Patents Issued in September 2, 2010
  • Publication number: 20100218797
    Abstract: A junction box for a photovoltaic system includes a housing having a base and a cover removably attached thereto, and a plurality of guide channels extending from an exterior surface of the housing to an interior portion thereof. The guide channels are sized and shaped to receive a plurality of conductive foil strips from a solar panel array. When the strips are fed into the guide channels, they are guided to and properly positioned within corresponding receptacles. Each receptacle is sized and shaped to receive a buss bar, and each strip is connected to a corresponding buss bar by a low insertion connector. When the cover is fully engaged with the base, bosses extending from the cover press against the connectors, creating a spring tension and pinch and retain the associated strip. As a result, a reliable physical and electrical connection between the strips and the buss bars is achieved. A heat sink having a plurality of fins protrude outwardly from the housing to dissipate heat externally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: WILLIAM J. COYLE, JR., Vincent Giglio, Michael Jerome, Thomas A. Jerome
  • Publication number: 20100218798
    Abstract: A piggyback adapter system and method are provided. The piggyback adapter circumvents the need for running the photovoltaic system's energy supply through a service panel (circuit breaker box).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: Andalay Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry Cinnamon, Wilson Leong, Alex Au
  • Publication number: 20100218799
    Abstract: A process for series connection of two photovoltaic cells (1a, 1b) in series, comprising following stages: predisposing a first photovoltaic cell (1a) and a second photovoltaic cell (1b), both of a type comprising a photosensitive semiconductor layer (2) provided with front contacts (3a, 3b) and back contacts (4) arranged on opposite surfaces of the cell; partially superposing the two photovoltaic cells (1a, 1b), causing at least a partial superposing of the back contact (4) of the first photovoltaic cell (1a) on the front contact (3a, 3b) of the second photovoltaic cell (1b) and consequently establishing an electrical contact between the back contact (4) and the front contact (3a, 3b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: SYSTEM S.P.A.
    Inventor: Franco Stefani
  • Publication number: 20100218800
    Abstract: A superstrate, such as a sheet of polymer film, is used as a transport during metallization of solar cells. The back sides of the solar cells are attached to the sheet of polymer film. Contact holes are formed through the sheet of polymer film to expose doped regions of the solar cells. Metals are formed in the contact holes to electrically connect to the exposed doped regions of the solar cells. The metals are electroplated to form metal contacts of the solar cell. Subsequently, the solar cells are separated from other solar cells that were metallized while supported by the same sheet of polymer film to form strings of solar cells or individual solar cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Peter John COUSINS
  • Publication number: 20100218801
    Abstract: Graphene layers made of primarily sp2 bonded atoms and associated methods are disclosed. In one aspect, for example, a method of forming a graphite film can include heating a solid substrate under vacuum to a solubilizing temperature that is less than a melting point of the solid substrate, solubilizing carbon atoms from a graphite source into the heated solid substrate, and cooling the heated solid substrate at a rate sufficient to form a graphite film from the solubilized carbon atoms on at least one surface of the solid substrate. The graphite film is formed to be substantially free of lattice defects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Chien-Min Sung, Shao Chung Hu, I-Chiao Lin, Chien-Pei Yu
  • Publication number: 20100218802
    Abstract: In summary, the present invention relates to a junction box for a conductor board, in particular for a solar module, comprising: a base carrier with at least one opening area, and at least one contact device, wherein the at least one contact device is arranged in the interior of the base carrier such that at least one electrical conductor is insertable into the junction box through the at least one opening area along an insertion direction and contactable with the at least one contact device, wherein the at least one contact device comprises at least one contact element with at least one resilient terminal contact spring and at least one terminal element, and wherein by application of a force parallel to a direction of force relative to the terminal element, the at least one terminal contact spring is resiliently displaceable such that the at least one electrical conductor is arrangeable at least partially between the at least one terminal element and the at least one terminal contact spring, as well as to a
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicants: Yamaichi Electronics Co., Ltd., Yamaichi Electronics Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Quiter
  • Publication number: 20100218803
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell having a substrate with at least one curved surface reduces the number of processing steps necessary to manufacture a completed cell. Such a photovoltaic cell can have semiconductor material on the outer surface of a curved substrate or on the inner surface of a curved substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Maltby, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100218804
