Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-stage thermal convection apparatus and uses thereof. In one embodiment, the invention features a three-stage thermal convection apparatus that includes a temperature shaping element for assisting a thermal convection mediated Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The invention has a wide variety of applications including amplifying nucleic acid without cumbersome and expensive hardware associated with many prior devices. In a typical embodiment, the apparatus can fit in the palm of a user's hand for use as a portable, simple to operate, and low cost PCR amplification device.

Abstract: A mini-fluidics cassette, for detection of at least one analyte in a sample, comprising, at least one sample inlet port, at least one reagent inlet port, at least one outlet port, at least one channel extending between said at least one sample inlet port and said at least one outlet port, at least one insertion port for a fiber optic cable light source, at least one insertion port for a fiber optic cable spectrophotometer distant said at least one insertion port for a fiber optic cable light source, wherein said at least one insertion port for a fiber optic cable light source and said at least one insertion port for a fiber optic cable spectrophotometer forms part of the at least one channel, and is proximate said at least one outlet port and forms at least one reading cell/path length for light from said fiber optic cable light source to said fiber optic cable spectrophotometer port.

Abstract: Systems and methods for analysis of samples, and in certain embodiments, microfluidic sample analyzers configured to receive a cassette containing a sample therein to perform an analysis of the sample are described. The microfluidic sample analyzers may be used to control fluid flow, mixing, and sample analysis in a variety of microfluidic systems such as microfluidic point-of-care diagnostic platforms. Advantageously, the microfluidic sample analyzers may be, in some embodiments, inexpensive, reduced in size compared to conventional bench top systems, and simple to use. Cassettes that can operate with the sample analyzers are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus for single cell patterning, the apparatus comprising: a structure comprising a surface channel formed therein, the surface channel being connected to an inlet and an outlet; and a cell trap disposed in the surface channel, the cell trap comprising a body defining a flow diverter for diverting flow passing by the cell trap into a wide path or a narrow path, and the body and the structure together defining a well for capturing a cell diverted by the flow diverter toward the narrow path.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method for manipulating DNA molecules for use in a microfluidic device is provided, where the method may comprise providing a solution of a plurality of DNA molecules having a first radius of gyration under under a zero flow velocity, and maintaining the DNA molecules in a spherical shape under a flow velocity.

Abstract: In one aspect, single-sided microfluidic devices are described herein. In some embodiments, a single-sided microfluidic device comprises a substrate, a photoconductive layer positioned over the substrate, electrical contacts in electrical communication with the photoconductive layer, and a dielectric assembly positioned over the photoconductive layer. The dielectric assembly comprises a hydrophobic surface for receiving a liquid. In some embodiments, the dielectric assembly has an effective capacitance of about 10 ?F/m2 to about 10,000 ?F/m2 and/or an average thickness between about 20 nm and about 2000 nm.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connection system for connecting an inside environment of a compartment to an environment outside said compartment, said compartment being isolated relative to the outside environment and said connection system, said connection system comprising a blocking device.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods relate to a modular microfluidic device, the component comprising a channel comprising an apex opening, wherein the apex opening that is at least partially surrounded by a collar configured to pin a liquid within the channel. The modular microfluidic device may also have a structural tip in or near the apex opening which is configured to allow for the flow of the liquid into the channel from a second component for a modular microfluidic device when the component is engaged with the second component.

Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-stage thermal convection apparatus such as a two-stage thermal convection apparatus and uses thereof. In one embodiment, the two-stage thermal convection apparatus includes a temperature shaping element that assists a thermal convection mediated Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The invention has a wide variety of applications including amplifying nucleic acid without cumbersome and expensive hardware associated with many prior devices. In a typical embodiment, the apparatus can fit in the palm of a user's hand for use as a portable, simple to operate, and low cost PCR amplification device.

Abstract: Individual temperature control in multiple reactions performed simultaneously in a spatial array such as a multi-well plate is achieved by thermoelectric modules with individual control, with each module supplying heat to or drawing heat from a single region within the array, the region containing either a single reaction vessel or a group of reaction vessels.

Abstract: A test strip holder may include an upper body, a lower body, and a mating portion. The upper body may include a first recess. The lower body may include a second recess. The mating portion may fixedly mate the upper body and the lower body. The first recess and the second recess form an internal volume when the upper body and lower body are mated.

