Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may include a pressure monitoring lumen configured to provide information related to the pressure in the tracheal space. By measuring pressure in the lumen, a tracheal pressure may be estimated. The pressure monitoring lumen may be in fluid communication with a pressure transducer that provides pressure measurements. An opening of the lumen may be covered with a distal shoulder of an inflatable cuff.

Abstract: The preferred embodiments provide, e.g., a high quality flexible tracheostomy tube assembly including an outer tracheostomy cannula and a disposable, flexible inner cannula. In preferred embodiments, the product provides a single patient use, sterile device.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for use with a head fixation device allows for a stabilizing fixture, such as a rocker arm having a pair of skull pins, to be selectively secured so that the stabilizing fixture can be adjustably rotated to a desired position. In some version the locking apparatus includes a connector that is retained within an opening in a portion of the head fixation device. The connector can translate within the opening and is restricted from rotation. The translating of the connector permits the connector to engage an arch member that retains the stabilizing fixture. The engagement of the connector and arch member is accomplished, in some versions, by way of matching axial oriented toothed portions or starburst features. In some versions the teeth on the starburst features include a chamfer surface.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a device to alleviate sleep apnea comprises determining whether a user of the device is asleep by a microcontroller operatively connected to the device. Using a sensor operatively connected to the microcontroller, it is determined whether a breathing anomaly of the user is detected while the user is asleep. An electromagnet operatively connected to the device generates an electromagnetic field to widen an airway of the user in response to detecting the breathing anomaly while the user is asleep.

Abstract: A surgical drape (10) has a planar, flexible covering element (11) with an area (30) for accommodating a reference means (40) for a navigation system, the reference means protruding from the plane of the covering element. The area (30) has at least two deformable, elongated bar elements (18), which are connected to the covering element (30) and have two bar ends (27). The bar elements include the area (30) for accommodating the reference means (40) between the bar elements. At least one elongated shortening means (20) can be fixed on the covering element (11) and interacts with at least one of the bar elements (18), for reducing and/or fixing the distance of the two bar ends (27) from each other so that the area (30) for accommodating the reference means (40) is lifted out of the plane of the covering element (11).

Abstract: One aspect of the present application relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body.

Abstract: Wrapper for cigarette manufacture includes transversely extending band regions applied by a printing technique, such as gravure printing. The band regions comprise starch, an anti-wrinkling agent such as 1,2 propylene glycol or glycerin, and optionally calcium carbonate. Any suitable printing technique can be used to apply the aqueous solution to the banded regions. The pattern of banded regions may be bands, stripes, two-dimensional arrays, undulated regions, and the like along and/or around the tobacco rod. The pattern can be applied in one or more layers. The pattern may be configured so that when a smoking article is placed on a substrate, at least two longitudinal locations along the length of the tobacco rod have film-forming compound located only on sides of the smoking article not in contact with the substrate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for attaching hair extensions into basic hair comprising the following steps: providing a carrier foil with a number of hair extensions into the lower arm having lower recesses of an application clamp, closing the application clamp by clamping together the—hingingly interconnected—upper arm and lower arm heating the connection elements by pressing heating projections of an pinch applicator in and through the upper openings of the application clamp onto the connection elements of the hair extensions.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a cosmetic apparatus. More particularly, the invention encompasses an accessory sleeve for a cosmetic item. The present invention is also directed to a novel lock-in cosmetic accessory sleeve. The accessory sleeve has a first opening to securely and releaseably accommodate a first cosmetic container, and a second opening to securely and releaseably accommodate a second cosmetic container. Both the accessory sleeve and the containers have releaseable engagement means to securely hold each to the other. The lock-in cosmetic accessory sleeve has at least one partitioning wall having at least one protrusion having at least one spring means to exert pressure on one end of the cosmetic container. The cosmetic container preferably has at least two chambers, wherein the first chamber accommodates cosmetic contents, while the second chamber is used to accommodate at least one engageable fastener.

