Patents Issued in July 10, 2008
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Publication number: 20080163904Abstract: A nozzle structure of a dish washer is provided. In the nozzle structure, a nozzle holder is provided, a gasket unit is mounted on an end of the nozzle holder and it includes at least one inlet port, a flap support unit is protruded from a front of the gasket unit, and a check valve flap is rotatably coupled to the flap support unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Gab Kyu Hwang
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Publication number: 20080163905Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing residue on a wafer is described. A first solution is applied to remove a first type of residue from a metal mask on the wafer. A second solution is applied to remove a second type of residue from the metal mask on the wafer.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Jianshe Tang, Willey Weng, Wei Lu, Han-Wen Chen, Tseng-Chung Lee
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Publication number: 20080163906Abstract: A display structure of a dishwasher is provided. The display structure includes a cabinet, a door, a top table, and a refraction unit. The door is rotatably mounted on a front side of the cabinet and has a display formed on an upper side thereof. The top table covers the upper side of the door and has a hole of a predetermined size formed on a portion that contacts the display. The refraction unit is inserted into the hole formed on the top table to allow light from the display to be refracted. With the above construction, since a user can see the display attached on the upper side of the door with the door closed for washing, a washign progress state can be known.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Gang Hyun Lee
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Publication number: 20080163907Abstract: A collapsible umbrella including a canopy having a top side and a bottom side. The umbrella is capable of being manipulated between an open position and a closed position. The top side of the canopy is substantially exposed when the umbrella is in the open position, and the bottom side of the canopy is substantially exposed when the umbrella is in the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Devon GARNER
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Publication number: 20080163908Abstract: Various embodiments of umbrella systems employing sensors and methods related to such systems are disclosed. One embodiment, among others, comprises an umbrella system, comprising a handle assembly, comprising a handle assembly remote control and a transducer assembly configured to communicate a control signal from the handle assembly remote control to an electronic device.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: David McScott O'Kere
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Publication number: 20080163909Abstract: A personal rain protection device that enhances traditional umbrella qualities through the use of an unobtrusive slicker that can be deployed to protect a wearer's entire backside from getting wet. The slicker is securely stowed in a holding pocket located within the umbrella canopy. Upon deployment of the slicker, the slicker solidly covers the backside of a wearer. Light weights contained within the fabric of the slicker help stabilize the slicker and prevent it from flailing. In this manner, a wearer may tread through driving rain with added protection and also sit comfortably on a wet bench, bleacher or chair where a deployed slicker will protect his or her backside from the moisture.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Deborah D. McCullough
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Publication number: 20080163910Abstract: Umbrellas with improvements that make the umbrella easier to control. The improvements include an edge of the umbrella canopy that presents a convex surface to the flow of air across the canopy and that also may direct the flow of air away from the underside of the canopy and away from the user of the umbrella, gutters for directing the flow of water on the canopy, spoilers for modifying the flow of air across the canopy, windsocks that release air pressure under the canopy by inflating, and canopies with streamlined shapes, including shapes that may be modified by the user or modify themselves in response to the flow of air.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2006Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Steven J. Hollinger
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Publication number: 20080163911Abstract: An asymmetric umbrella includes a canopy, a shaft eccentrically disposed beneath the canopy, and a runner slidably mounted on the shaft and slidable between a first position, in which the canopy is collapsed, and a second position in which the canopy is extended. A canopy supporting frame includes rib assemblies each of which has a first end coupled to an apex of the shaft and a second end coupled to the canopy, wherein each of the rib assemblies further comprises a short rib assembly and a long rib assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Dry Rain, LLCInventors: Donna Lisciandro, Hyuk Hur, Jane DeNavi
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Publication number: 20080163912Abstract: An umbrella includes a staff assembly, a plurality of upper ribs, a plurality of corresponding lower ribs and a canopy. The staff assembly includes an inner staff member and an outer staff member slidably mounted thereon. The upper ribs are pivotally connected to the inner staff member. The lower ribs are pivotally connected to the outer staff member and to the upper ribs. The canopy is mounted on the upper or lower ribs. Sliding the inner and outer staff members with respect to each other in a longitudinal direction thereof shifts the ribs and the canopy between a deployed position in which the ribs and canopy extend generally radially outwardly from the staff assembly so as to open the umbrella, and a retracted position in which the ribs and the canopy are collapsed inwardly toward, the staff assembly so as to close the umbrella.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Terry Hermanson, George Raustiala
