Patents Issued in December 4, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080295510
    Abstract: Power generating apparatus includes a float mounted on a support pivotally mounted to a base and secured to a beam extending rearwardly of the base to a vertically extending elongated structure carrying a pair of vertically movable gear racks in guideways. Each rack is engaged by a gear wheel driven by movement of the racks and a one-way drive arrangement connects each gear wheel to an output shaft. Driving weights are secured to each rack to drive the racks in opposite directions under the action of gravity forces acting on the weights, thus causing the output shaft to rotate in a given direction. The free end of the beam is connected to a cross-arm vertically moveable on a guide on the elongate structure, the cross-arm having a motion transmitting arrangement to raise each weight during vertical movement of the cross-arm resulting from movement of the float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Marko Vukovic
  • Publication number: 20080295511
    Abstract: The reciprocatable power piston of a free-piston Stirling machine is drivingly linked to a reciprocatable component body of an associated apparatus by at least one spring with no rigid connection linking the piston to the component body. The spring drive linkage allows the power piston and the reciprocatable component body of the associated apparatus to reciprocate at different amplitudes of oscillation. Therefore, the Stirling machine and the associated apparatus can be optimized at different amplitudes of piston and the component body oscillation thereby improving the optimization of two very different dynamic systems that are drivingly connected together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SUNPOWER, INC.
    Inventor: William T. Beale
  • Publication number: 20080295512
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrically driven brake booster in which boost control is performed as follows; when an input piston is displaced forward by an input rod upon an operation of a brake pedal, an electric motor is operated according to the input, and a primary piston is displaced forward by a ball-screw mechanism, and then a primary and secondary pressure chamber in a master cylinder main body are pressurized. A first seal and a second seal are disposed at a seal portion between the primary piston and the input piston. A portion between the first seal and the second seal is in communication with an outside through a discharge passage. Brake fluid which leaks from the first seal is sealed off by the second seal, and is discharged to the outside through the discharge passage, whereby it becomes possible to prevent that the electric motor and the ball-screw mechanism otherwise might be corroded by the leaking brake fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Takuya Obata, Toshio Takayama, Takayuki Ohno, Yukio Ohtani
  • Publication number: 20080295513
    Abstract: A method of operation for an engine system having a variable geometry turbocharger with a vane, the vane having a variable position is provided. The method includes adjusting a vane of the variable geometry turbocharger through a range of operation by stepping through a plurality of vane positions and holding at each of the plurality of positions, the range spanning from a substantially minimum position to a substantially maximum position of the variable geometry turbocharger, and adjusting operation of the engine based on a response to the vane adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: John Eric Rollinger, David Bell, Michael John Cullen, Brien Lloyd Fulton
  • Publication number: 20080295514
    Abstract: An exhaust gas recirculation apparatus of an internal combustion engine includes a turbocharger provided with a turbine in an exhaust passage and a compressor in an intake passage, a low pressure EGR passage which connects the exhaust passage downstream of the turbine with the intake passage upstream of the compressor, a high pressure EGR passage which connects the exhaust passage upstream of the turbine with the intake passage downstream of the compressor; an exhaust gas control catalyst provided in the exhaust passage downstream of the turbine and upstream of the low pressure EGR passage; and EGR gas amount changing means for simultaneously changing amounts of EGR gas flowing through the low pressure EGR passage and the high pressure EGR passage such that a temperature of the exhaust gas control catalyst is within a target range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tomoyuki Ono
  • Publication number: 20080295515