Abstract: A dual-ended applicator is provided. The applicator includes a handle, a first roller having a broad concave surface at one end of the handle, and a second, ball-like roller having a convex surface, at the opposite end of the handle. The first roller, having a greater axial length and surface area than does the second roller is intended for applying a cosmetic to broader convex areas of the skin. The second roller, having a lesser axial dimension and surface area as compared with the first roller is intended for distributing a cosmetic to the narrower, concave areas of the skin. The first roller is mounted on the applicator so as to rotate about a fixed axis lateral to the longitudinal axis of the applicator, and will move in straight paths along the skin, in line with the longitudinal axis of the applicator.

Abstract: A device for filtering a processing liquid in a processing tank includes an opening for recovering a surface-layer processing liquid on a work-discharging side of the tank, a separating part for recovering an intermediate-layer processing liquid on a work-receiving side of the tank, a hopper for recovering a bottom-layer processing liquid on a bottom surface on the work-receiving side, a first processing liquid discharge nozzle on a bottom surface of the tank and which is oriented in an opposite direction to a work-conveying direction and toward the bottom surface, second processing liquid discharge nozzles on both side surfaces of the processing tank and which are oriented in an opposite direction to the work-conveying direction and toward a work, cyclone devices which filter the processing liquids recovered by the opening, the separating part, and the hopper, and which individually separate foreign material, a separating tank, and a screw conveyor.

Abstract: A treatment liquid supply apparatus supplies a treatment liquid to a predetermined object for treatment of a substrate, and recovers the supplied treatment liquid for reuse. The apparatus includes: a first tank in which the treatment liquid to be supplied to the object is stored; a second tank in which the treatment liquid recovered from the object is stored; a transfer unit which transfers the treatment liquid from the second tank to the first tank; a first temperature regulating unit which regulates the temperature of the treatment liquid to be supplied from the first tank to the object; and a second temperature regulating unit which regulates the temperature of the treatment liquid to be transferred from the second tank to the first tank by the transfer unit.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus and a method for cleaning a semiconductor substrate after a polishing process. Particularly, embodiments of the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for cleaning a substrate using pressurized fluid. One embodiment of the present invention comprises two rollers to support and rotate a substrate in a substantially vertical orientation, a pressure wheel to apply a force to engage the substrate with the two rollers, and a swinging nozzle configured to dispense a pressurized fluid towards the substrate.

Abstract: A wash arm arrangement (100) for a dishwasher is disclosed. The wash arm arrangement comprises a central arm (121) adapted to be rotatably connected with a first liquid supply shaft (123) for providing pressurized liquid during operation of the dishwasher. The central arm has a first nozzle (130) arranged for outputting a jet of liquid during operation thereby providing a first reaction force Fc for rotating the central arm about its axis of rotation in a first direction. The wash arm arrangement further comprises a satellite arm (122) rotatably arranged on a second liquid supply shaft (124) arranged on an outer end of the central arm, the satellite arm having a second nozzle (131) arranged for outputting a jet of liquid during operation thereby providing a second reaction force Fs for rotating the satellite arm about its axis of rotation in a second direction being opposite to the first direction.

Abstract: A support for a walking aid such as a crutch, a walker or a cane is disclosed. The support is configured for providing enhanced balance on adverse terrain that may contain obstacles and/or have slippery spots. In an embodiment of the present invention, the support comprises a flat bottom and an upwardly angled slit that provides an upper and a lower section configured for contorting in a manner as to enhance friction with the walking terrain thus reducing the probability of slippage. In an alternate embodiment, the support comprises an oval shaped bottom and a downwardly angled slit. This support is configured facilitating walking and providing support in rough terrain.

Abstract: A modular outdoor playpen apparatus including a room-sized enclosure, having an area in a range of 10 square feet to 20 square feet, the enclosure having a cushioned bottom wall, an open top, four side panels releasably hingedly attached to each other, a unitary cushioned padding removably disposed over all of the entire inner walls of the side panels, and a padded covering removably disposed over the bottom wall between the side panels. The apparatus also provides a canopy that attaches to the cushioned padding.

Abstract: The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.