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Publication number: 20080163913Abstract: The present invention is to claim a walker for both child and adult users, which comprises two supporting units and a connecting unit transversely connecting the two supporting units at the front sides thereof wherein a horizontal rod is provided between two leg portions of each said supporting unit. Therein, each said horizontal rod has two slots at the opposite ends and two sliding joints are mounted on the supporting units in the manner that the ends of the horizontal rod can be received by the sliding joints and two pin members can be respectively pierced through one of the sliding joint and the corresponding slot. Further, two sets of clutch members each having a toothed portion for being detachably engaged with each other are provided between the ends of the telescopic members of the connecting unit and the adjacent supporting units.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Fang-Jung Hsiao
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Publication number: 20080163914Abstract: A crutch having a first side direction, a second side direction opposite the first side direction, a third side direction perpendicular to the first side direction and a fourth side direction opposite the third side direction, the crutch including an elongate leg having a top end, a top portion, a middle portion, a bottom portion, and a bottom end, wherein the elongate leg extends from a saddle to a foot and has a handle disposed on the middle portion, wherein the saddle extends in an elongate shape between the first side direction and the second side direction, wherein the handle extends in an elongate shape between the first side direction and the second side direction, wherein the elongate leg middle portion is to the third side direction of an axis extending between the leg and the foot, wherein the elongate leg middle portion is to the first side direction of an axis extending between the top end of the elongate leg and the bottom end of the elongate leg; and wherein the handle is cantilevered and has aType: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Jeffrey A. Weber, Shawn Monitor, Michael Grider
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Publication number: 20080163915Abstract: The present invention is an integrated tool that comprises a stake and post assembly and a hollow sleeve in the form of a pounding member which, when slid in a reciprocating motion over the post and brought downwards with a velocity to strike a collar, imparts sufficient force to the stake for driving the stake into the ground or any other hard surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Philip Nathaniel Wobrock
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Publication number: 20080163916Abstract: According to one embodiment, a thermoelectric conversion module includes a thermoelectric conversion portion, a first external electrode, and a second external electrode. The thermoelectric conversion portion includes a single thermoelectric conversion portion element, or electrically connected thermoelectric conversion portion elements. The thermoelectric conversion portion element includes a high temperature electrode, low temperature electrodes, and an n-type and a p-type thermoelectric conversion semiconductor layer disposed between the high temperature electrode and the low temperature electrodes. The first and the second external electrode are electrically connected to one of the low temperature electrode and another one of the low temperature electrode respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Osamu Tsuneoka, Naruhito Kondo, Akihiro Hara, Kazuki Tateyama, Takahiro Sogou, Yasuhito Saito, Masayuki Arakawa
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Publication number: 20080163917Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the production of a conductive and transparent zinc oxide layer on a substrate by reactive sputtering. The process comprises a hysteresis region. Said method is characterised by the following steps: A doped metal Zn target is used, whereby the doping content of the target is less than 2.3 at-%, the heater is adjusted for the substrate in such a manner that a substrate temperature is adjusted to above 200° C. A dynamic deposition rate is adjusted to more than 50 nm*m/min, which corresponds to a static deposition rate which is greater than 190 nm/min, and a stabilised working point is selected within the unstable process range which is between the turning point between a stable, metal and unstable process and between the inflection point of the stabilised process curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Bernd Rech, Jurgen Hupkes, Oliver Kluth, Joachim Mueller
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Publication number: 20080163918Abstract: An integrated photovoltaic modular panel for a curtain wall glass is used for the field of building integrated photovoltaic. The invention provides the standardized photovoltaic units, so that the electrodes in a photovoltaic panel main body can be internally parallel connected. The connector may be a metal piece of stamping or casting, which has a plug 1 and a socket 2 on both ends, a waist b in the middle, an inward concave straight strip 4 on both sides of the waist, an electrode plug-in socket 3 in the waist for firmly clamping solar cell, a plastic injection molding crust 5 for fixing and securing the connector, forming a module. It can combine with different kinds of glass, forming different kinds of photovoltaic curtain wall glass. The solar cell here may be an amorphous silicon solar cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Yi Li