    Abstract: The invention is based on an arrangement of supercharging units (1, 5, 6, 7), which arrangement is to be attached in the construction space of a motor vehicle, for supercharging an internal combustion engine with a fluid (23) comprising charge air and/or exhaust gas, wherein the supercharging units (1, 5, 6, 7) comprise at least one heat exchanger (5, 6, 7) and at least one compressor (1). According to the concept of the invention, the supercharging units (1, 5, 6, 7) are arranged combined in a module (10A, 10B) and, in order for the same to be kept together in the module (10A, 10B), the supercharging units (1, 5, 6, 7) are connected at any rate partially to one another in a fluid-conducting manner, and at least one of the supercharging units (1, 5, 6, 7) is held on a holding structure. This enables the supercharging units to be handled flexibly, simply and nevertheless in a manner saving on construction space and outlay on connection. The invention also leads to a production method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Jurgen WEGNER
  • Publication number: 20080295516
    Abstract: An axial flow type exhaust gas turbine supercharger (TC) enabling maintainability to be secured by easily attaching/detaching an inner casing, capable of solving problems in thermal expansion and an increase in weight which make its design difficult, and formed to rotate a coaxial compressor with a shaft output provided by the expansion of exhaust gas led into an axial flow turbine (20). The exhaust gas turbine supercharger comprises a gas inlet casing (25) of double structure in which an inner casing (21) and an outer casing (22) formed separately from each other are formed integrally with each other by bolting and a space formed between both casings (21) and (22) forms an exhaust gas flow passage (24) leading the exhaust gas to a turbine nozzle (23). The exhaust gas flow passage (24) is formed all around the periphery of the turbine in the rotating direction and the inner casing (21) is formed detachable in the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Takanori Teshima, Keiichi Shiraishi, Koichiro Imakiire, Yoshitsugu Aono
  • Publication number: 20080295517
    Abstract: A process includes degassing ocean or sea water in an ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) system, and then extracting one or more noble gases from the out-gas of the ocean or sea water. An OTEC system capable of degassing ocean or sea water and extracting noble gases therefrom is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Robert J. Howard, John W. Rapp
  • Publication number: 20080295518
    Abstract: A noise control cassette for a gas turbine engine includes a perforated face sheet configured for exposure to an airflow, a non-perforated backing sheet, a core arranged between the face sheet and the backing sheet and defining a cavity between the face sheet and the backing sheet having an effective length tuned so as to provide acoustic reactance control, and an attachment face for attaching the cassette to an airfoil-shaped structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Ramons A. Reba, Bruce L. Morin, Stephen A. Morford, Wesley K. Lord
  • Publication number: 20080295519
    Abstract: An end cap for a fuel injector of a turbine engine is disclosed. The end cap includes an annular first surface including a plurality of perforations. The annular first surface is exposed to a combustion chamber of the turbine engine. The end cap is coupled to an end face of the fuel injector to define an enclosed cavity. The enclosed cavity and the plurality of perforations form an array of Helmholtz resonators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Roger James Park
  • Publication number: 20080295520
    Abstract: System, methods and apparatus for dynamic control of mixing of diluent and fuel at desired diluent-to-fuel ratios to obtain low level of undesirable emissions in a combustion system are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Dah Yu Cheng
  • Publication number: 20080295521
    Abstract: A method of assembling a turbine engine includes defining a first chamber and defining a second chamber. The method also includes forming at least one venturi device oriented with a predetermined venturi step angle greater than approximately 48°. The method further includes coupling the first chamber in flow communication with the second chamber via the venturi device therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Derrick Walter Simons, Jeffrey Scott Lebegue, Krishna Kumar Venkataraman
  • Publication number: 20080295522
    Abstract: The present invention reduces to practice discoveries made by the present inventors during their investigations into present-art-perceived-difficulties in thermal-management applications of solid-state devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: David Allen Hubbell, Thorgeir Jonsson, Sturla Jonsson
  • Publication number: 20080295523
