Patents Issued in March 6, 2014
  • Publication number: 20140060630
    Abstract: In order to increase the generation efficiency of a silicon dioxide solar cell, two conductive substrates are arranged so that the conductive surfaces thereof face each other, at least one of the substrates is disposed upon the substrate facing the light entry-side substrate, and an electrolyte is filled between the silicon dioxide particles compact and the light entry-side substrate. Silicon dioxide solar cells having this configuration exhibit a significantly increased short circuit current and open circuit voltage in comparison to solar cells in which the silicon dioxide and the electrolyte are mixed. This configuration can further be improved by disposing a titanium dioxide solar cell or a dye-sensitized titanium dioxide solar cell upon the light entry-side substrate to further increase the short circuit current and the open circuit voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL FRONTIER TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY, INC.
    Inventors: Nobuaki Komatsu, Tomoko Ito, Hiroki Nagai, Shin-ichiro Nanjo
  • Publication number: 20140060631
    Abstract: A compound semiconductor solar battery including a first compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40a), a second compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40b) provided on the first compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40a), and a compound semiconductor buffer layer (41) provided between the first compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40a) and the second compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40b), the first compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40a) and the compound semiconductor buffer layer (41) being provided adjacent to each other, and a ratio of a difference in lattice constant between the first compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40a) and a compound semiconductor layer (30) provided in a position closest to the first compound semiconductor photoelectric conversion cell (40a) among compound semiconductor layers constituting the compound semiconductor buffer layer (41) being not less than 0.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takaaki AGUI, Tatsuya TAKAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20140060632
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process for using a thick-film conductive paste composition to form an electrode on a silicon semiconductor device, e.g, a photovoltaic cell, containing a lightly doped emitter. The thick-film paste comprises a source of an electrically conductive metal and a Pb—Te-based oxide dispersed in an organic medium. Also provided are devices made by the process and a photovoltaic cell comprising a lightly doped emitter and an electrode formed from the thick-film conductive paste composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventors: BRIAN J. LAUGHLIN, KURT RICHARD MIKESKA, CARMINE TORARDI, PAUL D. VERNOOY
  • Publication number: 20140060633
    Abstract: Methods for forming a back contact on a thin film photovoltaic device are provided. The method can include: applying a conductive paste onto a surface defined by a p-type absorber layer (of cadmium telluride) of a p-n junction; and, curing the conductive paste to form a conductive coating on the surface such that during curing an acid from the conductive paste reacts to enrich the surface with tellurium but is substantially consumed during curing. The conductive paste can comprises a conductive material, an optional solvent system, and a binder. Thin film photovoltaic devices are also provided, such as those that have a conductive coating that is substantially free from an acid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: PRIMESTAR SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Tammy Jane Lucas, Caroline Rae Corwine, Laura Anne Clark, Wyatt Keith Metzger, Mehran Sadeghi, Michael Christopher Cole, Timothy John Trentler
  • Publication number: 20140060634
    Abstract: Photovoltaic devices are provided that include a transparent superstrate; a transparent conductive oxide on the transparent superstrate; an n-type window layer on the transparent superstrate; a p-type absorber layer on the n-type window layer; and an inert conductive paste layer on the back surface of the p-type absorber layer. The p-type absorber layer includes cadmium telluride, and defines a back surface positioned opposite from the n-type window layer that is tellurium enriched. The inert conductive paste layer is substantially free from an acid or acid generator. Methods are also generally provided of forming such a back contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: PRIMESTAR SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Laura Anne Clark, Tammy Jane Lucas, Wyatt Keith Metzger
  • Publication number: 20140060635
    Abstract: Photovoltaic devices are presented. A photovoltaic device includes a window layer and a semiconductor layer including a semiconductor material disposed on window layer. The semiconductor layer includes a first region and a second region, the first region disposed proximate to the window layer, and the second region including a chalcogen-rich region, wherein the first region and the second region include a dopant, and an average atomic concentration of the dopant in the second region is greater than an average atomic concentration of the dopant in the first region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Donald Franklin Foust, Hongbo Cao, Laura Anne Clark, Robert Andrew Garber, Scott Daniel Feldman-Peabody, Wyatt Keith Metzger, Yinghui Shan, Roman Shuba