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Publication number: 20080163919Abstract: A roadway system for energy generation and distribution is presented. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the roadway system comprises a plurality of solar energy generating devices, and a roadway system electricity grid. The solar energy generating devices are electrically connected to the roadway system electricity grid and are positioned on part of or near to a road in a system of roads and being optionally fixed in a position such that a multi-form, solar energy gathering network can be formed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Gene S. Fein, Edward Merritt
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Publication number: 20080163920Abstract: A monolithic multiple solar cell includes at least three partial cells, with a semiconductor mirror placed between two partial cells. The aim of the invention is to improve the radiation stability of said solar cell. For this purpose, the semiconductor mirror has a high degree of reflection in at least one part of a spectral absorption area of the partial cell which is arranged above the semiconductor mirror and a high degree of transmission within the spectral absorption range of the partial cell arranged below the semiconductor mirror.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: AZUR SPACE SOLAR POWER GMBHInventors: Matthias Meusel, Gerhard Strobl, Frank Dimroth, Andreas Bett
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Publication number: 20080163921Abstract: A three-legged solar cell apparatus for producing photovoltaic electricity has a solar panel and a three-legged structure. The three-legged structure can be a tripod-like assembly or three separate legs mounted to the solar panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: SOLYNDRA, INC., a Delaware CorporationInventors: Tim Leong, Benyamin Buller
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Publication number: 20080163922Abstract: A parabolic primary mirror (10) has a concave specular surface (12) that is constructed and positioned to receive solar energy and focus it towards a focal point. A secondary mirror (14) having a convex specular surface (16) is constructed and positioned to receive focused solar energy from the primary mirror and focus it onto an annular receiver (18). The annular receiver (18) may include an annular array of optical elements (100) constructed to receive solar energy from the secondary specular surface (14) and focus it onto a ring of discreet areas. A ring of solar-to-electrical conversion units are positioned on the ring of discreet areas. A sun sensor that allows accurate solar tracking to keep mirror system aligned with the sun.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: William E. Horne, Mark D. Morgan
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Publication number: 20080163923Abstract: An organic light emitting display not only display images but also generates power by employing a dye-sensitized solar cell as a polarizing film of the organic light emitting display. The organic light emitting display includes: a substrate; an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) including an anode arranged on an upper surface of the substrate, an organic thin film arranged on an upper surface of the anode, and a cathode arranged on an upper surface of the organic thin film; and a solar cell layer arranged on an upper surface of the cathode.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Hyehyang Park, Byoungdeog Choi
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Publication number: 20080163924Abstract: A multi-junction, monolithic, photovoltaic solar cell device is provided for converting solar radiation to photocurrent and photo voltage with improved efficiency. The solar cell comprises a plurality of semiconductor sub-cells, i.e., active p/n junctions, connected in series via tunnel junctions. To increase efficiency, each semiconductor cell is fabricated from the same semiconductor material so that all cells have the identical lattice constant. Nanosized indentations or protrusions are formed on the surface of each sub-cell, thereby modifying the size of the semiconductor bandgap and creating appropriate bandgaps to efficiently harness a larger portion of the solar spectrum. To further increase efficiency, the thickness of each sub-cell is controlled to match the photocurrent generated in each sub-cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Elisheva Sprung
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Publication number: 20080163925Abstract: A dye-sensitized solar cell using an ion-bound oligomer complex is provided. The dye-sensitized solar cell comprises an electrolyte, comprising a first oligomer having a C5-30 heteroaryl group containing a nitrogen heteroatom as a basic functional group at both ends of the molecule, mixed with a second oligomer having an acidic functional group selected from among carboxylic acid, phosphoric acid, and sulfonic acid, at both ends of the molecule, to thus form a salt, which then leads to an ion-bound oligomer complex that constitutes the electrolyte. The solar cell exhibits excellent mechanical properties, can be manufactured conveniently, and can have a high energy conversion efficiency.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Byung Hee SOHN, Sang Cheol PARK, Jung Gyu NAM, Won Cheol JUNG, Young Jun PARK, Yong Soo KANG, Yong Gun LEE
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Publication number: 20080163926Abstract: An organic solar cell including a substrate, an organic solar cell device, at least one hydrophobic polymer layer and at least one metal layer is provided. The hydrophobic polymer layer and the metal layer are alternately stacked on the organic solar cell device. The hydrophobic polymer layer is used to prevent moisture from entering the organic solar cell device. The metal layer is used to prevent moisture and oxygen from entering the organic solar cell device. A method for forming an organic solar cell is also disclosed in the specification.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Ritek CorporationInventors: Ping-Tsung Huang, Hsiu-Chih Hsu, Chuan-Man Lan, Chao-Ting Chen
