Abstract: Certain embodiments herein relate to a method of electroplating copper into damascene features using a low copper, high halide concentration electrolyte having between about 4-10 g/L copper ions, between about 150-400 ppm halide ions, and about 2-15 g/L acid. Using the low copper electrolyte produces a relatively high overpotential on the plating substrate surface, allowing for a slow plating process with few fill defects. The low copper electrolyte may have a relatively high cloud point. The use of a relatively high halide ion concentration may promote improved nucleation on a seed layer, resulting in fewer and less significant voids within the features.

Abstract: A method of growing a hierarchically structured anodized film to an aluminum substrate including growing a Phosphoric Acid Anodizing (PAA) film layer to an aluminum substrate and growing a multiple of Tartaric-Sulfuric Acid Anodizing (TSA) film layers under the Phosphoric Acid Anodizing (PAA) film layer.

Abstract: A manufacturing method of a single crystal uses a single-crystal pull-up apparatus includes: adding the red phosphorus to the silicon melt so that a resistivity of the single crystal falls in a range from 0.7 m?·cm to 0.9 m?·cm; subjecting an evaluation silicon wafer obtained from the single crystal to a heat treatment in which the evaluation silicon wafer is heated at 1200 degrees C. for 30 seconds in a hydrogen atmosphere; and pull-up the single crystal while appropriately controlling a period for a temperature of the single crystal to be in a range of 570±70 degrees C. so that the number of pits generated on the evaluation silicon wafer becomes 0.1/cm2 or less.

Abstract: An apparatus for growing a silicon single crystal according to embodiments includes a chamber including a crucible accommodating silicon melt; a support shaft rotating and lifting the crucible while supporting the crucible; a main heater part for applying heat to the crucible side, the heater disposed beside the crucible; an upper heat insulation member located over the crucible; and upper heater parts located at a lower end portion of the upper heat insulation member, wherein the upper heater parts have diameters different from each other with respect to a center of the crucible, and include a plurality of ring-shaped heaters which are spaced apart from each other. Due to the individually controllable upper heater parts, a uniform thermal environment can be provided for silicon melt accommodated in a crucible, and localized solidification of the silicon melt can be prevented so that the quality of a silicon single crystal and the ingot pulling speed can be readily controlled.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a carbon nanofibers growth method including (S1) depositing an alumina layer on a silicon substrate, (S2) depositing palladium on the alumina layer to form a palladium catalyst layer, and (S3) growing carbon nanofibers on the palladium catalyst layer by a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, and carbon nanofibers vertically grown on an alumina layer-deposited silicon substrate, the carbon nanofibers having tip ends with a radius of curvature less than or equal to 5 nm, a diameter less than or equal to 50 nm, a length more than or equal to 1 mm, and a length-diameter aspect ratio more than or equal to 50,000.

Abstract: A stretching apparatus of fibre tows in a pressurized steam environment includes an elongated stretching chamber having a generally rectangular section of a low height, within which the tows are treated with saturated or overheated steam at high temperature and pressure and simultaneously undergo a mechanical stretching operation. The stretching chamber has a width sufficient to house multiple tows mutually flanked in a running plane and is formed within a stretching chest made of aluminum. The stretching chest is housed in a supporting structure, having a higher structural rigidity than the stretching chest, which includes a plurality of contact elements apt to determine a predefined position of the stretching chest with respect to a direction perpendicular to the tow running plane and to allow a limited mobility of the stretching chest in the other two mutually perpendicular directions which lie in the plane, length and width respectively.

Abstract: To provide a towel product capable of maintaining features of honeycomb weave of the conventional technique as well as providing improved water absorbency, lightness, and a good touch feeling more than those of the towels produced by the conventional technique. The towel of the present invention basically has a typical honeycomb weave structure. A first feature thereof is to use hollow yarns having a hollow ratio of a range between 30% and 60%. A shape of hollow yarns can be maintained. With the above described structure, the water absorbency, the lightness, the good touch feeling, and a drying property can be improved. A second feature is to use hollow yarns made by twisting fibers of raw cottons having an effective fiber length of a range between 25 mm and 42 mm. This contributes to maintaining of the durability.