  • Publication number: 20140060636
    Abstract: The present invention provides for an organic compound comprising electron deficient unit covalently linked to two or more electron rich units. The present invention also provides for a device comprising the organic compound, such as a light-emitting diode, thin-film transistor, chemical biosensor, non-emissive electrochromic, memory device, photovoltaic cells, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventor: The Regents of the University of California
  • Publication number: 20140060637
    Abstract: A dye-sensitized solar cell includes a negative electrode, a positive electrode, a photoelectrode mounted between the negative electrode and the positive electrode, and an electrolyte located between the photoelectrode and the positive electrode. The photoelectrode is adapted to absorb a dye. The photoelectrode includes a dense layer, a scattering layer and a carrier transport layer. The dense layer, the scattering layer and the carrier transport layer are stacked one upon another. The dense layer is formed by titanium dioxide nanoparticles having a diameter of 15-20 nm. The scattering layer is formed by titanium dioxide nanospheres having a diameter of 200-500 nm. The carrier transport layer is formed by titanium dioxide nanotubes having a length of 300-800 nm. Furthermore, a photoelectrode for the dye-sensitized solar cell, as well as a method for producing the photoelectrode, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: I-SHOU UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Tien-Tsan HUNG, Jun-Yu BAI
  • Publication number: 20140060638
    Abstract: A solar cell according to an embodiment of the invention includes: a substrate; a dopant layer formed at the substrate; an electrode electrically connected to the dopant layer, wherein the electrode includes a plurality of finger electrodes that are parallel to each other; and a ribbon-connected portion formed on the dopant layer, wherein the ribbon-connected portion includes a non-conductive material. A portion of the plurality of finger electrodes is formed on the ribbon-connected portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Donghae OH, Sungho CHANG
  • Publication number: 20140060639
    Abstract: The present application relates to a copper oxide nanocrystal with a cupric oxide (CuO) shell surrounding a cuprous oxide (Cu2O) core. The copper oxide core/shell nanocrystals may be used as photo-absorbers in photovoltaic cells. The copper oxide core/shell nanocrystals form a p-type semiconductor layer that coats and fills the interstitial gaps of the n-type semiconductor mesoporous structure in a photovoltaic cell. The n-type semiconductor layer may include, for example, titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: ONESUN, LLC
    Inventors: Eitan Chaim ZEIRA, Wolfgang Adam MACK, JR., Molly DOYLE
  • Publication number: 20140060640
    Abstract: An electrode for a photovoltaic device includes a Mo layer and a sulfurization-resistant layer formed on the Mo layer. The sulfurization-resistant layer contains at least one element X selected from a group consisting of Nb, Ti, Ta, Au, V, Mn, and W. A molar ratio of the element X to Mo contained in the sulfurization-resistant layer preferably satisfies X/(Mo+X)>about 0.5. A thickness (initial thickness) of the sulfurization-resistant layer before being exposed to sulfurizing atmosphere is preferably about 3 to about 200 nm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO
    Inventors: Hirofumi HAZAMA, Ryoji ASAHI, Yumi SAIKI
  • Publication number: 20140060641
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved redox couple for electrochemical and optoelectronic devices. The redox couple is based on a complex of a first row transition metal, said complex containing at least one mono-, bi-, or tridentate ligand comprising a substituted or unsubstituted ring or ring system comprising a five-membered N-containing heteroring and/or a six-membered ring comprising at least two heteroatoms, at least one of which being a nitrogen atom, said five- or six-membered heteroring, respectively, comprising at least one double bond. The invention also relates to electrolytes and to the devices containing the complex, and to the use of the complex as a redox couple. The invention further provides electrochemical and/or optoelectronic devices comprising a first and a second electrode and, between said first and second electrode, a charge transport layer, said a charge transport layer comprising tetracyanoborate ([B(CN)4]?) and a cationic metal complex functioning as redox-couple.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne
    Inventors: Mohammad Khaja Nazeeruddin, Michael Graetzel, Etienne Baranoff, Florian Kessler, Jun-Ho Yum, Aswani Yella, Hoi Nok Tsao, Shaik Mohammad Zakeeruddin
  • Publication number: 20140060642
