Abstract: A tidal stream or ocean current turbine is connected to a submerged buoy that is tethered to the seabed to create a virtual seabed level that is higher than the actual seabed. The buoy is constrained by tensioned tethers or catenary mooring lines such that it is approximately geofixed at a prescribed depth of immersion and orientation. The turbine device is attached to the submerged buoy by a connector strut that allows the device to swivel about the geofixed location. The strut to buoy connection incorporates a bearing system that allows the strut freedom of rotation in the horizontal and vertical planes about the geofixed buoy. The reserve of buoyancy in the submerged buoy acts to resist the vertical component of the mooring force such that the drag force on the turbine device cannot lead the device to submerge excessively or cause the downstream tension tether mooring lines to go slack.

Abstract: Wind turbine system. The system includes a lower wind speed vertical axis wind turbine operatively connected to a first electrical motor/generator and a higher wind speed vertical axis wind turbine operatively connected to at least one second electrical motor/generator. Electrical power from the first electrical motor/generator is directed to the at least one second electrical motor/generator and mag-lev system to cause the higher wind speed turbine to begin turning.

Abstract: A updraft wind powered electrical generator system mountable to sides of a vertical, man-made structures facing prevailing winds. The updraft system includes a tubular housing that can include at least one fixed helical vane formed onto the inner surfaces of the tubular housing in a spiral and adapted to direct wind into a spiraled flow and focus fluid onto a fan blade assembly associated with an alternator system and located within the tubular housing before a system exhaust. A generator cone can be mounted near the center and front of the fan blade assembly facing wind passing through the tubular housing. As wind passes over the generator cone it experiences compression between the generator cone and housing resulting in increased pressure and velocity of the fluid, thereby increasing rotational speed of the generator blades and generator as the compressed, spiraled fluid passes through the blades and exits the tubular housing.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a low-wind, dual-stage, vertical-axis, wind-generated power turbine comprising a structural support tower, at least four turbine assemblies stacked on top of one another within individual turbine bays, a central drive shaft connecting the turbine assemblies, a draft induction channel surrounding the drive shaft, a spiral blade running through the induction channel, a paddle turbine assembly at the base of the tower which propels the spiral blade, a blower source which powers the paddle turbine, a built-in solar system which feeds the blower, external, natural wind directional slats, and a high pressure, fluid-drive, Hydrabine turbine mechanically coupled to a transmission or CTV, coupled to a one Mega Watt output generator.

Abstract: A method and system for mounting a vertical-axis wind turbine to an existing structure, such as conventional transmission towers, monopole towers, billboards, road signs, utility poles, buildings, stadiums and the like, is disclosed. The method and system generally include identifying an existing structure having a capability of supporting a wind turbine above the surface of the earth, mounting a vertical-axis wind turbine to the existing structure, connecting a power generator to the turbine, and permitting the wind turbine to operate. It is understood that the mounting of the turbine to the existing structure is done so as to avoid interference with normal operation of the existing structure and the wind turbine. Also, the generator is connected to the wind turbine in a manner which produces electricity as a result of the turning of the wind turbine. In certain embodiments the invention includes supporting the mounted turbine on the existing structure using additional supports.

Abstract: A generating device for an exercising equipment includes a power source, a speed increasing unit and a generating unit. The generating unit includes a rotor, a stator located in the rotor and a driven member secured on the rotor and provided with a driven gear. The speed increasing unit includes a drive member having a first portion rotated by the power source and a second portion provided with a drive gear and a plurality of transmission gears each intermeshing with the drive gear and the driven gear. The drive gear has a diameter greater than that of each of the transmission gears so that the rotation speed of each of the transmission gears is greater than that of the drive member to increase the rotation speed of the rotor and to enhance the generating efficiency of the generating unit.

Abstract: An energy conversion device includes batteries and a DC motor. A rotary member is driven by a hydraulic pump, which acts through pistons engaging a eccentric U-shaped rod to impart torque to the rotary member. Bevel gears transfer the torque to the rotary member, which can be connected to a DC generator or a battery charger. The pistons include hollow piston head and piston rods, which reduce the amount of hydraulic fluid that must be pumped. This energy conversion device may be employed in a vehicle. Hydraulic fluid, activated steam or air may be employed as a working medium.

