Patents Issued in July 24, 2014
  • Publication number: 20140202479
    Abstract: A support structure (10) for use in a smoking article is disclosed, which is arranged to cause release of an additive from an additive release component (11) in response to application of compressive force, wherein the support structure changes the compressive force required to cause release of the additive from the additive release component compared to the force required to release the additive from the same additive release component in the absence of the support structure. An additive release system, a filter, a smoking article and a method of manufacturing said smoking article are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO (INVESTMENTS) LIMITED
    Inventors: Jane Nicholls, Edward Awty, Alfred Vincent Spencer, Charanjit Nandra, Paul Frobisher, Michael Newnham, Richard Harbutt, Derek Roberts
  • Publication number: 20140202480
    Abstract: A wig base of the present invention is at least partially made of net-material, and to periphery of which a strip of net-material is attached. The strip has a quadruple constitution, wherein the net-material of the strip is folded double along a folding line, and side edges of the folded net-material is further folded inwardly. The periphery edge of the wig base is covered by the folded strap. There is kept a first space (X) between the folding line of the strip and the periphery edge of the wig base. Thanks to this constitution, the camouflage effect can be given to boundary line between a user's head and the wig periphery, and the tangle of the wig base at its periphery region can be prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Aderans Company Limited
    Inventors: Takashi SATO, Mutsumi KAWASAKI
  • Publication number: 20140202481
    Abstract: A wig base is disclosed, which comprises a first stretchable net-region with a predetermined width, two non-stretchable net-regions connected to lower right and left sides of the first stretchable net-region, and a second stretchable net-region between the two non-stretchable net-regions. An area of a wearer from “hollow of the neck” to “nucha” is covered mainly by the first stretchable net-region. The two non-stretchable net-regions would be at around the “hollow of the neck” of the wearer without deforming itself. Thanks to the second stretchable net-region existing between the between the two non-stretchable net-regions, the distortion of the wig base can be effectively relieved, and thus, higher fitness of the whole wig base can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Aderans Company Limited
    Inventors: Takashi SATO, Mutsumi KAWASAKI
  • Publication number: 20140202482
    Abstract: A disclosed decorative device includes an elongate, flexible foam body, an elongate, pliable core element, a pair of adapters, and a pair of end pieces. A method for making the decorative device is described, as is a method for retaining hair using the decorative device. The decorative device includes the elongate, flexible foam body surrounding the elongate, pliable core element along its length. The pair of adapters are each configured to fixably receive an end of the elongate, pliable core element, with the pair of end pieces, each being configured to connect to one of the pair of adapters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Federico Didieu
  • Publication number: 20140202483
    Abstract: A foot covering to be worn on a human foot includes a sock that covers the human foot. The sock is characterized by a frontal opening that causes the toes of the human foot to be exposed. The sock includes an inner material that causes skin on portions of the human foot, which are covered by the sock, to be exfoliated while the sock is being worn on the human foot. The sock includes one or more loop connectors, which couples an upper portion of the frontal opening to a lower portion of the frontal opening such that the one or more loop connectors fits between at least two toes on the human foot. An upper cuff portion of the sock includes a string and/or an elastic material that enables the sock to fit snuggly around the portions of the human foot, which are covered by the sock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Jennifer Kay Snider-Tornetta
  • Publication number: 20140202484
