Abstract: A microfiltration apparatus and method for separating cells, such as circulating tumor cells, from a sample using a microfiltration device having a top porous membrane and a bottom porous membrane. The porous membranes are formed from parylene and assembled using microfabrication techniques. The porous membranes are arranged so that the pores in the top membrane are offset from the pores in the bottom membrane.

Abstract: A batch reverse osmosis system in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir and a method for operating the same includes a first housing having an inlet valve in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The system also includes a pressure vessel having an elongated liner with a first end and a second end, a membrane disposed within the second end having a membrane inlet, a membrane outlet disposed at the second end and a permeate outlet. The system also includes a recirculation recirculation device disposed within the first end of the elongated liner. The recirculation recirculation device defines a fluid volume between the recirculation recirculation device and the membrane adjacent to the membrane inlet. The system includes a plunger disposed within the housing and an actuator. The housing and the plunger define a chamber. The plunger is coupled to the actuator.

Abstract: The present invention involves a water-based vessel for the production of desalinated water and concentrated brine. The former is usable for drinking water in areas that lack sufficient potable water, while the latter may be used as fuel in electricity production. The invention additionally includes capabilities of providing electricity, food, and lodging in response to emergency conditions.

Abstract: A method for processing wastewater is provided. The method includes concentrating a flow of the wastewater using a reverse osmosis process membrane, and evaporating the concentrated flow to produce at least distillate and solids.

Abstract: A device for sample analysis includes a microfluidic device for separating analytes of a sample comprising a liquid, the microfluidic device comprising a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the substrate defining features that collectively occupy an area of the substrate of about 0.1 to 10 cm2, the features comprising a sample input port located at the first surface; a drying agent input port located at the first surface; an enrichment column; a separation column; switching ports located at the second surface; and fluid-conducting passages extending through the substrate from the switching ports to the sample input port, the drying agent input port, the enrichment column and the separation column. Also provided are methods and systems for separating analytes from a sample.

Abstract: Multi-layered macromolecules wherein the layers are covalently bonded together and wherein the macromolecules are covalently bonded to solid particulate substrates, methods for the preparation of such compositions, and methods for their uses in a multitude of end use applications ranging from the purification of waste chemical and metal process streams to the separation and identification of proteins, peptides, and oligionucleotides.

Abstract: A filter for removing soluble, colloidal, and insoluble particles from a fluid, including lead using a first filter media for filtering soluble material from the fluid, a second filter media, adjacent and in fluid communication with, the first filter media, for filtering soluble material from said fluid, wherein the first and second filter media create a physical non-soluble particle barrier at their interface for capturing non-soluble particles, that when retained at the interface, become soluble over time in the fluid, and are subsequently removed by the second filter media. At least one of the filter media can be fibrillated nanofibers that are loaded with finely subdivided media of powdered ion exchange resins. A third filter media may be placed between the first and second filter media to enhance capturing and dissolving the physical non-soluble particles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a filtration system and method for carrying out a process for the filtration of fluids, comprising at least one filtration device with at least one filtration element comprising readable data and a check and/or test apparatus to which the filtration device may be connected, by means of data and testing means lines. The check and/or testing device is connected to a process controller, by data exchange means, for regulation and control of the filtration process and the process controller is connected to a filtration databank, by means of data exchange means, which comprises data sets for at least one filter element and/or for each filtration device and/or for the filtration process. The invention further relates to a computer programme product for carrying out a filtration process on fluids whereby programme components may be called up from a programme memory which support the carrying out of the filtration process.

Abstract: A water transfer device can include first and second flow paths separated by a water transfer membrane and a hydrophilic diffusion medium. The hydrophilic diffusion medium is disposed between the water transfer membrane and the first flow path. Water content of a first fluid stream flowing through the first flow path is transferred through the diffusion medium and water transfer membrane and into a second fluid stream flowing through the second flow path. The hydrophilic diffusion medium is operable to absorb liquid water in the first fluid stream and hold the absorbed liquid water in contact with the water transfer membrane. The hydrophilic diffusion medium is also operable to diffuse water vapor in the first fluid stream and transport the water vapor to the water transfer membrane. The water transfer membrane transfers the water in contact therewith to the second fluid stream flowing through second flow path.

