Patents Issued in March 1, 2012
  • Publication number: 20120048264
    Abstract: An aerosol delivery system is disclosed that is a single-use (disposable) continuous nebulizer system designed for use with mechanically ventilated patients to aerosolize medications for inhalation with a general purpose nebulizer, or for connection with devices usable in endoscopic procedures. The system separates the liquid reservoir from the nebulization process taking place either at the adapter hub, where it fits into an endotracheal tube (ETT), or a gas humidifier, where the aerosol may treat a gas used in an endoscopic procedure, with a multi-lumen tube configured to nebulize liquid and air at its distal end. The refillable liquid reservoir is mounted away from the immediate treatment zone, avoiding orientation issues associated with other types of nebulizers having a self-contained reservoir. The system can produce aerosols having a wide range of droplet sizes, depending upon central lumen diameter, with values of MMAD that range from 4 to 30 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Bryan Finlay, Michael Nuttall, Brandon Coultes, Mark Nagel, Mark Pickard
  • Publication number: 20120048265
    Abstract: A drug delivery apparatus (5, 5?, 5?, 5??) for delivering an aerosol including a drug to a patient includes an aerosol generator (45, 50, 55, 60) for generating the aerosol from a supply of the drug, and a mouthpiece component (30, 30?, 30?, 30??) structured to be inserted into the mouth of the patient. The mouthpiece component is operatively coupled to the aerosol generator for receiving the aerosol and delivering the aerosol to the patient. The mouthpiece component has a ventral surface (85, 85?, 85?) structured to face a tongue (100) of the patient when the mouthpiece component is inserted into the mouth of the patient and may include a tongue apex positioning element (90, 90?, 90??, 105) provided on the ventral surface. The ventral surface, and if present, the tongue apex positioning element is/are structured to engage the apex (95) of the tongue of the patient during use of the drug delivery apparatus to properly position the tongue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Gerard Smaldone
  • Publication number: 20120048266
    Abstract: An apparatus including a first cartridge, a sensor, and a controller. The first cartridge can include a first release device configured to release a first substance into a housing. The controller can be configured to receive data from the sensor. The controller can determine an amount of first substance released by the first cartridge based on the data. The first release device can be controlled based on the determined amount of first substance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Eli Alelov
  • Publication number: 20120048267
    Abstract: A mouth-to-mouth resuscitation device comprising a straight blow-in tube having a proximal side and a distal side, a filter and one way valve on the proximal side for receiving exhaled breath from a mouth of a rescuer, an opening at the distal side for delivering the exhaled breath into the throat of a victim, an inflatable bladder surrounding the straight blow-in tube which, when inflated, assumes a donut shape which has a diameter of about 1.5? to 2.5?, the bladder located on the straight blow-in tube between about 0.75? and 2.0? from the distal opening, an inflation tube in fluid communication with the inside of the inflatable bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: CONRAD ROBLEJO
  • Publication number: 20120048268
    Abstract: Inhalation airflow regulation devicesnhalers are disclosed. Methods of making and using inhalation airflow regulation devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Sinjae Hyun, Melissa Erin Sindelar, Haley Marie Swearingen, Bennett Welch
  • Publication number: 20120048269
    Abstract: A powder inhaler device comprising: a body provided with a dispenser orifice (15); at least one reservoir containing a dose of powder to be dispensed; reservoir opening means for opening a reservoir on each actuation; a dispersion chamber (70) including an outlet that is connected to said dispenser orifice (15), and an inlet (710) that is connected to said reservoir opening means and that receives the dose of powder from said open reservoir, said dispersion chamber (70) containing at least one movable element (75), said at least one movable element (75) including at least one peripheral hollow sleeve (755) on which at least one projecting element is fastened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: VALOIS SAS
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Pardonge, Matthieu Baillet
  • Publication number: 20120048270
    Abstract: A powder inhaler device having a body provided with a dispenser orifice; a reservoir containing a dose of powder to be dispensed; a reservoir opening mechanism for opening a reservoir on each actuation; a dispersion chamber including an outlet that is connected to the dispenser orifice, and an inlet that is connected to the opening mechanism and that receives the dose of powder from the open reservoir. The dispersion chamber containing a movable element, such as a ball. The device further having a remote drive mechanism for remotely driving the movable element, the drive mechanism acting without contact with the movable element so as to set it into motion in the dispersion chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: VALOIS SAS