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell includes an absorbing layer configured to generate electron-hole pairs from incident photons of incoming light; and a first grating layer arranged at a first surface of the absorbing layer which is opposite to a second surface of the absorbing layer from which light is incident, wherein the first grating layer includes at least one grating extending along the first surface, wherein the at least one grating has grating structures which are dimensioned to provide a reflectivity for light incident through the absorbing layer back into the absorbing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicants: Egypt Nanotechnology Center, International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Bruno Michel, Nikolaj Moll, Rami Ghannam
  • Publication number: 20140060643
    Abstract: Provided are materials, methods and devices for absorption of visible or solar terrestrial electromagnetic radiation. The disclosed materials, methods and devices employ a multi-component oxide material comprising a solar terrestrial light absorbing metallic oxide and a catalytic oxide to achieve conversion of absorbed visible or solar terrestrial electromagnetic radiation into useful work, such as for photocatalytic or photovoltaic applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Lane W. MARTIN, Sungki LEE, Brent A. APGAR
  • Publication number: 20140060644
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for forming, on a conductive plastic substrate, a 2D crystalline layer based on zinc oxide, possibly doped, characterized in that: the 2D layer is formed by electrochemical deposition; the electrochemical deposition is performed at a temperature ranging between 55° C. and 65° C.; the electrochemical deposition is performed in the presence of oxygen, by means of a solution including a zinc source at a concentration ranging between 2.5 mM and 7 mM; and a supporting electrolyte at a concentration ranging between 0.06 M et 0.4 M.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives
    Inventors: Solenn BERSON, Stéphane GUILLEREZ, Valentina IVANOVA-HRISTOVA, Sylvia SANCHEZ
  • Publication number: 20140060645
    Abstract: The present invention relates to profiles for attaching rigid plates, especially photovoltaic modules, to a roof and to a method and system for attaching photovoltaic modules to a roof structure with the help of profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: RENOLIT BELGIUM N.V.
    Inventor: Francois RUMMENS
  • Publication number: 20140060646
    Abstract: A new solar cell is disclosed wherein the solar cell comprises a substrate, a VIB metal thin film deposited on the substrate, and a polycrystalline III-V semiconductor thin film deposited on the VIB metal thin film. A method of making the solar cell is described comprising providing a substrate, depositing a VIB metal thin film on the substrate, and depositing a polycrystalline III-V semiconductor thin film on the VIB metal thin film. In one embodiment a polycrystalline III-V semiconductor thin film comprising Indium Phosphide (InP) is deposited on a VIB metal thin film comprising Molybdenum (Mo) by Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Maxwell Zheng, Ali Javey
  • Publication number: 20140060647
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a concentrator-type photovoltaic receiver having homogenizer with fixing structure. The resent invention improves the structure of the homogenizer, which comprises a homogenizing part providing homogenizing function and a supporting part providing supporting and fixing function. The homogenizing part and the supporting part are formed integrally. The supporting part is a straight pillar. The user can bond the supporting part to the insulating substrate via glue and thus preventing the homogenizing part therein from collapse and contamination by dirt. Accordingly, good quality and lifetime can be maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Yueh-Mu Lee, Yi-Ping Liang, Hwen-Fen Hong, Hwa-Yuh Shin
  • Publication number: 20140060648
    Abstract: A multilayer stack is described. The multilayer stack includes: (i) one or more inorganic barrier layers for reducing transport of gas or vapor molecules therethrough; (ii) an inorganic reactive layer disposed adjacent to one or more of the inorganic barrier layers, and the reactive layer capable of reacting with the gas or the vapor molecules; and (iii) wherein, in an operational state of the multilayer stack, the vapor or the gas molecules that diffuse through one or more of the inorganic barrier layers react with the inorganic reactive layer, and thereby allow said multilayer stack to be substantially impervious to the gas or the vapor molecules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: VITRIFLEX ,INC.
    Inventors: Ravi Prasad, Dennis R. Hollars
  • Publication number: 20140060649
    Abstract: A device (1) for generating electric power from solar radiation comprises a solar panel (2) and a panel holder (3). The panel holder comprsies two panel holder parts (4A, 4B) on opposite sides. Elongate profiles (5) are coupled to the panel holder parts. This device has different bending resistances in the directions parallel and perpendicular to the profiles. Since bending of the solar panel can thus be permitted in a controlled manner, it is possible to use a thin glass plate for the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: TULIPPS SOLAR INTERNATIONAL B.V.