    Abstract: A retainer and spring with threaded end are machined from a single piece of material for threading to a piston in a closed cycle cryogenic cooler. Since the machined retainer and spring are a unitary part, they cannot rub against each other during operation of the piston which reduces debris generation. The spring is preferably formed as a double start helix which further increases axial stability and reduces side loading. The spring extends into an integrally formed, threaded end at the end thereof opposite the retainer. The spring is therefore solidly connected to its adjoining parts which greatly reduces tilting and off-axis movements inherent in the prior art, wound spring designs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Lane Daniel Dicken, Arthur R. Nelson, Dennis Eugene Lund, JR., Daniel James Belk
  • Publication number: 20080295524
    Abstract: A pulse tube refrigerating machine enables maintenance of an orifice while circulation of refrigerant gas within individual components is allowed, thus reducing the time required for maintenance. A compressor delivers a refrigerant gas having a high pressure and sucks the refrigerant gas having a low pressure. A cold head including a regenerator tube through which the refrigerant gas circulates and a pulse tube is connected to a housing. The flow of the refrigerant gas is controlled by one or more orifices, which are disposed outside the housing. The compressor, the housing, and the orifices are coupled via tubing. A coupling unit is disposed at both ends of at least one of the orifices. The coupling unit has a structure such that it can be split while the refrigerant gas is retained within the tubing. When the coupling unit is split, a detachable unit portion including the orifice is isolated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Hirokazu Takayama, Mingyao Xu
  • Publication number: 20080295525
    Abstract: A rotary disc valve unit and refrigerators containing a rotary disc valve unit that has multiple valves, in which at least one rotary valve has ports connecting to the regenerator and at least one rotary valve has ports connecting to the warm ends of one or more pulse tubes where the rotary valve with ports for the regenerator has lighter contact than the rotary valve with ports for the pulse tubes. The valve face is divided into an inner area with ports for the pulse tubes and an outer area with ports for the regenerator, the inner area having a greater sealing pressure than the outer area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Mingyao Xu, Eric Seitz
  • Publication number: 20080295526
    Abstract: An LNG terminal is disclosed which includes an offshore mooring turret, an LNG storage vessel operatively coupled to the mooring turret, the LNG storage vessel including at least one LNG storage tank for the storage of liquid natural gas and a regasification vessel operatively coupled to the LNG storage vessel. A method of operating an offshore LNG terminal is also disclosed which includes obtaining liquefied natural gas from at least one LNG storage tank on an LNG storage vessel that is operatively coupled to a mooring turret, regasifying the liquefied natural gas from the LNG storage vessel using a regasification vessel operatively coupled to the LNG storage vessel, and supplying the regasified gas to at least one subsea pipeline via the mooring turret.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: L. Terry Boatman, Yonghui Liu
  • Publication number: 20080295527
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for producing nitrogen equipped in a marine structure such as a liquefied natural gas regasification vessel (LNG RV) and a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), and a method for producing nitrogen in a marine structure using the apparatus. The apparatus for producing nitrogen equipped in a flowing marine structure produces nitrogen to be mixed with natural gas to be supplied to consumers after regasification. The floating marine structure in which the apparatus is equipped has an LNG regasification facility for compressing the LNG stored in a storage tank using a high-pressure pump and then vaporizing the LNG into natural gas in a vaporizer to supply natural gas to consumers. The apparatus for producing nitrogen secures cold heat necessary to produce nitrogen using the LNG supplied from the storage tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING & MARINE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jung Han Lee, Jong Hyun Park, Young Soo Kim, Hyun Ki Park, Jin Yul Yu, Hyun Jin Kim
  • Publication number: 20080295528