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Pardonge
  • Publication number: 20120048271
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an interface for delivering salt or other medicament to a patient. The interface has a receptacle for medicament in solid form and an inlet adapted to couple directly or indirectly to a source of a heated and humidified flow of gas. The inlet is arranged to direct an incoming heated and humidified flow of gas to the receptacle. An outlet is arranged to receive and deliver a heated and humidified flow of gas from the receptacle to the patient's airway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Kevin Peter O'Donnell, Dean Antony Barker
  • Publication number: 20120048272
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to an inhaler, comprising an outlet and a plurality of sealed compartments containing medicament. An opening mechanism is provided to open the compartment presently aligned with the outlet. An indexing mechanism sequentially aligns the compartments with the outlet. A latch is provided for latching the opening mechanism in an energized position. The latch cannot latch the opening mechanism before the indexing mechanism has aligned the next compartment with the outlet. The disclosure also relates to a method of priming an inhaler and a method of dispensing a medicament from an inhaler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ASTRAZENECA AB
    Inventors: John Briant, Patrick Campbell, Charles Cooke, Christopher Groombridge, Daniel James John, John Trevor Penhallurick, Nicholas Smartt, Nicholas Harrison, William Bakewell
  • Publication number: 20120048273
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically controlling partial pressure of oxygen in the breathing loop of a rebreather diving system. A diver may adjustably select a control parameter to maintain partial pressure of oxygen at a setpoint that varies with ambient pressure and is within a range between a maximum safe partial pressure of oxygen at depth and a minimum safe partial pressure of oxygen for the purpose of biasing the performance of the rebreather either towards minimizing gas venting from the rebreather breathing loop or minimizing decompression time. A method and apparatus for managing and monitoring the use of dive resources in comparison with a target dive time specified by the diver, calculating and indicating remaining dive time based on dive resource values and calculating and indicating dive resource values required to meet preselected dive resource end values and dive requirements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Kevin Gurr, Nicholas J.K. Bushell
  • Publication number: 20120048274
    Abstract: A respiratory valve apparatus with a housing having an inner chamber, an endotracheal tube connection port, a respirator connection port and a resuscitation bag connection port. A valve positioned within the inner chamber can switch the flow between a manual resuscitation bag port and a ventilator port enabling the patient to be treated without having to disconnect the respirator support system to thereby connect the resuscitation bag. This prevents the loss of positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) in the lungs and guards against lung collapse and hemodynamic compromise. The valve includes preloaded seals that will create minimal dragging during valve actuation and work under both positive and negative pressure. The apparatus includes a tethered cover for closure of the resuscitation bag port for sealably covering the port when a bag is not attached or the ventilator connector during patient transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Harry Bayron, Neil Winthrop
  • Publication number: 20120048275
    Abstract: A closed circuit rebreather uses a vest with an air tight internal cavity that has a channel therein, the channel passing through a series of passageways either on a single layer or a double layer. Located throughout the length of the channel is a CO2 scrubbing material. A person exhales which causes the exhaled breath to enter one end of the channel and pass through the channel while being scrubbed of CO2 and when the user inhales, fully scrubbed air is drawn from the opposing end of the channel. Appropriate spacers, either V-shaped separators or ribs of various designs can be used to hold the channel open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: David E. Cowgill
  • Publication number: 20120048276
    Abstract: A respiratory mask includes a mask shell defining an interior of the respiratory mask and a gas washout vent passage having an inlet forming part of the mask shell and in fluid communication with the interior and an outlet in fluid communication with atmosphere. The mask shell includes a tubular mask inlet adapted to connect to a breathable gas supply conduit. The outlet includes an interior surface that forms a smooth prolongation with an adjacent exterior surface of the mask shell, and the outlet is adapted to direct washout gas in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the mask inlet and away from the mask inlet. The mask shell includes a body portion and a cap portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Michael K. Gunaratnam, Joanne E. Drew, Geoffrey Crumblin, Phillip Jenkinson, Susan R. Lynch