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Publication number: 20080163927Abstract: Disclosed herein are a polymer solar cell, comprising a substrate, a first electrode, a hole injection layer, a photoactive layer, and a second electrode, characterized in that an electron-accepting layer is formed between the photoactive layer and the second electrode, and a method of manufacturing the polymer solar cell. The polymer solar cell comprises an electron-accepting layer between the photoactive layer and the second electrode, thereby assuring excellent power conversion efficiency. Furthermore, high power conversion efficiency can also be attained in a low-temperature thermal annealing process.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Byung Hee SOHN, Sang Cheol PARK, Seok Gwang DOO, Ji Young KIM, Seung Ook ROH, Chang Hee LEE
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Publication number: 20080163928Abstract: The invention relates to a photovoltaic cell and to a process for producing a photovoltaic cell comprising a photovoltaically active semiconductor material of the formula (I) or (II): ZnTe ??(I) Zn1-xMnxTe ??(II) where x is from 0.01 to 0.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2006Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Hans-Josef Sterzel
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Publication number: 20080163929Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to an electrode (e.g., front electrode) for use in a photovoltaic device or the like. In certain example embodiments, a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) based front electrode for use in a photovoltaic device is of or includes zinc oxide, or zinc aluminum oxide, doped with yttrium (Y). In certain example embodiments, the addition of the yttrium (Y) to the conductive zinc oxide or zinc aluminum oxide is advantageous in that potential conductivity loss of the electrode can be reduced or prevented. In other example embodiments, a low-E coating may include a layer of or including zinc oxide, or zinc aluminum oxide, doped with yttrium (Y).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp.Inventor: Alexey Krasnov
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Publication number: 20080163930Abstract: A home appliance equipped with a drain function and a method of controlling the same are disclosed. The method of controlling a home appliance equipped with a drain apparatus includes switching ON/OFF the drain apparatus during a first time, switching on the drain apparatus during a second time after switching ON/OFF the drain apparatus, checking a variation of the water level according to a draining status, and controlling the drain apparatus based on the checked water-level variation result corresponding to the draining status.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yo Chul Ha
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Publication number: 20080163931Abstract: A fuel supply device includes a fuel supply pipe receiving fuel at a non-regulated pressure delivered by a pump, a device for measuring the flow rate of fuel in the pipe, a first controlled variable-restriction valve mounted in the supply pipe, a control system connected to the flow rate measurement device and to the first valve to control the valve to deliver fuel to the engine at a desired flow rate under normal operating conditions of the engine, a second controlled variable-restriction valve mounted in the supply pipe in series with the first valve, and a control for controlling the second valve to enable the engine to be supplied with fuel at an adjustable, reduced flow rate in response to detecting over-speed or over-thrust of the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2006Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: HISPANO SUIZAInventors: Jean-Marie Brocard, Regis Michel Paul Deldalle, Philippe Galozio, Michel Martini, Alain Michel Varizat
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Publication number: 20080163932Abstract: A valve comprising an inlet port, an outlet port, an exhaust port and a diaphragm disposed between the inlet and exhaust ports which is moveable, in response to air pressure within the valve, between a first position in which it seals the exhaust port and a second position in which the exhaust port is open, there being one or more projections associated with the exhaust port on which the diaphragm is able to rest in its first position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Ian Martin Cottom
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Publication number: 20080163933Abstract: The present invention is a cartridge underbody attachment for a single control faucet. The attachment generally comprises a cartridge seat, valve tubes, and tube fittings. The cartridge seat is supported within the spout body of a faucet. The spout body comprises a sideways extending port having a notch and ledge formed therein. The cartridge seat is positioned in the spout body. The cartridge seat generally comprises a backplate having defined apertures, and a manifold that is part of the rear surface of backplate. Valve tubes soldered within the manifold are in fluid communication with the apertures. A pin on the backplate interfaces with the notch in the spout body to align and position the cartridge seat within the spout body. A cartridge support housing in combination with the port ledge of the spout body secure the cartridge underbody attachment to the spout body.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Indalecio Ortega, Scott Baker