Abstract: A mobile cam device (1) for commanding needles of a needle bed of a knitting machine, the device comprising a body (2) of the device provided with at least a first housing seating (4a) having a longitudinal development and configured to movably house at least a first actuator (5a) in the body. The device further comprises at least a first command cam (8a) movably mounted and associated to the body and destined to interact with at least a needle of a needle bed of a knitting machine, and at least a first actuator (5a), movably housed at least partially in the first housing seating (4a) in the body and destined to move in a controlled way the first command cam (8a). The first actuator comprises a first piston (15a) and a second piston (16a) distinct from one another and translatably housed in the first seating, the first and second piston being arranged in series along the longitudinal extension of the first seating and being translatable independently with respect to one another.

Abstract: A device and method for applying a material to a surface of a fabric. The device has a sensor and a microfluidic die. The device further includes a reservoir for containing a material to be deposited, and a CPU. The method includes providing information from the sensor about the surface to the CPU, which uses the information to identify where the material is to be deposited and/or how much to deposit.

Abstract: A washing machine appliance including a cabinet, a tub positioned within the cabinet, and a basket rotatably mounted within the tub is provided. The washing machine appliance additionally includes a spout fluidly connected to a water source, the spout configured to flow water from the water source into one or both of the tub and the drum. Moreover, the washing machine appliance includes a spray hose assembly fluidly connected to the water source, the spray hose assembly including a hose and a handle. The spray hose assembly is configured for selectively providing a flow of water in a desired location and direction to assist a user in, e.g., cleaning out a dispenser cup and/or performing one or more pretreatment activities on articles to be washed.

Abstract: A laundry dryer is provided including a dryer casing with a drum for receipt of articles for drying positioned therein. The laundry dryer also includes a heating system positioned in the dryer casing, the heating system including an evaporator configured to cool and dehumidify air from the drum and a heating element configured to heat air provided to the drum. The laundry dryer also includes features for hindering a transfer of an extreme temperature condition from the drum to the heating system.

Abstract: The present invention is a preferably cylindrical fabric laundry bag with a closed base end, an openable mouth end, and a drawstring. A zipper extends along the entire body of the bag from base to mouth. Carrying straps are provided for carrying the bag as a duffel bag or a back pack. The straps may be padded and adjustable for the wearer's comfort. The straps should also include a strap-connecting handle that joins the two straps and enables the user to carry the laundry bag like a duffel bag.

Abstract: Described herein are surface coverings comprising a carrier, a first linoleum composition, and a second linoleum composition; wherein the flow rate of the first linoleum composition is greater than the flow rate of the second linoleum composition.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a carpet backing composition comprising a first polymer component, a filler, and a compatibilizer that can provide free radial resource for performing bonding functions of the first polymer component and the filler. The composition can exhibit good melt strength/extrudability and low viscosity. The present disclosure also relates to a carpet backing or a carpet that comprises such carpet backing composition.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are described that dispense microdroplets of dye onto individual filaments or fibers and infuse them into the interior of such filaments and/or fibers in a highly controlled manner. Control of dye dispensing permits changing the dye applied to a fiber during a dyeing operation, and supports the generation of patterns in woven products via the dyeing process. The resulting systems and methods require much less water and generate much less waste than conventional dyeing processes.

Abstract: An exemplary applique may include an adhesive layer having a first contour, and at least one fabric layer defining a second contour. The first contour may be inset from the second contour, with the second contour defining an outer perimeter of the applique. Exemplary appliques may further include a stitching securing the fabric layer to the adhesive layer along a third contour, where the third contour is inset from the first contour.