Abstract: A latch apparatus for releasably securing a cover member over an access opening in a bulk storage structure. The latch apparatus is pivotally mounted to a cover member and includes a pair of latch members and a latch bar connected to and extending between the latch members. The latch members have a receptacle that receives a catch member and an extension that extends away from the latch member opposite the receptacle. The extension engages the cover member when the latch member is moved from a locked position to an unlocked position to prevent injury to a user.

Abstract: A doorway having a recessed magnetic lock is disclosed. The doorway that comprises a jamb that defines an interior jamb space. The jamb includes a stop surface that defines a jamb opening between the interior jamb space and an exterior space. The doorway further comprises an electromagnet housed within the interior jamb space that is operable to provide an attractive magnetic force. The doorway further comprises a door pivotally connected to the jamb to open and close the doorway. The door defines an interior door space and includes a front surface. The front surface defines a door opening between the interior door space and the exterior space. The doorway further comprise a magnetically attractive armature housed within the interior door space. The armature is abuttingly engagable with the electromagnet when the doorway is closed.

Abstract: A door handle apparatus for a vehicle is provided with a handle base to be fixed to a door of the vehicle and an operating handle. One end of the operating handle is pivotally coupled to the handle base. On the other end of the operating handle, an operating leg protrudes. The operating leg portion includes a stopper protrusion for butting with a part of the handle base to define a termination of a rotating stroke of the operating handle is provided. The operating leg portion further includes a shake preventing protrusion on a free end side of the stopper protrusion.

Abstract: A front section for a motor vehicle body features a main frame that includes, but is not limited to an upper bumper carrier, a lower reinforcing element for the bumper that extends underneath the upper bumper carrier and a sub-frame that is elastically fixed on the main frame by means of a buffer. The buffer is held between an end piece of the reinforcing element and the main frame.

Abstract: An energy-absorbing structure for a vehicle includes an energy-absorbing member that folds or crumples on crash impact, the energy-absorbing member being of a functionally-graded material having a less ductile core integral with a more ductile shell. The core is preferably of a medium carbon steel or an HSLA steel, with the shell having a lower content of carbon. The energy absorbing member may be made by partial decarburisation of a medium carbon or an HSLA steel member.

Abstract: A base-plate-less crashbox is provided for absorbing impact energy, which is suitable for insertion into a corresponding support frame, in particular, a motor vehicle support frame, and has a deformable profile. The base-plate-less crashbox includes, but is not limited to at least one first chamber and a second chamber formed adjacent thereto which are each surrounded by a wall of the profile. One of the chambers is formed such as to be shorter in the direction of insertion so that the other chamber has a protruding portion which is adapted to be inserted into the corresponding support frame in order to realize a coupling between the crashbox and the support frame. The protruding portion has at least one first connecting means for connecting the protruding portion to the support frame.

Abstract: The invention concerns a support device for pneumatic prehensile members, in particular suction cups, for picking up and moving the parts, items and the like. It comprises a fixed support body (support body) a tubular rod (12) moving axially in said body, and a return spring (13) between said body and rod. Between the tubular rod (12) and a distal end of the fixed support body (support body) are interposed some guide means (14) provided to prevent torsion/rotation of said rod during its longitudinal movements in and with respect to the fixed body.

Abstract: A cargo lid assembly for a vehicle is provided and includes a cargo lid, at least one lid-engaging member and at least one hinge member that is integral with a respective one of the at least one lid-engaging member and is configured for hinged connection to a body structure of a vehicle. The cargo lid includes an inner member and an outer member that cooperate to define a cavity. The assembly further includes at least one stiffener positioned within the cavity between the inner and outer members of the cargo lid. At least one lid-engaging member is secured to at least one stiffener.

Abstract: A seat assembly is provided that has a head restraint pivotally mounted to the seat back for movement between an operative position and a stowed position. The seat assembly has a seat mounting assembly that comprises at least one floor latch assembly. The floor latch assembly is operable between a latched position locking the seat assembly to the floor and a released position allowing the pivotal movement of the seat assembly to a folded position. The floor latch assembly is operatively coupled to the head restraint to release the head restraint from the operative position when the floor latch assembly is in the released position and prevent the head restraint from being locked in the operative position until the floor latch assembly is back in the latched position.