    Abstract: A skin cleansing composition, comprising (A) an alkyl ether carboxylic acid or a salt thereof represented by formula (1): wherein, R1 represents an alkyl group having 8 to 18 carbon atoms, n represents a number of from 0 to 20, and M represents a hydrogen atom, alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, ammonium, or organic ammonium, wherein, R1 has an average carbon number of from 10.8 to 12.8 and the average value of n is from 2.5 to 3.4, and wherein, the alkyl ether carboxylic acid or a salt thereof contains a component in which n=0 in an amount of from 9.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: KAO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Masui, Hiroki Takeuchi
  • Publication number: 20140202485
    Abstract: Described are personal care compositions, comprising water, a methylcellulose that gels at 45C or less, and at least one one hair fixative polymer, moisturizer, conditioner, humectant, cationic conditioning polymer, anti-aging active, or sun care active.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicants: UNION CARBIDE CHEMICALS & PLASTICS TECHNOLOGY LLC, ROHM AND HAAS COMPANY
    Inventors: Miao Wang, Susan L. Jordan
  • Publication number: 20140202486
    Abstract: Four separate applicators which are used to simultaneously apply a multiplicity of different color cosmetics to different body parts. One applicator is used to simultaneously apply a multiplicity of different colors to eyelashes and eyebrows. A second applicator is used to simultaneously apply a multiplicity of different colors to lips. A third applicator is used to apply a multiplicity of different colors to nails. A fourth applicator applies different colors to the hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: JASMINE KLAPIA
  • Publication number: 20140202487
    Abstract: Provided is a hairdressing appliance, which comprises a portable treatment unit provided with gripping means and a heat and steam treatment system configured for heating hair and for applying steam to this hair, a base remote from the portable treatment unit, and connection means between the base and the portable treatment unit configured for supplying the portable treatment unit at least with electricity from the base. The hairdressing appliance comprises a circuit board for controlling the treatment system arranged in the base and a system of communication between the control circuit board and the treatment system. The hairdressing appliance enables, for example, the straightening, curling, or crimping of hair and chiefly aims to reduce the weight and the bulk of the portable treatment unit so as to make it easier to handle during styling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Regis Fereyre, Serge Cubizolles, Franck Mandica
  • Publication number: 20140202488
    Abstract: The invention refers to a multi-functional device (101) for styling hair comprising a handgrip (102), a first and a second arm (104, 105), and means (124, 125) for heating the first and/or the second arm (104,105). The first arm (104) comprises a first fixed half-arm (114) integral with the handgrip (102) and extending substantially along the longitudinal axis (X) and a first mobile half-arm (116) elastically supported by the first fixed half-arm (114) and extending substantially along the longitudinal axis (X) between a first area of the arm (104) close to the handgrip (102) and a second area of the arm (104) remote from the handgrip (102).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: TENACTA GROUP S.p.A
    Inventors: Marco Rivola, Raffaella Rubini
  • Publication number: 20140202489
    Abstract: A pinless hair grip with hidden spring includes two gripping bodies and a spring body. Each griping body respectively includes a gripping member and a covering member which is connected with the gripping member. The two gripping bodies are pivoted with each other by pivotally connecting the two covering members, and a hidden space is provided within the covering member along a pivoting axis of the two covering members. The spring body is provided within the hidden space and is covered by the covering member, and two ends of the spring body respectively contact the two gripping bodies to open or close the gripping member of the two gripping bodies. Thereby the spring body within the gripping body is hidden from being viewed so as to improve the aesthetic feeling of the hair grip and to prevent hairs from being teared by the spring body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: HAW YANG CO.,LTD.
