Abstract: A method to preparing suspensions of metal or metal alloy nanoparticles in an ionic liquid involves the physical vapor deposition of a metal or a mixture of metals onto an ionic liquid. The method can be modified by the introduction of a reagent during or after formation of the suspension to yield nanoparticles of a metal salt. The nanoparticles can be isolated from the suspension by the thermal decomposition of the ionic liquid under conditions where the decomposition products are gaseous.

Abstract: An atmospheric leaching process in the recovery of nickel and cobalt from a lateritic ore, the lateritic ore including a low magnesium ore fraction and a high magnesium ore fraction, the process including the steps of: (a) forming an aqueous pulp of the lateritic ore, (b) leaching the aqueous pulp with a concentrated mineral acid at atmospheric pressure to produce a slutty containing a pregnant leach liquor and a leach residue, (c) treating the pregnant leach liquor either separately or as part of the slurry to recover dissolved nickel and cobalt therefrom, leaving a magnesium barren solution, (d) treating the magnesium containing solution to recover a magnesium containing salt therefrom.

Abstract: Sulphidic zinc concentrate usually also includes small amounts of rare metals such as indium and gallium. If the content of these metals in the raw material is sufficiently high, their recovery may be economically worthwhile. In the method according to the invention the recovery of indium and other desirable rare metals takes place in a zinc leaching process, in which at least part of the sulphidic concentrate is leached directly without roasting.

Abstract: A corkscrew includes a ratcheting feature to facilitate insertion of the bit into a closure and a locking feature to facilitate removal of the bit from the closure. A corkscrew also includes a removable bit (e.g., a worm, auger, or the like).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an interchangeably manual or automatic ratchet wrench that the user may couple an electric hand grip having a motor therein to the rear end of a stud member of a handle so as to urge a cartridge to rotate in an electric operation manner, or couple a manual hand grip to the rear end of the stud member of the handle so as to urge the cartridge to rotate in a manual operation manner, such that achieving a multi-purpose operation.

Abstract: A socket connection device of adjustable tension value for preventing an overlarge twisting force, comprises a seat having an approximate round cylinder; the seat having a receiving space; one end of the seat being an engaging portion; another end of the seat being a polygonal hole section; the control section including a base, an adjusting block, an axial rod, an elastic unit and a buckle block; the base serving for positioning the axial rod; the axial rod of the control section for installing the adjusting block, elastic unit and buckle block; and a head being formed as a long rod; one end of the head being a buckling end having a shape corresponding to that of the buckle block; an outer periphery of the head near the buckling end being formed with an annular groove; and another end of the head opposite to the buckling end is an engaging end.

Abstract: A socket connection device of adjustable tension value for preventing an overlarge twisting force comprises a seat having a receiving space which penetrates through an upper and a lower end of the seat; one end of the seat being an engaging portion for engaging a spanner or a driving tool; another end of the seat being a hole section; a middle part of the receiving space between the engaging portion and the polygonal hole section being a threaded section; the control section including an adjusting block, an elastic unit, and a buckle block; and a head formed as a long rod; one end of the head being a buckling end having a shape corresponding to that of the buckle block; an outer periphery of the head near the buckling end being formed with an annular groove; and another end of the head opposite to the buckling end is an engaging end.

Abstract: A socket assembly for a gate valve wrench includes a socket, a support member adapted to mount on the wrench and a fastener for connecting the socket to the support member in such a manner so as to retain the socket fixed in place on the gate valve wrench. The socket includes a cylindrical piece with an inner surface shaped to include twelve inwardly protruding ridges that together define an interior cavity. In use, the socket assembly can be used in conjunction with the wrench to turn a rounded gate valve operating nut. Specifically, with the socket assembly attached to the wrench, the socket is forcibly driven down over the rounded nut such that each ridge digs into the rounded nut. Firmly engaged by the socket, the rounded nut can then be operated using the wrench.