  • Publication number: 20120048277
    Abstract: Systems and methods that utilize tracheal tubes having one or more adjustable flanges are described. The adjustable flanges may be disposed on the tracheal tube at various angles. Further, the adjustable flanges may be repositioned on the tracheal tube, thus allowing a clinician or patient to reconfigure the tracheal tube in situ so as to more comformably fit the tracheal tube to a variety of patient anatomies. Flange extensions are also provided that may extend the overall flange length, and may also be repositioned at various angles. The use of techniques such as adjustable flanges and adjustable flange extensions allow a better fit to a particular patient's anatomy and provide increased patient comfort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Nellcor Puritan Bennett LLC
    Inventors: Paul Waldron, Seamus Maguire, Roger Harrington, Aaron Macan, Mark R. Behlmaier
  • Publication number: 20120048278
    Abstract: An oropharyngeal airway configured for placement within a mouth of a patient to create a passageway between a mouth of a patient and the posterior pharyngeal wall that includes a passageway body, a flange assembly and a reactive material. The flange assembly is positioned at the end of the body and includes spaced apart upper and lower flange portions, which define a passageway therebetween which is in communication with the opening of the passageway body. The reactive material cooperates with the flange assembly and the passageway defined by the spaced apart flange portions. The reactive material provides qualitative visual indication as to whether the patient is effectively ventilating. A nasopharyngeal airway is likewise disclosed, as is a flange assembly which can be coupled to existing airways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony John Yasick
  • Publication number: 20120048279
    Abstract: The invention provides an artificial airway device to facilitate lung ventilation of a patient, comprising at least one airway tube (2) and a mask (3) carried at one end of the at least one airway tube, the mask having a peripheral formation (7) capable of conforming to, and of readily fitting within, the actual and potential space behind the larynx of the patient so as to form a seal around the circumference of the laryngeal inlet, the peripheral formation surrounding a hollow interior space or lumen of the mask and the at least one airway tube opening into the lumen of the mask, wherein the mask is arranged to provide a space within the pharynx of the patient for the drainage of gastric matter leaving the oesophagus, which space approximates to the pharyngeal space that occurs within the pharynx without the mask being present in the pharynx, the effect of which is to re-establish the normal flow of matter exiting the oesphagus in the event of regurgitation or vomiting when the mask is present in the pharynx
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: THE LARYNGEAL MASK COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventor: Archibald Ian Jeremy Brain
  • Publication number: 20120048280
    Abstract: A body is formed from a segment of non-corrosive wire, or rigid plastic protected by a thin layer of flexible plastic that could be colored or clear. The wire could be made of precious metal such as gold, platinum, silver, etc. or any non-corrosive metal or rigid plastic; typically this wire is from 2 to 4 inches in length with a clear elongated tong extending from the wire to conform to the shape of the wearer's earlobe. This tong could or could not present pre-made perforations for the wearer to hook the heavy earrings (not included) thus, this device will carry the weight of the earring whereof usually the weight would be in the earlobe therefore preventing and protecting the earlobe from expanding and the unsightly split so commonly seen in women who like to wear these type of earrings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: MARILENA NOY, Victor Cuevas, Esmeralda Tarafa, Alvin Cano, Ray Velazquez
  • Publication number: 20120048281
    Abstract: A dynamic infant head support for preventing, or correcting, the abnormal shape of a head of an infant, and a method of using the support for treating deformational plagiocephaly. The support is an oval-shaped pillow, with a central opening to receive the head of the infant to be treated. Spaced barriers divide the interior of the pillow into a plurality of compartments. A ring-like manifold passes through the pillow and communicates with each compartment. A plurality of valves is operatively associated with the manifold; one valve is located in each compartment. The valves allow fluid, such as pressurized air, in the manifold, to inflate individual compartments. The manifold is pressurized by a pump, at a remote location. A remote controller is connected to the valves by electrical leads for governing the sequence of operation of the valves, and regulating the duration of time that each valve is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Jessica Joy KELL
  • Publication number: 20120048282