Abstract: A method for detecting a leak in a closed-volume liquid system comprises circulating a fluid through a closed-loop with a pump having a reservoir and that is driven by an electric motor. The method also comprises sensing a pressure in the closed-loop, sensing current draw by the motor and sensing fluid level in the reservoir. The method further comprises determining a presence of a leak of fluid from the closed-loop based upon two of the sensed signals using a first leak detection logic, and determining the presence of a leak of fluid from the closed-loop based upon at least one of the sensed signals using a second leak detection logic.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for mitigating slug formation in a multiphase fluid stream flowing through a conduit. The method includes (a) determining the pressure in the conduit upstream of a slugging zone, (b) determining the pressure in the conduit downstream of the slugging zone, (c) determining the actual pressure difference across the slugging zone by subtracting the downstream pressure from step (b) from the upstream pressure from step (a), (d) determining the error between a target pressure difference and the actual pressure difference, (e) producing a signal having a first component which is proportional to the error and a second component which is proportional to the rate of change of the error over time, and (f) using the signal produced in step (e) to control the position of an adjustable choke valve located downstream of the slugging zone so as to stabilize variations arising in the actual pressure difference over time.

Abstract: A gas turbine engine system includes a nacelle having a pressure side and a suction side. A passage extends between the pressure side and the suction side that permits airflow from the pressure side to the suction side. The passage receives turbulent airflow over the nacelle to produce a laminar airflow over the nacelle aft of the passage to thereby reduce drag on the nacelle.

Abstract: A valve mechanism which opens in response to a high temperature includes a stopper positionable at a closed position that blocks the flow of water in a cylindrical body attached to a water supply pipe. A stopper support permits the stopper to be movable from the closed position to an open position, wherein pressure of the water in the supply pipe tends to move the stopper from the closed position to the open position. A locking unit is positionable to lock the support in a position wherein the stopper blocks the channel, and has an inclined surface inclined obliquely to the water flow direction. A heat sensitive section blocks movement of the locking unit from the locking position and includes a heat sensitive portion responsive to the temperature of an environment of the valve mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for filling a CO2 system that provides carbonation and delivery of beverages to a user is provided together with a control valve for performing this method. The steps include: attaching a hose and pumping liquid carbon dioxide through an inlet fitting housed in a control valve assembly; causing the translation of a valve stem to isolate a gas port and a tank and a user port and directing the liquid carbon dioxide to a liquid port and a tank; and stopping the pumping of the liquid carbon dioxide upon reaching a pre-determined pressure and removing the hose allowing the translation of the valve stem to close the valve assembly from the atmosphere and allowing the liquid to boil to a gas to provide delivery and carbonation to the beverage.

Abstract: A connector includes an inlet port into which liquid is poured and which has a first flow path for the liquid, a liquid discharge port to which a tube body is connectable and which has a second flow path discharging liquid from the first flow path to the connected tube body, a gas discharge which discharges air in the first flow path, and a blocking device which, when the liquid is poured in the first flow path, temporarily stops the liquid flow. Use of the connector involves sealing an opening section of the liquid discharge port, pouring liquid in the inlet port, causing air in the first flow path to be discharged, temporarily stopping the flow of the liquid in the first flow path, unsealing the opening section of the liquid discharge port, connecting the tube body to the liquid discharge port, and resuming flow of the liquid.

Abstract: A space in a housing is defined into a lower space and an upper space by a partition wall, and an opening portion is provided in the partition wall. A vertically slidable float is housed in the lower space of the housing and on an upper portion of the float, a movable valve is mounted so as to be movable relatively to the float in a vertical direction and a lateral direction. A protruding portion is provided on the upper portion of the float, and a receiving portion on which the protruding portion abuts is provided on a lower surface of the movable valve. A center hole is provided in a center of the receiving portion. When the float comes up, a peripheral portion of a top portion of the protruding portion of the float is adapted to abut on an inner circumference periphery of the center hole.

Abstract: An adjustable operating rod assembly is provided. In one embodiment a telescoping rod and tube are provided such that the length of the operating rod can be selectively adjusted in order to accommodate fluid inlet pipes of various lengths and regardless of manufacturer.