Abstract: A vehicle seat is provided with a protective surface to support the vehicle passenger and a variable-shape aircushion. The contour of the supporting surface can be varied by changing the shape of the aircushion. A drivable device is also provided with which the aircushion can be compressed at least partially from outside in such a way as to vary the shape of the aircushion, and hence vary the contour of the supporting surface. A motor vehicle is also provided with such a vehicle seat.

Abstract: A vehicle safety seat system includes a seat, and a frame and support surface that are movable with respect to each other between rest and attenuated positions, wherein the frame and support surface are respectively a first and second distance apart. A biasing mechanism biases the frame and support surface to the rest position between blast and slam down phases. A damper coupled between the frame and support surface has blast and rebound recovery resistance settings. The blast resistance setting is set to a predetermined value based on a weight of a seat occupant. The damper, during the blast phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the attenuated position based upon the blast resistance setting, and after the blast phase and prior to the slam down phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the rest position based upon the rebound recovery resistance setting.

Abstract: A vehicle safety seat system includes a seat, and a frame and support surface that are movable with respect to each other between rest and attenuated positions, wherein the frame and support surface are respectively a first and second distance apart. A biasing mechanism biases the frame and support surface to the rest position between blast and slam down phases. A damper coupled between the frame and support surface has blast and rebound recovery resistance settings. The blast resistance setting is set to a predetermined value based on a weight of a seat occupant. The damper, during the blast phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the attenuated position based upon the blast resistance setting, and after the blast phase and prior to the slam down phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the rest position based upon the rebound recovery resistance setting.

Abstract: A vehicular footrest is disclosed which includes a footrest part (36) for making contact with a foot (F) of a vehicle occupant (M), and a footrest base member (34). The footrest has a front surface load absorption mechanism (33) for absorbing a load applied to a firewall (23), and a lower limb load absorption mechanism (35) for absorbing a load applied from a vehicle occupant to the footrest part (36).

Abstract: The automobile vehicle (1) having a bodywork (2) in which a member or panel (W) is mounted and is operationally cleaned without wipers, a frame (3) being associated with its perimeter or contour. The surface of the member or panel (W) which is external in operation is water-repellent. Ejector means (5, 6, A, B) associated with the member or panel (W) comprise: a first plurality of openings or nozzles (A) for the discharge of a liquid provided in the frame (3), oriented towards the external surface of the member or panel (W), a second plurality of openings or nozzles (B) for the discharge of a gaseous fluid also provided in the frame (3) and interspersed with the openings or nozzles (A) of the first plurality, a first manifold duct (5) provided in the frame (3) and communicating with at least part of the liquid discharge openings or nozzles (A), and a second manifold duct (6) provided in the frame (3) and communicating with at least part of the discharge openings or nozzles (B) of the gaseous fluid.

Abstract: A motor vehicle has a fuel supply device provided in a bowl indentation of the vehicle body. A closing cap closes the fuel supply device and a cover flap is articulated on the motor vehicle that, in the closed state, covers the bowl body of the body. Vehicles of the same model series must have different closing caps for different sales markets. Here, at least two different holding devices for holding the closing cap are therefore provided in the region of the fuel supply device. Differently designed closing caps for closing the fuel supply device can thus be received.

Abstract: A tarp deploying apparatus of the type that has radial arms pivotally attached at the front and rear of a trailer. A housing for supporting a tarp roll and a motor is pivotally attached at the free end of a radial arm such that the tarp roll and housing will tuck under a side lip at an upper portion of the side of the trailer. The rear radial arm is formed with a bend between the pivotal attachment point to the rear of the trailer and the free end of the radial arm, such that the free end of the radial arm is closer to the front of the trailer. A roller with enhanced traction characteristics helps to move the apparatus out of a storage position. A spring used to bias the radial arms can be adjusted to adjust the amount of biasing force.