    Inventor: Petrus Paulus Carolus Maria Stassen
  • Publication number: 20140060650
    Abstract: A bulk heterojuction for a photovoltaic cell includes a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) functionalized electron acceptor or electron donor or both. The electron donor may be selected from conjugated polymers and the electron donor may be selected from fullerenes and fullerene derivatives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON
    Inventors: Stephen Z.D. Cheng, Wenbin Zhang, Xiong Gong
  • Publication number: 20140060651
    Abstract: An improved system, apparatus and method for injecting a chemical from a storage tank into a natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas pipeline at a flow-controlled injection rate is provided. The system, apparatus and method including a pair of positive-displacement pumps driven in substantially complementary fashion by a single driver, a controller controlling the driver, and each pump being fed from the storage tank and discharging chemical into the pipeline. The system, apparatus and method may also include a second pair of positive-displacement pumps having substantially similar displacement and operatively connected to the first pair of positive-displacement pumps, the first pair of positive-displacement pumps being driven in a substantially complementary fashion with the second pair of pumps by a single driver or a pair of drivers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Sentry Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Jay L. Kristola, Michael D. Farrell, David J. Nowak
  • Publication number: 20140060652
    Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture for maintaining the integrity or pressurization of a dry pipe sprinkler system by preventing damage to auxiliary drains from freezing temperatures are taught. An insulated, heated housing, which may be thermostatically controlled provides a controlled environment about an auxiliary drain, insulated and with a heater. An alarm may be used as well to provide warning if said auxiliary drain retains a predetermined amount of condensate and embodiments may be retrofit about an existing auxiliary drain or be provided with an auxiliary drain for installation upon a dry pipe sprinkler system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: George Joseph McHugh, IV
  • Publication number: 20140060653
    Abstract: A compressed-air supply device for a utility vehicle includes a valve device, which, when in a first, energized switching state, deaerates the control inlet of a compressor coupled to the energy-saving control outlet and blocks a supply path to the second valve device, and when in a second, de-energized switching state, aerates the control inlet of the compressor coupled to the energy-saving control outlet and opens up the supply path to the second valve. The compressor can be switched into an energy-saving state by aeration of the control inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Oliver KAUPERT
  • Publication number: 20140060654
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for actuating a hydraulic valve arrangement, having a hydraulic continuously adjustable valve and having a hydraulic switching valve for providing a variable opening cross section, wherein an opening cross section threshold value is predefined, wherein, above the opening cross section threshold value, the switching valve is placed into a defined switching position and only the continuously adjustable valve is actuated, and wherein, below the opening cross section threshold value, the continuously adjustable valve is placed into a defined switching position and only the switching valve is actuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Albert Koeckemann, Hermann Mehling
  • Publication number: 20140060655
    Abstract: A clamp for selectively compressing a portion of tubing, such as an extension leg of a PICC or other catheter, is disclosed. The clamp is able to be opened or closed with a thumb and finger of a single hand of a user and is slidably attached to the tubing so as to enable its placement as desired along the tube. In one embodiment, the tubing clamp comprises a body including first and second body portions hingedly connected to one another in a clamshell configuration, a latch for releasably latching the first and second body portions together, and at least two tube compression members. The tube compression members cooperate to compress and occlude a portion of tubing passing through the tubing clamp when the first and second body portions are latched to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Miguel D. Ramos, Daniel B. Blanchard
  • Publication number: 20140060656
    Abstract: Detailed are actuators especially useful in connection with valves forming parts of water-recirculation systems of pools or spas. Transit times of components of the actuators may be measured or otherwise determined and signals sent to the actuators to cease movement of the components between boundary positions. Consequently, dynamic adjustment of the valving capabilities of the systems may be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Dindo Uy, Eusebio Domingo Bareng
  • Publication number: 20140060657
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a valve system that includes a valve having a spool moveable from an un-actuated position to an actuated position in response to actuation of the valve. The valve system also includes a wire to secure the valve in the un-actuated position, a first resistor electrically coupled with the wire and configured to release the wire to actuate the valve and move a first component coupled to the wire toward a second component, and a second resistor electrically coupled with the wire to detect connection of the first component with the second component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: William Ewan Brennan, III
  • Publication number: 20140060658
    Abstract: A fuel forwarding skid for delivering fuel from a storage area to a plurality of turbines includes at least two pumps for delivering fuel to a skid outlet line. A flow control device is connected to the pumps to control an output of the pumps. A recirculation line is in communication with the skid outlet line and is adapted to return a portion of the fuel in the skid outlet line to the storage area. A flow meter is in communication with the recirculation line to measure a rate of flow in the recirculation line, and the flow control device controls the output of at least one of the pumps in accordance with the rate of flow in the recirculation line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: John Victor HAINS, Gary Cletus MOBLEY, Abhijit GUPTA
  • Publication number: 20140060659
    Abstract: A method of measuring contamination in fluid that is expelled from a food processing system is presented. The method of measuring is carried out with fluorescence. The fluid is typically allowed to enter into an energy transfer system, but if the contamination exceeds a certain level, the fluid should be prevented from entering the energy transfer system. The fluid is generally comprised of water expelled from a sugar processing operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Ling Liang, Patrcik Pu Chen, Rodney H. Banks, Michael W. Willer, Narasimha M. Rao, Christopher Brant Wilson
  • Publication number: 20140060660
    Abstract: A water circulating system is for distributing instant hot water at a fixture that has respective hot and cold water inlets. The system includes hot and cold water piping, a pump constructed and arranged to pump water through said hot water piping. A by-pass device is provided at the sink area and connected directly between the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. The by-pass device includes a pump for drawing hot water, a thermal switch, and a check valve. The pump, thermal switch, and check valve are constructed and arranged in series. A controller is connected to the pump so as to control the duty cycle of the pump so as to establish at least one of a selectable pump cycle time, and a selectable pump running time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: AQUAMOTION, INC.