Abstract: A cleanout protector includes a hollow sleeve having an upper end, a lower end and at least one outer wall. The lower end includes a plurality of piercing members for penetrating surrounding soil. Any one of a plurality of fixtures, such as a solar lamp or a decorative design element, is removably mounted on the upper end of the sleeve. Accordingly, a user superimposes the sleeve on a cleanout and inserts the piercing members into the soil as far as possible. A desired fixture is mounted on the sleeve thereby protecting and decoratively concealing the cleanout.

Abstract: The most strained component of a cartridge is the bush, in which the control lever is mounted, using which the control can is moved. Upon actuation of the control lever to open and close the intakes and drains, the bush and thus also the extension of the housing and the front wall thereof are strained by bending. Upon mixing of the cold and hot water streams, friction forces arise in directions, which are perpendicular to one another, between the bush and the front wall of the housing and in the extension of the housing by rotation of the bush. All of these strains can result in hysteresis in the mixing position and in the position of the control cam during the opening and closing movements because of tolerances and play the opening and closing movements because of tolerances and play between the individual components. To overcome the strain issues, the bush bus has the control lever mounted therein is mounted using a conical face and also conical part of the front wall of the cylindrical housing.

Abstract: An isolation valve has an electrically-actuated solenoid valve, at least one port having a port extension, and a sensor assembly coupled to the port extension. The sensor assembly includes a printed circuit board, an integrated circuit disposed on the circuit board, and at least one pressure sensor coupled to the port extension to measure a vapor pressure in the port extension. In one embodiment, a single sensor assembly can monitor pressure at two or more ports. By integrating the sensor assembly into the isolation valve, the valve has a compact assembly that is easy to install in a vapor control system.

Abstract: A backflow prevention device including an opening in the housing configured to provide a user with access to the upstream check valve and the downstream check valve. The backflow prevention device further includes a cover configured to cover the entirety of the opening. The cover includes a portion of a lateral surface of a right cylinder. The backflow prevention device additionally includes a seal configured to sealingly engage the cover and the housing along the perimeter of the cover.

Abstract: A check valve in which a stop pin assembly is situated so as to prevent the movement of a flapper beyond a predetermined position. In a preferred embodiment the check valve has two flappers with the stop pin assembly situated therebetween to prevent either one of them from pivoting beyond an essentially vertical position. The stop pin assembly is configured such that it can be inserted and locked in place when the check valve is inserted within a valve body that contains the check valve. The stop pin assembly can comprise three elements including a central portion and first and second end portions, although the stop pin assembly could instead comprise a single element. The stop pin assembly is inserted between two holders and in a preferred embodiment is rotatable to a locking position where it is affixed in place by fasteners.

Abstract: A faucet includes a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle, a spout, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle.

Abstract: An anti-vibration system for a fluid reservoir. The system includes a baffle disposed within the fluid reservoir. The baffle includes a mounting mechanism and one or more apertures. The mounting mechanism is adapted to mount the baffle within the reservoir. In addition, and a reservoir cover, enclosing the fluid reservoir, includes receiving fixtures to receive the mounting mechanism.

Abstract: Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.

Abstract: A manifold, for a refrigeration system, includes a body comprising a bore hole extending through the body, and a plurality of ports including a first process port for adding and removing refrigerant, and a first side port for mechanical connection thereto. The manifold also includes a first ball valve disposed in the body, between the first process port and the first side port. The first ball valve includes a ball recess aligned with the bore hole through the body, and a ball port extending generally transverse to the ball recess and in fluid connection therewith. The ball port includes a narrow end and wider end. The first ball valve is moveable between an open position in which the ball port is aligned with the first side port and the first side port is in fluid connection with the bore hole through the body, and a closed position in which the ball port is out of alignment with the first side port.

Abstract: A multi-channel stepped motor operated gas adjusting valve includes a valve shell, a reduction motor, a locator, a gas flow distributor and a locator rotation angle detecting mechanism. The gas flow distributor has a disk which is tightly attached to a hard hollow washer. An inner wall of the valve shell is provided with locating ends corresponding to a group of locating nodes to form the locator rotation angle detecting mechanism. Each locating node is placed corresponding to a gas flow distribution groove of the same sequence. The inner wall of the valve shell is also provided with stopping blocks at a beginning state and an ending state of the locator. The valve enables accurate control by utilizing an action position feedback signal and a control circuit, and enables multi-position stepped adjustment on gas flow rate upon multi-channel gas passages simultaneously. The valve can independently cut the multi-channel gas passages.