Abstract: A device for manipulating a tarpaulin to selectively cover and uncover a top aperture of a container, the device being usable in combination with an actuator, the device comprising: a rod for rolling the tarpaulin therearound, the rod defining a rod longitudinal axis; a mounting bracket attachable to the container in a spaced apart relationship relatively to the top aperture; an articulated linking element defining a linking element first end and a substantially opposed linking element second end, the articulated linking element being pivotally attached to the mounting bracket substantially adjacent to the linking element first end, the articulated linking element being rotatably attached to the rod substantially adjacent to the linking element second end, the articulated linking element being movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the articulated linking element being in the first configuration when the tarpaulin is in a retracted configuration, and the articulated linking element

Abstract: The invention relates to a convertible vehicle (1) comprising a displaceable roof (2) that can be opened as a whole in relation to its opening. Said displaceable roof (2) comprises a sunroof (4) that can be displaced in relation to a surrounding roof part (5) when the roof is in the closed position. Said convertible vehicle is configured in such a manner that it is possible to directly open the roof from a closed position when the roof part (4) is open as well as from a closed position when the roof part (4) is closed.

Abstract: A folding top for a vehicle includes a cover, a frame assembly having rear and front top bows, a light, and a securing device. The cover has a top cloth and an interior covering which are spaced apart from one another. The bows extend through the spacing between the top cloth and the covering. The top cloth and the covering are stretched over the bows with the opening of the covering being rearward of the rear bow. The bows are movable between a closed position in which the cover is raised and an opened position in which the cover is lowered. The light is positioned within the opening of the covering. The securing device extends through the spacing between the top cloth and the covering between the front bow and rearward of the rear bow. The securing device tensions the light against the rear bow when the cover is raised.

Abstract: A door impact beam for a motor vehicle includes a formed metal sheet defined by a longitudinal axis and having a tubular cross section which has a closed circumference in a center portion of the metal sheet, and is configured with open circumference at both end portions of the metal sheet which adjoin the center portion in a direction of the longitudinal axis. Each end portion is defined by an opening angle which continuously increases from the center portion to respective ends of the end portions.

Abstract: A convertible top for a vehicle that is provided with a dynamic roll bar or dynamic occupant head protection system. The convertible top has a skylight that is retained in a skylight opening formed in the flexible cover of the convertible top. The skylight may be supported on one of the bows of the convertible top or may be supported on a skylight linkage that cooperates with the top stack linkage. In the event that a need for the roll bar is sensed by the vehicle resulting in the actuation of the roll bar assembly, the roll bar assembly may break the skylight in the course of deployment to assure fully deployment of the roll bar assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is an ultra-light, aerodynamic, and towable recreational vehicle with integral self-inflating tent and accessory storage compartments. With motorcycles or a lightweight car as the intended towing vehicle, the ultra-light tent trailer includes a lightweight welded tubular steel frame, independent adjustable suspension, and composite aerodynamic body components to support the mechanicals of the tent trailer. A swingarm and crossbar assembly may support the floor of the tent component and may be controlled by a motor system. The motors may be remotely activated to open the tent trailer from a stowed configuration to an open configuration, and an inflation unit may also be remotely activated to inflate an inflatable tent. Thus, the push-button convenience makes this an incomparably quick and easy method of establishing a camp shelter. The aerodynamic features combined with the lightweight assembly reduce fuel consumption and present an efficient and stylish alternative over the prior art.

Abstract: The invention comprises a set of tubular inflatable bags mounted to the underside of a transport trailer along its lower edge in front of the rear wheel assembly. The bags are pressurized by ram air inflation upon forward motion of the trailer, such that they prevent air from entering the rear wheel assembly and thereby reduce aerodynamic drag. The outer exposed sides of the bags are vertically and horizontally straightened and stiffened by horizontal ribs which are anchored by cords to the trailer. The apparatus gives way without stress when unpressurized at slow speed and when docking to avoid damage.

Abstract: An inflatable shaping system has a frame, rectangular with four sides, similar to the rear of a trailer or truck. The frame has a hinged connection and swings from an over-the-road configuration and to a deflated stowed position against the side of the trailer. Upon the frame, the system has an inflatable body and a durable skin covering the frame and the inflatable body. The inflatable body has a continuous attachment to the frame. The inflatable body has at least one inflatable element connected by a flexible adhesive or device. The inflatable elements remain contained between the frame and the durable skin, generally outwardly from the trailer. In communication with the inflatable elements, a pump system supplies air for their inflation and removes air for their deflation. The pump system operates remotely in the vicinity of the truck.