    Abstract: An adjustable headstrap apparatus maintains the mouth of a user in a closed position to prevent sleep apnea. The apparatus utilizes two floating brackets positioned on opposite sides of the user's head. Each bracket has three internal openings for receiving a first strap member having a chin support for supporting the chin and lower head of the user, a second strap member to maintain the apparatus on the head of the user, and a third strap member to be used around the back of the head of the user. Each strap member has an adjustment component, for instance a Velcro® attachment, which allows the length of the members to be adjustable through the brackets, so that the head strap apparatus can be sized for a comfortable custom fit around the head of the user. The head strap apparatus is thus comfortably and securely positioned on the head of the user to maintain the mouth closed during sleep and rest periods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas A. Maddox
  • Publication number: 20120048283
    Abstract: The Foot Protection & Alignment Device is protective footwear that keeps the foot in the proper position during the healing process. The device incorporates a multi-positional arch support to assist in positional alignment. The device also has a non-removable HDPE insert that is rigid, keeping the foot from flexing. The top of the device is fully adjustable, as is the heel, to accommodate feet of all widths. There are ABS hard plastic guards over the toes and mid-foot that are removable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Edward Scott Cenek
  • Publication number: 20120048284
    Abstract: Methods for administering pressure changes to a user for the treatment and prevention of diseases and conditions are disclosed herein. Methods of administering Cyclic Variations in Altitude Conditioning Sessions (CVAC Session(s)) for the treatment of steroidogenesis, steroid levels, and treatment of serum lipid levels are disclosed herein. Also disclosed herein are methods of administering CVAC Session(s) for the treatment of steroid levels and steroidogenesis associated with HIV infection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Carl E. Linton, Allen Ruszkowski
  • Publication number: 20120048285
    Abstract: Compositions are provided which contain immobilized flavorants, in the form of supramolecular complexes of flavorant compounds, for flavor delivery. One embodiment relates to the flavorant supramolecular complexes themselves; Other embodiments relate compositions which contain the flavorant supramolecular complexes and a substrate. In particular embodiments, the substrate is smokable, but in other embodiments may be non-smokable or comestible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: Munmaya K. Mishra, Biao Duan, Peter J. Lipowicz, William R. Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20120048286
    Abstract: A smoking article having a tobacco rod, which is adapted to produce mainstream smoke, and a filter attached to said tobacco rod. A permeable wrapping paper circumscribes the tobacco rod and the filter. The filter has an upstream end portion and a downstream end portion, and includes a flow restricting segment of smoke impermeable material, which includes at least one open flow passage therethrough to deliver mainstream smoke, and a cavity downstream of the flow restricting segment. The smoking article also includes at least one ventilation zone upstream of the flow restricting segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: Zhaohua Luan, Mohammad R. Hajaligol, Randall E. Baren, Darin S. Colassaco, Firooz Rasouli
  • Publication number: 20120048287
    Abstract: A device for cleaning teeth comprises a substrate and at least one projection. The substrate is made of a substrate material and defines a cavity shaped to receive at least a portion of a tongue. The at least one projection is made of a projection material and extends outwardly from the substrate. The substrate material and the projection material are non-toxic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: John L. White
  • Publication number: 20120048288
    Abstract: Agent for oxidative coloring of keratinic fibers comprising a specific combination of non-ionic emulsifiers with a differing degree of ethoxylation and a specific combination of interfacially active substances comprising at least one anionic, at least one zwitterionic and at least one amphoteric surfactant. The agents provide good coloring characteristics while simultaneously protecting against damage to human hair. In particular the agents allow for colors with high color intensity and an improved gray coverage. The agents also provide significant advantages with regard to viscosity stability during storage and use and an improvement in shear sensitivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Anja REICHERT, Armgard Bender, Mechtild Grunwald, Astrid Kleen
  • Publication number: 20120048289
    Abstract: The technology described herein provides systems and methods for combing, drying, and straightening hair with a device having one or more rows of teeth. Additionally, this technology provides for an adjustable tension mechanism that provides for the compression of hair, thus wringing it of water and providing the ability for a user to also straighten his or her hair. Furthermore, this technology provides for combing, drying, and straightening hair without utilizing an electric or heating means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: John P. Ruckart