    Inventors: Benno Lebkuchner, Hans L. Kuster
  • Publication number: 20140060661
    Abstract: An internal pressure sensor detects an internal pressure of the fuel tank, which stores fuel. A solenoid valve is configured to close to seal the fuel tank and is configured to open to open the fuel tank. An internal pressure acquisition unit is configured to acquire an internal pressure of the fuel tank from the internal pressure sensor. A drive control unit is configured to control the solenoid valve to open when the internal pressure of the fuel tank is greater than or equal to a first predetermined value, which is a negative value, and is less than a second predetermined value, which is 0 or a positive value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Yuichiro Miura, Shinji Sugihara
  • Publication number: 20140060662
    Abstract: A method of maintaining an inkjet printhead in an inkjet printer includes moving a sealing face of a cap into contact with a printhead face in which are disposed nozzles of the inkjet printhead; compressing the cap while a valve connected to the cap is in an open position; closing the valve; and moving a base of the cap away from away from the sealing face while the sealing face is sealed against the printhead face and the valve is closed in order to generate suction at the printhead face for priming the nozzles
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: RANDOLPH E. DUMAS, Gary Alan Kneezel
  • Publication number: 20140060663
    Abstract: A switchbox for monitoring the position of a manual quarter-turn valve has a housing mountable to the valve to be monitored/controlled. A handle-driven shaft extends through the housing, with one end of the shaft couplable to the valve stem such that movement of the shaft moves the valve stem. One or more shaft position sensor switches interact with a cam on the shaft to signal shaft position and/or provide control signals. A plate coupled to the shaft articulates within a recess on the surface of the switchbox to limit motion of the valve to an operable range, such as between full ON and full OFF. The switchbox has a pair of lock tabs with lock apertures. A lock aperture in the plate is alignable with the lock tab apertures to receive a pin or padlock for locking the valve in a selected position. A potentiometer can be utilized in place of a switch as a shaft position sensor. The switchbox may be used with an original or new handle and may feature detents to allow a range of valve settings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Lee Hoots, Jon Terence Stone
  • Publication number: 20140060664
    Abstract: An apparatus for dosing a fluid flow system with a treatment fluid/chemicals is described. The apparatus includes: a vessel; an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe for coupling to the system so that fluid from the system may flow into the vessel and return into the system to flush chemicals from within the vessel into the system. The vessel has a piston within it and the vessel wall defines a cylinder in which the piston moves under pressure of incoming fluid from a first position at which the vessel contains fluid to be dispensed into the system to a second position corresponding to substantially complete emptying of the vessel. The piston has a bypass passage through or around it that opens when the piston substantially reaches the second position so that fluid from the system may flow passed the piston when the piston is at the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Kevin Abbott
  • Publication number: 20140060665
    Abstract: A fuel tank vent apparatus for controlling discharge of fuel vapor from an interior region in a fuel tank includes a housing and a valve received in the housing that moves between an open position and a closed position. The valve assumes the open position when the fuel level in the fuel tank is relatively low and the valve assumes the closed position when the fuel level in the fuel tank is relatively high.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Jimmy D Gamble
  • Publication number: 20140060666
    Abstract: In one example, a system for a flow cell for a flow battery, comprising: a first flow field; and a polymeric frame, comprising: a top face; a bottom face, opposite the top face; a first side; a second side, opposite the first side; a first electrolyte inlet located on the top face and the first side of the polymeric frame; a first electrolyte outlet located on the top face and the second side of the polymeric frame; a first electrolyte inlet flow path located within the polymeric frame and coupled to the first electrolyte inlet; and a first electrolyte outlet flow path located within the polymeric frame and coupled to the first electrolyte outlet. In this way, shunt currents may be minimized by increasing the length and/or reducing the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte inlet and electrolyte outlet flow paths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Energy Storage Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig Evans, Yang Song
  • Publication number: 20140060667