Abstract: A side sill beam having a shape of an arch concave outwards in a vehicle-width direction is placed in a side sill, and includes first and second ends welded to joining areas with front and rear floor cross members, respectively. A first impact detection element that detects an impact from the outside in the vehicle-width direction is disposed near the joining areas of the side sill and the front or rear floor cross member, and a second impact detection element that detects an impact from the outside in the vehicle-width direction is disposed offset from the first impact detection element in a vehicle front-rear direction as viewed in the vehicle-width direction.

Abstract: A pillar structure that reduces bending deformation of the pillar toward the vehicle interior, during a vehicle side collision, by suppressing cross-sectional collapse of the pillar. In a pillar which is erected on a side face of a body of an automobile and in which an outer panel and an inner panel form a closed cross-section, at sites where a collision load is likely to act strongly and locally during a side collision such as a site opposing an end of an impact beam that is provided inside a front door and that extends in the front-rear direction, and a site where a hinge joint is formed, grooves having a substantially square C-shaped cross section are formed in a front face portion, of an outer panel having a hat-shaped cross section, that faces toward the front of the vehicle, and/or a rear face portion thereof that faces toward the rear of the vehicle.

Abstract: A structural member of a motor vehicle, e.g., a “B” pillar, comprises a reinforcing member having an elongate core of ultra high strength steel and a casing of aluminum alloy, the casing having a constant section profile with a closed section cavity. The core is encased within the casing and the core and the casing bonded together by co-drawing the core and the casing through a die. The casing has a pair of spaced flanges which connect the reinforcing member to aluminum alloy pressings to form the structural member. The reinforcing member has considerable yield strength from the use of the ultra high strength steel in the core while the flanges, being of aluminum alloy, are readily joined by self-piercing rivets.

Abstract: Front vehicle body structure (10) includes a front sub frame (16) disposed under and fixedly connected to left and right side frames (11, 12), and a steering gear box (18) is mounted on the front sub frame to extend transversely along the width of the vehicle body. The body structure also has support portions (44, 45, 46) provided in left-right symmetrical arrangement on the front sub frame, and the steering gear box is mounted on the support portions via respective bushes.

Abstract: A vehicle front structure is disclosed in which a bulkhead (15) is provided between left and right front side frames (11), and a cooling unit (17) is provided having a radiator in the bulkhead. An upper support bracket (41) and a lower support bracket (42) for supporting upper and lower parts of the cooling unit are provided so as to be capable of sliding in a rearward direction of the vehicle body. The upper and lower support brackets slide in the rearward direction of the vehicle body when the vehicle is involved in a light collision, whereby the cooling unit moves rearward while kept in a vertical state and damage is reduced.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a roof structure for a vehicle having a sunroof (or moonroof). The roof structure includes a reinforcement assembly, or ring, that has several rails designed to encircle a sunroof opening. The rails can be spot welded together. Methods of manufacturing the reinforcement assemblies are also discussed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wind deflector for a roof opening of a vehicle, which can be closed an partially opened by means of a displaceable roof part, comprising a bow-like base element which can be arranged in a roof opening edge area of the motor vehicle, a bow-like deployment element which is arranged over said base element and which is arranged in such a manner that it can pivot in relation to the base element, a deflector element which can be clamped between the base element and the deployment element, and at least one sealing element which is secured to the deployment element for reducing vehicle noises. The deflector element is secured directly to the sealing element. The invention also relates to a method for producing said type of wind deflector.

Abstract: A foldable massaging backrest structure comprises a main body and a table. The main body includes a cushion and two arms pivotally connected to two lateral sides of the cushion respectively. The cushion has a headrest portion and a backrest portion and is provided with at least a speaker and a battery cell. A massaging device is disposed within the backrest portion adjacent to users' backs. The table is movably connected to the main body for users to place books they are reading or other things thereon.

Abstract: The filler device for placement between seats/consoles is a one-piece, rugged polymer body (10) having an elongate blade and a seat belt boss extending either rearward or laterally from the blade. The blade has an upper portion (12) of substantially uniform width throughout its length, and a wedge-shaped lower portion (13) adapted for insertion between the automobile seat cushion and a console (C). The seat belt boss has a greater width than the blade and defines an opening (20) through which the buckle receiver (B) of a seat belt may be inserted to retain the filler wedged in place. In alternative embodiments, the filler (10) may have a cell phone holder or a cup holder extending laterally from the front end of the blade.