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Publication number: 20080163934Abstract: An automotive fuel storage system includes a fuel storage tank and a binder fluid tank containing a supply of binder fluid. A mixer system connected with the binder fluid tank and the fluid storage tank mixes binder fluid throughout fuel contained within the storage tank, so as to increase the bulk viscosity of the fuel stored within the tank restricting the ability of the fuel to flow from the tank in the event of a collision of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Robert Thompson, Joseph Dierker
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Publication number: 20080163935Abstract: Auxiliary water is supplied to a building, which also receives water from a main supply line, from an external portable tank separate from the main supply line. The water is pumped from the tank through an auxiliary supply line to a junction with the main supply line. One-way valves are provided in both the main supply line and the auxiliary supply line before the junction to prevent backflow in each of the supply lines from the other supply line. Water is pumped to the auxiliary supply line at a prescribed pressure which is less than the main supply line pressure so that the valves allow water to be drawn only from the main supply line until a loss of main line pressure at which point the valves automatically cause the greater auxiliary supply line pressure to cause water to be drawn only from the auxiliary supply line.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Corey Bossuyt
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Publication number: 20080163936Abstract: Valve positioning systems may include one or more components and a controller. Components may include one or more electric-to-pressure output converters, relays, gas supplies, and/or actuators. A controller may adjust a position of a valve by sending a signal. The valve positioning system may individually monitor components and determine the condition of each component being individually monitored. The valve positioning system may determine if a component will fail prior to failure and/or determine if a problem will occur in a component prior to the problem occurring.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: DRESSER, INC.Inventors: Henry W. Boger, Sandro Esposito
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Publication number: 20080163937Abstract: Fluid regulatory systems may provide diagnostic functions during shut-down procedures. In one aspect, a fluid regulatory system may include a valve positioning system. The valve positioning system may include components such as a controller and an electric-to-pressure converter. The controller may receive a command signal, modify the command signal, adjust a control signal to the electric-to-pressure converter based on the command signal, and/or monitor components while closing the valve. The valve positioning system may have a probability of failure on demand of less than 10?3.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Dresser, Inc.Inventor: Sandro Esposito
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Publication number: 20080163938Abstract: The invention is an apparatus, system, and method for water-conserving irrigation utilizing check-valve equipped devices. By implementing a filtering device, for example a screen, adapted to connect to a connector of an irrigation outlet nozzle of said irrigation system, and employing a valve within the screen designed to prevent a flow of fluid out of the connector when a fluid pressure into said valve is less than a threshold pressure, every outlet to an irrigation system may be sealed to preserve water and prevent overirrigation caused by low head drainage.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Travis Komara
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Publication number: 20080163939Abstract: A solenoid actuated valve assembly includes a valve body having a slidable main valve member and a pilot valve body mechanically connected to the valve body including a slidable pilot valve member. A first solenoid operated valve connected to the pilot valve body when energized directs pressurized fluid to move the pilot valve member between pilot valve open and closed positions. A second solenoid operated valve connected to the valve body when simultaneously energized with the first valve directs the fluid to move the main valve member between valve closed and open positions. A third solenoid operated valve connected to the pilot valve body when energized and when both the first and second solenoid operated valves are de-energized directs the fluid to move the pilot valve to the pilot valve open position and the main valve member to the valve closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Kevin C. Williams, Robert H. Neff
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Publication number: 20080163940Abstract: The water separator of the present invention has water inlets arranged onto a side wall, and a through-hole placed centrally at top of the body for insertion of brake valve rod. The coupling swing base is installed at bottom of the brake valve rod. The bottom of the coupling swing base is mated with the rotational valve plate, and the rotational valve plate is fitted with a through-groove that can align with any water outlet on the stationary valve plate and foundation. Flexible snappers are arranged at intervals around the coupling swing base, such that snapping portions are placed at intervals onto the wall of upper space in the body. When the coupling swing base is rotated to a preset angle under the drive of brake valve rod, the positioning effect could be achieved through the mating of flexible snapper and snapping portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: KUCHING INTERNATIONAL LTD.Inventor: Mei-Li CHEN