Abstract: An electric three-way valve comprises: an input port, a plurality of output ports and a valve core which rotates in a sliding manner in the valve seat by a driving force of a motor unit, wherein the valve core selectively opens or closes the plurality of output ports, the motor unit is attached as a separated constituent to an outside of an upper end surface of a cylindrical casing introducing refrigerant, the valve core is driven by a gear unit which transmits the driving force of the motor unit and is disposed inside the cylindrical casing, the cylindrical casing includes one opening portion and a side wall with an apex portion, a housing which is fixed to a cylindrical wall portion of the apex portion and is equipped with the motor unit is uprightly formed in the other opening portion, and the housing is attached to the cylindrical casing.

Abstract: Methods and devices for using one or more fluidic channels for generating binary states are described. In particular, the present teachings relate to incorporating such fluidic channels into devices that use the generated binary states in various applications.

Abstract: A fluid actuator for influencing the flow along a flow surface by ejecting a fluid flowing through the fluid actuator is described. The fluid actuator has at least two outlet lines with outlet openings at the respective ends thereof, and a feed line connected to the outlet lines for feeding fluid at a supply pressure, a flow direction diverting device into which the feed line opens and out of which the outlet lines open, and an adjusting device coupled to the flow direction diverting device to control the latter. The adjusting device is configured so the fluid is conducted successively in a cyclic sequence into each of the outlet lines. A discharge device for discharging a fluid out of a flow body, and a flow body having a multiplicity of discharge openings and a discharge device of said type are also described.

Abstract: An embodiment includes a drain pipe waste water closure protection device which allows passage of fluids through a drain into a pipe waste water closure and a waste water pipe while preventing backflow of fluid or gas from the waste water pipe and pipe waste water closure, as well as preventing evaporation of a water-containing pipe waste water closure located below the drain pipe waste water closure protection device in the waste water pipe. Embodiment drain pipe waste water closure protection devices are easily installed in existing or new drains. Embodiments have two radial disc seals which insure a strong seal between the drain pipe waste water closure protection device and the drain wall. Embodiments include a reinforcing band embedded below the radial disc seals which prevents failure of the radial disc seals. Embodiments include a quadruple pressure accumulating seal which protects against the flow of gas or fluid from the waste water pipe.

Abstract: A valve arrangement controls brake devices and auxiliary devices of a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle, and includes pneumatic control valves which are detachably arranged on at least one common support module containing compressed air channels, for carrying out braking functions or auxiliary braking functions of the brake system. The valve arrangement also includes several adjacently arranged block-shaped support modules having at least the same height and depth measurements and including channel sections forming common longitudinal channels when all of the support modules are adjacently arranged in a row. At least one unit hole receives a control valve embodied as a cartridge valve and arranged on a front side of each support module to enable switching the compressed air flow between inner channels.

Abstract: An apparatus for mixing at least first and second fluid, comprising: (a) a first nozzle comprising a first flow duct defining a first flow chamber, and having a first nozzle tip having a first discharge opening; and (b) a second nozzle comprising a second flow duct defining a second flow chamber, and having a second nozzle tip having a second discharge opening; wherein said first flow duct and said second flow duct are spirally wrapped each over the other. The invention also provides a process for mixing fluids, especially adapted for the production of isocyanates, and that is notably carried out in the apparatus of the invention.

