Abstract: A solar collector has first and second manifolds and tubes that provide fluid communication between the manifolds. An enclosure of the collector extends between first and second ends thereof that are respectively proximal to the first and second manifolds, and the tubes extend out of the enclosure at the first and second ends passed a seal at each end to connect to the first and second manifolds.

Abstract: [Problems to be Solved] Provided is a presaccharification treatment device, which can yield from lignocellulosic biomass as a substrate a presaccharification treatment product without heating and thereby at a reduced cost. [Solution] A presaccharification treatment device (1) comprises a treatment unit (2), which mixes lignocellulosic biomass and ammonia water and treats a yielded substrate mixture in a wet powder state for yielding a presaccharification treatment product, and an ammonia separation unit (3), which separates ammonia from the presaccharification treatment product. The treatment unit (2) comprises a treatment vessel (21) and a storage unit (25), in which a presaccharification treatment product is yielded during retention therein for a predetermined time period from the substrate mixture without heating. The ammonia separation unit (3) is installed direct below the storage unit (25).

Abstract: The invention provides a low-viscosity reduced-sugar syrup, methods of making such a low-viscosity reduced-sugar syrup, and uses of such syrup.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing microcellulose comprising subjecting fibrous cellulosic material to acid hydrolysis at a temperature from 10° C. to less than 140° C. and at a consistency of at least 8% on dry weight of the cellulose, wherein the amount of added acid is from 0.2 to 2%, preferably from 0.3 to 1.9%, more preferably from 0.5 to 1.5% on dry weight of the cellulose.

Abstract: A process for filling a canister for an inhaler is provided. The canister may be filled with components of a medicament. The canister may be suitable for use in a pressurised metered dose inhaler, such as a breath-actuate inhaler. The process may include sealing the canister with air at ambient conditions. A filling device may dispense a pressurised liquid or gas into the sealed, air-filled canister through a metering valve. The pressurised liquid or gas may comprise at least a propellant. While pressure-filled canisters were previously purged with propellant immediately before sealing to remove the air, the present process may exclude the purging step.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide a self contained breathing apparatus mask including a visor, a wireless communication device configured to receive information, and a display connected to the wireless communication device and configured to display the received information to a user wearing the mask. The display may be positioned on the breathing apparatus mask such that the user may simultaneously see the display and look through the visor.

Abstract: The disposable protective device for suction tube includes an encapsulating bag unit and a connective tubular unit. The encapsulating bag unit has a protruding circular portion. The encapsulating bag unit has an interior space which may house a suction tube. The encapsulating bag unit has a first opening and a second opening at its two ends, with the diameter of the second opening larger than or equal to that of the first opening. The connective tubular unit has a first connector, a second connector and a third connector. The first connector may connect with the second opening. A cover may cover the first connector. The second connector may connect with a ventilator. The third connector is provided at the bottom part of the connective tubular unit and may connect with a tracheostomy tube or a tube inside the trachea.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating an aerosol delivery device (10), comprising the steps of generating a predetermined amount of an aerosol in the device (10) and inducing a transport flow in the device (10) for transporting at least a portion of the predetermined amount of the aerosol outside the device (10). During the aerosol generating step, the transport flow is first induced, then stopped after a predetermined first period of time and then induced again after a predetermined second period of time.

Abstract: A respiration moistener (1) has an inlet (3), into which incoming gas (2) to be moistened can be fed. Vapor (21) is mixed with the incoming gas (2) in a mixing chamber (4). Moistened outgoing gas (5) flows out of an outlet (6). In cases in which the temperature of the incoming gas (2) becomes so high that the temperature of the outgoing gas (5) is above a desired value, the internal desired value is adjusted. The outgoing gas (5) can then cool to the desired value on its way through the inspiration tube (7).