Abstract: A rear seat assembly for a vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes a support frame having a pair of spaced frame rails extending along the length of the vehicle and a body mounted on the support frame. The rear seat assembly comprises a rear seat including a rear seat cushion. The rear seat defines a left seat sections a center seat section and a right seat section. The rear seat has a first end section supported on one of the frame rails and a second end section supported on the other frame rail. A frame member is mounted to the body. The frame member is positioned generally beneath the center seat section of the rear seat. The frame member is configured to provide additional support to the center seat section. The frame member at least partially displaces the rear seat cushion to raise an occupant of the center seat section and balances a thickness of the rear seat cushion under an occupant of one of the left and right seat sections.

Abstract: A child restraint includes a juvenile vehicle seat and an energy-absorption apparatus coupled to the juvenile vehicle seat. The energy-absorption apparatus is configured to absorb external energy associated with an external impact force applied to the energy-absorption apparatus.

Abstract: In the case of a vehicle seat (1), in particular motor vehicle seat, a backrest (4) extending in a longitudinal direction of the backrest includes at least a first backrest shell (10) and a second backrest shell (12) in a shell-type construction. The second backrest shell (12) is displaceable and/or pivotable relative to the first backrest shell (10).

Abstract: A child car seat includes a seat assembly that is adapted to support a child in a vehicle, and a vibration mechanism that is adapted to provide a vibrating motion to a child supported by the seat assembly.

Abstract: An infant support structure that supports a child above a support surface is disclosed. The infant support structure includes a frame, a seat, and an elastic member that supports the seat for vertical and horizontal movement relative to the frame.

Abstract: In a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle, that includes, but is not limited to a seat surface, a backrest, at least one space in the area of the lateral supports of the seat surface and/or the backrest for the formation of at least one lateral seat support cushion. The space is sealed fluid-tight and variable in volume, and has at least one closing unit, e.g., a valve, for the controlled introduction and release of air into and from the space so as to vary the volume of the space, a cost-effective variable level of lateral support for the vehicle seat is to be enabled at a low technical outlay. This object is achieved by having the space incorporates a flexible body.

Abstract: Seating (10), including a support member (14) for supporting a plurality of seats (12), the support member (14) being, in use, substantially horizontal, the seating (10) further including a plurality of seats (12) each of which includes a seat portion (16) and a backrest (18), the seat portion (16) of each seat (12) being pivotable relative to the respective backrest (18) between a first, tipped-up, position and a second, open, position, wherein when in the first position the seat portion (16) is substantially parallel to the backrest (18), and in the second position the seat portion (16) is substantially perpendicular to the backrest (18), the seat portion (16) being biased towards the first position, each seat (12) further including an attachment formation (24) in which an upper part of the support member (14) is receivable.

Abstract: A child seat assembly has a clamp mechanism configured to connect to a table and a child seat coupled to and supported spaced from the clamp mechanism. The child seat is reconfigurable between a toddler seat configuration and an infant seat configuration relative to the table and the clamp mechanism.

Abstract: A child seat for a juvenile product has a seating surface with a first section, a second section, and a seat bight region between the first and second sections. A lap belt is coupled to the child seat near the seat bight region. A first crotch strap is coupled to the child seat on the first section side of the seat bight region and is connectable to the lap belt in a first harness configuration rendering the first section as the seat bottom of the seating surface. The child seat has a removable pad insert with a second crotch strap. With the pad insert installed over the first section of the seating surface, the pad insert positions the second crotch strap on the second section side of the seat bight region. The second crotch strap is connectable to the lap belt in a second harness configuration rendering the second section as the seat bottom of the seating surface.

Abstract: A gas cylinder includes a spindle vertically reciprocating along a center shaft, a cylinder installed in the spindle and filled with gas, a piston member sectioning an inside of the cylinder into an upper portion and a lower portion, and a valve member sealing an upper end of the cylinder and controlling flow of the gas filling the inside of the cylinder. The valve member includes a pipe holder sealing an upper end of the cylinder, an open pin inserted in the pipe holder by penetrating the pipe holder, and a sealing member provided at an end portion of the open pin to contact the pipe holder. When the open pin is inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the center shaft, a gap is formed between the sealing member and the pipe holder so that the flow of the gas is controlled.