    Abstract: A concentration photovoltaic module includes a lens array and a cell array. The lens array includes lenses and alignment windows. The cell array includes solar cells and alignment points. A method is provided for aligning the lens array to the cell array. In the method, a collimation module is made with collimated light sources. The concentration photovoltaic module is located under the collimation module so that the alignment windows are located under the collimated light sources. The collimated light sources are used to turn sunlit into collimated light beams and cast the collimated light beams onto the cell array through the alignment windows. The lens array is moved relative to the cell array so that the collimated light beams are directed to the alignment points. Hence, light beams emitted from the lenses are directed to the solar cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL - INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH
    Inventors: Hwa-Yuh Shin, Hung-Zen Kuo, Hung-Sheng Chiu
  • Publication number: 20100218805
    Abstract: A substrate assembly (100) for a photovoltaic device, the assembly including an array of elongate semiconductor substrates (101), each of the elongate substrates (101) having opposite faces bounded by longitudinal edges, the elongate substrates being electrically interconnected and maintained in a longitudinally parallel arrangement by an electrically conductive material (102) disposed between the opposing longitudinal edges of adjacent ones of said elongate substrates (101) such that the opposite faces of each elongate substrate remain substantially entirely exposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Vernie Allan Everett, Andrew William Blakers
  • Publication number: 20100218806
    Abstract: There is provided a concentrating solar collector in the shape of an inverted truncated pyramid (collector) with light reflective surfaces on the inside. The collector includes a large top opening which is pointed towards the sun collecting the sun rays. A high-concentration photovoltaic solar cell is placed at the narrow end of the collector. The light is concentrated onto the solar cell, which generates electricity from the concentrated solar light. The collector is made of, but not limited to, an inflatable lightweight reflective film, balloon filled with helium, glass, plastic or metal. The reflective surface inside the collector is obtained using inexpensive mirror coating which is applied to clear glass or plastic. A cooling system is used for keeping the concentrated photovoltaic solar cell at or close to a fixed temperature to maintain the cell at its highest operating efficiency of power generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: QUADRA SOLAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ra'ed Arab, William Masek
  • Publication number: 20100218807
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity are disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: SKYWATCH ENERGY, INC.
    Inventors: Mark A. Arbore, David Klein, George E. Conway
  • Publication number: 20100218808
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) module, system, and method utilizing a CPV module to provide uniform, concentrated solar energy distribution over one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells, to improve cooling of the PV cells to allow for high solar concentration, and to offer an energy efficient system that can be cost effectively implemented. In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention includes solar collectors that concentrate solar energy and mechanisms for transporting and transferring the concentrated solar energy directly with the CPV module. Further, the CPV module includes a novel cooling mechanism utilizing a fluid to cool an interior of the module and the PV cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Cristian Penciu
  • Publication number: 20100218809
    Abstract: A power panel designed to incorporate a means of both thermal energy production and electrical energy production from the solar energy produced by the sun. The power panel comprises: a synthetic molded enclosure comprising a solar radiation top surface, bottom surface and sidewalls; and a transparent panel disposed on said synthetic molded enclosure. The transparent panel is adapted to insulate the thermal energy captured by the liquid circulating in the enclosure. The enclosure includes a plurality of segmented partitions adapted to form liquid pathways for channeling a liquid through the enclosure when the transparent panel is disposed on the segmented partitions thereby forming a liquid boundary in proximate contact with the segmented partitions and with the liquid in said enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Garth J. Schultz, Scott Leslie, Ken Buttery
  • Publication number: 20100218810
    Abstract: A solar battery module device includes a solar cell module formed by arranging a plurality of solar battery cells; a rack-shaped frame having a substantially rectangular shape supporting an outer-edge portion of the solar cell module by surrounding a whole periphery of the outer-edge portion; and a reinforcing frame that is bridged over between two opposite sides of the rack-shaped frame by forming a predetermined gap between the reinforcing frame and a back surface of the solar cell module, and supports the solar cell module by being brought into contact with the back surface of the solar cell module when the solar cell module is bent. The reinforcing frame is engaged with engagement notches formed on the back surface of the rack-shaped frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Suganuma, Shinsuke Miyamoto, Naoki Ito, Hiroyoshi Takikawa, Issei Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20100218811