Abstract: An inhaler for powdery, in particular medical, substances is formed with a suction air channel, which leads to a mouthpiece. The inhaler also has a storage chamber for storing the substance and a linearly moving dosing chamber for apportioning a specified amount of substance from the storage chamber to a transfer point to the suction air flow. The aim of the invention is to obtain a structurally simple solution that makes it possible to eliminate adding an external air flow. To this end, a component of the suction air flow, which is located in the direction of extension of the dosing chamber, empties said dosing chamber.

Abstract: A sealed self-piercing capsule for storing and delivering a substance, such as a medicine, comprises one or more barrier layers forming a sealed chamber for containing the substance. An internal puncturing mechanism is disposed within the capsule chamber for puncturing a barrier layer to release the substance from the chamber. The internal puncturing mechanism may comprise a sharpened edge located on a movable tube, which moves relative to a barrier layer forming the sealed chamber to puncture the barrier layer.

Abstract: Condensation or “rain-out” is a problem in breathing circuits and especially neonatal breathing circuits. The subject patent provides an improved breathing tube component for managing rain-out particularly in neonatal applications. In particular the breathing tube has a smooth inner bore, and an outer insulating layer containing stagnant gas and a heater wire.

Abstract: A user interface for a breathing apparatuse has a contact-sensitive screen operable to cause a change in the operation of the breathing apparatus based on touch input from an operator. The contact-sensitive screen has a first touch area through which a breathing apparatus setting can be changed by the touch of the operator, and at least a second touch area at a distance from the first touch area. To avoid unintentional changes of the breathing apparatus setting, the user interface is configured such that the breathing apparatus setting can be changed only by touching the first and second touch areas simultaneously.

Abstract: A cushion for a patient interface includes two or more bladders arranged in concentric relation. Each of the bladders includes a face-contacting portion adapted to engage the patient's face, and each of the bladders is adapted to be pressurized independently from one another. At least one of the bladders is an active bladder that is pressurized to at least a sealing pressure to form a continuous seal with the patient's face in use.

Abstract: The function of a respiration system, with a patient port (1) with connected inspiration branch (3) and expiration branch, is checked. A rebreathing line (9) connects the inspiration branch to the expiration branch. A reservoir (25) is connected to a reservoir port (27) in the rebreathing line. An actuatable control valve (29) is provided in the rebreathing line between the expiration branch and the reservoir port. A pressure sensor (33) is connected to the rebreathing line. A control unit (39) is connected to the control valve and to pressure sensor. The process includes closing the control valve for a preset inspiration time and opening it for a preset expiration time. The value sent by the pressure sensor is detected with the control valve opened during the expiration time and compared with a preset first threshold valve. An error message is generated when the value sent exceeds the first threshold value.

Abstract: A one-way valve for use in the inhalation and/or exhalation flowpath of respiratory protection equipment comprises a housing 1 defining a conduit and a circumferential array of three flexible flaps 2 each extending inwards from the conduit wall and in the direction away from the inlet end I of the valve. Under a pressure differential in the opening direction of the valve each flap is adapted to flex outwards towards the conduit wall and under a reverse pressure differential the free edge 5,5 of each flap is adapted to press in sealing contact with respective portions of the free edges of the neighbouring flaps.

Abstract: A strapless nasal interface device is disclosed. The device is used in conjunction with CPAP, BIPAP, ventilators, or any other suitable device. The device includes a body with a passageway to a ventilating tube, exhalation holes, and a passageway to nostril interface tubes. The nostril interface tubes include a nasal interface element which is an expandable, compressible material such that the user can compress the element, insert it into the end of the nostril and allow it to expand to hold the tube in place. Alternatively, the nasal interface elements are held against the outer edge of the nostrils. Optionally, a skirt is included at the outer side of the nostril to aid in sealing against air leaks. Optionally, flaps are included to assist in holding the device in place, such as side flaps, a front flap, or both. The front flap may be adherable to the exterior of the nose and optionally includes resilient strips to open the nasal passageway.

