waves and bubbles. After a small portion of the holder-wafer conjugate is immersed in the liquid bath at a first pause location, the downward movement is stopped for a first pause time. After the first pause time, downward movement of the holder-wafer conjugate is resumed at a faster post-piercing speed until the wafer is fully immersed.

Abstract: Methods and structures for the electroplating on ultra-thin seed layers are disclosed. A dual layer structure is utilized, consisting of a thicker, highly conductive layer surrounding device structures. Within the device die, an ultra-thin seed layer is employed, which is electrically coupled to the conduction layer. Using this technique, electroplating of critical device structures can be carefully controlled and made uniform across the full diameter of the wafer. The technique also allow for the deployment of ultra-thin seed layers of varying thickness and composition in different locations within the circuit device, or in different die on the wafer.

Abstract: A surface treatment process for a welded metal article includes following steps. Firstly, a metal article with a weld joint region is provided. Secondly, the metal article is anodized to form an anodic oxide layer on a surface thereof. Thirdly, the surface of the anodized metal article is rinsed. Fourthly, at least the anodized surface of the metal article in the region of the weld joint region is activated in a nitric acid solution. Fifthly, the anodized surface (i.e., the anodic oxide layer) of the metal article is dyed. Sixthly, the anodic oxide layer of the metal article is sealed. Finally, the metal article is rinsed.

Abstract: A surface treatment process for a metal article includes the following steps. Firstly, a metal article is provided. Secondly, the metal article is anodized to form an anodic oxide layer on a surface thereof. Thirdly, the surface of the metal article is rinsed. Fourthly, the surface of the metal article is dyed. Fifthly, the now-dyed anodic oxide layer of the metal article is sealed. Finally, the metal article is rinsed using an acetic acid solution.

Abstract: Various apparatuses and methods for producing ammonia are provided. One embodiment has uses a plurality of environments and an electrode configured to be exposed to the plurality of environments. The electrode is configured to receive hydrogen while being exposed to one of the environments, reduce nitrogen while being exposed to another environment, and allow the hydrogen and nitrogen to react with each other to form ammonia. Other embodiments provide for simultaneous hydrogen oxidation and nitrogen reduction at the same electrode, which in turn react for formation of ammonia.

Abstract: In a method for producing dense sheet-form electrolytic copper by electrowinning, the electrolyte contains a polyethylene glycol additive as a smoothening agent. In the prior art method, stirring is necessary. In an electrowinning method without stirring, the current concentrates on the edge portion of cathode 2. This current concentration is mitigated by means of conducting the electrolyzing current through a window 6b of a shielding plate 6 located in the vicinity of a cathode 2.

Abstract: A process for selectively forming a morphology of reduced material is disclosed. The reduced material, such as titanium, is formed by a process of electrochemically reducing a metal oxide feed material, such as titania, in a solid state in an electrolytic cell containing molten chlorine-containing electrolyte in the cell. The process for selectively forming the morphology of reduced material includes sintering the reduced material and forming a morphology that is susceptible to subsequent washing of retained electrolyte in the reduced material.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the production of alkaline water is provided, wherein the water, when administered to cattle, is effective for the treatment and prevention of rumen acidosis. Additionally, the alkaline water is effective for increased production of milk and increased quality of milk produced.

Abstract: A method of monitoring an electrochemical second order half-cell (1, 101) is provided, as is a measuring probe with at least one electrochemical second order half-cell (101), a control- and/or regulation unit (7) to close an electrochemical contact between the half-cell and a measuring medium (8), and with at least one temperature sensor (9, 10). The half-cell includes an electrolyte (4) and a first conductor element (2) in contact with the electrolyte and which holds a first electrical potential (E1). The half-cell also has a second conductor element (3) in contact with the electrolyte, the second conductor holding a second electrical potential (E2). The two conductor elements (2, 3) comprise the same metal. The first conductor element has a coating (6) of a low-solubility salt of the same metal. The control- and/or regulation unit includes a program for executing a method of monitoring the electrochemical half-cell.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting ionic materials includes a sensing electrode which contacts a liquid sample and detects a sensing voltage corresponding to a surface potential which is changed by a concentration of ionic materials in the liquid sample, a first switching transistor having a first terminal connected to the sensing electrode and a second terminal connected to a first node, a second switching transistor having a first terminal connected to a reset voltage and a second terminal connected to the first node, and a sensing transistor having a gate connected to the first node.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method is described for measuring concentrations of gas moieties in a gas mixture. A mixed-potential gas sensor is exposed to a gas mixture in order to obtain a first and a second mixed-potential gas sensor output responses. The first output response and a second output response are deconvoluted to measure a first analyte gas concentration and a second analyte gas concentration. Some of the output responses may be used as inputs to a control system.