Abstract: A ratcheting handle having a ratchet device, an asymmetrical, triangular-shaped grip, and a tool adapter connected to the grip by the ratchet device, and a selector for changing the ratcheting direction of the ratchet device. The selector has a cylindrical wall that surrounds the tool adapter, guides the tool into engagement with the tool adapter, and stabilizes the tool when the grip is being rotated. The tool may be a conventional socket tool or a universal socket tool having a plurality of pins that are closely packed in parallel to each other and which move in accordance with the size of the fastener. The grip includes a first gripping portion extending below the rotational axis of the ratchet device and a second gripping portion extending above the rotational axis.

Abstract: An electronic hand tool comprises a handle installed with an electronic device for deriving a tension of the tool as the tool is used to drive an object and displaying the derived tension value; the handle being installed with an operating portion; the operating portion including a button which slightly protrudes from a surface of the handle; and an upper surface of the button being an inclined surface. The button has at least one function of controlling the actuation the electronic device, calibration of the tension value, and adjusting the range of the tension, and determining the displaying unit of the tension value. The inclined surface may be a cambered concave surface. One end of the driving portion is a ratchet head and another end of the driving portion is an opened end; and the ratchet head and opened end are installed at two ends of the handle.

Abstract: The subject of this disclosure concerns a screwing equipment comprising at least one rotary member (1), (21); (22), (3) mounted in a tool body (1)) and capable of producing at least one vibrational frequency representing a wear condition of said rotary member(s). The subject of this disclosure is characterized in that it comprises means for measure (5) said vibrational frequencies designed to communicate (1) with means for processing (52) said measurement enabling same to be compared to at least one reference frequency in order to determine said wear condition.

Abstract: A toolholder with a controllable critical angle, such as a lead, trailing, rake or clearance angles, includes a tool spindle for retaining the toolholder in a tool rest of a machine tool. The machine tool includes at least one linear axis, for example, three mutually perpendicular axes, a rotary axis and a rotation axis. The rotary axis and/or rotation axis is controllable to move to a specified position in synchronization with a movement of one of the linear axes. An adaptor supports a cutting tool that is retained in the adaptor by a clamp. The cutting tool defines a critical angle, such as a lead angle, a trailing angle, a rake angle and a flank clearance angle, wherein the critical angle is corrected as a vector of movement of at least one of the linear axis is changed. In addition, the cutting tool can be positioned on opposite side of a centerline of rotation of the workpiece to effectively double the life of the cutting tool. A method of controlling a toolholder is also disclosed.

Abstract: The rolled media cutter includes an elongated tray and a cutting mechanism. The elongated tray includes first and second substantially parallel channels. The first channel is formed in the tray and is configured to receive the rolled media therein. The cutting mechanism is configured to be slidingly coupled to the second channel. The cutting mechanism includes a cutting surface and a slider coupled to the cutting surface. The slider is configured to be retained within the channel so as to prevent said cutting mechanism from being removed from at least a portion along the second channel.

Abstract: A fence for a table saw is installed on two rails of the table saw, and includes a retention device pivotally connected to its one end. The retention device is composed of two fixing plates, a cam, a handle, a reinforcing plate and a pressing plate. The cam has an attracting surface with two magnetic elements affixed thereon, and the reinforcing plate is installed inclinedly between the fixing plates. The handle is pushed up or down to let the cam pivoted up and down to force the magnetic elements attracting or leaving the reinforcing plate so that the fence may be released or secured at a selected position on the rails, possible to be adjusted in its position on the rails for conveniently operating the table saw.

Abstract: Herein described is a quick assembling disassembling and movement mechanism for a component of a food slicing machine (10) of the type comprising a framework (12) bearing a rotating blade (14), provided with a blade-cover (16) which extends for at least a part of the circumferential edge of the blade (14), a moveable flap (18) and guide means (20) for a carriage (22). The carriage (22) is made up of a product-bearing plate (24), a support arm (26), constrained in a sliding manner against the guide means (20), and a cover-plate (28) sliding over the product-bearing plate (24) in an orthogonal direction with respect to the moveable flap (18).