    Inventor: Ching-Yao YANG
  • Publication number: 20140202490
    Abstract: An analysis (e.g., LIBS) system includes a laser source generating a laser beam for creating a plasma at a location on a sample, and a spectrometer responsive to photons emitted by the sample at said location and having an output. A controller is responsive to a trigger signal and is configured to activate the laser source generating a series of laser pulses in a cleaning cycle, process the spectrometer output, and automatically terminate the cleaning cycle based on the spectrometer output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: David Day
  • Publication number: 20140202491
    Abstract: A scraper assembly for removing debris deposited on the surface of a porous work chuck during a wafer grinding process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Vogtmann, Larry A. Spiegel, Malcolm K. Roe
  • Publication number: 20140202492
    Abstract: A system and method for cleaning a collector surface of a solar collector. The system includes a first liquid-dispensing unit configured to deliver a first spray of liquid to the collector surface. The system also includes a brush element having a longitudinal side oriented along a first direction and disposed adjacent to the first liquid-dispensing unit. A first squeegee element is oriented along the first direction and adjacent to the brush element. The first squeegee element, the brush element, and the first liquid-dispensing unit define a first cleaning area. A second squeegee element is oriented along the first direction and separated from the first squeegee element by a gap to define a second cleaning area. The system also includes a second liquid-dispensing unit configured to deliver a second spray of liquid to the second cleaning area located between the first and second squeegees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SunPower Corporation
    Inventors: Marc GROSSMAN, Cedric JEANTY
  • Publication number: 20140202493
    Abstract: A device for providing elliptical path motion to skin or other surface. The device includes a motor, shaft, and a cam having at least one offset axis cam lobe for creating offset motion. A mounting bracket assembly that has a pair of arms associated with the motor can be moved by the cam in an elliptical path having X-axis, Y-axis and, in exemplary embodiments, Z-axis movement. The mounting bracket assembly may have two brackets, each being associated with an oscillating plate. Each oscillating plate may have a plurality of protrusions or tufts of bristles protruding therefrom. Elliptical movement of the oscillating plates creates offset elliptical motion of the protrusions associated with each oscillating plate. A fluid delivery system may be incorporated to provide fluid through the device. The device may be used for cleaning, stimulation or treatment of skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Newton Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Brian David Zelickson, Nathaniel Hayes Freeman, Kevin John Thompson, Michael Joseph Wayman, Shawn Michael Filipek, Alvin Sheldon Zelickson
  • Publication number: 20140202494
    Abstract: Provided is a nonwoven surface preparation or cleaning material comprising melamine fibers and a process for preparing the material. The nonwoven material, in one embodiment, comprises from 20 to 100% by weight melamine fibers. Other synthetic and natural fibers can be used in conjunction with the melamine fibers. However, it is the melamine fibers which are important, and the actual amount can be varied based on the nature of the surface to be cleaned, cleaning difficulty and material cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicants: JACOB HOLM & SONS, AG, BASOFIL, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Leon LATTEN, Richard KNOWLSON
  • Publication number: 20140202495
    Abstract: A glass wiping device and a control method thereof are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: ECOVACS ROBOTICS (SUZHOU) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Xiaoming Lv
  • Publication number: 20140202496
    Abstract: In a substrate processing apparatus, a temperature of an anti-static liquid having electrical resistivity which gradually decreases as a liquid temperature increases is adjusted by a temperature adjustment part and the electrical resistivity of the anti-static liquid is higher than the electrical resistivity of a processing liquid (SPM liquid). After that, a plurality of substrates are immersed in the anti-static liquid inside the anti-static liquid storage part and both main surfaces of each substrate entirely conic into contact with the anti-static liquid. This gradually removes static electricity from the substrate. Then, the SPM liquid is supplied onto an upper surface of the substrate to thereby perform an SPM process. In the SPM process, it is thereby possible to prevent a large amount of electric charges from sharply moving from the substrate to the SPM liquid and prevent any damage to the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG., CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiro MIYAGI, Kenichiro ARAI
  • Publication number: 20140202497
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus to monitor and control cleaning systems are disclosed. One disclosed example method includes detecting initial contamination of workpieces before cleaning and detecting residual contamination of workpieces after cleaning. The example method also includes determining, via a processor, a system malfunction from a comparison of the initial contamination with a first threshold value and from a comparison of the final contamination with a second threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Durr Ecoclean GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Kreis, Hermann-Josef David, Egon Käske