    Abstract: A cryostat, comprising an outer vacuum vessel containing cryogenic equipment suspended from the outer vacuum vessel by a number of suspension rods. At least one of the suspension rods is provided with a tensioning and retaining mechanism for holding that suspension rod in tension braced against a suspension bracket). This tensioning and retaining mechanism includes a tubular rod carrier arranged, in use, to pass through a hole or slot in the suspension bracket, the rod carrier having an axial bore through which, in use, the rod may pass; a thread on its outer surface along at least part of its length; and a rod bearing surface for, in use, transmitting force to the rod. This tensioning and retaining mechanism also comprises a tensioning nut threaded onto the thread so as to, in use, brace against the suspension bracket to urge the tubular rod carrier in the direction of the rod bearing surface so as to apply tension to the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Nicholas Mann, Jennifer Ridley
  • Publication number: 20080295529
    Abstract: A refrigeration device may provide a snooze feature, in which the compressor of the refrigeration device is turned off for a predetermined period of time in response to a user command. The refrigeration device may also provide a quick chill feature, in which the compressor of the refrigeration device is turned on for a predetermined period of time in response to a user command. User commands for controlling the operation of the refrigeration device may be provide through a control panel, a remote control or a network interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SANYO E & E CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomoki KAWAGUCHI, Kunimitsu OZAKI
  • Publication number: 20080295530
    Abstract: A compressor inlet pressure estimation apparatus for a refrigeration cycle system is disclosed. An electronic control unit 14 answers YES by judging that the command to start a compressor 2 is issued when an air-conditioning switch is turned on in step S100. After that, the electronic control unit 14 answers NO in the case where a timer count time Tc is shorter than a predetermined time T1 in step S120. At the same time, Tefin_C is set to 15° C. in step S130. The lower one of Tefin_C and Tefin determined in this way is determined as Tefin_d (step S150). After that, Tefin_d is input to the first-order lag function to acquire Tefin_AD(N). Then, the control proceeds to step S170, where the estimated value Ps_es(N) of the refrigerant inlet pressure of the compressor 2 is determined using Tefin_AD(N) and Gr.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshikatsu Sawada, Yasutane Hijikata
  • Publication number: 20080295531
    Abstract: A method to control the sleep operation of an air conditioner is provided. The method includes determining whether or not a sleep operation is activated and sequentially performing a plurality of sub-modes of the sleep operation when the sleep operation is activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Myung Seob Song, Hyung Chel Kim, Kook Geong Seo, Seung Chul Shin, Yong Gak Kim
  • Publication number: 20080295532
    Abstract: A compressor inlet pressure estimation apparatus for a refrigeration cycle system is disclosed. An electronic control unit 14 uses Tefin_lag(N) as an actual corrected temperature Tefin_AD(N) during a period Tp1 included in the timing t1 to t2. During a period Tp2 included in the timing t1 to t2, Tefin_fwd(N) is used as the actual corrected temperature Tefin_AD(N). Thus, a highly accurate corrected temperature Tefin_AD(N) can be determined over the on period (t1 to t2) of a compressor 2. In addition, Tefin_fwd(N) is used as the actual corrected temperature Tefin_AD(N) during the off period (t2 to 3) of the compressor 2. As a result, a highly accurate corrected temperature Tefin_AD(N) can be determined over the whole period including the on and off periods of the compressor 2. In this way, a highly accurate estimated value Ps_es(N) of the refrigerant inlet pressure of the compressor 2 can be determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshikatsu Sawada, Yasutane Hijikata
  • Publication number: 20080295533
    Abstract: A heat exchange and heat transfer device comprises an evaporating/absorbing arrangement connected to a binary mixture flow circuit containing a first refrigerant fluid and a second absorbing fluid. The refrigerant fluid is evaporated in the evaporator part of the arrangement and subsequently absorbed in the absorber part by an absorbing fluid-enriched mixture. The evaporating/absorbing arrangement comprises at least two oppositely disposed reference surfaces defining evaporation and absorption components, respectively, an evaporator mass for supplying the liquid refrigerant fluid to the reference surface of the evaporation component and an absorber mass for supplying the absorbing fluid-enriched mixture to the reference surfaced of the absorption component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: PEUGEOT CITROEN AUTOMOBILES S.A.
