Abstract: A container includes a container body, a body insert, a seal structure, and a cover. The container body has a cavity therein defined by a closed lower end portion thereof and an open upper end portion thereof. The body insert is within the cavity. At least a portion of a bottom wall of the body insert is spaced away from an interior surface of the container body defining the closed lower end portion thereof. The seal structure is between the body insert and the container body such that a sealed gas chamber is defined within the cavity between the container body and the body insert. The cover is movably attached to at least one of the container body and the body insert in a manner allowing the cover to be moved between a position covering the cavity and a position allowing access into the cavity.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an intelligent pest-killing lamp that attracts, disorients, and ideally kills plant pests, soil insects and sanitary insects, protecting plants and crops. The invention generates light at wavelengths between about 360 nm and about 420 nm with about 365 nm being preferred. The invention can also generates combinations of four colors of light. The light pulses at frequencies ranging from about 250 to about 500 hz, disorienting pests. The invention comprises a screw lamp base, an upper cover, a middle cover, a lamp and a control circuit board. The control circuit board comprises a controller that controls the light pulse frequency and an oscillator that drives the lamp.

Abstract: Blackberries are grown so that an additional blackberry crop can be harvested after the normal blackberry growing season has ended. During the normal growing season a distal portion of a blackberry plant is rooted in a planting medium. After the conclusion of the growing season the distal portion is severed from the original plant so that the distal portion is independent form the original plant. After subjecting the distal portion to a chilling period, the distal portion is moved to a warmer climate (or simply warmed) and thereby produces a second harvest of blackberries in the off-season months of December to May.

Abstract: A floating island comprising one or more layers of nonwoven mesh material and optional buoyant nodules. The mesh material is optionally coated with a spray-on elastomer or inoculated with nutrients or microorganisms. The island can include buoyant growth medium, floats, buoyant blocks, a prefabricated seed blanket, a dunking feature, capillary tubes, wicking units and/or bell flotation units. A larger embodiment is comprised of nonwoven mesh material, buoyant nodules, supplemental flotation units, stepping pads and optional load distribution members. Other optional features include a stepping stone flotation assembly, a stepping stone/vertical buoyant member flotation assembly, and a floating log assembly. The buoyancy of the island can be adjusted with a rigid framework of horizontal members, vertical members that can be moved vertically within the island, and/or a framework of prefabricated flotation tubes and cross members. The present invention also covers a floating island with a boat docking location.

Abstract: In a germination/growing apparatus having: a heat shield chamber that can be opened and closed; an illuminator for illuminating the inside of the heat shield chamber; a temperature regulator for heating and/or cooling the inside of the heat shield chamber; and a controller for controlling the temperature regulator, whereby seeds or plants are contained in the germination/growing apparatus for germinating or growing in the heat shield chamber, a breath inspirer for inspiring a human breath to the heat shield chamber is provided. With this configuration, the concentration of the carbon dioxide in the heat shield chamber can be increased, and the growth of the plant can be promoted.

Abstract: The present invention aims at providing a method for producing a nutrient solution for plant culture utilizing an organic material and providing a method of hydroponic culture in which a plant can be cultured while directly adding the organic material to the nutrient solution. The present invention provides a method for producing a biomineral-containing substance comprising establishing a microbial ecosystem necessary for stable mineralization of organic material by adding the organic material to water gradually or at one time and fermenting the resulting mixture and a method of hydroponic culture comprising utilizing the biomineral-containing substance obtained according to the method as at least a part of the nutrient solution and culturing the plant while directly adding the organic material to the nutrient solution.

Abstract: A vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus for allowing vertical hydroponic greenhouse crop production is provided. The apparatus comprises a hollow grow tube having a front face, a back face, a first end, and a second end. A slot is formed in the front face of the grow tube. A media material is insertable into the grow tube wherein the grow tube is positionable in either a horizontal position, vertical position, or any position between the horizontal position and the vertical position allowing inclined, multi-angled crop production and multi-storied conveyor style crop production.

Abstract: A pulley assembly for an overhead counter weight door features a base plate and a support arrangement carried on and spaced from the base plate so that the base and support arrangements face toward one another. A shaft is carried on the base plate and the support arrangement to extend therebetween with a pulley supported on the shaft between the base plate and the support arrangement for rotation about an axis defined by the shaft. A plurality of wall sections extends between the base plate and the support arrangement to establish connection therebetween radially outward from the shaft beyond an outer periphery of the pulley on more than two sides thereof.