  • Publication number: 20120048290
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus configured to contain a dispensable product and facilitate the storage and dispensing thereof. The dispensing apparatus includes a flat elongated housing configured to house a dispensable product within an interior chamber therein. The dispensing apparatus includes a minor-like finish disposed on an exterior surface of the housing. The dispensing apparatus includes a dispensing mechanism and configured to selectably urge product stored within the interior chamber out of the housing. The dispensing mechanism includes a dispensing nozzle. The dispensing apparatus includes a cap coupled at a dispensing end of the housing and configured to selectably cover and uncover the dispensing end. The dispensing apparatus includes an attachment structure disposed on an end of the housing and configured to selectably attach to a coupling member. The dispensing apparatus includes a container having an array of coupling member configured to selectably couple to a plurality of dispensing apparatuses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Frank Anthony Cappello
  • Publication number: 20120048291
    Abstract: A hair clip has a body of a resilient material and first and second claws. The body has a dome shape and includes an outer perimeter, inner and outer surfaces, and a body plane defined generally by the perimeter. The body also includes a body axis generally central to the body and oriented generally perpendicular to the body plane. The first and second claws are coupled to and extend from the body in a generally axial direction relative to the body. The first and second claws are spaced from and generally opposite one another across the body. The hair clip is movable between an open and a closed position. In the open position, the body protrudes from the body plane in an inward axial direction and the first and second claws are separated from one another. In the closed position, portions of the first and second claws overlap one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Goody Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Stan Chudzik, Michael Defenbaugh
  • Publication number: 20120048292
    Abstract: A hair clip comprises a lower clip piece that contacts on and/or slide over customer's hair, an upper clip piece, and a finger pivotally connected to the upper clip piece. The finger has sidewalls, extensions extending from the sidewalls, a stopper that limits the pivoting of the finger, and side flaps that extend beyond the stopper. The upper clip piece, the lower clip piece and the finger form a space that temporarily grabs a customer's hair for hair styling work. The side flaps prevent unwanted trapping of customer's hair between the finger and the upper clip piece. In addition to teeth provided on the upper clip piece and the lower clip piece, teeth are provided along the entire length of the finger, along the sidewalls, extensions and flaps of the finger thereby providing easy and firm grabbing of hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Ryan Tokko
  • Publication number: 20120048293
    Abstract: A hair barrette includes a barrette element having a number of comb teeth for engaging with a head of a user, and having a hook member formed on each of the free ends or outer ends for allowing the hook members of the barrette element to be engaged with each other and for attaching the barrette element onto the hair of the user without spring biasing members, the barrette element includes a base member and two barrette members each having an inner coupling end pivotally coupled to the base member with a hinge line, the barrette element includes a pattern applied onto the outer peripheral portion for decorative purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Shih Ling Hsu
  • Publication number: 20120048294
    Abstract: A compact powder case includes a top case, a bottom case coupled to the top case to open and close the compact powder case, a mid case housed in the bottom case, a lifter disk coupled to the bottom case by a spring supporting the lifter disk elastically, a container to contain a content, the container detachably attached to the lifter disk, and a grinding member rotatably positioned on the top of the mid case, the grinding member including a grinding cap and a grinding insert coupled to the grinding cap, the grinding insert having an aperture to discharge ground content upwardly and a blade disposed at a lower portion of the aperture to grind the content when the grinding insert rotates, wherein the grinding insert rotates along with the grinding cap and against the container when a user rotates the grinding cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ELCOS AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: O SIN YEOM
  • Publication number: 20120048295
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to compositions that can be used to remove residues from a semiconductor substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: FUJIFILM ELECTRONIC MATERIALS U.S.A., INC.