    Abstract: A compressed air supply device for a commercial vehicle is electrically connected to an electronic control device. The compressed air supply device includes a control valve which is actuated via the control device. The control valve has an inlet, vent and outlet connections. A control line, which is connected to the outlet of the control valve, is connected to a control inlet of a compressor and/or, for regeneration, to an air filter. A supply line can supply compressed air to the control valve inlet. A venting line connects to the control valve vent. A backup valve is provided, wherein an inlet of the backup valve is connected to the supply line and an outlet can be connected to the venting line. The backup valve opens pneumatically when a pressure which corresponds to or exceeds a predetermined opening pressure is present in the supply line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas LEINUNG
  • Publication number: 20140060668
    Abstract: An aeration and drainage system includes an aeration & drain pipe which contains slots on its upper surface, a stand which holds said aeration & drain pipe above a bottom surface, an air and liquid transfer element attached to the aeration & drain pipe and positioned over said slots. Additionally the air and liquid transfer element extends upward from the slots, and the air and liquid transfer element contains openings on its top to allow fluids to flow into the air and liquid transfer element and through the slots in the aeration & drain pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: BUILDWORKS SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Dirk Kerkhoff, Johan Kerkhoff
  • Publication number: 20140060669
    Abstract: A buckle-connecting multifunctional decorative board, which can be applied on indoor ground, outdoor roof, or walls, comprises buckles provided at two sides thereof, and a tube-like chamber. The buckles simplify assembling of the decorative boards. The tube-like chamber receives a pipe or a cable. Therefore, a plurality of assembling operations can be finished at once to save construction time. The buckle-connecting multifunctional decorative board has functions of adjusting indoor temperature, receiving the pipe, melting snow on the roof, and heating water. The buckle-connecting multifunctional decorative board can be applied widely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Zhaojun Guo
  • Publication number: 20140060670
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a ventilating and evacuating valve for fluid-guiding conduit pipes and/or braces, comprising a valve mechanism (2) and a floating body (1) which acts on the valve mechanism (2), wherein the valve mechanism (2) comprises: a valve body (4) which can be moved into different opening and/or closing positions in order to open and close a valve outlet (3); a diaphragm cup (5); and a roll diaphragm (6) which is arranged between the valve body (4) and the diaphragm cup (5) and can come to rest in different opening and/or closing positions over aperture openings (7) of the valve body (4), wherein the valve also comprises a channelling means (8) which is configured to guide an evacuating flow past the valve mechanism (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Helmut Grassl, Tobias Sperl
  • Publication number: 20140060671
    Abstract: Flow control and indicator assemblies are detailed. The assemblies are especially (although not necessarily exclusively) useful in allowing fluid to bypass automatic pool cleaners (APCs) and may serve as adaptors between APCs and adjacent hoses. The assemblies additionally may provide information about flow rates relative to a desired threshold, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Dustin Borg, Mark Bauckman, Mary Ma, Kevin Braidic
  • Publication number: 20140060672
    Abstract: A pressure-limiting valve is proposed, in particular for a common rail system. The pressure-limiting valve comprises a valve support (10), a valve insert (12) which is connected to the valve support (10), a valve piston (14) which is mounted such that it can slide in the valve insert (12), and a closing spring (16) which acts on the valve piston (14) with a closing force in the closing direction. By means of the closing force, the valve piston (14) acts on a valve seat (18) which produces a hydraulic connection via a valve chamber (40) between a high-pressure space (33) and a low-pressure space (36), as soon as the hydraulic force which acts on the valve piston (14) in the opening direction exceeds the closing force of the closing spring (16). When the valve seat (18) is closed, a leakage gap (50) is formed between the valve chamber (40) and the low-pressure space (36), which leakage gap (50) makes it possible for the leakage to be discharged out of the valve chamber (40) into the low-pressure space (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GmbH
    Inventor: Marek Gomola
  • Publication number: 20140060673
    Abstract: An insert is provided for insertion through an opening in the surface of a conduit, the insert comprising an insert body having first and second open ends defining an axis of flow therebetween. The insert further comprises a valve flap connected to the insert body. The valve flap is movable between a closed position in which it creates a closure, thereby preventing flow along said axis, and an open position in which the valve flap allows flow along the axis. The valve flap is arranged so that, when in the open position, it is substantially U-shaped in side cross-section and is oriented with respect to the insert body so that said U-shape arches over the axis of flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Connaught Lithoservices Ltd