Abstract: A flexible polishing apparatus for granulated grains is provided. The flexible polishing apparatus includes a housing, a feeding device, at least one flexible polishing unit, a bran discharging device, and a rice outlet. The flexible polishing unit includes a radial gravity self-flow flexible polishing chamber. The feeding device, the flexible polishing chamber and the rice outlet are sequentially arranged from top to bottom along the gravity direction. The flexible polishing apparatus for granulated grains avoids the shear effect of granulated grains in the polishing chamber, improves the flexible friction effect, and greatly reduces the damage to rice in the polishing process while ensuring that rice bran is cleaned and the rice is polished, thereby improving the rate of polished rice and reducing energy consumption.

Abstract: Polycrystalline silicon fragments obtained by fracturing polycrystalline silicon blocks wherein a content ratio of polycrystalline silicon powder having a particle size of 500 to 1000 ?m is 0.1 to 40 ppmw.

Abstract: A macerator is disclosed for utilisation of hospital waste, in particular cellulose pulp, to be used in hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities which require the utilisation ofhygiene products such as diapers, disposable paper bed sheets and other personal hygiene products, such as cellulose-base urinals and bedpans with their contents, that is, excreta. In the bottom zone a truncated cone shape grinder is placed, with slots separating the charge chamber from the discharge chamber, whereas on the motor axis a plate is located, bent at the end in parallel to the grinder surface, with slots in the bend, and moreover on the plate on the charge chamber side at least two shaped grinding knives are located, and within its end zone at least two squeezers, whereas under the plate from the discharge chamber side at least two scrapers are installed.

Abstract: A cutter holder has two limbs extending at an angle to each other. A cutter is mounted on one side of the cutter holder. An opposite side of the cutter holder has a prism-shaped cavity defined thereon. The cavity has a V-shape cross-section having a recessed groove at a base of the V-shape. A center line of the recessed groove is laterally offset from a center line of the cutter holder.

Abstract: The present invention discloses low cost, on-site, efficient, and compact (stationary or mobile) system for continuous (non-batch operation) conversion of waste to usable products such as sources of energy, fertilizer, etc.

Abstract: Provided are a solvent separation method, a solvent separation apparatus, and a solvent separation system that make it possible to easily collect a solvent removed from an exhaust atmosphere and that sake it possible to easily carry out maintenance of exhaust gas pathways. An impeller placed in a storage space of a casing is rotated to introduce a gas including a volatilized solvent from an inlet of the casing into the storage space, and the volatilized solvent is cooled and devolatilized by a collection face that has been cooled so as to have a surface temperature lower than the temperature of the gas, to thereby separate the solvent from the gas.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shower arm with a torus regulator and a magnetic ring that is comprised of a body (1) with a body head (25), a bell (2), a cover (3), a torus (4), a mixing element (5), a ring (6), a pin (7) and a barrier (9) on the cover, a barrier (8) and a nozzle (10) on the bell, a cavity (11) for water inlet, an inlet (12) of water into the shower head (25), a space (13), a gap (14) on the mixing element, a chamber (15), gaskets (16) and (17), a thread (18), a space (19) for directed flow, pins (20) and a groove (21) on the ring, a groove (22) on the bell, a thread (23) for connecting a hose, a support surface (24) a magnetic ring (26) and an output spray (27) of water and air. When the water circulates within the space (19) underneath the torus (4), negative pressure—vacuum occurs from both the internal and the external sides of the torus cross-section that conditions suction of the air from the chamber (15) of the cone of the bell (2). This air is suctioned through the nozzle (10).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for depositing a fluid over an interface. A nozzle may comprise a body having a first end and a second end, an input located at the first end of the body, an output located at the second end of the body, and a plurality of channels located within the body. The input may be configured to receive a fluid. The plurality of channels may have a configuration that causes the fluid received through the input to flow through the plurality of channels and exit the output to form a deposition having a desired shape over an interface.