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching the playing of an unfretted stringed instrument, such as a violin or viola, is comprised of a clip and a guide member. The clip is adapted to be releasably attachable to the neck of the instrument near its body. The guide member extends from the clip. The guide member is sized, shaped and positioned to require the player to maintain a substantially straight hand, arm and wrist alignment when playing the instrument. If the player's string hand and wrist are improperly bent while playing the instrument, the player will feel interference from the apparatus. The apparatus is used to teach proper hand, finger, wrist and arm alignment to a student.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for improving the acoustic properties, especially the sustain, of a string instrument comprising taut strings fixed at both ends of the instrument. An element is arranged on at least one end of at least one string, between a fixing device consisting of a first material and the string, said element consisting of a second material having a conductive and absorbent capacity for sound waves in the audible frequency range created by striking the strings, which is lower than the conductive or absorbent capacity of the first material in said frequency range, in such a way that the string is protected against any contact with the fixing device. The invention also relates to a novel fixing plate for using with guitars, especially electronic guitars or electronic bases, and to one such guitar or electronic bass equipped with one such fixing plate.

Abstract: Fret Dressing Masks: In the manufacturing of guitars and other fretted stringed instruments, it is necessary to file level, after installation, the 20 or more metal frets which are inserted across the wood neck. This is not a job which can be performed by machines and requires the hand work of instrument craftsmen. To accomplish this operation without damaging the neck of the instrument, several layers of paper masking tape have historically been applied. This is a time consuming, expensive process. Fret Dressing Masks are a disposable tool, approximately twenty-two inches long, cut from thick vinyl, and have slots/windows-cut and registered to fit around the frets. In one motion, they are applied to protect the neck instead of masking tape. This process takes less than two minutes, which is one tenth of the time of the current task. Once the filing process is complete, the Fret Dressing Masks can be removed in seconds.

Abstract: A percussion instrument, comprising a plurality of wood blocks or staves interlocked to each other through tongue and groove joints, such that the interlocked blocks form a solid surface having the shape of a cylinder with two open ends. A drum head is in contact with one of the open ends of the body, and suitable fixing means, coupled to said head, retain the head under pressure against one of the ends. Preferably, the tongue and groove joints are defined by grooves in the blocks or staves with a spline member disposed in each groove.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to audio mixing and editing devices and methods. A system is provided that permits mixing of and editing of multiple input audio tracks through the use of visual representation of audio signals. By viewing the visual representations of the audio inputs, a user is able to achieve a desired mix of signals with more accuracy and efficiency when compared with mixing based on hearing alone.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to speech therapy and voice training methods. A system is provided which utilizes tonal and rhythm visualization components to allow a person to “see” their words as they attempt to improve or regain their ability to speak clearly. The system is also applicable to vocal music instruction and allows students improve their singing abilities by responding to visual feedback which incorporates both color and shape. The system may comprise a step-by-step instruction method, live performance abilities, and recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate statistical analysis of student progress, remote access for teacher consultation, and video games for enhancing student interest.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to music instruction devices and methods. A system is provided which allows a user to more intuitively understand music theory and performance. The system also streamlines composition and arrangement in multi-instrument environments. The user is able to select from a variety of available music visualizations and instrument views, allowing comparison therebetween. The system may comprise a step-by-step instruction method, free-play performance abilities, and recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate statistical analysis of student progress, remote access for teacher consultation, and video games for enhancing student interest.

Abstract: A method is provided for converting one or more electronic music files into an electronic musical representation. A song framework is provided that includes a plurality of rules and associated processing steps for converting an electronic music file into a song framework output. The song framework output defines one or more framework elements; one or more performance elements; and a performance element collective. The rules and processing steps are applied to each instrument track included in one or more electronic music files, thereby: detecting the one or more performance elements; classifying the performance elements; and mapping the performance elements to the corresponding framework elements. A related method is also provide for preparing the electronic music files before applying the rules and associated processing steps of the song framework. The output of the method of the present invention is a song framework output file.

Abstract: A data converting device includes a first receiving section which receives vehicle driving data of a vehicle from an engine control unit for performing driving control of an engine mounted on the vehicle, and a control section which converts the vehicle driving data into a music performance format, and outputs the converted data.