    Inventors: Emmanuel Boudard, Vitale Bruzzo
  • Publication number: 20080295534
    Abstract: A self contained cooling system which is amenable to miniaturization so as to accommodate space and connectivity restrictions implicit in computer and other electronic apparatus while enhancing heat transfer. In use, the cooling systems of this invention use compression/expansion cycles of a refrigerant material to move thermal energy from one location to another. The compressor, condenser, and evaporator are all contained within a volume consistent with mounting directly on a semiconductor device such as a processor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Timothy Samuel Farrow, Albert Vincent Makley
  • Publication number: 20080295535
    Abstract: A thermal management system for vehicles includes a refrigerant circuit containing at least one evaporator for providing conditioned air to a passenger compartment of the vehicle. A coolant circuit circulates coolant to cool an electric power source and high voltage electronics powered by the electric power source. A heat exchanger communicated with the refrigerant circuit and the coolant circuit transfers heat from the coolant to the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Kevin J. Robinet, Paul D. Netkowski, Randy P. Haas, Mark A. Hill
  • Publication number: 20080295536
    Abstract: Disclosed is the auger in an ice bin mounted in a refrigerator, and the like. The auger in the ice bin is configured to rotate an auger having spiral-shaped transfer blades and to dispose ice in each space between the transfer blades of the auger for transfer. Accordingly, a certain amount of ice can always be discharged without simultaneously discharging a great amount of ice, and a user may select the number of ice, thus to diversity functions of an ice dispenser. In addition, since the auger is made of a flexible material, the ice can be prevented from being crushed during transfer, thereby enhancing the reliability of the ice dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Yong-Su Kim, Seong-Jae Kim, Nam-Gi Lee
  • Publication number: 20080295537
    Abstract: An ice making apparatus which includes an ice making tray to produce ice and an ejector rotatably disposed at the ice making tray, comprising a plurality of ice making cells formed in the ice making tray, wherein each of the ice making cells includes a freezing portion in which ice is produced and a buffering portion which is formed as a specified space at one side of the freezing portion to prevent water of the freezing portion from flowing out of the ice making tray. Accordingly, even in a refrigerator having the ice making apparatus installed on a rear surface of the door, the ice making apparatus can permanently provide an effect of preventing water inside the ice making cells from flowing out of the ice making tray due to an opening/closing operation of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jae Koog An, Jung Rae Kim, Jong Yeob Kim
  • Publication number: 20080295538
    Abstract: Disclosed is the auger in an ice bin mounted in a refrigerator, and the like. The auger in the ice bin is configured to rotate a plurality of augers having spiral-shaped transfer blades and to dispose ice in each space between the transfer blades of the auger for transfer. Accordingly, a certain amount of ice can always be discharged without simultaneously discharging a great amount of ice, and a user may select the number of ice, thus to diversity functions of an ice dispenser. In addition, since the auger is made of a flexible material, the ice can be prevented from being crushed during transfer, thereby enhancing the reliability of the ice dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Yong-Su KIM, Seong-Jae KIM, Nam-Gi LEE
  • Publication number: 20080295539
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes a refrigerator main body having a storage chamber, a door coupled to the refrigerator main body to be opened or closed, a cool air supplying device which generates cool air, an ice maker including an ice making tray having ice making cells to produce ice and a cool air guide member installed in the door, coupled to the ice making tray and having a cool air line that guides the cool air supplied from the cool air supplying device to flow around the ice making tray. The cool air line disposed on the cool air guide member to supply the ice making tray guides the cool air supplied from the cool air supplying device to move along the surrounding of the ice making tray, thereby uniformly cooling down the ice making tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae Koog An, Jung Rae Kim, Jong Yeob Kim
  • Publication number: 20080295540
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cooling device for a machine tool (10) for cooling a heated fluid, for example a cooling lubricants, comprising at least one refrigerating unit (48) for a fluid which is filtered by a filtering unit (40) and is received form at least one storage tank (38) by means of a pumping unit provided with at least one hydraulic pump (P2), separated clean (22) and waste (36) tanks, wherein the refrigerating unit (48) returns the circulating cooled fluid to the clean tank (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: HYDAC SYSTEM GMBH
    Inventors: Rudolf Kunz, Winfried Klein
  • Publication number: 20080295541