  • Publication number: 20140202498
    Abstract: Blockages of turbomachine cooling circuit cooling holes resulting from coating processes can be removed by introducing a cleaning agent into the cooling circuit. The cooling circuit can be connected to a cleaning agent supply under pressure, adding force on the blockage to chemical action by the cleaning agent. The cleaning agent is chemically reactive with the coating material and substantially chemically non-reactive with the underlying material of the cooling circuit and other parts of the turbomachine. A neutralization agent can also be introduced to reduce toxicity and/or action of the cleaning agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Carmine Bellino, Mark Lawrence Hunt
  • Publication number: 20140202499
    Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus has an indexer block and a processing block. One side of the processing block has a vertical stack of a plurality of top surface cleaning units and the other side of the processing block has a vertical stack of a plurality of back surface cleaning units. Reversing units for reversing the substrate W are provided one above the other between the indexer block and the processing block. For example, one reversing unit is used for reversing the substrate before a back surface cleaning processing by the back surface cleaning unit or for other purposes, and the other reversing unit is used for placing the substrate W after a top surface cleaning processing by the top surface cleaning unit or for other purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ichiro MITSUYOSHI, Jun SHIBUKAWA, Shinji KIYOKAWA, Tomohiro KUREBAYASHI
  • Publication number: 20140202500
    Abstract: Methods of acidic warewashing are disclosed. The compositions can include other materials including surfactants and chelating agents, and are preferably phosphorous free. Methods of using the acidic compositions in combination with alkaline compositions are also disclosed. Exemplary methods include using the acidic compositions together with other compositions, including alkaline compositions and rinse aids employed in an alternating alkaline/acid/alkaline manner. The methods also include acidic compositions that serve multiple roles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Lee J. Monsrud, Michael S. Rischmiller, Daniel Osterberg, John Mansergh
  • Publication number: 20140202501
    Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus has an indexer block and a processing block. One side of the processing block has a vertical stack of a plurality of top surface cleaning units and the other side of the processing block has a vertical stack of a plurality of back surface cleaning units. Reversing units for reversing the substrate W are provided one above the other between the indexer block and the processing block. For example, one reversing unit is used for reversing the substrate before a back surface cleaning processing by the back surface cleaning unit or for other purposes, and the other reversing unit is used for placing the substrate W after a top surface cleaning processing by the top surface cleaning unit or for other purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG. CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ichiro MITSUYOSHI, Jun SHIBUKAWA, Shinji KIYOKAWA, Tomohiro KUREBAYASHI
  • Publication number: 20140202502
    Abstract: A filtering system for a dishwashing appliance is provided that can remove fine particles from the wash and rinse fluids. The system includes a filter cartridge that can be rotated between filter media equipped for removal of different particulate sizes depending upon e.g., the cycle or stage of the cleaning process and/or anticipated particle size. The filter cartridge is positioned upstream from the pump inlet. In certain embodiments, the filter cartridge can be removable for servicing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Ramasamy Thiyagarajan, Adam Christopher Hofmann, Matthew David Mersch
  • Publication number: 20140202503
    Abstract: A system for cleaning a substrate includes a carrier and a cleaning station. The carrier is capable of holding the substrate and is movably coupled to a pair of guide tracks extending a length of the system. The cleaning station includes a force applicator, a gate and a dispenser. The force applicator has an applicator length and is coupled to the cleaning station, is rotatable and is adjustable to a first height off the surface of the carrier during cleaning. The gate is a hollow structure disposed at a trailing edge of the force applicator. The gate is set to a height off the carrier surface that is less than or equal to the first height. The gate includes a gate length that at least spans the applicator length. The dispenser is disposed at a leading edge of the force applicator and is configured to supply cleaning solution during cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Farber, Ji Zhu, Carl Woods, John M. de Larios
  • Publication number: 20140202504