Abstract: A display for a group of semi-rigid to semi-flaccid sheet goods has a base, and a pair of parallel sidewalls that extend upward from the base a spaced distance from each other that is smaller than the width of the sheet goods. A plurality of channels is fixed to each sidewall so that each channel is perpendicular to the base and points toward the other sidewall at a uniform inclined angle. The angle of the channels is such that one of the sheet goods can be received between opposing pairs of the channels when curved in an arc. This arcuate presentation of the semi-rigid to semi-flaccid sheet goods ensures that the sheet goods will remain erect for an extended period of time while situated in the display.

Abstract: Wafer boat for holding semiconductor wafers in a spaced vertical arrangement during processing, said wafer boat comprising a plurality of vertically spaced holding positions for receiving and supporting said wafers in a substantially horizontal orientation, wherein the holding positions can be accessed from a front side of the wafer boat to allow for insertion and removal of a wafer, wherein at least one holding position comprises a back support for engaging a back side portion of a wafer and two lateral supports for engaging opposite lateral side portions of the wafer, and wherein the back support is disposed at a lower position than said two lateral supports such that sagging of a front side portion of an inserted wafer near the front side of the wafer boat due to gravity is at least partially compensated for.

Abstract: A display device for displaying a number of samples. The display device may include a vertical member, a number of display cells with samples thereon positioned on the vertical member, and a number of hanging displays with samples thereon positioned on the vertical member.

Abstract: A stand for a surfboard includes an upper member and a lower member. The upper member is comprised of at least two members. The lower member is comprised of a first distal end and a second distal end. The upper member is connected with the lower member at the first distal end of the lower member.

Abstract: A shelf assembly (1020) is disclosed for use in a refrigerator (1002) and includes a refrigerator shelf (1022). Also included is a cantilever frame (1028) used to slidably support the shelf (1022). The shelf assembly (1020) includes a left side hanger set (1042) extending rearwardly from the cantilever frame (1028). A right side rear bracket extension (1044) extends directly to the right from the right end and the rear portion of the cantilever frame (1028). The rear bracket extension (1044) provides for an offset of the refrigerator shelf (1022) from one end or one side of the refrigerator (1002). The offset advantageously provides that when the shelf (1022) is extended forwardly, the front end of the shelf (1022) will not abut or be interfered with by any portion of the refrigerator door when the door is in an open position. The shelf assembly (1020) can also include various types of racks. The shelf (1022) can be replaced by a basket (1075).

Abstract: A sliding rail of a pull-out guide includes a sliding rail defining a front end, a rear end, a top, a bottom, and longitudinally-extending slot on the bottom. The sliding rail also includes a molded part. The molded part includes a spring steel strip configured to define a central web with a top end and a bottom end, a rounded portion defined at the bottom end, the rounded portion extending below the bottom of the sliding rail, and a loop-like section defined at the top end, the loop-like section protruding above the top of the sliding rail, toward the rear end of the sliding rail. The rounded portion engages the bottom of the sliding rail and the loop-like section engages the top of the sliding rail so that the molded part is secured to and covers the front end of the sliding rail.

Abstract: A towel rack has a front section, multiple transversal rods and two positioning elements. The front section is U-shaped with two side tubes and is formed by a soldered metal tube. Multiple engaging holes are defined on inner sides of the side tubes of the front section in pairs so that each transversal rod is inserted into a pair of the engaging holes for assembly. Each positioning element is a rod with a semicircular cross-section and is inserted into the side tube to abut the ends of the transversal rods for compressing and positioning the transversal rods. Thereby, the towel rack is easy in processing and assembly to improve utility.

Abstract: A shelving system can include adjustable shelves with drain holes. The shelving system, which can be in the configuration of a shower caddy or shower organizer, can have shelf members with a plurality of flanges capable of attaching to horizontal connecting members on a separate central support member to allow for both lateral and vertical shelf adjustment. The shelving system can also have removable stainless steel shelf inserts with draining channels.

Abstract: The present invention relates to support structures, and in particular, to structures that can be used to support one or more objects. The structures can be used to support objects in a variety of positions and in a variety of manners. The structures can be used in different environments to easily store objects. In addition, the structures can be used to provide space convenience for travelers.

Abstract: A merchandiser rack comprising a rear storage module having a storage area including at least one shelf and at least two display modules. The display modules have shelves, with at least a portion of the rear of the display modules having shelves being open to allow stocking of the shelves from the rear. The display modules are pivotally connected to the rear storage module to allow the display modules to be rotated relative to the rear storage module between an open position and a closed position. The open position allows access to the rear of the display modules. The merchandiser rack, when in the closed position, has an outside periphery, and the display modules are not accessible through the rear of the display modules from the outside periphery along any horizontal line.