Abstract: The invention discloses a reflective fabric with color printing, including a fabric layer, an elastic resin layer, a color printing layer and glass beads, wherein the fabric layer is connected with the elastic resin layer, the elastic resin layer is connected with the color printing layer, the glass beads are embedded in the color printing layer, and a reflective layer is set on the surface of the glass beads which embedded in the color printing layer. On the premise of maintaining the reflective effect of reflective material, the invention employs a special printing method to give the material the color diversity, allow the reflective material to be rich in color, give the material wider application and longer service life, and make this type of reflective material be better applied in production of fashionable clothing better.

Abstract: In a method for producing nanofibrillar cellulose, cellulose based fiber material in dispersion is processed for separating fibrils. The method includes a first step where the fiber material is supplied to a disperser, where it flows through several counter-rotating rotors in such a way that the material is repeatedly subjected to shear and impact forces by the effect of the different counter-rotating rotors, and a second step, where the fiber material obtained from the first step is supplied to a homogenizer, where it is subjected to homogenization by the effect of pressure.

Abstract: A coating device for coating composite cellulose honeycomb support parts (1), each having a multiplicity of channels (5, 6) extending in an axial direction, having an impregnation coating to increase fire- and/or water-resistance and/or mechanical stability.

Abstract: A paver for laying down a strip of concrete and inserting therein dowel bars parallel to the strip. A dowel bar inserter orients the bars and places them into the concrete. A pair of transport chains transverse to the travel direction extends across a width of the inserter. Pairs of generally L-shaped opposing cups hold the bars so that they can drop downwardly from the cups towards the strip. The chains move in a single direction. A dowel bar holding magazine, above the chains, stores bars, and gravitationally moves the bars towards the chains for pick-up by cups as the chains move the cups past a bar loading station. Elastic bands extend about a bar engaging surface defined by a wheel and resiliently bias the bars moving along the chain turn-around section against the wheel.

Abstract: A tubular monofilament fiber with predefined weak points for an artificial turf system is disclosed. The fiber comprises a tube comprising a perimeter wall enclosing a hollow interior area of the tube, and a plurality of predefined weak points formed in the perimeter wall that divide the perimeter wall into a plurality of fibrils and connect adjacent fibrils. The predefined weak points are easily breakable to disconnect the plurality of fibrils from each other by mechanical means for brushing the fiber, by conventional brushing processes using in installing an artificial turf, or by footsteps of players. The hollow interior area, the perimeter wall, and the plurality weak points extend from a top end of the fiber to a bottom end of the fiber.

Abstract: A modular compactor includes a frame assembly having a first motive section including at least one first wheel, a second motive section including at least one second wheel, and a central ballast section including ballast. The ballast provides weight to the frame assembly to provide a desired compacting force. A first coupling arrangement secures the first motive section to the central ballast section, and a second coupling arrangement secures the second motive section to the central ballast section.

Abstract: An assembly is provided for vibrating a compacting drum of a compacting machine. The assembly includes a shaft rotatably mountable to a compacting drum of the compacting machine. The centre of mass of the shaft is offset from the geometrical rotation axis of the shaft. An outer eccentric member is arranged outside of the shaft, wherein the centre of mass of the outer eccentric member is offset from the geometrical rotation axis of the shaft. The outer eccentric member is displaceably mounted relative to the shaft for adjustment of the eccentricity of the assembly. An extension of the outer eccentric member in a direction parallel with the geometrical rotation axis of the shaft is at least two times an average extension of the outer eccentric member in a radial direction perpendicular to the geometrical rotation axis of shaft such that a mass of the outer eccentric member forms a distributed load along the geometrical rotation axis of the shaft.

Abstract: A paving machine is disclosed that includes a tractor, a screed, and an operator platform. The screed is coupled to the tractor and is located behind the tractor. The operator platform is movably coupled to the tractor and has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the operator platform is located at least partially above the screed, and in the second position, the operator platform is located behind the screed.