    Abstract: Device for cleaning of footwear in connection with use of construction site vehicles, with a water pump (16), nozzles (20) and water pipe (18) between same. The device includes a compressor (22) for air and air pressure pipe (23) and nozzles (20, 21), an outer supporting structure in the form of a housing (2) arranged to protect the other parts of the device against external influence, The housing includes a recess (14) for receiving footwear to be cleaned—. At least one sensor (25) is included for initiating cleaning when footwear is positioned in said recess (14). The device is arranged to automatically flush the footwear with water via the water pump (16) and immediately thereafter to blow the footwear dry with air from the compressor (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Alfa Omega Development AS
    Inventors: Tom Roger Braaten, Morten Kaspersen
  • Publication number: 20140202505
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vending apparatus for vehicle washing that is self contained and can be moved from one desired location to another. The apparatus has a washing housing, with a floor, at least two walls mounted to or from opposing sides of the floor. The two walls define an entrance aperture and an exit aperture to allow passage of a vehicle, onto the floor, and out. The washing apparatus is contained within the washing housing and is automated to wash a vehicle when a vehicle. The washing housing has a support surface to engage with and support it above the ground, and at least one engagement point for a prime mover to allow movement of the apparatus from said location to another. Also there is a customer interface to authorise and activate washing of a vehicle. The washing housing can be located in a first location via the prime mover to allow washing of vehicles, and then when required can be easily moved via the prime mover to another location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: PCS HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventors: Philip Anthony Cotton, James Ballard Shelling
  • Publication number: 20140202506
    Abstract: A compact umbrella has a hollow-cylindrical body forming a shell, wherein the shell is made of a solid material and is configured to accommodate the umbrella in a transport state of the umbrella, when the umbrella is closed and folded, as a protective umbrella shell and is further configured to operate in an operating position of the umbrella, when opened, as a handle shell or carrying handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SILAG Handel AG
    Inventors: Axel R. Hidde, Odo Klose
  • Publication number: 20140202507
    Abstract: One or more systems and/or techniques are described herein for an apparatus for holding an umbrella. A case may comprise a first end and a second end. The first end may comprise an opening, and the second end may not comprise an opening. The case may comprise one or more materials. The case may alternatively and/or additionally comprise water-proof material. One or more loops may be connected and/or attached to the case. A loop may, for example, comprise a segment of material that may be attached to the case at a first point and a second point. One or more straps may be connected to a loop. A strap may comprise a mechanism that can attach a first end of the strap to a second end of the strap and/or attach the apparatus to a second apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Pauline L. Geraci
  • Publication number: 20140202508
    Abstract: There is provided a tip configured for removable attachment to a walking aid device. The tip includes a base member, a shaft, and a plurality of spaced apart ribs. The shaft includes a bore therein extending upwards from a central portion of an inner surface of the base member to accept a distal end of a walking aid device. The plurality of spaced apart ribs extends from an outer rim of the base member to the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: American Ventures LTD
    Inventors: Jerry A. Vasilatos, Anastasios J. Vasilatos
  • Publication number: 20140202509
    Abstract: A portable ice shelter with a base, a bottom wall and side walls that form an upper perimeter. At least one frame bracket is mounted to the base. A chair is located in the base with a user orientation directed at a fishing area. A plurality of folding frame members is pivotally attached to the frame bracket. The folding frame members are moveable between a transport configuration and a deployed configuration configured to support a canopy covering. A bottom frame member is moveable between the transport configuration and a deployed configuration. The bottom frame member extends beyond the upper perimeter of the base in the deployed configuration to surround a first fishing area with a first width generally perpendicular to the user orientation. At least one joint on the bottom frame member is configured to modify the bottom frame member to a second fishing area with a second width at least 40% greater than the first width. The second fishing area is greater than the first fishing area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Ardisam, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Schamberger, David Hare, Brendan Lonergan, Trevor Kinderman, Todd Roeschlein
  • Publication number: 20140202510
    Abstract: An electrical system (60, 200) for a tent or shelter (98, 201). Wires (60) are routed through a tent or shelter (98, 201) either by attaching the wires to the tent or shelter, running the wires through hems, seams (100), or sleeves, or integrating the wires into the fabric for the tent or shelter. In accordance with an embodiment, an appliance (208) is connected to the wiring harness (60) and is mounted or attached in the tent or shelter. The appliance (208) may be mounted in a socket (234) that includes contacts that may engage a fixture or appliance, such as a light. An opposite end of a cord (222) leading to the socket is attachable to an electrical power supply, such as a battery pack (203).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Tarter, Stuart L. Meether, Trevor J. Hinz, Yiyun Culp, Michael D. Brockel, Robert L. Lawhon