Abstract: A load balancing hoist constructed to combine the power module and the travel module of the hoist into a single unit to substantially reduce the cost and the length of the hoist without effecting its operation and application.

Abstract: A sports bottle with concentrate cup removably coupled thereto by a female coupling ring.

Abstract: A replaceable bottle cap assembly includes a body that conforms to the top of a threaded beverage container, the assembly including an internally threaded portion that mates with the threaded neck of the beverage container. A hinged cap of the assembly provides selective access to the contents of the attached bottle wherein the assembly is sealingly and releasably attached to the container.

Abstract: So as to apply to the refilled content of a bottle (1) a desired substance e.g. a tasting substance, mini-receptacles (9) are provided filled with a respective substance, which are broken open by external manipulation into the container (1).

Abstract: There is described a closure for use with a container neck. The closure comprises a cap and an insert. The insert is adapted to be permanently adhered to the container neck and has a sealing surface. The cap comprises a complimentary sealing surface for sealable engagement with the sealing surface provided on the insert and engagement means for releasable engagement with complimentary engagement means provided on the container neck.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a container and a method of making a container. In one example, the container includes an upper portion having a finish defining a longitudinal axis and an opening into the container. A shoulder region is integrally formed with and extends from the upper portion. A sidewall portion extends from the shoulder region to a base portion. A tamper evident (TE) band is formed on the finish and defines an outermost surface of the plastic container above the shoulder region. A neck defining a cylindrical sidewall is integrally formed with and extends between the finish and the shoulder region. The neck defines a uniform cylindrical sidewall along its entire height between the finish and the shoulder region. The container further includes a debossed support flange defined on the upper portion. The debossed support flange defines a diameter less than a diameter defined by the TE band.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an expandable stent for implantation in a body lumen, such as an artery, and a method for making it from a single length of tubing. The stent consists of a plurality of radially expandable cylindrical elements generally aligned on a common axis and interconnected by one or more interconnective elements. The individual radially expandable cylindrical elements consist of ribbon-like material disposed in an undulating pattern. Portions of the expanded stent project outwardly into engagement with the vessel wall to more securely attach the stent.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method, system, and screen for reducing solder voids on circuit boards. In an embodiment, there is provided a method of reducing solder voids on a circuit board, comprising: locating via holes provided at a conductive landing pad; and covering at least some of the via holes with a coating, whereby gases from the covered via holes are prevented from expanding and forming voids. In another embodiment, the method further comprises covering the location of at least some of the via holes in a pattern of strips, whereby more of the via holes may be covered by the coating while reducing areas of the conductive landing pad covered by the coating. In another embodiment, the coating and removal process may be performed at the same time as when all other areas of the circuit board are coated and removed, such that a separate manufacturing step is not required.

Abstract: A method comprises a first multilayer body forming step of forming a first multilayer body on a first cladding layer, the first multilayer body including a core layer and a first polishing stop layer in order from the first cladding layer side; a first multilayer body patterning step of pattering the first multilayer body, so as to expose the first cladding layer about the patterned first multilayer body; a second multilayer body forming step of forming a second multilayer body on the exposed first cladding layer and patterned first multilayer body, the second multilayer body including a second cladding layer and a second polishing stop layer in order from the first cladding layer side; and a removing step of polishing away a part of the second multilayer body formed on the first multilayer body.

Abstract: A method of checking a substrate edge processing apparatus, which can accurately check the state of the substrate edge processing apparatus. The thickness of an organic film formed on a surface of a substrate is measured, and a predetermined process in which undesired substance attached to an edge of the substrate is removed is carried out on a predetermined portion of the organic film using the substrate edge processing apparatus. The film thickness of the predetermined portion is then measured. The removal amount of the organic film is calculated based on the measurement results, and the performance of the substrate edge processing apparatus is evaluated based on the calculated removal amount.

Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a wafer that defines an opening. The wafer can be adapted to be operatively installed between a mechanical portion of a circuit breaker and an electronic portion of the circuit breaker. When installed, the wafer can be adapted to receive a protrusion of the mechanical portion of the circuit breaker.

Abstract: A welding guide nozzle for precision weld positioning of a feedstock material in a welding system. The welding guide nozzle includes a nozzle structure defining a substantially cylindrical holding apparatus that tapers at one end to define a nozzle tip. The holding apparatus and the nozzle tip include concentric bores defined therein. An erosion resistant rod is disposed within the bore defined in the nozzle tip. The erosion resistant rod includes a bore defined therein into with the weld feedstock material is disposed. The erosion resistant material is formed of a high heat resistive material thereby permitting positioning in close proximity to a heat source.