Abstract: A glass run channel, wherein at least one of interior and exterior side wall portions are made of a foamable polymer material that is foamed, wherein at least one of an interior covering layer that covers at least a portion of a first surface, which includes a surface of an interior decoration portion and a surface of an interior connecting portion, and an exterior covering layer that covers at least a portion of a second surface, which includes a surface of an exterior decoration portion and a surface of an exterior connecting portion, is formed, so as to cover the at least one decoration portion that is made of the foamable polymer material, and wherein the at least one covering layer is made of a second polymer material which has a foaming ratio smaller than that of the foamable polymer material or which is not foamed.

Abstract: A new method of making and manufacturing foam weather stripping, using a foam filled profile that is encapsulated with an outer liner and a removable film. The film is precisely introduced to the liner using adjustable guides. Just before the film is introduced to the liner the release liner is striped from the film and carried away using a scrap takeaway system for recycling. The liner and film are then introduced into proprietary tooling where the foam, liner, insert, and film is folded upon itself. After the actual construction of the said profile, it is then inserted into a door or window using a kerf or tape application. After the installation of the weather-stripping in the door or window it can then be painted or finished in a variety of ways. After the finish has dried the film protecting the weather strip can then be pealed away exposing a clean undisturbed weather strip.

Abstract: A system and methods for controlling operation of hydraulic cylinders includes monitoring position of the cylinders relative to one another, and correction of misalignment of the cylinders should they become misaligned. Further, monitoring can be of a swing-type door operated using the cylinders, which can operate the door at different speeds. Further, as the door creeps open from a closed position or closed from an open position, correction is also made.

Abstract: Head curtains for dock shelters or dock seals are disclosed. An example head curtain assembly for a vehicle loading dock includes a retractable curtain stiffened by a resiliently compressible foam panel that is more flexible about a horizontal axis than about a vertical axis. The difference in directional flexibility can be created by sewing the foam panel to a pliable cover using a series of parallel horizontal thread lines. The thread lines create in the foam a series of compressed indentations that run horizontally across the curtain so that the curtain tends to bend more easily along those lines. The relative stiffness in the horizontal direction enables the curtain to exert an appreciable sealing force against two lateral dock seal members, and the vertical flexibility makes the curtain easy to retract to accommodate vehicles of various heights. Touch-and-hold fasteners make many of the individual components of the head curtain readily replaceable.

Abstract: In order to improve a retentions force of a silo closure, patterns with protrusions and recesses are proposed at least on insides of a support profile in particular portions, preferably also on outsides of a support hose and/or at least on one of the outsides of a cover foil.

Abstract: A modular accessory system is supportable on a vertical surface such as a wall, an office divider, or the like and includes a framework that support panels and/or functional modules to provide a desired appearance and/or functions for use in an area. The panels and modules are repositionable, and some may be oriented in two or more different orientations on the framework. Engaging members are provided at spaced intervals along each panel and module, with additional engaging members provided at spaced intervals along the framework. The engaging members along the framework releasably engage the engaging members on the panels and modules to support them on the framework. In addition, brackets may be coupled to the framework in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, such as alongside any panel or module, to support accessories thereon. Electrical wiring may be routed through the framework to supply certain panels, modules, or accessories.

Abstract: A support assembly for supporting a retrofit roof to be installed above an existing roof made of preformed panels. Elongated support assembly members are positioned along the roof line to provide additional points of attachment for the new roof, while at the same time forming a substantially even plane for new roof panels. Some of the support members fit in the channels between the ridges of the preformed panels, which can be R-panels or standing seam panels. Transverse top members secure the channel-mounted members in place, while strapping members positioned atop the top members form additional lateral support for the new roof. A plurality of bracket support assemblies is secured between the top members to the roofing panels to elevate the new roof support. The bracket support assemblies are formed of two engageable parts to increase resistance to wind forces.

Abstract: An overhead panel assembly for coupling to a drop ceiling includes a support channel and a clip coupling the support channel to a grid member of the drop ceiling. The overhead panel assembly further includes a vertical panel received over and coupled to the support member with a plurality of binding members. A plurality of clips, support channels, and vertical panels may be positioned in series along a drop ceiling to form a decorative soffit, valance, display, or other structure.