  • Publication number: 20140202511
    Abstract: A mechanism for folding and unfolding the top of a tent comprises a connecting seat, a sliding seat and an elastic telescopic part, wherein the connecting seat is connected with a tent top rod in a pivoted mode, and the sliding seat is connected with a connecting part in a pivoted mode and moves up and down with respect to the connecting seat. The other end of the connecting part is connected onto the tent top rod in a pivoted mode. The middle portion of the connecting seat extends downwards to form an accommodating seat which accommodates the elastic telescopic part. The upper portion of the sliding seat forms a sinking seat which has an outer diameter larger than that of the accommodating seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: CAMPVALLEY (XIAMEN) CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Kwan Jun Choi
  • Publication number: 20140202512
    Abstract: A retractable eave structure of a foldable tent includes a pole assembly having a first end and an opposing second end. The pole assembly first end is pivotally coupled to a hub for pivotal movement between an open state and a folded state of the foldable tent. The pole assembly is retractable such that a length between the first and second ends is adjustable between the open and folded states of the foldable tent. An eave portion of the foldable tent is constructed of tent fabric and fixedly attached to and extends from a main portion of the foldable tent. The eave portion includes an outer perimeter having a housing portion. The outer end of the pole assembly is fixed within the housing portion such that in the open state the pole assembly is extended and the eave portion is substantially taut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: KI HO JIN
  • Publication number: 20140202513
    Abstract: Disclosed are an open internal electrode AMTEC unit cell, a method for manufacturing the same and a method for connecting circuits. In order to overcome the difficulty in collecting electricity within a conventional AMTEC unit cell, an internal electrode of which a portion is open to the outside, so that the internal electrode and an external electrode can be electrically connected to each other at the outside of the unit cell, and a metal support is used as the internal electrode, so that the internal electrode has durability and stability, and a solid electrolyte is formed in the form of a thin film, and as a result, the AMTEC unit cell has an improved efficiency and a simpler manufacturing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: KOREA INSTITUTE OF ENERGY RESEARCH
    Inventors: Sun-Dong KIM, Se-Young Kim, Sang-Kuk Woo, Jong-Hoon Joo, In-Sub Han, Doo-Won Seo, Min-Soo Suh
  • Publication number: 20140202514
    Abstract: A photovoltaic assembly includes a solar plate and a protective cover. The protective cover covers one side of the solar plate and includes a cover body. The protective cover is rotatable relative to the solar plate between a closed position and an open position. When the protective cover is in the closed position, the cover body covers the solar plate and is substantially parallel to the solar plate to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the solar plate. When the protective cover is in the open position, an angle is defined between the cover body and the solar plate so that the foreign matter slides off the cover body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YU-CHEN TING, CHIH-HANG CHAO
  • Publication number: 20140202515
    Abstract: We describe stacked photovoltaic modules, and components thereof, in which at least one booster cell is combined with at least one primary cell in a stacked configuration. The booster cell may be in the form of a polycrystalline film disposed on a transparent substrate, such as a glass substrate, and the film may be patterned to form multiple booster cells. The booster cell includes an n-type layer and a p-type layer; the n-type layer may include polycrystalline zinc sulfide (ZnS), and the p-type layer may include polycrystalline zinc telluride (ZnTe). The n-type layer may have a band gap energy of at least 3.5 eV, and the p-type layer may have a band gap energy of at least 2 or at least 2.2 eV, or in a range from 2.2 to 2.3 eV. An intrinsic layer, also comprising polycrystalline ZnTe, may reside between the n-type and p-type layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Michael A. Haase
  • Publication number: 20140202516
    Abstract: A solar cell is provided with current collecting finger portions, which are formed on the light receiving surface of a photoelectric conversion unit. A separation region is provided on the light receiving surface to extend in the direction that intersects the current collecting finger portions such that the current collecting finger portions are separated from each other, and the current collecting finger portions positioned on both the sides with the separation region therebetween are electrically separated from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Satoshi TOHODA
  • Publication number: 20140202517