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Publication number: 20080163941Abstract: An in-line swivel having a through bore for fluid flow therethrough. In one embodiment, the swivel comprises an inlet member having a first longitudinal axis and an outlet member having a second longitudinal axis. The outlet member is configured to rotate relative to the inlet member. The swivel also comprises a bearing having a third longitudinal axis. The bearing extends through at least a portion of at least one of the inlet member and the outlet member and includes a fluid passage such that the inlet member and the outlet member are in fluid communication through the bearing, and the first axis and the second axis are substantially perpendicular to the third axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
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Publication number: 20080163942Abstract: A faucet control system comprises a valve apparatus, sensors or a touch panel to be activated by a user, and a controller that controls the valve apparatus. A first sensor may start fluid flow and a second sensor may alter the proportion of fluids delivered from two fluid sources. Alternatively, a first sensor may initiate hot water flow, a second sensor may initiate cold water flow, and a third sensor may initiate flow of a mixture of hot and cold water to create a warm water flow. The sensors may be activated without being touched and may include infrared sensing elements. The touch panel may be activated with hand pressure and may include electrically conductive sheets. Alternatively, hot, cold and/or warm touch sensors may be provided separately. The touch panel may have a first portion for allowing fluid flow from a cold fluid source, a second portion for allowing fluid flow from the cold fluid source and a hot fluid source, and a third portion for allowing fluid flow from the hot fluid source.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Kum F. Boey
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Publication number: 20080163943Abstract: System for the chemical/physical treatment of a fluid in which a distributor valve has been installed for the feed/discharge of fluid to/from various reactors. The distributor valve consists of a plate valve with stationary plate and rotary plate. A cylindrical body provided with a number of axial bores that change into radial bores and emerge in the wall of a stationary housing adjoins the rotary plate and rotates therewith. A number of inlets/outlets located one after the other viewed in the axial direction are provided on the stationary housing. According to the invention the various radial bores in the cylindrical body are provided with a fluid via axial bores, based on a single valve plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Johannes Albertus Evers
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Publication number: 20080163944Abstract: A valve assembly (100) has an inlet port (104) and an outlet port (106) linked by a fluid conduit (102) for allowing fluid to pass therebetween. The valve assembly includes a stop valve having a spindle (112) that is centrally mounted within the valve assembly and a valve head (108) mounted on the spindle (112). The stop valve spindle (112) is operable to move the stop valve head (108) between an open position, in which the inlet port (104) is in communication with the outlet port (106), and a closed position, in which the outlet port is isolated from the inlet port. Also provided is a control valve having at least one spindle (114) that is eccentrically mounted within the valve assembly and a valve head (110) mounted on the at least one control valve spindle (114).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Jonathan David Seaton
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Publication number: 20080163945Abstract: An apparatus for controlling flow in a fluid flow path can include a chamber containing an expandable material, the expandable material being configured to expand out of the chamber into a portion of the fluid flow path so as to at least partially block the fluid flow path. The apparatus also can include at least one structure providing flow communication between the chamber and the fluid flow path. The at least one structure can be configured to pass the expandable material from the chamber to the portion of the fluid flow path during expansion so as to control a rate at which the expandable material expands into the portion of the fluid flow path.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Applera CorporationInventors: James C. Nurse, John R. Van Camp
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Publication number: 20080163946Abstract: A simple, external in-line valve for use in microfluidic devices constructed of elastomer such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is described. The actuation of the valve is based on the principle that flexible polymer walls of a liquid channel can be pressed together by the aid of a permanent magnet and a small metal bar. In the presence of a small NdFeB magnet lying below the channel of interest, the metal bar is pulled downward simultaneously pushing the thin layer of PDMS down thereby closing the channel stopping any flow of fluid. The operation of the valve is dependent on the thickness of the PDMS layer, the height of the channel, the gap between the chip and the magnet and the strength of the magnet. The microfluidic channels are completely closed to fluid flows commonly used in microfluidic applications. The valve allows for fabrication of a “thin chip” that allows for detection of chromophoric species within the microchannel via an external fiber optics detection system.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: The Trustees of California State UniversityInventors: Frank A. Gomez, Attila Gaspar, Menake E. Piyasena