Abstract: A snow-plough blade group for absorbing lateral impacts comprising: a first and a second snow-removing blade; a first support bearing the blades; the second blade being mobile with respect to the first support between a first position, in which the blades identify a first snow-removing surface, and a second position in which the blades identify a second snow-removing surface larger than the first one; a second support hinged to the first support; a first hydraulic cylinder connected between the first and second support for orientating the first support with respect to the second support; a discharge of liquid in overpressure; bypass valve means connecting the first hydraulic cylinder with the discharge, which bypass valve means are configured such that when the pressure in the first hydraulic cylinder exceeds a threshold value, the bypass valve means place the first hydraulic cylinder in liquid communication with the discharge; characterised in that a sensor detects a position assumed by the second blade; and

Abstract: Discussed are several practical cost-effective refinements, extensions, additions, and improvements to the manufactured three-dimensional convex-concave fairing with attached vortex generators that was disclosed by Simpson et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 8,348,553). Extensions are disclosed for bridge piers and abutments at larger angles of attack of up to 45°, for piers and abutments downstream of a bend in a river where there is large-scale swirling approach flow, and for piers in close proximity to an adjacent pier of abutment.

Abstract: A ground anchor (10) comprises a body (12) and a ground piercing means (40) on the body. The ground piercing means comprises a tapering member (42) having opposite edges (48) that taper towards each other from the body. The tapering member may have two opposite faces (50) extending between the opposite edges, the opposite faces being substantially parallel to each other.

Abstract: System and methods for waterproofing a below-grade wall of a structure. The system comprises a waterproof membrane mounted directly or indirectly to an excavation wall within which the wall of the structure is to be constructed. A plurality of elongate waterstops are affixed to the waterproof membrane and arranged to form a plurality of compartments. A plurality of distribution tubes having apertures are affixed to the waterproof membrane to allow an injectable sealing grout to be injected through the distribution tubes and out of the apertures into a corresponding compartment. A plurality of supply tubes are installed in fluid communication with the plurality of distribution tubes with each of the supply tubes extending to a location on the interior of the wall to be constructed.

Abstract: Mechanical stops in the linkage of a hydraulic thumb for a materials handling machine protect the hydraulic thumb actuator from damage.

Abstract: A wheel loader includes: a mechanical drive unit; an HST pump that feeds a hydraulic oil for travelling; an accessory hydraulic pump that feeds a hydraulic oil for a bucket; first and second hydraulic motors driven by the hydraulic oil from the HST pump; and a power combining unit configured to combine powers of the first and second hydraulic motors with a power of the mechanical drive unit, in which the mechanical drive unit is provided between an engine shaft to an output shaft with a shaft center, the power combining unit is configured to combine the power of the mechanical drive unit with the powers of the first and second hydraulic motors at a position above the output shaft, and the first and second combining gears and a gear, to which combined powers are transmitted, are disposed between the first and second hydraulic motors and the output shaft.

Abstract: A water capture device for installing in an elevated location on a building. The water capture device comprises a plurality of exterior walls, an input opening, a main chamber, a release opening, an overflow channel, and an overflow opening. The plurality of exterior walls defines a cavity. The input opening allows for allowing water to enter the cavity. The main chamber is within the cavity configured to fill with water. The release opening is for selectively releasing water from the main chamber for use by a user. The overflow channel within the cavity is for receiving excess water from the main chamber that rises above a threshold associated with the overflow channel. The first overflow opening is for allowing excess water within the overflow channel to freely exit the water capture device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for preventing freeze-up in water hydrant couplings provided in a water supply conduit conveying a continuous flow of water to the respective hydrant couplings, wherein a portion of the water flowing in the supply conduit is diverted into each coupling and around the diverter disposed within the coupling and then back into the conduit thereby preventing freeze-up within the coupling when the water hydrant mounted on the coupling is turned off.

Abstract: An amount of air mixed in a bubble mixture section 18fb is adjusted such that wash water reaches a height corresponding to a bottom surface of a toilet seat before a plurality of bubbles mixed in the bubble mixture section 18fb collect into a single bubble.