    Abstract: Recyclable organic solar cells are disclosed herein. Systems and methods are further disclosed for producing, improving performance, and for recycling the solar cells. In certain example embodiments, the recyclable organic solar cells disclosed herein include: a first electrode; a second electrode; a photoactive layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; an interlayer comprising a Lewis basic oligomer or polymer disposed between the photoactive layer and at least a portion of the first electrode or the second electrode; and a substrate disposed adjacent to the first electrode or the second electrode. The interlayer reduces the work function associated with the first or second electrode. In certain example embodiments, the substrate comprises cellulose nanocrystals that can be recycled. In certain example embodiments, one or more of the first electrode, the photoactive layer, and the second electrode may be applied by a film transfer lamination method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: GEORGIA TECH RESEARCH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Bernard Kippelen, Canek Fuentes-Hernandez, Yinhua Zhou, Robert Moon, Jeffrey P. Youngblood
  • Publication number: 20140202518
    Abstract: A solar module with improved output characteristics is provided. The solar module (1) includes a photoelectric conversion unit (23), a solar cell (20) having a first electrode (21) and a second electrode (22), and a wiring member (32a). The wiring member (32a) has resin film (51) and wiring (52) arranged on the resin film (51). The wiring member (32a) has a first portion (32a1), a second portion (32a2) and a bent portion (32a3). The first portion (32a1) is arranged so the wiring (52) faces the solar cell (20) side. The first portion (32a1) is bonded to the solar cell (20). The second portion (32a2) is arranged so the wiring (52) faces the reverse side from the solar cell (20). The bent portion (32a3) connects the first portion (32a1) and the second portion (32a2). The bent portion (32a3) is arranged on the solar cell (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomonori Tabe, Yoshiyuki Kudo, Yosuke Ishii, Ryota Morikawa, Shuji Fukumochi
  • Publication number: 20140202519
    Abstract: Provided are solar cell assemblies for harvesting solar radiation having a diffractive optic, a reflective surface that directs solar radiation to the diffractive optic, and a plurality of solar converters including a first converter having a first energy conversion efficiency, wherein the diffractive optic directs a first portion of the solar radiation to the first converter and a second portion of the solar radiation to the second converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Wei Wu, Yuhan Yao, He Liu
  • Publication number: 20140202520
    Abstract: A flexible, CPV array having high incident light conversion efficiency, the CPV array comprising: a reflective surface; a plurality of photovoltaic cells configurable to collect radiation from the reflective surface; a concentrating lens (optics) configurable to concentrate the incident light onto the reflective surface and onto the plurality of photovoltaic cells; and a conductor adapted to conduct electricity and heat from the plurality of photovoltaic cells, wherein the CPV array is exposed to incident solar radiation to generate electricity without an incident solar tracking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: ESSENCE SOLAR SOLUTIONS LTD.
    Inventors: Ron HELFAN, Slava HASIN
  • Publication number: 20140202521
    Abstract: Provided is a self-powered solar tracker, which is a solar tracker for adjusting the altitude of and horizontally rotating a solar collector panel such that the solar collector panel on which a plurality of solar cells are provided can face the sun, wherein the self-powered solar tracker comprises: an altitude adjustment optical sensor unit which has one or more first optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the upper side of convex support surfaces to face the sun and one or more second optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the lower side of the convex support surfaces, and which senses the sunlight so as to adjust the altitude of the solar collector panel; a horizontal rotation optical sensor unit which has one or more third optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the left side of the convex support surfaces to face the sun and one or more fourth optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the right side of the convex support surfaces, and which senses sunlight s
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Jae Jin Lee
  • Publication number: 20140202522
    Abstract: A solar plant enabling transformation of solar energy exploiting most of the solar spectrum with very efficient yields, including: at least one solar collector including a concentrator, configured to collect and concentrate solar radiation in the concentrator; a solar laser device to transform radiation received from the concentrators into laser radiation; a receiver and/or a solar reactor configured to receive radiation from the laser device and transform it into another form of energy; and can include flexible lightguides or plane mirrors to transport the radiation received from the laser device to the solar reactor and/or receiver, and photovoltaic cells interspersed among the collectors and laser devices to transform the concentrated radiation into electricity and allow radiation not transformed to pass to the laser devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: ABENGOA SOLAR NEW TECHNOLOGIES, S.A.