Abstract: An electronic musical instrument includes an array of electrical switches (transducers) aligned on the body of the instrument and configured to provide a desired instrument layout, and to provide tactile feedback for playing, while having different playing functions. A suitable material overlying the switch array can provide the physical appearance and configuration for the desired instrument layout. For example, a subset of the array switches can be used for a fretting area, in which the overlay material provides multiple “strings” for fretting, and a different subset of the array switches can be used for a strumming area, in which the overlay material supports a strumming action. If desired, an additional subset of the array switches can be designated for additional effects, such as a sensor area.

Abstract: An armor system with a lightweight armored panel manufactured as a multi-material structure having a multiple of layers including a hard ballistic material layer of a Ceramic/CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composite) hybrid armor material capable of defeating ballistic threats.

Abstract: An actuator using a fluid cylinder in which rigidity may be attained with a simple configuration, includes a fluid cylinder, a first choke valve device, and a second choke valve device. The first choke valve device is disposed between a fluid pressure source and a first chamber, and the second choke valve device is disposed between the fluid pressure source and a second chamber. An opening of a valve of a discharge valve mechanism included in each of the choke valve devices is set so as to be in inverse proportion to a target pressure in the chamber in which the fluid pressure is adjusted by the choke valve device.

Abstract: A piston assembly for an internal combustion engine is provided. The piston assembly includes at least one connecting rod comprising at least one wall that defines at least one first cooling fluid passage within the connecting rod. The piston assembly also includes at least one piston body including at least one wall coupled to the connecting rod. The piston body wall defines at least one second cooling fluid passage within the piston body that is coupled in flow communication with the first cooling fluid passage. The piston assembly further includes at least one piston pin positioned within the second cooling fluid passage and is coupled to at least a portion of the connecting rod and at least a portion of the piston body. The piston assembly also includes at least one piston crown including at least one wall coupled to the piston body. The piston crown wall defines at least one third cooling fluid passage within the piston crown.

Abstract: This invention relates to gas generators and methods for their use. In some embodiments, the invention relates to devices and methods of generating a gas enriched in a specific component. In other embodiments, the devices are configured to pressurize and regulate the temperature of atmospheric air prior to passing said air through a selectively permeable gas membrane. In further embodiments, a device is also configured to preheat said selectively permeable gas membrane.

Abstract: In a device for oxidizing, reducing, calcining, sintering or melting dusts such as, e.g., furnace or steel dusts, marl and lime dust mixtures, shredder light fractions, mineral dusts such as, e.g., glass dusts, cement kiln bypass dusts, dry sewage sludge, paper slurries or oil-containing grinding dust suspensions, using a dosing cyclone into which the dusts are charged and to which a tangential connector for feeding carrier gases is connected, and a combustion chamber following the dosing cyclone in the axial direction, wherein fuel and optionally additional carrier gas are injected into the combustion chamber coaxially with the discharge opening of the cyclone, a lance is arranged in the interior of the dosing cyclone, coaxially with the discharge opening of the dosing cyclone, for the introduction of liquid substances, substances dissolved in liquids or suspended in gases, or gaseous oxidizable substances and, in particular, fuels.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pellets or granules based on iron oxides and/or iron oxyhydroxides and iron(III) hydroxide, a unit suitable for the through-flow of a fluid medium at least partially filled with an adsorbent/catalyst in pellet form consisting essentially of iron oxide and/or iron oxyhydroxide embedded in an iron hydroxide matrix, processes for their production comprising filtering, drying and shaping steps and their processes of their use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a unit suitable for the through-flow of a fluid medium at least partially filled with an adsorbent/catalyst in pellet form consisting essentially of iron oxide and/or iron oxyhydroxides, solidified with oxides and/or (oxy)hydroxides of the elements Al, Mg and Ti, the pellets or granules based on iron oxides and/or iron oxyhydroxides and iron(III) hydroxide for the absorbent/catalyst, and processes for their production and their use.

Abstract: Disclosed are sorbent compositions that include a silicon dioxide porous support impregnated with a mixture comprising zinc oxide and copper material. The sorbent compositions may be utilized in systems and methods for removing sulfur compounds from gaseous streams.