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a solar cell with improved mechanical strength without increasing resistance between the electrodes. The solar cell (10) according to the present invention includes a silicon substrate (3), an aluminum electrode (1) that is a first electrode that collects electricity from the rear surface of the silicon substrate (3), and a silver electrode (2) that is a second electrode that takes out output from the aluminum electrode (1). The aluminum electrode (1) has an opening (1a) formed on rear surface of the silicon substrate (3) and a notch (1b) recesses in parallel to the direction in which principal stress acts from the opening (1a) in a plane of the silicon substrate (3), and the silver electrode (2) is formed to cover at least the opening (1a) and the notch (1b) of the aluminum electrode (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Echizenya, Hiroo Sakamoto, Shiro Takada, Hiroaki Morikawa, Hisashi Tominaga
  • Publication number: 20100218812
    Abstract: A photovoltaic device comprises an anode having a film of semi conductive particles deposited and sintered on a substrate, an electrolyte and a cathode. The electrolyte includes light scattering particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Julie Baker, Nicholas J. Dartnell
  • Publication number: 20100218813
    Abstract: A multi-junction photovoltaic device includes a silicon substrate and a dielectric layer formed on the silicon substrate. A germanium layer is formed on the dielectric layer. The germanium includes a crystalline structure that is substantially similar to the crystalline structure of the silicon substrate. A first photovoltaic sub-cell includes a first plurality of doped semiconductor layers formed on the germanium layer. At least a second photovoltaic sub-cell includes a second plurality of doped semiconductor layers formed on the first photovoltaic sub-cell that is on the germanium layer that is on the dielectric layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: SUPRATIK GUHA, Harold J. Hovel
  • Publication number: 20100218814
    Abstract: A method of reducing the loss of elements of a photovoltaic thin film structure during an annealing process, includes depositing a thin film on a substrate, wherein the thin film includes a single chemical element or a chemical compound, coating the thin film with a protective layer to form a coated thin film structure, wherein the protective layer prevents part of the single chemical element or part of the chemical compound from escaping during an annealing process, and annealing the coated thin film structure to form a coated photovoltaic thin film structure, wherein the coated photovoltaic thin film retains the part of the single chemical element or the part of the chemical compound that is prevented from escaping during the annealing by the protective layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hariklia Deligianni, Harold J. Hovel, Raman Vaidvanathan
  • Publication number: 20100218815
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell and a method of forming an electrode grid on a photovoltaic semiconductor substrate of a photovoltaic cell are disclosed. In one embodiment, the photovoltaic cell comprises a photovoltaic semiconductor substrate; a back electrode electrically connected to a back surface of the substrate; and a front electrode electrically connected to a front surface of the substrate. The substrate, back electrode, and front electrode form an electric circuit for generating an electric current when said substrate absorbs light. The front electrode is comprised of a metal grid defining a multitude of holes. These holes may be periodic, aperiodic, or partially periodic. The front electrode may be formed by depositing nanospheres on the substrate; forming a metallic layer on the substrate, around the nanospheres; and removing the nanospheres, leaving an electrode grid defining a multitude of holes on the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Supratik Guha, Oki Gunawan
  • Publication number: 20100218816
    Abstract: Electrical contact to the front side of a photovoltaic cell is provided by an array of conductive through-substrate vias, and optionally, an array of conductive blocks located on the front side of the photovoltaic cell. A dielectric liner provides electrical isolation of each conductive through-substrate via from the semiconductor material of the photovoltaic cell. A dielectric layer on the backside of the photovoltaic cell is patterned to cover a contiguous region including all of the conductive through-substrate vias, while exposing a portion of the backside of the photovoltaic cell. A conductive material layer is deposited on the back surface of the photovoltaic cell, and is patterned to form a first conductive wiring structure that electrically connects the conductive through-substrate vias and a second conductive wiring structure that provides electrical connection to the backside of the photovoltaic cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Supratik Guha, Yves Martin, Naim Moumen, Robert L. Sandstrom, Theodore G. van Kessel
  • Publication number: 20100218817
    Abstract: A solar concentration system includes an optically clear shell member having an outer surface and an inner surface, with the inner surface defining a hollow interior portion, a liquid contained within the hollow interior portion of the optically clear shell, and a solar collection system contained within the hollow interior portion of the optically clear shell. The solar collection system includes a tracking system configured and disposed to selectively shift within the hollow interior portion, a reflector member mounted to the tracking system, and a solar receiver mounted to the tracking system. The tracking system being configured and disposed orient the reflector member and the solar receiver to follow a path of the sun enhancing the collection of solar energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Supratik Guha, Philip C. Hobbs, Yves C. Martin, Robert L. Sandstrom, Theodore G. van Kessel