    Inventors: Bing Du, William A. Wojtczak, Stanley A. Ficner
  • Publication number: 20120048296
    Abstract: A cleaning method for a wafer is provided. First, a first cleaning process is performed wherein the first cleaning process includes providing a cleaning solution having a first concentration. Next, a second cleaning process is performed, wherein the second cleaning process includes providing the cleaning solution having a second concentration. The second concentration is substantially greater than the first concentration. Next, a post-cleaning process is performed to provide dilute water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Wen-Chin Lin, Kai-Chun Yang, Jen-Chieh Lin, Jeng-Yu Fang, Chia-Lin Hsu, Teng-Chun Tsai, Wei-Che Tsao
  • Publication number: 20120048297
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dimethylsulphoxide and limonene based paint stripping composition, preferably thickened by adding a thickener of cellulose type, and to a device for its application, formed from an absorbent layer in which the composition is included and a support layer. The device is suitable for a method of paint stripping by peeling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Universita Degli Studi di Trieste
    Inventor: Gianpiero Adami
  • Publication number: 20120048298
    Abstract: A medium for predictably cleaning the contact elements and support hardware of a tester interface, such as a probe card and a test socket, while it is still in manual, semi-automated, and automated handling device and the electrical test equipment is disclosed so that the functionality and performance of the individual die or IC package may be electrically evaluated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: International Test Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan E. Humphrey, Jerry J. Broz, Bret A. Humphrey, James H. Duvall
  • Publication number: 20120048299
    Abstract: The invention provides a method for cleaning a soiled substrate, the method comprising the treatment of the moistened substrate with a formulation comprising a solid particulate cleaning material wherein the formulation is free of organic solvents, the treatment comprising agitation of the substrate and the formulation in at least one sealed container. Preferably the sealed container comprises a metal container or a container formed from a rigid or flexible plastic material. Preferably, the at least one container is agitated in a rotating device such as a tumble dryer. Preferably, the substrate is wetted and the solid particulate cleaning material comprises a multiplicity of polymeric particles which comprise at least one additional cleaning agent, which preferably comprises a surfactant. Most preferably, the substrate comprises a textile fibre. Typically, the polymeric particles comprise particles of nylon or polyester.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Stephen Derek Jenkins, William George Westwater
  • Publication number: 20120048300
    Abstract: A method of operating a dishwasher containing a volume of liquid for prewashing includes the steps of spraying items in the dishwasher by operating a circulation pump assembly to achieve prewashing with only the volume of liquid; filtering the volume of liquid with a filter assembly to remove particles from the items by operating the circulation pump assembly; and flushing the particles out of the filter assembly using at least some of the volume liquid by operating a drain pump assembly. Related filter assemblies and dishwasher designs are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Ramasamy Thiyagarajan
  • Publication number: 20120048301
    Abstract: An automated process for cleaning fruit bins, and particularly grape bins, deploys a conveyer system in which bins are simultaneously rinsed on the inside and outside in an inverted position. Two rinse cycles are rapidly completed with the conveyance of the inverted bins through a wash station. The wash station deploys a pivoting U-shaped spray rod inside the bin, below the conveyor track, while the outside is rinsed by a second surrounding inverted U-shaped spray bar that moves transverse to conveyor direction will the bin is stationary inside the wash station. A pivoting L-shaped arm with an integrated conveyor track move the bins on or off the central conveyor, while flipping them 90 degrees. Two such conveyors return the bins to an upright position for use and stacking. The water from a first rinse is optionally screens to remove solids and collected water is then locally treated before using it to rinse subsequent bins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ECHO BRAVO LLC
    Inventors: Thomas E. Beard, Edwin L. Barr
  • Publication number: 20120048302