Abstract: An air purification system and method of purifying air according to various embodiments of the invention includes an ambient air inlet and a purified air outlet for the passage there through of air via a transport line. At least one cleaning chamber configured to contain therein an aqueous solution containing a reactant medium is in fluidic communication with the transport line. The ambient air passes through the at least one cleaning chamber and bubbles through the aqueous solution reacting with the reactant medium contained therein to remove gaseous pollutants and/or particulates. To recharge the system, a user simply changes out the cleaning chamber when the reactant medium is no longer capable of reacting to remove the gaseous pollutants and/or particulates from air passing there through.

Abstract: Ozone resistant O2/N2 gas separation membranes comprise a polymer membrane and an ozone reacting component, such as an antioxidant. The antioxidant may be included in the support layer of a composite membrane or included in the entire structure of an asymmetric membrane. The antioxidants in the separation membrane reduce oxidation and deterioration of the actual separation layer of the membrane.

Abstract: The present invention provides an air-permeable filtration media that includes an air-permeable backing and an adsorbent. The adsorbent is at least partially embedded in the air-permeable backing. The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing an air-permeable filtration media. The present invention also provides a method of substantially removing contaminants form air, employing the air-permeable filtration media.

Abstract: A carbon nanotube filter, a use for a carbon nanotube filter and a method of forming a carbon nanotube filter. The method including (a) providing a carbon source and a carbon nanotube catalyst; (b) growing carbon nanotubes by reacting the carbon source with the nanotube catalyst; (c) forming chemically active carbon nanotubes by forming a chemically active layer on the carbon nanotubes or forming chemically reactive groups on sidewalls of the carbon nanotubes; and (d) placing the chemically active nanotubes in a filter housing.

Abstract: A plenum based high-pressure blowback gas delivery system is provided. The system includes a filter vessel, divided into two portions, including and inlet and outlet for fluid. The system further includes a plurality of filter elements to filter fluid flowing from the first vessel portion into the second vessel portion. In response to a pressure differential caused by accretion of particulate matter on the filter elements a uniform flow of high-pressure blowback gas is delivered to the filter elements via nozzles attached to plenums contained within the second vessel portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a brewing beverage dispenser provided with a housing comprising means for pumping water from a container, transferring said water through a boiler (6) to an brewing chamber (3) containing brewable product and for removing said brewed product from the brewing chamber. Said boiler (6) comprises a cylindrical body (20) containing an electric heating element (21) and a water conduit (23), wherein said heating element and water conduit (23) form two helixes having different diameters and rotatable about the longitudinal axis (V) of the boiler body substantially through the entire height thereof. According to said invention, said boiler body (20) comprises a steam conduct (25) which forms a helix mounted along the longitudinal axis (V) of the boiler (6) substantially through the entire height thereof.

Abstract: An electric cooking appliance that has a removable cooking pot, positive locking between the cooking pot and a base configured for heating food in the pot, with the heating base also being configured for tilting the cooking pot up to an approximate forty-five degree angle from its original position. The appliance also includes a collar configured for upward positioning beyond the top edge of the cooking pot and a stirring motor arm with at least one connected stirring blade that extends into the cooking pot when the pot is in its usable position and locked onto the base. The collar tapers inwardly over the lateral edges of the stirring blade to reduce splashing and spilling in both level and tilted orientations. Stirring speed and the amount of tilt are adjustable. Further, applications can include, but are not limited to, the cooking of stir fry dishes, fudge, soups, vegetables, and stews.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a product for heating or cooling including freezing of food items in a rotating closed pipe serpent. The technology includes a closed non-circular rotating pipe serpent for processing of food items, where the food items are transported in a preparation liquid through the pipe serpent during either heating or cooling. The invention secures a gentle but efficient mixture of the food items that prevents clogging, which secures a homogeneous thermal processing of the individual food items, which again secures a high quality of the final food items. Simultaneously the products used for processing are easy to clean, which results in low costs. The process can be run entirely automatic without the involvement of manual labour, which results in minimal demands for process resources and ensures a high standard of hygiene.