    Abstract: When manufacturing an optical fiber preform by feeding at least glass raw material, dopant material and oxygen gas to a high frequency induction thermal plasma torch to synthesize glass particles in plasma therein, a glass rod is rotated and reciprocated relative to the plasma torch to deposit the synthesized glass particles onto the glass rod. The fluctuation of the relative refractive-index difference in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber preform is suppressed and the average value of the relative refractive-index difference in the longitudinal direction is enhanced. The glass raw material is fed to the plasma torch in a forward direction of the reciprocating motion of the glass rod, and a feeding amount of the glass raw material in the backward direction of the reciprocating motion is reduced relative to the feeding amount in the forward direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: SHIN-ETSU CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tetsuya Otosaka
  • Publication number: 20080295542
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for marking single pane security glass, produced from single pane glass by a heat treatment said single pane glass (1) being provided with at least one metal-particle- or metal-ion- containing marking, generated by laser irradiation (3) of a metal ion donor material (2) arranged on the single pane glass, said single pane glass (1) being subjected to a heat treatment to form single pane security glass (1) wherein at least one marking is altered by the heat treatment and it may be checked whether a change to at least one marking has occurred and thus the heat treatment may be verified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas Rainer, Reinhard Borek
  • Publication number: 20080295543
    Abstract: A washing machine is provided that includes an induction motor and a motor control circuit with a feedback loop. The feedback loop provides rotor speed to a microprocessor of the motor control circuit. The motor control circuit and feedback loop control the motor such that the motor operates in a reverse frequency mode which provides braking to the washing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Justin Brubaker, Robert Keith Hollenbeck, Bruce Calvin Ley
  • Publication number: 20080295544
    Abstract: A laundry machine includes: a casing; a door installed on an upper surface of the casing; a tub installed within the casing; and a buffering unit for buffering an impact when the door is closed. A collision noise or vibration of the door or the casing can be reduced and damage of the washing can be prevented. Also, a hinge assembly for connecting the door to a top cover is provided to stably support the door made of a heavy material such as tempered glass and minimizes an impact or noise when the door is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Cheon-Soo Cho, Chang-Woo Son, Jong-Kyu Jang, Jin-Soo Kim, Ae-Kyung Chae, Jang-Woo Lee
  • Publication number: 20080295545
    Abstract: A dynamic vibration absorber for a washing machine is provided. The dynamic vibration absorber for a washing machine includes: a mass body; at least one elastic body for supporting the mass body so that the mass body may vibrate; and a guider for limiting a motion of the mass body, wherein the dynamic vibration absorber is attached to the washing machine generating a vibration upon operating to reduce the vibration of the washing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jae Hyun KIM, Young Ho KIM, Na Eun KIM, Jae Won CHANG, Dong Won KIM
  • Publication number: 20080295546
    Abstract: In a top-loading type washing machine, a detergent input device is installed at a control panel. Accordingly, a process for opening a lid and putting a user's hand into a cabinet for detergent input is omitted. Furthermore, can be solved a problem occurring when the user inputs a precise amount of detergent to the detergent input device inside the dark cabinet. As a result, the entire process for detergent input is simplified. Furthermore, since the detergent input device is installed at the control panel not inside a top cover, the entire appearance is not degraded even when the top cover is formed of steel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Cheon-Soo Cho, Jong-Kyu Jang, Jin-Soo Kim, Ae-Kyung Chae, Jang-Woo Lee
  • Publication number: 20080295547
    Abstract: A steam-generating-device configured to generate steam that is passed through a conduit and a nozzle into a container of a laundry appliance that is configured to receive laundry. The steam-generating device includes a tank with an interior space and a heating element. Water is admitted into the tank through an inlet opening, and an outlet opening is provided for water and/or steam. A bulkhead extends up from a bottom of the tank between the outlet opening and the interior space. The bulkhead has an upper edge forming at least one opening so as to provide a passage for the steam between the interior space and the outlet opening. The upper edge protrudes above a storage water level of the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Miele & Cie. KG
    Inventors: Michael Finke, Friedrich-Wilhelm Kramme, Robert Muether, Wilfried Schaeffersmann, Dirk Sieding
  • Publication number: 20080295548
    Abstract: Locks for luggage, travelcases, briefcases and the like that can be operated by setting a combination or by using a key include an indicator to provide a signal in response to use of the key. The locks retain relatively movable components in latched engagement when locked, and permit relative movement of the components when unlocked. In some embodiments, the indicator provides a visual signal if an associated travelcase has been opened for inspection by unlocking the associated lock using a key; and, in some embodiments, the indicator can be reset upon entry of a proper combination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Michael O. Misner, Jian-Bing Lu