    Abstract: Water fill level detection techniques are provided for a dishwasher system. A dishwasher system includes a tub; a fluid circulation system for circulating water in the tub and a controller. The fluid circulation system includes at least one motor and at least one fill valve. The controller monitors a current drawn by the motor to control an operation of the fill valve. The controller performs a frequency analysis on the current to detect a water fill level in the tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Mark Anthony DIDAT
  • Publication number: 20120048303
    Abstract: A process system includes a manufacture device, a concentration detector and a compensation device. The manufacture device is used for processing a wafer using a chemical solution. The concentration detector detects a concentration of a key component in the chemical solution. The compensation device provides a supplement solution to the manufacture device when the concentration of the key component in the chemical solution is lower than a definite value, wherein the supplement solution includes a component that is the same as the key component in the chemical solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: MACRONIX INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chi-Chen Lo, Shao-Chun Kuo, Ching-Wen Chen, Yen-Hui Su
  • Publication number: 20120048304
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a supercritical drying method includes: introducing a semiconductor substrate of which a surface is wet with a supercritical displacement solvent into a chamber; supplying a first supercritical fluid being based on first carbon dioxide to the chamber; supplying a second supercritical fluid which is based on second carbon dioxide to the chamber, after the supplying of the first supercritical fluid; and lowering an inside pressure of the chamber to gasify the second supercritical fluid and to discharge the gasified second supercritical fluid from the chamber. The first carbon dioxide is generated by recovering and recycling the carbon dioxide discharged from the chamber. The second carbon dioxide contains no supercritical displacement solvent or contains the supercritical displacement solvent in a concentration lower than that in the first carbon dioxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Yukiko KITAJIMA, Hiroshi TOMITA, Hidekazu HAYASHI, Hisashi OKUCHI, Yohei SATO
  • Publication number: 20120048305
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning an exhaust treatment device including a fibrous insulation comprises providing a pulsed air flow to a first port of the exhaust treatment device. A vibration is input to the exhaust treatment device while the pulsed air flow is provided. Fibers are entrained in the air flow and purged from a second port of the exhaust treatment device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: William V. Alcini
  • Publication number: 20120048306
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and system provides for dispensing liquid products to two or more appliances. Liquid diluent is communicated through an anti-siphon valve (64) connected in fluid communication to an aspirator (14). A mixed solution from the aspirator (14) is communicated to a distribution valve (36) for directing flow of a liquid product to two or more appliances using a single aspirating dispenser (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC
    Inventors: John Thomas Pelkey, Richard Jondall Mehus, Ryan Jacob Urban, Nicholas Donald Parent, Scott Russell Limback
  • Publication number: 20120048307
    Abstract: A method and system provides for dispensing incompatible products. Separate aspirator assemblies (12A and 12B) are connected in fluid communication with a single liquid diluent source (54). A first set of liquid products (48A-51A) are drawn through aspirator assembly (12A) and a second set of liquid products (48B-51B) having a product incompatible with the first set are drawn through another aspirator assembly (12B). Incompatible liquid products are thereby dispensed independent of and in separation from one another to an appliance for use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: JOHN THOMAS PELKEY, RYAN JACOB URBAN, SCOTT RUSSELL LIMBACK
  • Publication number: 20120048308
    Abstract: A lens cleaning apparatus includes a support panel for supporting lenses to be cleaned, an cover, a hot steam tank and a cooling gas tank. The support panel defines a number of through holes. The cover is used for detachably covering the support panel. The hot steam tank and the cooling gas tank are both located under the support panel. The hot steam tank and the cooling gas tank alternately supply hot steam and cooling gas to the lenses through the through holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SHAO-KAI PEI