Abstract: A shower device including a housing and a spray engine. The housing defines an inlet for a water supply. The spray engine includes an elastomeric layer providing a spray face and defining an outlet, a support layer having a first surface engaging the elastomeric layer and an opposite, second surface, the support layer defining a plurality of openings between the first surface and the second surface, material of the elastomeric layer extending axially through each of the plurality of openings to the second surface and radially over a portion of the second surface in a plurality of separate and individual flanges, the flanges providing an integrated seal on the second surface of the support layer. The elastomeric layer forms a continuous elastic coating covering the outer surfaces of the front and sides of the spray face and extending from the spray face through the openings to the second surface.

Abstract: A Wurster processor and a powder feed system are coupled via an eductor so as to supply dry powder through the air diverter sleeve of the Wurster for discharging onto the circulating particles during operation of the Wurster. Agglomeration and aggregation of the particles is eliminated or minimized by isolating or separating the liquid spray by the spray gun from the dry powder.

Abstract: Various embodiments concern a sprayer having a blower that outputs a HVLP flow of air into a hose, the hose connecting with a spray gun. A pressure sensor measures pressure of the HVLP air within the hose via a tube that branches from a fitting to which the hose connects. If the sensor indicates that the pressure level has increased above a threshold amount, indicating that the trigger of the spray gun is not being actuated, then power output to the blower is reduced (e.g., stopped). HVLP air is trapped within the hose by two valves when the trigger is not actuated. When the sensor indicates that the pressure level has decreased, corresponding to release of the trapped HVLP air into the gun for spraying by actuation of the trigger, power to the blower is increased (e.g., resumed).

Abstract: A high pressure cleaner with adjustable flow and/or pressure. A controller (CTL) serves to receive a wireless control signal (WCS) from a remote control unit (RCU), e.g. integrated in the spray handle (SH), in response to an input from a user. The controller (CTL) controls the high pressure module (HPM), e.g. electric power to its electric motor, so as to adjust a flow and/or pressure level at the liquid output (L_O) of the high pressure module (HPM) in accordance with the wireless control signal (WCS), between a plurality of different flow and/or pressure levels in an active state of the high pressure module (HPM). Further, the controller may be arranged to switch off electric power to the motor of the high pressure module (HPM) and/or activate a safety valve in response to a wireless control signal (WCS). The user interface (U_I) that allows the user to enter the desired flow and/or pressure level, may further visualize the flow and/or pressure level to the user.

Abstract: The present invention includes an improved sprinkler design having a magnetic sensing system for determining the position of the riser nozzle, a waterproofed motor housing and related cables, configurable sprinkler body compartments, and a pilot valve with a check valve assembly, both of which are located within the sprinkler body.

Abstract: A retaining system for a solenoid assembly of a liquid adhesive dispensing system includes a quick-release mechanism configured to secure the solenoid assembly in place. The quick-release mechanism engages an air tube of the solenoid and thereby secures the entire solenoid assembly to a manifold. The quick-release mechanism can release the solenoid, facilitating easy removal of the entire solenoid assembly, by a simple turning, pushing, or pulling action on the quick-release mechanism. The released solenoid can then be removed and replaced, thereby minimizing downtime caused due to the replacement of a faulty solenoid.

Abstract: A system is provided for a cup used to supply a liquid to a spray tool. The system may include a cup, a filter configured to mount inside of the cup, one or more supports extending across the filter, and a retainer configured to retain the filter.

Abstract: Removable and replaceable outlets for point-of-use showers or faucets, filter devices, and methods and systems including the outlets and/or filter devices, are disclosed.

Abstract: A system includes a conversion sleeve having a first mounting feature and a second mounting feature. The first mounting feature is configured to couple the conversion sleeve to a fluid connection of a first spray component. The second mounting feature is configured to couple the conversion sleeve to an adapter. The adapter is configured to be coupled to a second spray component.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a nozzle, method thereof and a kit set for the same for spreading material on curved surface, in the field of repairing services for wind turbine blades and other similar composite components. More particularly, the present invention relates to a nozzle for spreading material on a leading edge of a wind turbine blade for guiding the material along the surface, generally, for repairing or upgrading. In addition it relates to a method and a kit for performing the application.

Abstract: An application device for materials, in particular adhesives, including at least one cartridge receiving device for receiving a replaceable cartridge which contains a material and has a material outlet opening; a rotary device for metering or mixing the material, rotary device having a first engagement element; a drive device for driving the rotary device, the drive device having a rod which is mounted in a rotatable and axially movable manner and has a second engagement element at the end face; and a gearing unit for driving the rod in order to bring the first and the second engagement element into engagement with each other.