Abstract: A structural reinforcing panel system for reinforcing a structure against lateral or shear and uplift loads. The system includes a structural reinforcing panel which is installed between the studs in a wall of the structure. The panel is connected to the foundation of the structure and the sill or header. Two or more panels may be connected together at a corner, within a wall, ceiling or floor. The roof rafters of the structure may be attached to a top plate bracket mounted to the sill plate, which may also be connected to one or more structural reinforcing panels, provides uplift load support for the structure. For structures built on piers, a pier mount bracket provides a linkage to one or more structural reinforcing panels.

Abstract: A section of the wall has a plurality of interspaced structural members mounted between an upper frame member and a lower frame member, and insulating material generally filling the space between the structural members and upper and lower frame members.

Abstract: A roof system for a mobile occupancy structure having a roof substrate and a roof member mounted to the mobile occupancy structure may include a roof membrane having at least one thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) membrane layer affixed to the roof substrate. The roof system may also include a sealant disposed about or adjacent the roof member with the sealant being adhered to the TPV membrane layer. The TPV membrane layer includes a TPV polymer bonding additive and the sealant includes a sealant polymer bonding additive with the TPV polymer bonding additive and sealant polymer bonding additive interacting to promote adhesion of the sealant with the TPV membrane layer. The sealant may be a substantially solid sealant having at least approximately 90% solids by weight prior to being applied about the roof member.

Abstract: The invention is a joint cover assembly for covering a gap adjacent an edge of a panel that covers a sub-surface, and a method of covering such a gap. The assembly includes a molding having a foot, a first arm, and a second arm. The foot is positioned along a longitudinal axis, and the first arm extends generally perpendicularly from the foot. The second arm extends generally perpendicularly from the foot. A tab depends generally perpendicularly from the first panel engaging surface. At least one of the tab and the foot engage the edge in order to tightly fit within the gap. The method includes the steps of placing the foot in the gap, pressing the respective panel engaging surfaces into contact with respective panels, and configuring at least one of the tab and the foot to cooperate to retain the molding in the gap when the assembly is in an installed condition.

Abstract: A structural building system includes a plurality of pultruded fiberglass reinforced structure components configured to be used as a structural frame member of a building and a plurality of connectors. Each connector is configured to be mounted to one end of a first pultruded structural component and includes a mounting section that is couplable to a second pultruded structural component so as to connect the first and second structural components at right angles to each other.

Abstract: A plurality of columns are erected with predetermined spacing on a groundsill. Then, a wall panel composed of a plurality of paulownia plates laminated, with the grains of the paulownia plates being crossed, is fixed between these columns. One surface of the wall panel is used as an external wall and the other surface of the wall panel is used as an internal wall to form the walls of the wooden house.

Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a modular blocking panel system for a rack. The modular blocking panel system consists of multiple standardized panels which snap-together, or slidably attach to one another, in order to fill openings of any size in a rack. The panels connect to one another so that there is a seal at the junction between the panels. The seal blocks hot air in the interior of the rack from seeping through the panels and mixing with the cold air supply on the exterior of the panels. Multiple panels can be combined to create a single modular panel to cover any sized opening.

Abstract: A spacer for positioning rods and wire in concrete is disclosed. In some embodiments, the spacer includes first and second saddle portions joined together via a connection mechanism. Spacing members are joined with the first and second saddle portions and first and second outer edges are joined with the spacing members opposite the first and second saddle portions. A conforming fixed centering tab having a centering groove is joined with the first saddle portion at first and second ends. An adjustable and conforming centering flap is joined with the second saddle portion at a first end via a hinge connection and includes a free second end opposite the first end. The centering flap has a length greater than a width of an opening of the second saddle portion. The connection mechanism is joined with the spacing members adjacent the outer edges for pivoting the first and second saddle portions.

Abstract: A support is provided for an entrance trim panel on a carrying element of a motor vehicle, particularly a passenger car. The space for accommodating an electrical wire harness is formed between the entrance trim panel and the carrying element. In such a support, it is proposed that the space for accommodating the electrical wire harness is formed above the carrying element, and that a supporting element is arranged between the carrying element and the entrance trim panel. The supporting element is rigidly connected to the carrying element in the region of one end and the entrance trim panel is supported in the region of the other end.