  • Publication number: 20080295549
    Abstract: A multi-functional burglar-proof lockset assembly structure is composed a lockset, an alarm system, a chargeable and dischargeable battery, and a solar energy panel. The lockset body can be locked on a wheel ring of a steering wheel to restrict rotation, and at a same time the alarm system in the lockset is activated to proceed with detection of frequency change of reflected ultrasonic wave, detection of abnormal fracture of glass, and preventive detection of ultrasonic signals, through a detection end and a central processing unit. In a same time, the solar energy panel is used to transform sunlight into electric energy which is stored by the chargeable and dischargeable battery, enabling the burglar-proof lockset to solve trouble of dismantling the lockset when the electric power is insufficient and to save cost of replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Chen-Kuei Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20080295550
    Abstract: A door lock for mounting on a door leaf, comprising a housing having a front side; a latch bolt disposed in the housing and adjacent to the front side of the housing, the latch bolt being movable between a first position where the latch bolt projects out from the front side of the housing and a second position where the latch bolt is retracted into the housing; a spring preloading the latch bolt into the first position; a connecting device; and a drive device comprising an electric motor comprising a motor shaft, the motor shaft being coupled to the latch bolt by the connecting device so that when the electric motor is actuated, rotation of the motor shaft causes the latch bolt to move into the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: DORMA GMBH & CO., KG
    Inventor: Axel Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20080295551
    Abstract: A motorcycle includes a head pipe, a handlebar pipe that is rotatable relative to the head pipe, a main frame extending rearward from the head pipe, and a handlebar lock located on a topside of the main frame to prevent the handlebar pipe from rotating relative to the head pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takehiro Miyamoto
  • Publication number: 20080295552
    Abstract: An ignition switch device 1 is provided with a switching means 2 having a key hole 2a allowing a regular ignition key K to be inserted thereinto, and capable of being rotationally operated in a predetermined direction with the ignition key K inserted to start and stop an engine of an industrial machine, a case 3 covering the switching means 2 and formed with an insertion hole 3b allowing the key hole 2a to face the outside, and a main guide shape 5 composed of a groove having a V-shaped cross-section, which is formed on the surface 3a of the case 3, and extending toward the insertion hole 3b to allow the tip Ka of the ignition key K to be guided to the key hole 2a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicants: ASAHI DENSO CO., LTD., KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akihiko TSUCHIKIRI, Takehiro SAKAI, Masaaki UEDA, Keisuke MIURA, Hiroshi KAWANAMI, Ikuhiro UOTANI, Yoshiaki MIYAHARA, Tadayoshi UMEMOTO
  • Publication number: 20080295553
    Abstract: An ignition switch device is provided with a switching means 2 having a key hole 2a, and capable of being rotationally operated in a predetermined direction with an ignition key K inserted to start and stop the engine of an industrial machine, a case 3 covering the switching means 2 and formed with an insertion hole 3b allowing the key hole 2a to face the outside, a shutter 4 rotatable between a closed position where the insertion hole 3b of the case 3 is closed, and an open position where the insertion hole 3b is opened to allow the key hole 2a to face outside, and a gutter 8 formed on the surface 3a of the case 3, and extending toward an outer end of the case 3 while a base end communicates with the insertion hole 3b.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicants: ASAHI DENSO CO., LTD., KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akihiko Tsuchikiri, Takehiro Sakai, Masaaki Ueda, Keisuke Miura, Hiroshi Kawanami
  • Publication number: 20080295554
    Abstract: A device for locking and unlocking the folded and unfolded positions of an infant pushchair, during the folding and unfolding operations the handlebar being slid on the front legs, the device being actuated by means of a rope and comprising a lock at each side. This device is characterised in that the lock comprises a housing having an open lower portion and housing the active element, a flat being slidably fitted to each of the lateral faces of the housing, said flats being connected together at an end at which they are actuated by means of the rope, each of said flats in its central region having an oblique slot, a pin extending through the active element being in a position to be shifted along said oblique slots, said active element being transversally shifted in the empty space of the housing when the flats are made to carry out a longitudinally shifting motion and thus bringing about the locking and unlocking with respect to the locking points being provided on the front legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Jane, S.A.