  • Publication number: 20100218818
    Abstract: A solar cell and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The solar cell includes a substrate of a first conductive type having at least one via hole, an emitter layer of a second conductive type opposite the first conductive type formed in the substrate, at least one first electrode formed on the emitter layer, at least one current collector positioned opposite the at least one first electrode with the substrate interposed between the at least one first electrode and the at least one current collector and is electrically connected to the at least one first electrode through the at least one via hole, and a second electrode that is spaced apart from the at least one current collector and is electrically connected to the substrate. A plurality of uneven portions are formed in the at least one via hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Juwan Kang, Jihoon Ko, Juhwan Yun, Jonghwan Kim
  • Publication number: 20100218819
    Abstract: A semiconductor-based optoelectronic device such as a solar cell has an n-type layer and a p-type layer, together forming a p-n junction. Contact regions are formed on the device, with light-receiving regions between contact regions. A window layer is formed over the n-type layer or the p-type layer at the light-receiving region, the window layer promoting reduced carrier recombination at the surface of the n-type or p-type layer, and/or reflection of minority carriers in the n-type or p-type layer towards the p-n junction. The device has a window protection layer formed over the window layer, the window protection layer providing protection from degradation of the window layer during manufacture and/or operation of the device. For GaAs-based devices the window layer may be Al0.9Ga0.1As and the window protection layer may be GaAs. Additionally, an AlAs etch stop layer may be provided over the window protection layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: The University Court of the University of Glasgow
    Inventors: Corrie Farmer, Colin Stanley
  • Publication number: 20100218820
    Abstract: Provided are a solar cell and a method of fabricating the same. The solar cell includes: a substrate; a rear electrode layer which is formed on the substrate and includes molybdenum (Mo); a protective layer which is formed on the rear electrode layer and includes silicon (Si); a light-absorbing layer which is formed on the protective layer and includes selenium (Se) and at least one of copper (Cu), gallium (Ga), and indium (In); and a transparent electrode layer formed on the light-absorbing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Byoung-Dong KIM, Gug-Il JUN, Kang-Hee LEE, Woo-Su LEE, Byung-Joo LEE
  • Publication number: 20100218821
    Abstract: A solar cell and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. The solar cell includes a substrate having a first conductive type, at least one impurity region connected to the substrate, a passivation layer positioned on the at least one impurity region, the passivation layer including at least one opening exposing a portion of the at least one impurity region, the at least one opening having at least one straight portion, a first electrode connected to the exposed portion of the at least one impurity region exposed through the at least one opening, and a second electrode connected to the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Sunyoung KIM, Choul KIM, Youngho CHOE
  • Publication number: 20100218822
    Abstract: A composite film for a superstrate solar cell or a substrate solar cell has a transparent conductive film and a conductive reflective film, wherein the transparent conductive film is formed by using a wet coating method to apply a transparent conductive film composition or dispersion containing microparticles of a conductive oxide, the conductive reflective film is formed by using a wet coating method to apply a conductive reflective film composition containing metal nanoparticles, the average diameter of holes occurring at the contact surface of the conductive reflective film on either the side of the photovoltaic layer or the side of the transparent conductive film is not more than 100 nm, the average depth at which the holes are positioned is not more than 100 nm, and the number density of the holes is not more than 30 holes/?m2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI MATERIALS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Yamasaki, Toshiharu Hayashi, Masahide Arai, Satoko Ogawa, Yoshiaki Takata
  • Publication number: 20100218823
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an electrode substrate for a photoelectric conversion element which includes: forming a transparent conductive layer and a collector wire on a substrate; forming an oxide semiconductor layer in a region of the transparent conductive layer different from a region in which the collector wire is formed; forming an porous oxide semiconductor layer by firing the oxide semiconductor layer; after firing, forming a protective layer covering the collector wires, the protective layer composed of an insulating resin having a thermal resistance at 250° C. or higher; heating the substrate at 250° C. or higher during or after the formation of the protective layer; and after the heating, allowing adsorption of dyes in the porous oxide semiconductor layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: FUJIKURA LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Matsui, Kenichi Okada