Abstract: A method of thermally insulating an object that requires a Class A standard insulation material, said method comprising suitably locating a metallized polymeric reflective insulation material adjacent said object, wherein said polymeric material is selected from a closed cell foam, polyethylene foam, polypropylene foam, expanded polystyrene foam, multi-film layers assembly and a bubble-pack assembly. The object is preferably packaging, a vehicle or a residential, commercial or industrial building or establishment. The polymeric material may contain a fire-retardant and the bright surface of the metallized layer has a clear lacquer coating to provide anti-corrosion properties, and which meets commercial reflectance criteria.

Abstract: A method and system for covering industrial wood plank or wood block floors that can be installed quickly without creating a hazardous environment or hazardous wastes and without the necessity of removing installed equipment. Sand is swept over the wood to fill voids and cracks. Next metal lath is stapled to the wood. A first layer of epoxy is poured onto the metal lath. After this is dry, a second coat of finish epoxy, possibly colored as desired, can be installed on the first epoxy layer. When this dries, the job is done and operations can be restarted. The epoxy material used can be self-leveling for ease of application and the final floor is approximately level. In a particular embodiment, a layer of plastic can be placed over the floor before the lath is installed, and in another embodiment, the second layer of epoxy can be omitted.

Abstract: A clamp frame is disclosed for securing a window frame in a building structure opening by hand without using fasteners. The clamp frame comprises a unitary extruded plastic member that defines a cross section having an integrally formed connection element that mates with a complementarily shaped portion of a window frame to connect the clamp frame and the window frame without fasteners along the length of the clamp frame. The cross section includes a clamp element having at least a leg and a lever. The leg and lever are each connected to the connection element by a living hinge and are movable relative to the connection element between an open position and an overlapping locked position, which results in a clamp load holding together the clamp frame and window frame without the use of fasteners. One end of the leg of the clamp element is constantly urged against the building structure by the lever when the clamp element is in the locked position.

Abstract: A mini-truss thin-sheet panel assembly. In one embodiment, a substantially rigid thin-sheet panel assembly having a non-rigid thin-sheet component includes the thin-sheet component which has selected plan area and shape, a backer having a plan shape and area substantially similar to the thin-sheet component, and plural riser elements of selected height and configuration each extending from the backer to distal ends connected to a reverse surface of the thin-sheet component, the riser elements being configured and disposed in an array which causes the assembly to have substantial rigidity in a selected direction in the thin-sheet component.

Abstract: A method of the production of a composite roof batten includes forming a substantially rigid low-density lower reinforcing element with cup-shaped depressions defining moisture-passing channels therebetween and providing an upper reinforcing element. The cup-shaped depressions of the lower reinforcing element have introduced therein a low density closed cell foam material and the upper reinforcing element is positioned in overlying relationship to the lower reinforcing element. The foam material is allowed to fill the space defined between the lower reinforcing element and the upper reinforcing element and bond the elements together to form a composite roof batten.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilization in which items to be sterilized are placed in an impervious sealable package and the sterilization process is carried out within the package. The apparatus (10) includes a cabinet (18) in which a package (P) preferably with a carrier (11) located within, can be positioned. A snorkel (17) is inserted into the package (P) and via connector (23) vacuum, pressure and sterilant can be applied to the interior of the package (P). A sealing arrangement (14b, 22b) can seal the package closed after the sterilization process has been completed.

Abstract: An apparatus for introducing a selected beverage into a flexible pouch 8, sealingly closing the pouch 8 and dispensing the closed pouch 8. The apparatus comprises a housing 4 adapted to, in use, accept a plurality of reservoirs 10 of beverage concentrate. Each reservoir 10 has a concentrate pump 12 provided with a diluent inlet and a mixer for mixing pumped concentrate with diluent to produce a mixed beverage. Leading from each pump 12 is flexible conduit 14 terminating in a nozzle 68 for dispensing the mixed beverage.

Abstract: A method of covering, preventing debris and insects from entering, minimizing heat transfer, and stabilizing a cup or can filled with a liquid beverage material, and device therefor.

Abstract: An automated system for preparing parcels of products has a storage assembly housing product containers; a pick station; a main conveyor which conveys the product container between the inlet/outlet of the storage assembly and the pick station; and a central management computer system which manages the product order list associated with each parcel. The main conveyor arranges the containers according to an order list, using a first conveyor belt section, a second conveyor belt section adjacent to the pick station and a buffer zone between the outlet of the storage assembly and the first belt section. The containers are moved between the belt sections by transfer members in transfer zones.