Abstract: The present invention provides in some embodiments, an endotracheal tube with subglottic secretion suction and a detachable suction line. The endotracheal tube is an elongate tube having an outer wall defining an elongate central lumen and an elongate suction lumen. The outer wall also defines an opening to the suction lumen near a distal end of the endotracheal tube An inflatable cuff is attached near a distal end of the elongate tube. The shoulder of the inflatable cuff is inverted in order to increase the diameter of the cuff from its distal end to its proximal end. A diffuser cap is positioned over the opening to the suction lumen and defines a fluid flow path for secretions into the suction lumen through the opening to the suction lumen.

Abstract: The present invention is a dental oral appliance to open the airway for a sleeping individual who suffers with snoring or obstructive sleep apnea. The appliance includes a base to secure the appliance within the mouth for the individual. Typically, the base will fit over and secure to the lower teeth of the individual. The appliance also includes a tongue restraining device connected to the base. The tongue restraining device has a substantial breach formed therein to permit movement of the tongue so that the user can more easily swallow saliva. A ramp might also be attached to the anterior portion of the base to advance the mandible.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for treating sleep apnea, snoring, and the like using an implant within an oropharyngeal region adjacent an anterior longitudinal ligament. The implant may include a central region between first and second outer regions. In one embodiment, one of the outer regions is compressible to allow the outer region to be directed through or behind the ligament such that the central region is disposed within or behind the ligament, the outer region being resiliently expandable after passing through or behind the ligament. In another embodiment, the implant may include one or more tines or other features that may be directed into adjacent tissue, e.g., the anterior longitudinal ligament and/or vertebra to secure the implant within the oropharyngeal region.

Abstract: An oral sleep apnea device is a dental appliance designed to advance the lower jaw of a user suffering from sleep apnea while reducing lingual discomfort and the risk of harmful tooth movement and rotation during use. The present invention accomplishes this through the use of a maxillary and a mandibular dental plate coupled to the upper and lower jaw, respectively, without direct contact with the incisal or labial surfaces of the anterior teeth. Both appliances comprise a lingual surface mount. The maxillary dental plate comprises an advancement mechanism. The advancement mechanism being operatively engaged to the mandibular dental plate repositions the mandibular plate to a forward location relative to the maxillary dental plate. During the repositioning of the mandibular dental plate the mandibular lingual surface mount distributes pressure evenly to the lingual surfaces on the lower jaw, reducing localized pressure points which can cause tooth movement.

Abstract: A surgical drape comprising a base sheet defining a base sheet aperture, an absorbent pad attached to the base sheet and defining a pad aperture positioned in substantial alignment with the base sheet aperture, and a linear tear polymer pane attached to the base sheet and absorbent pad and defining a fenestration in substantial alignment with the base sheet and pad apertures. The base sheet, absorbent pad and linear tear polymer pane are operatively arranged to tear in communication with one another when the drape is torn away from a patient. The linear tear polymer pane further and has an adhesive strip to adhere the drape to the patient's body when the drape is in position during surgery.

Abstract: Fluid collection pouches and surgical drapes for use in surgical procedures are described. The described fluid collection pouches can be configured in some cases to define a region of greater depth of the pouch beneath a patient's limb extending through the pouch on the lateral side of the limb than on the medial side. In some cases, the fluid collection pouches can be configured to define an upper surface with a region that extends at a greater height above a patient's limb extending through the pouch on the lateral side of the limb than on the medial side.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for conforming a support to a body are described in which a portable support assembly may be worn by a bed-stricken individual around particular regions of the body where pressure ulcers tend to form. The portable support assembly may generally include adjustable supports which conform the assembly to the patient's body and which also help to distribute one or more fluid pad assemblies relative to the body.

Abstract: A method for forming a filter rod may include providing a bale of crimped tow band having about 10 denier per filament or greater and about 20,000 total denier or less, the crimped tow band comprising a plurality of cellulose acetate filaments; and placing the crimped tow band in an apparatus so as to form a filter rod.