    Inventors: Juan Pablo Nunez Bootello, Manuel Gallas Torreira
  • Publication number: 20140202523
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mounting bracket for a junction box utilized for solar cell, a junction box with the mounting bracket, and the solar cell module. The mounting bracket for the junction box comprises a joint arm, an insert strip, and a hook. The insert strip comprises a first elastic strip connecting with the joint arm, a joint strip connecting with the first elastic strip and bending towards the joint arm, and a second elastic strip connecting with the joint arm. The insert strip is used for inserting into the frame. At least one of the first and the second elastic strips of the insert strip comprise a first elastic block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventor: Guangwei GUO
  • Publication number: 20140202524
    Abstract: A photovoltaic module ground mounting system can include a collapsible photovoltaic module mounting assembly framework.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Belikoff, John Hartelius, Chris Mahn
  • Publication number: 20140202525
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for use with a solar module is disclosed. The mounting bracket includes a foot including a first wall and a second wall oriented substantially orthogonal to the first wall, the first wall including serrations configured to engage serrations on a rail to adjust a height of the rail with respect to the foot. The mounting bracket further includes a backing configured to be coupled to the foot and secure the mounting bracket to the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SunEdison, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Howard Janssens, Paul Joseph Silberschatz, Jesus Beltran, Daniel Freymann Koelker
  • Publication number: 20140202526
    Abstract: A solar cell and a method for manufacturing the same are discussed. The solar cell includes a substrate containing impurities of a first conductive type, an emitter region which is positioned at a front surface of the substrate and contains impurities of a second conductive type opposite the first conductive type, a back passivation layer which is positioned on a back surface of the substrate and has openings, a back surface field region containing impurities of the first conductive type, a first electrode connected to the emitter region, and a second electrode connected to the back surface field region. The back surface field region includes a first back surface field region positioned on the back passivation layer and a second back surface field region, which is positioned at the back surface of the substrate exposed by the openings of the back passivation layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Eunhye YOUN, Sangwook PARK, Seunghwan SHIM, Yujin LEE
  • Publication number: 20140202527
    Abstract: A solar cell is disclosed. The solar cell includes a transparent conductive layer formed on a substrate, microstructures protruding vertically aslant from a surface of the transparent conductive layer, an electron transport layer configured to cover the microstructures and formed of an electron transport metal oxide, a light absorber adhered to inner pores and a surface of the electron transport layer, a hole transport layer configured to cover the surface of the electron transport layer and formed of a hole transport material, and an electrode formed on the hole transport layer. In the solar cell, the thickness of a light absorption layer can be maximized to obtain a high current density and high photoelectric conversion efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventors: Hyun Suk JUNG, Gill Sang HAN, Hyun Suk CHUNG
  • Publication number: 20140202528
    Abstract: A thin film solar cell includes a first substrate, a first electrode on the first substrate, and divided by a first dividing groove, a light absorbing layer disposed on the first electrode, and divided by a second dividing groove parallel with the first dividing groove, a second electrode disposed on the light absorbing layer, divided by a third dividing groove that parallel with the first and second dividing grooves, a second substrate disposed on the second electrode, facing the first substrate, and a metal foil attached to the first substrate and the second substrate to encapsulate a gap between the first substrate and the second substrate, a first end portion of the metal foil being attached to a first surface of the first substrate using a metal material, and a second end portion of the metal foil being attached to the second substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG SDI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jung-Yup YANG, Young-Kyoung AHN, Bong-Kyoung PARK, Yury LEBEDEV