Abstract: A flushable campsite toilet includes a water inlet port configured to receive water from a campsite water source, such as a spigot, and an inlet pipe to transport the water to a toilet bowl, wherein the toilet bowl leads to a drain opening and can receive waste therein. The toilet bowl and piping are supported by a portable housing. A valve is included in the inlet pipe so as to control the inflow of water. The toilet includes a stopper removably covering the drain opening in order to create a seal therebetween. The toilet further includes an outlet pipe extending from the drain opening and attached to an outlet port, wherein the outlet port comprises a connector that can be attached to a campsite septic system in order to remove the waste from the toilet.

Abstract: Kits and methods for installing a toilet bowl or toilet assembly without tools, and an installed toilet assembly, are described. The methods and assembly work with an existing flange or can include a standard closet flange configured to receive a flange bolt.

Abstract: A urinal assembly having a frame and a plurality of posts extending from the frame. The frame can include a plurality of openings. The openings can be defined by a plurality of sides and corners. The posts can extend from the corners and/or from the sides of the openings. In some embodiments, the urinal assembly includes a second frame attached to one or more of the plurality of posts.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating a liquid from other substances comprises a first chamber; a second chamber; an inlet connected to the first chamber; an outlet connected to the second chamber; a bypass conduit passing from the inlet, through the first chamber, and into the second chamber; a passage between the first and second chambers and configured to allow the liquid to flow from the first chamber to the second chamber, the passage below the bypass conduit; wherein the bypass conduit comprises a first opening within the first chamber and a second opening in the second chamber; and wherein the bypass conduit is angled relative to a horizontal so that a lowest region of the second opening is higher, in relation to the horizontal, than a highest region of the first opening, such that liquid flow into the inlet, less than a treatment flow rate, flows entirely through the first opening.

Abstract: A self-reinforced masonry block comprises a main body having opposed substantially parallel stacking surfaces and at least one tubular cell defined therethrough from one stacking surface to the other. At least one confining reinforcement is embedded in the main body to surrounding a corresponding cell. Each confining reinforcement extends substantially entirely along the longitudinal length of its corresponding cell and terminates inwardly of the stacking surfaces. The self-reinforced masonry blocks may be used in construction of a grout-filled, vertically reinforced masonry block wall, with the self-reinforced masonry blocks being used for those portions of the wall where the grouted cells are prone to crushing due to high levels of compressive stress, and conventional unreinforced masonry blocks being used for other portions of the wall. A method for making the self-reinforced masonry blocks is also described.

Abstract: Components for constructing a ceiling grid across a span free of or with a limited number of suspension wires including main runners with a relatively high moment of inertia secured at their ends with brackets to wall moldings on opposing walls.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a room delimitation element, in particular to a door or a wall, which may be used for a sanitary room in vehicles or buildings.

Abstract: A metal truss assembly comprises a plurality of C-shape structural members including at least one chord member and two or more adjacent web members, each structural member having a base and two opposing flanges. The at least one C-shape chord member has flanges extending from each side of the base with one flange having cutouts to receive two C-shape web members with a part of said flange of said chord member in place between said cutouts. Each said C-shape web member is placed into one of the cutouts in said flange to intersect the at least one chord member with the bases of the two C-shape web members adjacent the base of the at least one chord member.

Abstract: A method of making a rigid fiber mesh grid includes forming a plurality of substantially rigidified elongated rods formed from fiber strands and forming a plurality of substantially round cross section wrapped fiber tows and tensioning the plurality of wrapped fiber tows in parallel to one another at predetermined laterally spaced intervals. The wrapped fiber tows are wetted with an adhesive. The plurality of substantially rigidified elongated rods are placed on top of and generally perpendicular to the plurality of wetted wrapped fiber tows at spaced intervals. The adhesive is then cured to secure the elongated rods to the plurality of wrapped fiber tows.

Abstract: A method for supporting one or more fixtures on a membrane-covered roof comprises steps of (a) forming one or more brackets coated each on at least one surface with a material compatible for heat welding to roofing membrane, (b) cutting a piece of roofing membrane, separate from the membrane of the membrane-covered roof, the cut piece of roofing membrane having a length and width substantially greater than dimensions of the one or more brackets, (c) joining the one or more brackets by heat welding to the cut piece of roofing membrane, leaving substantial overhanging projection of the cut piece of roofing membrane from the one or more bracket in every direction from the one or more brackets, and (d) heat welding the cut piece of roofing membrane to the membrane of the membrane-covered roof, thereby securing the one or more brackets to the membrane-covered roof.