Abstract: A tobacco product is formed by perforated cigar or shell, the shell comprising a sheet of material with an intermediate sheet, the sheet comprising tobacco leaves and/or homogenized tobacco paper. The cigar or shell is packaged for shipment to an end user or consumer. The cigar or shell remains in the rolled, shaped tube form inside the package. After the cigar or shell is removed from the package, a consumer can fill the cigar or shell with crushed tobacco leaves or other tobacco filler material of a favorite blend, thereby eliminating some steps in the making of a “roll-your-own” tobacco product. A liquid can be added to the cigar or shell to moisturize same. The liquid can include flavoring.

Abstract: A stand alone tobacco smoke filter or filter element for use with a smoking article comprising a wrapper engaged around a longitudinally extending core of tobacco smoke filtering material, wherein at least one end of the wrapper extends beyond the end of the core around which it is engaged, to define a cavity at the end of the filter which faces the smoking article in use.

Abstract: A conditioning composition for hair comprises at least one compound according to general structure R1-A-R2—B wherein R1 is a saturated or unsaturated, straight or branched alkyl group with 8 to 24 C atoms, R2 is a straight or branched alkyl group with 1 to 4 C atoms, A is a group selected from O, and B is selected from wherein R3 and R4 are independently (i) H or (ii) an alkyl with 1 to 4 C atoms, hydroxyl alkyl with 1 to 4 C atoms and di hydroxyl alkyl with 2 to 4 C atoms, R5, R6, or R7 are independently from group (ii) and R7 may additionally be —R2-A-R1 wherein X is chloride, bromide, methosulfate and a silicone compound with plurality of quaternary ammonium groups in its molecule.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of one or more compounds selected from ellagic acid, ethers thereof, ellagic acid salts and ellagic acid ether salts, as an anti-dandruff agent; and to a cosmetic treatment method associated with such a use.

Abstract: Water-containing agents for the permanent deformation of keratin-containing fibers, in particular human hair, that has a pH from about 8.0 to about 8.5 and contains no more than about 0.1 mmol ammonia per 100 g of the agent, containing (a) about 0.5 to about 20 wt % cysteine, (b) about 0.5 to about 10 wt % of a (C2 to C6) alkanolamine as an alkalizing agent, exhibit an outstanding waving effect and are gentle on the skin and less odor-intensive.

Abstract: Composition for making up and/or caring for keratin fibres, comprising fibres that are capable of changing in length and/or shape in response to an external stimulus.

Abstract: A hair care or hair styling device 1 comprises two arms 5, 5.1 arranged articulated to one another and movable relative to one another in the manner of tongs 5, 5.1, with the top sides of each of said arms, which face one another, each having a complementary styling surface 9, 9.1 for forming a hair styling space 10 between the styling surfaces 9, 9.1. By virtue of the articulated arrangement of the arms 5, 5.1 the hair styling space 10 can be opened and closed. Each of the arms 5, 5.1 is equipped with a flow passage 11, 11.1 for conducting a flow of hot air, wherein the component 8, 8.1 that forms the styling surface 9, 9.1 of each arm 5, 5.1 is arranged such that a flow of hot air conducted through the flow passage 11, 11.1 of said arm 5, 5.1 flows along the back side of the component 8, 8.1 that forms the styling surface 9, 9.1 for the purpose of heating said styling surface 9, 9.1.

Abstract: The invention is a dental floss applicator and interdental stimulator that is flexible and also includes a guard to ensure that the dental floss has not been used or otherwise tampered with. Users can adjust the angle of the dental floss applicator and stimulator into a configuration that best suits their particular needs. When flex adjusted, the applicator is able to hold its new configuration while maintaining sufficient strength to allow the user to comfortably maneuver the apparatus to properly floss the teeth or stimulate the gums. Furthermore, the invention is disposable, rendering it convenient to use after a meal when the user is away from a private bathroom setting, such as at a home or other lodging.