  • Publication number: 20100218824
    Abstract: This invention comprises manufacture of photovoltaic cells by deposition of thin film photovoltaic junctions on metal foil substrates. The photovoltaic junctions may be heat treated if appropriate following deposition in a continuous fashion without deterioration of the metal support structure. In a separate operation, an interconnection substrate structure is provided, optionally in a continuous fashion. Multiple photovoltaic cells are then laminated to the interconnection substrate structure and conductive joining methods are employed to complete the array. In this way the interconnection substrate structure can be uniquely formulated from polymer-based materials employing optimal processing unique to polymeric materials. Furthermore, the photovoltaic junction and its metal foil support can be produced in bulk without the need to use the expensive and intricate material removal operations currently taught in the art to achieve series interconnections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel Luch
  • Publication number: 20100218825
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a new dye for dye-sensitized solar cell and a solar cell prepared using the said dye, more specifically, to a new compound of dye is esterificated to add carboxylate group to alkyl chain, thereby improving a stability on electrolyte and semiconductor particles
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicants: KYUNGPOOK NATIONAL UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION, TAEGU TECHNOPARK
    Inventors: Jong-Gi Jee, Hye-Kyung Song, Ju-Tak Han
  • Publication number: 20100218826
    Abstract: A method is presented for producing a silicon solar cell with a back-etched emitter preferably with a selective emitter and a corresponding solar cell. According to one aspect, the method comprises the following method steps: producing a two-dimensionally extending emitter at an emitter surface of a solar cell substrate; applying an etching barrier onto first partial zones of the emitter surface; etching the emitter surface in second partial zones of the emitter surface not covered by the etching barrier; removing the etching barrier; and producing metal contacts at the first partial zones. During the method, especially during the etching of the emitter surface in the second partial zones, a porous silicon layer is advantageously produced, which is then oxidised. This oxidised porous silicon layer can subsequently be etched away together with any phosphorus glass that may be present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicants: Universität Konstanz, Fraunhofer Gesellschaft Zur Förderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Giso Hahn, Helge Haverkamp, Bernd Raabe, Amir Dastgheib-Shirazi, Felix Book
  • Publication number: 20100218827
    Abstract: A substrate for a solar cell having a metal substrate, a first insulating oxide film formed on the metal substrate by anodic oxidation, and a second insulating film, wherein the first insulating oxide film has pores and the pores are sealed with the second insulating film at a sealing ratio of 5 to 80%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Naruhiko Aono, Youichi Hosoya, Haruo Yago, Tadanobu Sato
  • Publication number: 20100218828
    Abstract: A system and a method are provided for maintaining a low-pressure, substantially constant feed of water to an irrigation system. The system utilizes captured rainwater and/or gray water as available. The system can include an element for introducing an additive into the water, such as at least one of water-soluble fertilizer, insecticide, and pest repellent. Preferably the additive is provided so as not to be submerged in the water for maintaining a substantially constant concentration thereof in the water. The system and method are additionally advantageous in that fertigation, extermination, and/or and repelling only occurs when the plants call for water. In use with a typical lawn, the system allows the user to add less fertilizer to the lawn than in prior known systems, thus reducing nutrient (e.g., nitrate), insecticide, and repellant runoff into the aquifer and neighboring bodies of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: DEVELOPMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Edmund A. Sinda
  • Publication number: 20100218829
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: I-CON SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Publication number: 20100218830
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve used to control fluid flow. The valve includes a handle, which is placed above a body and is connected directly or indirectly to a top portion of a stem; a cap, into which the stem is inserted, and which surrounds a top portion of the body, the cap having a plurality of locking holes formed in the circumference of a top portion thereof in a circular arrangement. The handle has a vertical hole corresponding to the locking holes and a key hole extending coaxially with or perpendicularly to the vertical hole, and is connected to the top portion of the stem to contact the top portion of the cap. Locking means is provided in the vertical hole and the locking holes to lock the handle and the cap to each other. The locked position is released using a master key, which is inserted through the key hole, thereby allowing the handle to be operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Jong Chan Yoon
  • Publication number: 20100218831