    Inventor: Ian Lyons
  • Publication number: 20140060674
    Abstract: A cleaning solution recycling apparatus includes a separation device that is adapted to be fluidly connected to a tank of cleaning solution and an inlet conduit fluidly connected to the tank of cleaning solution. The inlet conduit has a first end that is fluidly connected to the tank of cleaning solution and a second end fluidly connected to the separation device. The first end is positioned at a height lower than the height of the second end such that when the level of cleaning solution in the tank is above a predetermined level, cleaning solution flows into the separation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Rudy Publ
  • Publication number: 20140060675
    Abstract: A coupler for a fluid system includes: a coupling device made of an inflexible polymeric material, the coupling device including a body defining a fluid passage therethrough that is connected to an aperture sized to receive a mating coupling device, the coupling device including a latch configured to move between an uncoupled state and a coupled state to couple the mating coupling device thereto; and a base made of a flexible polymeric material, the base including a flange member sized to be coupled to a bladder of the fluid hydration system, and the base including a receiving member sized to receive at least a portion of the coupling device. The base is overmolded over the coupling device to form the coupler, the coupler being fluid-tight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: COLDER PRODUCTS COMPANY
    Inventor: Colder Products Company
  • Publication number: 20140060676
    Abstract: A hydraulic pressure supply system may include a low-pressure hydraulic pump receiving the oil stored in the oil pan and generating the low hydraulic pressure, a low-pressure regulator valve controlling the low hydraulic pressure of the first low-pressure line, a reducing valve fluid-connected to the low-pressure regulator valve and supplying a hydraulic pressure to the low pressure portion, a high-pressure hydraulic pump increasing the low hydraulic pressure supplied from the low-pressure hydraulic pump, a switch valve disposed between the first low-pressure line and the high-pressure line, and selectively connecting the first low-pressure line and the high-pressure line, a high-pressure regulator valve controlling the increased hydraulic pressure supplied from the high-pressure hydraulic pump and the low hydraulic pressure selectively supplied from the low-pressure hydraulic pump through the switch valve, and supplying the stable high hydraulic pressure to the high pressure portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Taehwan WI, Jin Young Hwang, Se Hwan Jo
  • Publication number: 20140060677
    Abstract: A hydraulic pressure supply system of an automatic transmission for a vehicle may generate low hydraulic pressure and high hydraulic pressure using oil stored in an oil pan and may supply the low hydraulic pressure and the high hydraulic pressure respectively to a low pressure portion and a high pressure portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Taehwan WI, Jin Young HWANG, Se Hwan JO
  • Publication number: 20140060678
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method for displacing fluid from a pipe. The method includes engaging a fluid-displacement system with the pipe. A displacement agent is pumped into the pipe via the fluid-displacement system. Fluid present within the pipe is displaced by the displacement agent. The pipe is manipulated in a desired manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Foster Wheeler USA Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Austin, Raymond Christopher Young
  • Publication number: 20140060679
    Abstract: A hydraulic pressure supply may include a low pressure portion, a high pressure portion, a low-pressure hydraulic pump receiving the oil stored in the oil pan and discharging the low hydraulic pressure to a first low-pressure line fluid-connected to the low-pressure hydraulic pump, a switch valve fluid-connected to the first low-pressure line, and selectively supplying the low hydraulic pressure to the low pressure portion or the high pressure portion, a low-pressure regulator valve connected to the switch valve, a high-pressure hydraulic pump fluid-connected to the low-pressure hydraulic pump through the first low-pressure line, a high-pressure regulator valve fluid-connected to the high pressure line and controlling the high hydraulic pressure supplied from the high-pressure hydraulic pump and the low hydraulic pressure supplied from the low-pressure hydraulic pump to be stable high hydraulic pressure, a second input line connecting the oil pan to the first low-pressure line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Taehwan Wi, Jin Young Hwang, Se Hwan Jo