Abstract: In a coating and developing treatment system including a treatment station and an interface station, the interface station has: a cleaning unit cleaning a rear surface of a wafer before the wafer is transferred into an exposure apparatus; an inspection unit inspecting whether the cleaned wafer is in an exposable state; and a wafer transfer mechanism including an arm transferring the wafer between the cleaning unit and the inspection unit. Each of the cleaning unit and the inspection unit is provided at multiple tiers in an up and down direction on the front side in the interface station, and the wafer transfer mechanism is provided in a region adjacent to the cleaning units and the inspection units.

Abstract: An interface station of a coating and developing treatment system has: a cleaning unit cleaning at least a rear surface of a wafer before the wafer is transferred into an exposure apparatus; an inspection unit inspecting the rear surface of the cleaned wafer whether the wafer is exposable, before it is transferred into the exposure apparatus; wafer transfer mechanisms including arms transferring the wafer between the units and a wafer transfer control part controlling operations of the wafer transfer mechanisms. When it is determined that a state of the wafer becomes an exposable state by re-cleaning in the cleaning unit as a result of the inspection, the wafer transfer control part controls the wafer transfer mechanisms to transfer the wafer again to the cleaning unit.

Abstract: A dish washer includes a washing tub accommodating a detergent containing a first enzyme activated at an active temperature range and a second enzyme activated at another active temperature range differing from the active temperature range of the first enzyme, and wash water in which the detergent is dissolved, a heating unit heating wash water, and a controller controls driving of the heating unit such that the temperature of wash water is maintained within the active temperature range of the first enzyme for a first designated time, and controls driving of the heating unit such that the temperature of wash water is maintained within the active temperature range of the second enzyme for a second designated time, when the first designated time has elapsed.

Abstract: A dishwasher having a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber and in which is provided a rotating sprayer for emitting liquid into the treating chamber. The rotation of the spray arm may be controlled such that rotation of the spray arm is responsive to a determination that the spray arm has contacted an obstacle within the treating chamber.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning a tubular member is disclosed. A storage device holds the tubular member in a finished form and a translation device passes the tubular member from the first storage device. A gas is supplied through the tubular member. A heating device heats the drawn tubular member and the gas passing through the tubular member to clean debris from inside the tubular member.

Abstract: A method and cleaning solution for cleaning electronic substrates, such as a semiconductor wafers, hard disks, photomasks or imprint molds. The method comprises the steps of contacting a surface of the substrate with a cleaning solution comprised of a polyphosphate, and then removing the cleaning solution from the surface. Additional optional steps include applying acoustic energy to the cleaning solution while the cleaning solution is in contact with the surface, and removing the cleaning solution from the surface by rinsing the surface with a rinsing solution with or without the application of acoustic energy. The cleaning solution comprises a polyphosphate, such as any of the water soluble polyphosphates. Depending on the application, the cleaning solution may also comprise a base and/or a quantity of suspended particles. Complexing agents, amines, biocides, surfactants and/or other substances, may also be added to the cleaning solution.

Abstract: A pallet washing apparatus and its associated methodology, wherein all of the pallets in a vertical stack of pallets are cleaned simultaneously, the stack being vertically expanded to provide a separation distance between each pallet, with each pallet then being delivered onto individual conveyors passing through washing, rinsing and drying stations, such that cleaning spray may be directed against all surfaces of each pallet, all of the pallets then being restacked for removal in a single stack.

Abstract: Washing rotor (10) for a washer machine such as a dishwasher or a machine for washing objects, comprising at least an oblong body (12) having a mainly longitudinal direction of development (X) and having two opposite ends (13). The oblong body (12) has an internal cavity which develops from one to the other of said opposite ends (13), so that a washing fluid can pass, wherein at least one end (13) has a service aperture (17) for access into said internal cavity. The washing rotor (10) comprises a closing member (14) for the selective closing of said service aperture (17).

Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning system for coffee machines, comprising a cleaning device for periodically cleaning the coffee- and/or milk-carrying components using a cleaning liquid, which contains cleaning agent in the form of balls or tablets dissolved therein, wherein the cleaning device is provided with a time- and/or product-cycle-dependent controller and a metering apparatus (1) for the cleaning agent (10) that interacts with the controller. Thus, it is possible to program the cleaning process in a customized manner according to the mode of operation and to carry out the cleaning process fully automatically according to the program. The metering of the cleaning agent (10) according to the program ensures an always optimal cleaning effect together with sparing use of cleaning agents. Simple and safe handling is achieved by using ball- or tablet-shaped cleaning agents.

Abstract: A device for container cover support with spar, spar shaft, and spar shaft rotation lock.

Abstract: Layers of conductive foil and insulating material are configured to interconnect an array of rear-contact solar cells. An embodiment provides that the layer of conductive foil may be patterned to form repeating sets of electrically isolated, interdigitated fingers. Each set of interdigitated fingers may be used to connect the positive polarity contacts of a first rear-contact solar cell to the negative polarity contacts of a second, adjacent rear-contact cell. The insulating layer is attached to the patterned conductive foil and provides mechanical support and/or electrical isolation. In some embodiments, a protective backsheet may be disposed beneath the conductive foil and/or insulating layer to provide further mechanical support and environmental protection. In some embodiments, the layers of conductive foil and insulating material may be incorporated as an interconnect circuit in a rear-contact PV module.

Abstract: A solar cell module includes solar cells and an interconnection member configured to connect the solar cells. At least one of the solar cells has a light-receiving surface including a light-receiving side electrode, a back surface including a back-side electrode, and a coating film formed on substantially the entire light-receiving surface except at least apart of the light-receiving side electrode in such a manner that the at least part is exposed from the coating film. The interconnection member is electrically connected to the part of the electrode exposed from the coating film and is mechanically connected to the coating film.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a photoelectric conversion device and a photoelectric conversion module with enhanced conversion efficiency. The photoelectric conversion device comprises: a light-absorbing layer containing a compound semiconductor capable of photoelectric conversion; and a semiconductor layer provided on one side of the light-absorbing layer and containing sulfur, wherein more sulfur is present in part of the semiconductor layer on the aforementioned light-absorbing layer side than in part thereof on the opposite side from the aforementioned light-absorbing layer.

Abstract: A photovoltaic device according to one embodiment includes an array of photovoltaically active microstructures each having a generally cylindrical outer periphery, each microstructure comprising a first photovoltaic layer over a core, and a second photovoltaic layer over the first photovoltaic layer thereby forming a photovoltaically active junction, wherein an outer conductive layer is positioned over the second photovoltaic layer, wherein an index of refraction of the outer conductive layer is less than an index of refraction of the second photovoltaic layer, wherein the index of refraction of the second photovoltaic layer is less than an index of refraction of the first photovoltaic layer, each of the microstructures being characterized as absorbing at least 70% of light passing an inner surface of an outer layer thereof. Additional embodiments are also presented.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity, heat, or a combination of electricity and heat are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A condensing lens includes a lens body and a prism structure. The lens body has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The prism structure is disposed on the second surface of the lens body and has a plurality of annular prism units. The prism structure has at least two focuses in accordance with the annular prism units, and the focuses are distributed on a plane which is parallel to the first surface of the lens body.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may utilize one or more techniques, alone or in combination, to maximize a surface area of a receiver that is configured to convert light into another form of energy. One technique enhances collection efficiency by controlling a size, shape, and/or position of a cell relative to an expected illumination profile under various conditions. Another technique positions non-active elements (such as electrical contacts and/or interconnects) on surfaces likely to be shaded from incident light by other elements of the receiver. Another technique utilizes embodiments of interconnect structures occupying a small footprint. According to certain embodiments, the receiver may be cooled by exposure to a fluid such as water or air.