Abstract: The present embodiments are directed to a medicinal extractor that may open and empty pharmaceutical capsules of variable sizes. The medicinal extractor may have a cover that swings open to expose an interior chamber for a powder-filled medication capsule to be dropped into, and the cover may then be closed. The medicinal extractor may have squeezable side depressors on each side for manually squeezing or holding the capsule in place horizontally. Once closed, the cover may be pushed down to compress two components of the medicinal extractor that are moveable with respect to each other. As the moveable components compress, the cover may press the capsule downward onto a hollow piercing element. The hollow piercing element may puncture the capsule to allow medication within the capsule to fall through the hollow piercing element and into a collection chamber or onto a surface below the medicinal extractor for collection.

Abstract: A machine for forming a bale including a plurality of bags includes a conveyor for conveying each of the bags to an inlet opening. A film feeder is positioned adjacent the inlet opening, along with a former for forming a sleeve from the film adjacent to the inlet opening. Means for pushing, such as a pusher, is provided for pushing the bags into the sleeve. Related methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: Device for mowing crops, comprising a series of mowing units arranged side by side at predetermined distances, each mowing unit comprising a knife holder with at least one knife carrying portion for carrying a mowing knife, and a drive mechanism for each knife holder. The drive mechanism for each knife holder comprises a first drive element comprising a hub portion for carrying the respective knife holder, and a second drive element drivingly engaged with the first drive element to rotatingly drive the knife holder about a vertical axis. In normal operation, the knife holder and the hub portion form a unitary rotatable assembly which, at a position between the knife carrying portion and the hub portion, is provided with a break connection which is effective in a radial direction.

Abstract: A lawn mower deck may include a housing for a cutter and a protruding portion extending from a base of the housing. An attachment portion extends from the protruding portion back toward the housing and is fastened to the housing at a location separate from the protruding portion. The housing, the protruding portion and the attachment portion are formed from one piece of material.

Abstract: A repair roller may include a cylinder with components that may have an outer surface, an inner surface and end surfaces. Each of the end surfaces may include a mating portion and outer portions that extend from the ends of the mating portion. A pair of complementary interlocking elements may be disposed within the mating portion for secure engagement of the components.

Abstract: A combined cycle power generating plant that can realize a reduction in the start-up time includes a gas turbine, a steam turbine, a steam supplying section that supplies steam to the gas turbine, a first steam pipe that directs steam from the steam supplying section to the gas turbine, a second steam pipe that directs steam from the gas turbine to the steam turbine, a first release section that carries out control such that the supply destination of steam that is directed to the first steam pipe is one of either the outside of the gas turbine or the outside of the first steam pipe, a second release section that carries out control such that the supply destination of steam that is directed to the second steam pipe is one of either the outside of the steam turbine or the outside of the second steam pipe, and a bypass pipe that directs at least a portion of the steam inside the first steam pipe to the second steam pipe between the gas turbine and the second steam pipe.

Abstract: A gas turbine burner with an igniter and an ignition electrode for installation in a main burner of a gas turbine is disclosed. The ignition electrode is protected from damage by a protective element.

Abstract: An outlet nozzle for a jet engine has a gas intake and a gas outlet, at least one opening being provided through the nozzle boundary wall for the injection of a fluid into the nozzle in a direction perpendicular to one plane, for the purpose of controlling the direction of a gas flow from the jet engine so that vectoring occurs substantially tangentially in this plane. A first opening configuration is provided through the nozzle boundary wall on a first side of the nozzle center line and a second opening configuration is provided through the nozzle boundary wall on a second side of the nozzle center line. At least one of said first and second opening configurations has a substantial extension in the axial direction of the nozzle, in order to permit selective injection of the fluid through said opening configuration to a varying extent in the axial direction of the nozzle.

Abstract: A catalyst deterioration determination device for determining deterioration of an exhaust gas purging catalyst arranged in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The determination device forcibly changes an air-fuel ratio of an air-fuel mixture, calculates an oxygen occlusion amount of the catalyst based on an oxygen concentration of the exhaust gas at a downstream side of the catalyst that varies after the forcible changing of the air-fuel ratio, and performs deterioration determination on the catalyst based on the calculated oxygen occlusion amount. The determination device includes a prohibition unit which sets a prohibition period when calculating the oxygen occlusion amount after the increasing correction ends to prohibit calculation of the oxygen occlusion amount immediately after the increasing correction ends. The prohibition unit variably sets the prohibition period to be longer as a total increased amount of fuel during the increasing correction increases.