Abstract: A submerged arc welding apparatus 10 according to the present invention comprises: a flux receiver (12) for receiving and holding flux in an area formed by itself and a workpiece (1) inside thereof when abutting against the workpiece (1) on the open side; a flux feeder (24) for supplying flux to the flux receiver (12); a welding torch (32) for supplying a welding wire (34) toward the workpiece (1) with the tip disposed in the area where the flux is held; and a moving mechanism (36) for moving the flux receiver (12) and the welding torch (32) along the direction of a welding line (2) of the workpiece (1) with the flux receiver (12) abutting against the workpiece (1). In the submerged arc welding method of the present invention, comprises: performing welding by opposing the welding torch (32) to the workpiece (1) and by moving the welding torch along the direction of the welding line (2) with flux (11) held in an area formed between the workpiece (1) and the welding torch (32).

Abstract: A gas metal arc welding system comprising, and a method of welding a plurality of workpieces utilizing, a plurality of individually selectable and separately controlled wire feeds, wherein the feeds preferably present differing wire diameters and compositions and predetermined wire contributions are combined during welding so as to present a weld pool and joint having aggregate properties.

Abstract: The formation of a bellows made up of a stack of a predetermined number of ring-convolutions and having an intermediate plate supported within said stack is achieved by supplying several thin metal rings, each having inner and outer edges. A pair of these metal rings are positioned in contiguous relationship and their adjacent inside edges are welded together to form a ring-convolution. This process is repeated until a sufficient number of ring-convolutions are made to eventually make the desired bellows. Before these separate ring-convolutions are fused to each other, an intermediate plate and a support ring are made. The intermediate plate is a disc of metal that is sized smaller than the inside diameter of the rings and is secured to the support ring. The support ring is then positioned between two formed ring-convolutions in contiguous relationship and the three abutting outside edges are welded to each other to form a support plate convolution.

Abstract: Electrode assemblies for plasma reactors include a structure or device for constraining an arc endpoint to a selected area or region on an electrode. In some embodiments, the structure or device may comprise one or more insulating members covering a portion of an electrode. In additional embodiments, the structure or device may provide a magnetic field configured to control a location of an arc endpoint on the electrode. Plasma generating modules, apparatus, and systems include such electrode assemblies. Methods for generating a plasma include covering at least a portion of a surface of an electrode with an electrically insulating member to constrain a location of an arc endpoint on the electrode. Additional methods for generating a plasma include generating a magnetic field to constrain a location of an arc endpoint on an electrode.

Abstract: A device for preventive treatment of an optical surface designed to be exposed to a laser flow including a thermal excitation source for providing a localized thermal annealing of a site of the optical surface) by means of a beam applied to the site. The device further includes a measuring member for measuring, in real time said during said localized thermal annealing, a quantity representing the temperature of the site of the optical surface) and at least one control member for increasing the linear power density of the beam applied to the site by the excitation source and, when the quantity reaches a predetermined set point, for gradually decreasing the linear power density.

Abstract: A method of cutting material for use in an implantable medical device employs a plotted laser cutting system. The laser cutting system is computer controlled and includes a laser combined with a motion system. The laser precisely cuts segments out of source material according to predetermined pattern as designated by the computer. The segments are used in constructing implantable medical devices. The cutting energy of the laser is selected so that the cut edges of the segments are melted to discourage delamination or fraying, but communication of thermal energy into the segment beyond the edge is minimized to avoid damaging the segment adjacent the edge.

Abstract: A laser material processing system and method are provided. A further aspect of the present invention employs a laser for micromachining. In another aspect of the present invention, the system uses a hollow waveguide. In another aspect of the present invention, a laser beam pulse is given broad bandwidth for workpiece modification.

Abstract: A system and method for configuring a tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding system includes a user interface to receive characteristics of the workpiece to select operational parameters for the TIG welding process. The characteristics of the workpiece may include workpiece composition or workpiece thickness. Workpiece material is translated to an output welding-type power that is alternating current (AC) power or direct current (DC) power. Workpiece thickness is translated to a specific output amperage. The operator does not need to have knowledge of operational parameters of the TIG welding system and can configured the system using workpiece characteristics.

Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring and controlling the process consistency of an arc welding process. The weld voltage signal is monitored and analyzed to determine the occurrence of the detachment of a weld droplet. The weld droplet detachment is determined via statistical techniques as having occurred at a normal interval following a prior detachment indicating consistent weld process or as a sporadic detachment having occurred at an irregular interval with respect to the prior detachment and indicating inconsistent weld process. The weld process is adjusted by controlling the weld process variables to maximize the predominance of droplet detachment at normal intervals and minimize the occurrence of the sporadic detachments.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a heater circuit includes a number of groups which each include a number of resistive elements arranged in an electrically parallel circuit that are coupled between two power terminals in a series circuit. Each resistive element is disposed on the surface of a structure and physically parallel to other resistive elements in the group and to resistive elements in other groups. The width and/or thickness of the resistive elements may be varied to control the heat generated in particular regions.

Abstract: A waterproof, electrically heated, multi-layered article of apparel that is heated by a flexible heating harness that is disposed between the layers of the article and is constructed from silver-plated filaments. Uniquely, the flexible heating harness is sandwiched between a pair of waterproof bladders. The article of apparel has a plurality of heat zones with wattages and amperages required to heat the various zones of the hands to optimum temperatures as determined by the physiology of the human hand.

Abstract: A high-temperature tube furnace for pyrolysis includes a twin-hole ceramic tube including a pyrolysis capillary concentrically arranged within a sintering heat tube which is concentrically arranged within a thermally insulated tube housing. At least one heating tube holding element that is electrically insulative and high-temperature resistant is provided and includes at least three pins disposed radially about the sintering heating tube. Each pin is mounted to the tube housing via a clamp in such a way that the pins are adjustable in the radial direction so that the sintering heating tube is removably disposed between the tips of the pins. The sintering heating tube is connected to a voltage source for applying a heating current to thereto.

Abstract: An apparatus and related method are provided for a manufacturing process including heating of a processed part. A resistance heating assembly applies an electrical current to a work part comprising a sheet of high-tensile steel having a heat-resistant plating to improve formability. A heating control system regulates the electrical current to the work part in order to control the temperature of the work part. A temperature detector detects a temperature of the work part and generates feedback to the heating control system in order to regulate the electrical current. An electrical resistance detector measures an electrical resistance within the work part and generates feedback to the heating control system in order to regulate the electrical current.

Abstract: An electrical heating device has an integrally manufactured support made from insulating material. Depressed paths for introducing a heating element are provided. A klixon functioning as a thermally actuated switch is inserted from above into an opening in the central area of the support and its electrical terminals project over the bottom side and are bent round for mechanical fixing.

Abstract: An induction heatable server comprises a base element having a bottom wall and a peripheral wall defining an upwardly opening cavity in which are disposed a heat retentive disc and a ring member which is bonded to the peripheral wall. A top element extends over the ring member and seals the cavity. The top element is bonded to the peripheral wall of the base element and the ring member to preclude moisture penetration into the cavity.

Abstract: A method of heat treating a component is disclosed. The method may heat a first feature of the component and heat a second feature of the component differently than the first feature. The method may measure a temperature value of the first feature and of the second feature. The method may also compare the measured temperature values to a threshold temperature value. The method may modify the heating of at least one of the first and second features based on the comparison.

Abstract: A combination microwave and refrigerator system is constructed having a single plug input supply. The microwave oven is adapted to provide power to a refrigerator, and to auxiliary receptacles adapted for low power operation. The current to the low power receptacles and the refrigerator is controlled by the controller for the microwave oven according to the duty cycles of the connected appliances to avoid overload conditions.

Abstract: In a cooking device for cooking an object to be heated, a first operation section is provided to a lower portion of a door, and a second operation section is provided to an upper portion on a front face of a cooking device body so as to be exposed in spite of the door being opened or closed. Numeric keys for accepting a selection from a plurality of recipes stored in advance and start keys for accepting a start of heating are provided to the first and second operation sections redundantly. Therefore, in a case of when the door closes, the first and second operation sections can be used in parallel, allowing arrangement of many keys to have good operability.

Abstract: Multicore electric wires 31 for connecting an operation key sheet 4a and a control section of an oven body are loosely inserted into a hinge shaft 5b in a cylindrical shape and a door pipe 30 in a cylindrical shape having a length exceeding a half of the height of a door 2, and the door pipe 30 guides the electric wires 31 along the axial direction of the hinge shaft 5b. When the door 2 is opened/closed, torsional stress caused in the electric wires 31 are dispersed over the electric wires 31 disposed correspondingly to the length of the door pipe 30.