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Publication number: 20080163947Abstract: A valve seat 20 is arranged between the supply circuit 8 and a downstream circuit 18. A valve body 21 blocks a fluid flow between the supply circuit 8 and the downstream circuit 18 by contacting the valve seat 20. The valve body 21 connects the supply circuit 8 to the downstream circuit 18 for supplying the fluid to the downstream circuit 18 by separating from the valve seat 20. A through hole 24 extends through the valve body 21 and thus defines a part of the supply circuit 8. The through hole 24 is defined in such a manner that the fluid that has flowed from the through hole 24 proceeds between the valve seat 20 and the valve body 21 and is thus supplied to the downstream circuit 18. The valve body 21 is formed in such a manner that a pressure receiving area at an upstream side of the through hole 24 is smaller than a pressure receiving area at a downstream side of the through hole 24.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Takeharu Matsuzaki, Shigeto Nakajima
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Publication number: 20080163948Abstract: A valve for use in aircraft comprises a body, a selective interrupter positioned inside the body for rotation therein, a flow arrangement between the selective interrupter and the body, a bonnet connected to the body and in contact with the selective interrupter, an arm extending through the bonnet and connected to the selective interrupter, and an actuator movably connected to the arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Rob G. Parrish
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Publication number: 20080163949Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for turbulent flow drag reduction using discrete counter-rotating elements disposed adjacent a bounding surface and arranged to effectively disrupt or suppress stream-wise vortices and/or traveling waves thereby reducing turbulence and increasing fluid flow. In embodiments, the counter-rotating elements effectively decouple the interaction between traveling waves and stream-wise vortices. By using discrete counter-rotating elements as disclosed, the energy input to the counter-rotating elements is advantageously less than the energy gained from the flow rate increase. The counter-rotating elements may comprise e.g., counter-rotating strips, counter-rotating disks or a plurality of sequentially activated jets. In addition, the bounding surface may comprise a section or pipe, a substantially planar surface, etc. The counter-rotating elements may be used along a section of a pipe, on a surface of an aircraft wing, in HVAC systems, etc.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Andrew T. DUGGLEBY, Kenneth Ball
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Publication number: 20080163950Abstract: An inlet stratification device (5) for a circuit circulating a fluid through a tank (1) and for providing and maintaining stratification of the fluid in the tank (1). The stratification device (5) is arranged vertically in the tank (1) and comprises an inlet pipe (6) being at least partially formed of a flexible porous material and having an inlet (19) and outlets formed of the pores of the porous material. The stratification device (5) further comprises at least one outer pipe (7) surrounding the inlet pipe (6) in spaced relationship thereto and being at least partially formed of a porous material.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2006Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Elsa Andersen, Simon Furbo
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Publication number: 20080163951Abstract: An inflatable plug insertable into a conduit and inflatable therein to restrict fluid flow comprises a bladder having an interior surface and an exterior surface and at least one fabric layer covering at least a portion of the exterior surface of the bladder. The inflatable plug also comprises a first plate, a second plate, and at least one fluid port. The first plate is positioned inside the bladder and adjacent to the interior surface of the bladder. The second plate is positioned outside the bladder and adjacent to the at least one fabric layer. The second plate is coupled to the first plate such that the first plate and the second plate clamp a portion of the at least one fabric layer and a portion of the bladder therebetween. The at least one fluid port extends through the first plate and the second plate and facilitates inflation and deflation of the bladder.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
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Publication number: 20080163952Abstract: The present invention relates to a weave with a visual color variation, which is interlaced by a plurality of longitudinal yarns and a plurality of latitudinal yarns. One of the longitudinal yarns and latitudinal yarns includes at least one protruding yarn and two color yarns with different colors. The protruding yarn has a plurality of protruding portions presenting on the surface of the weave. The two color yarns are arranged beside the protruding yarn respectively, and the two color yarns have a plurality of color portions presenting on the surface of the weave respectively. If the weave is observed from different viewing angles, the color portions are interfered by the protruding portion to make the weave show various visual color variations.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Min-San Huang
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Publication number: 20080163953Abstract: The present invention relates to a tubular fabric for receiving an underwire in a garment such as a bra. The tubular fabric is formed by arranging a fusible yarn, such as Grillon™, and melting said yarn to form a barrier, which exhibits excellent resistance to penetration by underwires. Preferably the fabric does not include an elastomeric yarn and is treated to impart stretch to the fabric in the length direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2008Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: Stretchline Intellectual Properties LimitedInventors: Robert Arthur Glenn, Henry Arthur Sebastian Price