    Inventor: Manuel JANE SANTAMARIA
  • Publication number: 20080295555
    Abstract: A locking device comprising a lock body having a through hole, a bolt member having a longitudinal bore therethrough and an insertion end which is inserted into the through hole of the lock body. The bolt member is further having a retaining pin disposed within the longitudinal bore and a resilient means for biasing the retaining pin axially out of the longitudinal bore. When the bolt member is inserted into the lock body, a means within the lock body prevents the removal of the inserted bolt member therefrom, and engages an actuating means to actuate an identifying means. The identifying means transmits a signal to indicate whether the locking device has been tampered with or defeated. If the bolt member is cut, the retaining pin is displaced out of the longitudinal bore and dislodges the actuating means resulting in the identifying means indicating that the locking device has been tampered with or defeated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Amplus Communication Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Wee Piak Chan, Tai Wee Khoo, Huan Fong Tan, Kee Fatt Chen
  • Publication number: 20080295556
    Abstract: A process produces structures which are superimposed on one another in a metal foil section. The process includes producing a primary structure using a first tool, and transferring the metal foil section to a second tool, the second tool having at least one shaping profiled roller which is responsible for transferring the metal foil section. A secondary structure is produced using the second tool. A spatial position of the primary structure and the secondary structure is determined in at least one subregion of the metal foil section. An incorrect position is detected and an operating parameter of the at least one profiled roller is adapted in dependence on the detected incorrect position. An apparatus is suitable for this process and produces metal foils which are suitable for the production of catalyst support bodies that can be used in exhaust systems of internal combustion engines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: EMITEC GESELLSCHAFT FUR EMISSIONSTECHNOLOGIE MBH
    Inventors: Jan Hodgson, Gunter Hoster
  • Publication number: 20080295557
    Abstract: Disclosed is a blasting device for blasting a part of a turbine blade, which has a blade root, a blade platform and a blade airfoil, with a blasting cubicle, which has an insertion opening, a blasting unit for the discharge of accelerated blasting media into the blasting cubicle, and a mounting for the turbine blade, wherein a seal is provided, which seals a gap between the mounting and the blade airfoil in the region of the insertion opening and so prevents the escape of dust, which is created when blasting, from the blasting cubicle, and wherein the seal seals the gap from the inner side of the cubicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Falko Hoelzel, Jean Muller, Michael Pape
  • Publication number: 20080295558
    Abstract: Beverage can manufacturing apparatus is provided in the form of a set of N necking stations S1, S2 . . . SN for progressively necking a beverage can body having a diameter greater than or equal to 2.8 inches to result in an open end designed to receive a first standard end. The necking stations are constructed such that a subset of the necking stations Si . . . Sj, where 1?i<j<N, progressively neck the beverage can body to result in an open end designed to receive a second standard end for the beverage can. The diameter of the first standard end is less than the diameter of the second standard end. For example, the first standard end is say a 202 standard end and the second standard end is a 209, 204, or a 206 standard end. Alternatively, for example, the first standard end could be a 206 end and the second standard end could be a 209 standard end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: David Reimer, Leo F. Hayden
  • Publication number: 20080295559
    Abstract: The invention concerns a machine for cambering, forming, folding or bending a bar, a wire or an extruded shape. The invention includes a bending form provided with a clamping system, a device for orienting the tube, and a bending jaw (8). The bending jaw is prismatic and machined to the tube radius on at least one of its surfaces. The kinematics of the displacement of the bending jaw in a peripheral area at the bending form is provided by any combination of at least two, rectilinear or rotating, movements. The bending jaw is steerable in rotation about a median axis perpendicular to the bending plane. The bending jaw is mobile in the vertical direction to provide multiple bending operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: NUMALLIANCE
    Inventor: Joel Etienne