  • Publication number: 20120048309
    Abstract: An apparatus for heating washer liquid, may include a PTC (“Positive Temperature Coefficient”) heater provided in an air conditioning system of a vehicle, a subsidiary washer tank connected to a washer tank of the vehicle, and divided into a non-heated washer-liquid storage space for storing non-heated washer liquid received from the washer tank and a heated washer-liquid storage space for storing washer liquid which may be heated, a washer liquid circulation pump provided on the subsidiary washer tank, feeding the non-heated washer liquid into the PTC heater, and recovering the heated washer liquid to the heated washer-liquid storage space of the subsidiary washer tank, a washer liquid heating pipe fluid-connected to the washer liquid circulation pump and provided to pass through a heat radiation fin of the PTC heater so that the non-heated washer liquid fed by the washer liquid circulation pump may be selectively heated by the heat radiation fin provided in the PTC heater, and a washer liquid spray pump fee
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicants: Kia Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Hyun Joong PYUN
  • Publication number: 20120048310
    Abstract: In a process chamber of a substrate processing apparatus, such as an RTP apparatus, a carrier is placed and configured to carry out a contaminant that has been attached to it. In this state, a cleaning gas containing N2 and O2 is introduced into the process chamber, and cleaning is performed under conditions including a pressure of 133.3 Pa or less and a temperature of 700° C. to 1,100° C. This cleaning is repeatedly performed by sequentially replacing a plurality of carriers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: Koji MAEKAWA
  • Publication number: 20120048311
    Abstract: A rotary spray washer for heavy duty applications. Each spray device in the system comprises a rotary coupling and two sets of radially extending spray arms. Each set of arms has nozzles at the distal ends to direct water generally toward a target area but angled enough to produce a rotation-producing reaction torque. One set of arms is longer than the other whereby the shorter arms produce a reaction torque which limits the overall speed of rotation without the need for a friction brake or fluid pump brake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: BELANGER, INC.
    Inventors: Barry S. TURNER, David L. TOGNETTI, Michael S. SAYYAE
  • Publication number: 20120048312
    Abstract: A pipe cleaning assembly includes a main shaft defining an inner bore aligned along a first axis, the inner bore being able to couple in fluid communication with coiled tubing. A slide shaft is disposed around the main shaft, the slide shaft having a forward end, a rear end, and a plurality of fluid pathways. Each of the fluid pathways is in fluid communication between the forward end of the slide shaft and the read end of the slide shaft. Each of the fluid pathways has a forward end able to direct fluid toward an inner surface of a pipe. The slide shaft is able to slide along the main shaft between a first position and a second position, in the direction of the first axis. The first position permits fluid flow through the plurality of fluid pathways, from the rear end of the slide shaft to the forward end of the slide shaft. The second position restricts fluid flow through the plurality of fluid pathways, from the forward end of the slide shaft to the rear end of the slide shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Slider LLC
    Inventors: Harold W. Wilson, William S. Jones, Joseph Nathan Wilson, Weldon Wilson
  • Publication number: 20120048313
    Abstract: Gravity and flow operated diverter valves are disclosed for diverting liquid flow from one source to either of two output destinations, the valves including a housing defining an inlet opening through a base wall, a first outlet opening through a first upper wall and a second outlet opening through a second upper wall. The housing is operable in a configuration with the base wall arranged vertically beneath the first and second upper walls. A valve member has a first end, a second end, and a central portion, the valve member being movably suspended within the housing by the first end when no liquid is flowing into the inlet opening. The valve member is pivotable in a first direction to seal the first outlet opening and pivotable in a second direction to seal the second outlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: James Lee Armstrong, Stephen Froelicher, Joel Charles Boyer