Abstract: A method for pumping a sealed internal reference chamber of a solid electrolyte oxygen sensor, having an internal electrode and an external electrode, during a dynamically controlled, null balancing, calibration process, the method including: initializing a set of pumping current pulse parameters controlling pulse ON time, post pulse relaxation time and pulse magnitude; applying a pulsed pumping current based on the set of pulse parameters to the internal and external electrodes, wherein the application of current transitions the chamber from a substantially evacuated state to a substantially null or balanced oxygen partial pressure state with respect to an applied external calibration gaseous environment; periodically comparing the Nernst voltage of the sensor to a predetermined limit to determine whether the chamber is at a null or balanced state; comparing an elapsed time from the application of the pulsed pumping current to a third predetermined time limit to determine if the sensor has failed, and progre

Abstract: A set (1) comprising at least two ion-selective solid-contact electrodes comprises at least two ion-selective measuring points (6). Each measuring point (6) comprises a metal conductor (3) and/or an inner layer (7) of a conductive polymer and an outer, ion-selective membrane (8). At least two measuring points (6) are selective in each case with respect to a different ion of an analysis solution. One of the solid-contact electrodes can be used as a reference electrode.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mixing device with a first chamber (1) for a first component, in particular a powder [a liquid], a second chamber (12) for a second component, in particular a liquid [powder], and a divider means (11, 13) separating the first and the second chamber. The second chamber is defined by an inner hollow cylinder (10) which is arranged so as to be moved in a piston-like fashion in an outer hollow body (2) defining the first chamber. According to the invention, the first chamber comprises an evacuation opening (5) which is adapted to be connected with a vacuum source. The invention further relates to a method for vacuum packaging the mixing device.

Abstract: A device for contamination-free sealing of a tube having a collar positioned thereon. The device can include a first jaw portion and a second jaw portion. The first jaw portion can include two pressing bars extending outwardly therefrom, and a pressing piece extending outwardly therefrom. The pressing piece can include a substantially flat surface, and can be positioned between the pressing bars. The pressing bars each have a pressing surface. The second jaw portion can include a support surface. Each of the pressing surfaces can be substantially flat. When the first jaw portion is moved toward the second jaw portion, each of the two pressing bars contacts the collar proximate an end portion of the collar, and the pressing piece contacts the collar proximate a center portion of the collar.

Abstract: A disposable child sized cleaning implement is provided. The disposable child sized cleaning implement is releasably carrying a personal care composition which comprises a fragrance composition.

Abstract: An autograph board includes a removable cover so that the object to be autographed can be protected when not being autographed. The board is in a shape suggestive of the sport involved, for example, a home plate for a baseball. Removable frame supports allow the board to freely stand on a flat surface for display purposes. A clip holds a pen on the edge of the board.

Abstract: A cosmetic container has a base and a cap. The base has a sidewall half. The sidewall half has a first end, a second end, a lower pivot element and a lower engagement element. The lower pivot element is formed on the first end. The lower engagement element is defined on the second end. The cap is mounted pivotally on the base and has a sidewall half. The sidewall half is mounted pivotally on the lower pivot element of the base and has a first end and an upper engagement element. The upper engagement element engages detachably with the lower engagement element of the base and is formed on the first end of the sidewall of the cap. The sidewall half of the cap contacts a table surface on which the cosmetic container is put to prevent the cosmetic container from falling down.

Abstract: A slide and shell container, which finds particular application as a pack for elongate smoking articles such as cigarettes, comprises an outer shell having a first access opening; and an inner slide having a second access opening. The inner slide is mounted within the outer shell for slidable movement relative thereto between a closed position, in which the second access opening is occluded by the outer shell and the interior of the inner slide is inaccessible, and an open position, in which the second access opening is substantially aligned with the first access opening such that the interior of the inner slide is accessible through the first and second access openings.

Abstract: A golf ball storage system is provided herein. The system may be configured on an exterior of a golf bag and generally includes an upper aperture and a lower aperture that may be substantially vertically aligned. The first and second apertures are connected by an internal sleeve. The sleeve may have a generally tubular configuration to contain golf balls within the storage system in a single file, stacked arrangement. The sleeve may be substantially vertical when the golf bag is in an upright position such that gravity will force balls inserted into the upper aperture to fall to a bottom portion of the sleeve, adjacent the lower aperture, for ease of removal.

Abstract: An apparatus for carrying extra golf balls while on a golf course. The apparatus comprises a substantially hollow tubular member having each of a predetermined size, a predetermined diameter and formed of a predetermined material for holding at least one golf ball and one of a sleeve and a clip disposed on the substantially hollow tubular member for attachment to a user's belt.

Abstract: An objective of the present invention is to provide a shipping tray for optical elements that prevents toppling of optical elements during transportation and optimally maintains the optical characteristics of the optical elements. In a shipping tray for optical elements, single edges of a plurality of optical elements, each having two main surfaces formed as horizontal flat surfaces, are sequentially disposed upright in the lateral and longitudinal directions on an adhesive tape provided on a base surface of a main container; and the plurality of optical elements is covered with a cover in which is formed a plurality of concavities for individually accommodating the plurality of optical elements. Each concavity in the cover has an aperture portion provided in a plateau portion thereof, into which is inserted one of the optical elements upright with the free edge side protruding therefrom, and the shape of the aperture portion is oval.