Abstract: A gutter debris barrier system for preventing debris from entering a gutter includes a frame that is attached to a fascia of a building and a filter screen. The frame may include a floor with slots punched therein, with ribs on either side of the slots that form channels. The channels may be tapered to improve the speed and efficiency of heat transfer, and also to funnel water down into the gutter. The frame may be connected to a mounting bracket that is mounted to the fascia. The heating element provides heat throughout the system to prevent ice formation in cold temperatures.

Abstract: Roof-mounted venting devices adapted for use with roof mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels are provided. Venting devices and assemblies can include a replacement flashing that fits over a cut-down roof pipe vent as well as venting assemblies that redirect airflow from a roof pipe vent. Such replacement flashing can include a substantially planar flashing portion having a raised portion for accommodating any residual flashing or roofing debris. Such replacement flashing may further include a hood portion with one or more vent openings to allow airflow into and out from the interior of the hood portion. Venting assemblies can include a coupling portion for mating with a vent-pipe, a section of hose or piping to redirect airflow, and a venting portion disposed outside or between roof-mounted solar panels.

Abstract: A stair system with freedom of movement between landings associated therewith includes a connection system configured to connect stairs to a landing associated with a construction, wherein the connection system structurally supports the stairs for safe egress over the stairs while concurrently supporting movement between the landing and a second landing associated with the construction by the stairs in at least one dimension, and wherein the movement supports inter-story drift between the landing and the second landing and removes some force translation between the landing and the second landing.

Abstract: A wall panel system for attachment to a building surface includes a plurality of generally vertical supports, and a plurality of generally horizontal mounting rails interconnected with the vertical supports to define a panel mounting gridwork. The horizontal mounting rails have an upper mounting feature and a lower mounting feature, on a side opposite from the building surface. A plurality of panels each have a rear surface, an upper extrusion mounted to a top of the rear surface, and a lower extrusion mounted to a bottom of the rear surface. The upper extrusion mates with a corresponding lower mounting feature on the gridwork, and the lower extrusion mates with a corresponding upper mounting feature on the gridwork. The plurality of panels have a gap about a periphery thereof relative to any adjacent panels, whereby the panels can be non-sequentially mounted to the gridwork.

Abstract: Panels usable for construction of a surface, to provide the surface with a desired appearance, durability, water, air, and fire resistance, dimensions, and weight include a layer of substrate material having first and second sides. Finish elements are positioned on the first side, while a backing material is positioned on the second side, such that the substrate bonds the finish elements to the backing material. Particulate material can also be included, such as within spaces between finish elements. Manufacture of such panels can include use of a vacuum system that acquires finish elements in a selected orientation, acquires particulate material into spaces unoccupied by finish elements, then deposits the arranged finish elements and particulate material into a mold for subsequent manufacturing steps. Use of lightweight, durable materials, such as magnesium oxide, can enable panels having a reduced thickness and weight to be manufactured, without sacrificing durability or longevity.

Abstract: Described herein are surface coverings comprising: a linoleum core; a first major surface terminating at a first edge, a second major surface terminating at a second edge, and a peripheral edge surface extending between the first and second edges; wherein the peripheral edge surface is planar and oriented obliquely to the first major surface and the second major surface. Methods of making and using these surface coverings are also described.

Abstract: Described herein are surface coverings comprising: a linoleum core; a top major surface having a first length and a first width, the top major surface terminating at a first edge; a bottom major surface having a second length and a second width, the bottom major surface terminating at a second edge; and a peripheral edge surface extending between the first and second edges, the peripheral edge surface being planar and oriented obliquely to the top and bottom major surfaces; wherein at least one of the first length or first width is smaller than the second length or second width respectively. Methods of making and using these surface coverings are also described.