Abstract: A guiding device for metal bellows (19) includes a terminal element (35) on a bellows end (31). The terminal element is movable along the wall of a housing (1) during expansion and compression of the bellows (19). A guide (47) is interposed between the terminal element and the housing (1). The guide has an annular element (47) surrounding a peripheral zone of the terminal element (35). The annular element, on its outer periphery, forms first annular sections radially spaced apart from the wall of the housing (1) and separated from each other by second annular sections radially projecting over the first annular sections.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an exhaust pipe in which a peeling of a constituent member does not occur and reliability thereof is excellent, and an exhaust pipe allowing exhaust gases to flow through the exhaust pipe of the present invention includes a heat-releasing layer containing a crystalline inorganic material and an amorphous inorganic material and having infrared emissivity higher than infrared emissivity of a base, wherein irregularities are formed on a surface of the base on which the heat-releasing layer is to be formed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liner assembly for repairing the wall of a pipe that includes a transmitter or transmitters capable of transmitting information, such as identification information and physical characteristics of the area around the transmitter. Embedded in the liner is a transmitter, which includes a radio-frequency identification and at least one sensor. The RFID transmits identification information about the repaired wall, while the sensor provides physical characteristics of the environment in and around the pipe. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, flow, chemical reactions, velocity of the pipe, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the pipe to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors.

Abstract: Example air ducts comprising pliable tubular sidewalls are provided with example internal frameworks that hold the duct in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is depressurized. The framework tensions the pliable sidewall material along the length of the ducts to keep the material taut. In some examples, the framework is restrained within the duct such that the duct's sidewall, being in tension, holds the framework in compression longitudinally. Thus, in the longitudinal direction, the duct is in tension and the framework is in compression. To prevent the framework from buckling under the compressive force, some example frameworks comprise a central longitudinal shaft with a plurality of radial spokes and rings that help hold the shaft straight. In some examples, the rings also help hold the duct radially expanded.

Abstract: A flexible tube includes a bellows tube, an interlock tube placed inside the bellows tube, and upstream-side and downstream-side joint pipes coupled to opposite ends of the bellows tube. Diameters of fixing end portions located at opposite ends of the interlock tube are made larger than a diameter at a middle portion of the interlock tube, extension portions of the upstream-side and downstream-side joint pipes are fitted and fixed to inner peripheral surfaces of the fixing end portions of the interlock tube, and a depth of each of valley portions of a bellows portion of the bellows tube located over the fixing end portions is smaller than a depth of other valley portions of the bellows portion. Accordingly, it is possible to achieve the downsizing of the flexible tube that is connected to an exhaust system being continuous with an engine to dampen vibrations in the axial direction of the exhaust system.

Abstract: Low or near zero fluid permeation hose for petroleum and other chemical transfer applications. The hose includes an inner tube formed of a vulcanized rubber, and a barrier layer of a strip of a fluoropolymer of other polymeric material resistant to fluid permeation. The strip is spiral wound about the longitudinal axis of the hose.

Abstract: The number of sub-parts of a closed structure part and the number of steps for manufacturing the closed structure part can be reduced and, therefore, the closed structure part can be efficiently manufactured. In a hemming press step, a punch is further lowered, and a pair of flange portions is inserted into a slit clearance. Hemming prongs are bent and each of the hemming prongs sandwiches the flange portion. The flange portion, which is one of the two flange portions, is joined to the other flange portion. At the same time, a pair of press forming surfaces of the punch presses a metal plate and performs press-forming on a pair of shoulder portions of a blank into a predetermined shape. The flange portion can be fixed to the other flange portion using the hemming prongs. The pair of shoulder portions of the blank can be press-formed into the predetermined shape.

Abstract: A delivery pipe is molded of resin and internally formed with a fuel passage. The delivery pipe has a shape of cross section including a single straight part, a single curved part, and joint parts at joints between ends of the straight part and the curved part. The joint part has an outer appearance protruding outward. The resin contains reinforcing glass fibers. A corresponding portion to a resin injection gate is located at an end region of the straight part in a longitudinal direction of the fuel passage.

Abstract: The invention provides a refuel valve assembly 240 for refuelling a first and a second fuel tank on an aircraft, wherein the refuel valve assembly 240 comprises an inlet for receiving fuel from an orifice 215 in a structure 213 of the aircraft, a first 251a and a second outlet 251b for delivering fuel from behind the structure to the first 211a and second 211b fuel tanks, and a refuel control apparatus for controlling fuel flow to the first and second outlets; wherein the refuel control apparatus includes a controllable valve assembly, so that delivery of fuel through the first outlet to a first fuel tank can be controlled independently of delivery through the second outlet of fuel to a second fuel tank. The invention also provides a method of refuelling a first and a second fuel tank on an aircraft.