Abstract: In a method for operating an internal combustion engine, the engine includes a plurality of cylinders each of which having at least one valve of a first type, an inlet valve, and at least one valve of a second type, an exhaust valve, arranged in an end part of the cylinder, each of the cylinders further having a piston movably arranged therein, the piston being adapted to reciprocate between a first end position and a second end position, wherein the first end position is located closer to the valves than the lower end position, the engine being adapted to allow deactivation of at least one cylinder by reducing its supply of fuel, the engine further being adapted to allow varying opening times of the inlet valves and/or the exhaust valves.

Abstract: Various systems and methods are described for controlling an engine in a vehicle during engine operation, the engine having an exhaust and a NOx sensor coupled in the engine exhaust. One example includes correcting the NOx sensor to account for transients in exhaust gas flow, such as transients in exhaust gas flow rate. Such transients may cause NOx sensor temperature to deviate from a desired value as the sensor heater is unable to maintain temperature during such transients. In this way, even during such transients, accurate NOx readings are still available.

Abstract: A temperature control system comprises a temperature determination module, a temperature correction module, a temperature control module, and an updating module. The temperature determination module determines a desired outlet temperature for an oxidation catalyst (OC) that is located upstream of a particulate filter (PF) in an exhaust system. The temperature correction module determines a temperature correction from a plurality of temperature corrections. The temperature control module controls an outlet temperature of the OC based on the desired outlet temperature and the temperature correction. The updating module selectively updates at least one of the plurality of temperature corrections when an engine speed and an engine load are within respective predetermined ranges.

Abstract: An exhaust gas purifying apparatus for an internal combustion engine is provided to desorb predetermined components contained in exhaust gas from an adsorption device for adsorbing the components and to purify the desorbed components, even during the stop of the internal combustion engine. A main exhaust passage and a bypass passage bypassing the main exhaust passage are provided. An exhaust switching valve is capable of switching a flow target into the exhaust gas flows between the main exhaust passage and the bypass passage. An adsorbent for adsorbing the predetermined components is provided in the bypass passage. An underfloor catalyst including a catalyst with a heater is provided at a downstream side of the bypass passage in the main exhaust passage. A pump and a heater are provided in an air supply passage which branches from the bypass passage at an upstream portion of the adsorbent.

Abstract: Electrical power from a dynamic braking process in an off-highway vehicle is used to power an auxiliary system in the vehicle. The auxiliary system may be a urea storage container heating unit or a particulate filter regeneration heating unit. When dynamic braking electricity is unavailable, and to the extent the dynamic braking electricity is insufficient for powering the auxiliary system, electrical power from an energy device on board the vehicle is used to power the auxiliary system. The energy device may be an auxiliary energy storage device, devoted for use in powering the auxiliary system.

Abstract: A system for purifying an exhaust gas may include a catalyzed particulate filter trapping particulate matters contained in the exhaust gas, a diesel oxidation catalyst oxidizing carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon in the exhaust gas, a selective catalyst reduction apparatus reducing nitrogen oxide contained in the exhaust gas, a dosing module located upstream of the selective catalyst reduction apparatus and dosing a reducing agent into the exhaust gas, and a control portion controlling an operation of an engine, wherein the catalyzed particulate filter, the diesel oxidation catalyst, the selective catalyst reduction apparatus, and the dosing module are mounted on an exhaust pipe, and the selective catalyst reduction apparatus is mounted downstream of the catalyzed particulate filter and the diesel oxidation catalyst, and wherein the control portion controls flow of the exhaust gas and the engine to raise an exhaust gas temperature if a heating mode enter condition is satisfied.

Abstract: To adhere to legal exhaust-gas regulations, the exhaust gases of a lean-burn engine must be freed from soot particles and nitrogen oxides. It is proposed that the cylinders of the lean-burn engine be divided into two groups which discharge their exhaust gases into two associated exhaust lines which each comprise a soot filter and which are merged at an opening-in point into a common exhaust line. The common exhaust line comprises the catalytic converter for the removal of the nitrogen oxides. By regenerating the two soot filters at different times, the exhaust-gas temperature in the common exhaust line is limited to a mean temperature between the exhaust-gas temperature of normal operation and that of regeneration operation, and the catalytic converter for the removal of the nitrogen oxides is preserved.