Abstract: The machine for heating and dispensing liquid or semi-liquid food products comprises a tank for containing a product to be dispensed, a central body supporting the tank, a tap for dispensing the product from the tank, stirring means for mixing the product in the tank, and a boiler for heating a predetermined quantity of water.

Abstract: A steam cooker includes a steam generator including a heating chamber defining a volume for holding water. A heat exchanger is associated with the heating chamber so as to generate steam. A steam superheater superheats steam traveling from the heating chamber to a steam cooking chamber.

Abstract: A BBQ grill apparatus for grilling food includes a grilling surface for grilling the food, a heat source for generating heat to grill the food, a protector member positioned over the heat source, a main body member positioned between the protector member and the grilling surface and adapted to contain a fluid to catch grease from the food. The protector member includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. The main body member includes a first inclined floor member to cooperate with the first inclined surface and a second inclined floor member to cooperate with the second inclined surface. The main body member includes the upward projecting side member, a upward projecting end member and a foot member to maintain a spaced relationship between the protector member and the main body member.

Abstract: A manual food processor comprises a main body including a base and an upper cover, wherein the base is formed by an open housing having a cylindrical cavity in which a mounting flange is provided, and the upper cover is fitted on the base and having an opening for feeding food, and a cranking bar hole is provided on a side wall of the main body; a cutter unit including an annular cutter frame on the periphery of which an annular bevel gear is formed and a cutter fixed on the cutter frame, wherein the cutter unit is horizontally mounted on the mounting flange of the base; and a cranking bar unit including a cranking bar, a rotational shaft which is fitted in the cranking bar hole, and a bevel gear which is mounted on a tip of the rotational shaft of the cranking bar and engaged with the annular bevel gear of the cutter frame.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a method for forming a glove tab with a custom logo, and attaching the glove tab to an existing glove. In a first embodiment, a computer-generated logo is printed onto matte media using an inkjet, laserjet or dot matrix printer, and then the matte media is laminated and cut to fit the shape of a glove tab that is subsequently fastened to an existing glove. In a second embodiment, a computer-generated logo is printed onto glossy media using an inkjet, laserjet or dot matrix printer, and then the glossy media is coated with a liquid adhesive and cut to fit the shape of a glove tab that is subsequently fastened to an existing glove.

Abstract: A method for pad printing a pattern on a textile substrate with a pad printing machine, and fabric and apparel so formed from the textile substrate. The method includes the steps of positioning the textile substrate on the printing area of the pad printing machine, transferring a pattern having at least one color from the cliché of the pad printing machine to a printing pad, and transferring the pattern from the printing pad to the textile substrate.

Abstract: A controller reads out image data of an area frame that a user has drawn on an original and accurately extracts the area frame by removing noise from the read-out image data to divide image data of an area outside the area frame and image data of an area inside the area frame into separate stencils, according to a separation program. It is therefore possible to execute a separation process desired by the user without increasing costs and man-hours and with easy operations not making the user feel troublesome.

Abstract: The invention involves a printing press comprising a spray dampening unit 2 having a spray nozzle cleaning device 3, a spray dampening unit 2 having a spray nozzle cleaning device 3 and a spray nozzle bar 22 having a spray nozzle cleaning device 3. Said spray nozzle cleaning device 3, respectively, was produced with fluid nozzles 34 using a fluid line system 31, the use of a fluid line system with fluid nozzles to produce such a spray nozzle cleaning device and a procedure to clean the spray nozzles 23 of a spray dampening unit by means of such a spray nozzle cleaning device 3. Said spray nozzle cleaning device has been or can be assembled in a spray dampening unit, comprising a fluid line system 31 having several fluid nozzles 34 by means of which a cleaning fluid can be sprayed on the spray nozzles 23.

Abstract: In order to subject optically variable elements to lower stresses in a printing blanket (1) for intaglio printing having at least one first zone (11) with a first roughness, at least one second zone (12) has a predeterminable second roughness lower than the first roughness and/or a predetermined recess (15) and/or a predeterminable modulus of elasticity lower than in the first zone.