    Abstract: A drain treatment system capable of achieving balance of pressure between a facility apparatus and a drain treatment apparatus with a simple structure is provided. A bottom part of a heat, exchanger 2 is connected with a top part of a drain tank 3 by a drain discharge pipe 4. The drain discharge pipe 4 has a balance pipe-connecting tube 5. The balance pipe-connecting tube 5 comprises: a balance pipe-connecting part 6; a communicating tube-connecting part 7; and a communicating passage 8 which connects both the parts therein. The top part of the drain tank 3 is connected with the balance pipe-connecting part 6 by a balance pipe 9. Further, the communicating tube-connecting part 7 is connected with a lower part of the heat exchanger 2 by a communicating tube 10 which passes through the drain discharge pipe 4.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Hideaki Yumoto
  • Publication number: 20100218832
    Abstract: A medical gas coupling comprises an inlet operable to couple with a pressurized therapeutic gas supply and an outlet operable to supply therapeutic apparatus, or an anallary unit associated therewith, with therapeutic gas. The coupling further comprises a conduit that extends between the inlet and the outlet and provides for the passage of pressurized gas therethrough. A safety valve is located in the region of the inlet and is operable to close the flow of gas through the conduit in the event that the pressure differential across the safety value exceeds a predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: David Edgar Peel, Richard Radford, Andrew Richard Thomas Tatarek-Gintowt
  • Publication number: 20100218833
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: I-CON SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Publication number: 20100218834
    Abstract: The invention provides a micro fluid device comprising a substrate with a channel forming a receiving cavity, an outer chamber, and an inner chamber, the device further comprising a multi lumen hose with a free end portion which is fixed in the receiving cavity. The multi lumen hose forming a first conduit and at least one second conduit located radially offset from the first conduit, and the outer chamber is in fluid communication with at least one second conduit, and the inner chamber is in fluid communication with the first conduit. The chambers are separated by an inner sealing member located between the substrate and the hose. To simplify the manufacturing of the device, the channel is formed by a groove in an upper surface of a body of the substrate, which groove closed by an essentially plane cover which is sealed to the upper surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: Diramo A/S
    Inventors: Per Brandt Rasmussen, Peter Gravesen
  • Publication number: 20100218835
    Abstract: An agricultural sprayer includes a centrifugal pump used for transferring fluid from a nurse tank to fill the sprayer tank. It is sometimes required that the centrifugal pump be primed in order to perform the transfer of fluid and this priming is done by creating a vacuum in a priming line that is connected to a suction line extending between an inlet of the pump and to a discharge line of the nurse tank, with the vacuum being caused by routing a flow of compressed air through a venturi having its throat coupled to the priming line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph Huegerich, Travis Gene Funseth, Tonya Marie O'neal, Richard Allen Humpal
  • Publication number: 20100218836
    Abstract: A directly piloted valve assembly has a valve body including a bore, at least one inlet port, at least one outlet port and at least one exhaust port or second outlet port wherein the ports are all in fluid communication with the bore. A spool is received in the bore. The spool includes a wall defining a lumen. An actuator is received in the lumen. The actuator includes a shuttle seal channel. A shuttle seal is received in the shuttle seal channel. A solenoid is connected to the valve body. The wall of the spool includes at least one pilot hole in fluid communication with the lumen defined by the spool and the bore of the valve body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Vytautas Joseph Toliusis
  • Publication number: 20100218837
    Abstract: A pipe unit includes a pipe body, first and second flanges, and an adjusting structure. The first flange and the second flange are respectively disposed on opposite first and second ends of the pipe body. The adjusted structure is disposed between the first and second flanges and serves to adjust the length of the pipe unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: MACRONIX INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chih-Neng Chou, Kuo-Pang Tseng
  • Publication number: 20100218838
    Abstract: An apparatus and method according to which a passageway is provided between explosion proof enclosures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Joseph Michael Manahan
  • Publication number: 20100218839
    Abstract: A high temperature flexible pipe and method of making a high temperature flexible pipe is provided. The pipe can have an inner tubular layer formed of a high temperature thermoplastic, a first reinforcing layer, a second reinforcing layer and an outer sheath. In one aspect, an insulating layer may be provided between the second reinforcing layer and the outer sheath. A method of making a flexible pipe is also provided. The first reinforcing layer is wound around the inner tubular layer and the second reinforcing layer is wound around the first reinforcing layer. An outer sheaf can be formed over the second reinforcing layer. In another aspect, an insulating layer can be formed over the second reinforcing layer before an outer jacket is formed over the insulating layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: FLEXPIPE SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: JEFFREY CONLEY, PETER JACKSON, BLAINE WELLER
  • Publication number: 20100218840
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of devices and kits for making knotted string accessories. One embodiment of a device comprises a base having a substantially planar surface with a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a longitudinal axis. A securing member is connected to the substantially planar surface proximate to the first end and is configured to secure a first end of the plurality of individual strings. An elongated holder is connected to the substantially planar surface proximate the second end and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and comprises a plurality of raised portions positioned along the elongated holder and extending outward from the substantially planar surface in close proximity to one another, wherein adjacent raised portions are configured to retain individual strings. An embodiment of a kit comprises the device and a plurality of string for use with the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: David J. Crorey
  • Publication number: 20100218841
    Abstract: A three-dimensional multilayer fabric is provided. The fabric comprises a surface layer, a backing layer, and an intermediate layer connecting the surface layer and the backing layer. The intermediate layer has a multi-layered structure where a multiple of a fabric is separated each other. The three-dimensional multilayer fabric can be woven on a single loom in a batch operation and undergo transformation between two-dimensional shape and three-dimensional shape. This fabric is applicable as materials for blinds with high light-shielding rate because intermediate portions have a multi-layered structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicants: WOONGJIN CHEMICAL CO., LTD., YOUIL CORPORATION CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hoo-Sung CHANG, Il-Sun RYU
  • Publication number: 20100218842
    Abstract: Automatic winding of a wire field in a wire slicing machine is disclosed. In one embodiment, a wire field is automatically generated in a wire slicing machine by unloading wire from at least one wire spool and winding the wire about one or more wire guides to form the wire field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicants: SAINT-GOBAIN ABRASIVES, INC., SAINT-GOBAIN ABRASIFS
    Inventors: Lukasz A. Glinski, Debabrata Ghosh
  • Publication number: 20100218843
    Abstract: A process for filling a tube with granular material, which material is guided downwardly in a vertically oriented tube along a line provided with flexible elements in the shape of wires which are arranged substantially to the line, and having a radial dimension which is smaller than the inner diameter of the tube, the line being removed from the tube as the latter is filled with the granules, the line being moved during the removal movement with a non uniform speed which is related to the filling speed of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: Unidense Technology GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Richter, Peter Markowski, Mike Dittman
  • Publication number: 20100218844
    Abstract: In a method and apparatus for changeover of containers of a highly soluble substance in a continuous flow process, fluid is flowed through a container of the substance to generate a solution until the substance is depleted and the concentration of the solution starts to drop. The solution from the first container is then directed through a second container containing a charge of the substance to maintain a saturated solution. When the first container is fully exhausted, the flow of fluid is switched to isolate the first container and to flow the fluid directly into the second container whereupon the first container can be safely removed. The arrangement is operated as a lead lag system with solution flowing through the containers at or close to plug flow to minimize mixing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Ian Tyler Bell, Steven Lloyd Siverns
  • Publication number: 20100218845
    Abstract: One embodiment relates to a system including a first bag-on-valve aerosol container including a first valve comprising a first valve stem, and a body having an aperture extending therethrough from a first end of the body to a second end of the body. The aperture is sized to accept the first valve stem at the first end of the body. The aperture is also sized to accept a second valve stem at the second end of the body; the body sized to accept the first valve stem and a second valve stem at the same time. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Yoram FISHMAN
  • Publication number: 20100218846
    Abstract: The invention is a method that allows contamination-free transfer of a liquid from one container to another and devices including embodiments of a transfer apparatus and adaptors that are used to carry out the method. By contamination-free transfer of liquid it is meant that during the transfer process there is no leakage of the liquid or air contaminated by the liquid or vapors of the liquid to the surroundings and also that no contaminants from the surroundings come into contact with the liquid. The main advantages of the method, in addition to its simplicity, is that at no stage of the transfer procedure is there leakage of the liquid or air contaminated by the liquid or vapors of the liquid to the surroundings and also that no contaminants from the surroundings come into contact with the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: PLASTMED LTD.
    Inventor: Marino Kriheli