Abstract: A coating applicator that applies a coating or liquid to a variety of different substrates having different contoured surfaces is disclosed. A coating applicator of the present disclosure is able to reach, contact, and cover the entirety of a contoured substrate. In this manner, the coating applicator is able to transfer a coating to the entirety of the contoured substrate.

Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide a coating vice which can reduce variation in the amount of discharge in the discharge nozzle group. A coating device 1 includes: a first supply unit 40 and a second supply unit 50 which can supply a viscous material N to the discharge nozzle group 10; and a control portion 100 which stops, at the timing at which a first time zone is switched to a second time zone, the supply in the first supply unit 40, which makes the second supply unit 50 start the supply of the viscous material N to the discharge nozzle group 10 at a second flow rate and which makes, in a second time zone, the first supply unit 40 start the preparation of the viscous material necessary in any one of a third time zone and the subsequent time zones.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparing a composite layer, by applying an oligomeric organic compound layer on a substrate with a metal or metal oxide layer by vapour deposition, comprising the steps of (a) providing a substrate layer, (b) applying a metal or metal oxide layer under reduced pressure on said substrate, and (c) vapour depositing the oligomeric organic compound on the metal or metal oxide layer while the film remains at reduced pressure, wherein the oligomeric compound is evaporated from an oligomeric or polymeric compound comprising a stabiliser, or wherein the oligomeric compound is amorphous, or has a high solubility in certain solvents.

Abstract: A separation device includes a first shredding unit, a first beating unit, and a first separation unit. The first shredding unit shreds a disposable diaper (processing target) containing a plastic (first material) and a water-absorbent polymer (second material) adhering to the plastic. The first beating unit beats the disposable diaper shredded by the first shredding unit with a first beating member, thereby promoting dissociation of the water-absorbent polymer from the plastic. The first separation unit rotates a first tubular portion in a state in which the disposable diaper beaten by the first beating unit is accommodated therein, thereby separating the water-absorbent polymer passing through first holes from the disposable diaper.

Abstract: Sorting device comprising several sorting carts, which can be moved along a sorting track in a transport direction and in each case are provided with a load receiving device for controlled receipt and delivery of individually packaged goods, with a quantity of discharge points at which individually packaged goods can be specifically delivered according to a respective sorting destination from the sorting carts, wherein each discharge point has a width, wherein the width of at least some discharge points can be adjusted while the sorting device is operating, and method for sorting individually packaged goods using the device.

Abstract: The oral tooth cleaning device of the present invention includes a hollow tubular member having at least one open end for the insertion of a finger. The hollow tubular member includes a microfiber, which defines its cleaning surface, such as a textured surface, configured to provide cleaning, polishing, and fresh breath to the user.

Abstract: A slot car track cleaner is provided. The slot car track cleaner includes a housing having at least an upper plate and a lower plate. A ledge may be disposed within the housing. The present invention further includes a plurality of floating weights. The floating weights hang from the ledge. A bottom portion of each of the floating weights protrudes beyond the lower plate. Each of the floating weights slide upwards when a pressure is applied to the bottom portion. A vertical plate is secured to the housing. The vertical plate includes a bottom edge protruding from the housing beyond the lower plate. A cleaning pad is secured to a bottom surface of the lower plate and covers the bottom portions of the plurality floating weights and at least a portion of the bottom edge of the vertical plate.

Abstract: A washing container for washing or maintaining various objects includes opposite side portions, end portions, and a bottom portion. Embodiments include at least one lower support having an engagement gap extending between lower support arms and configured to releasably secure the objects. Some embodiments include opposing lower supports that secure opposite ends of the objects. An upper support arm may be used independently or together with one or more lower supports to secure one or more objects, in various positions, within the washing container. A perforated support platform support the objects above the bottom portion of the washing container and allows fluids and debris to pass to the bottom portion and into a drain trough. A debris basket within the trough limits the passage of debris into a drain.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an auxiliary cleaning system for cleaning a gas turbine engine. The auxiliary cleaning system includes an external motoring source mechanically coupled to one or more engine shafts of the gas turbine engine. Thus, the external motoring source is configured to turn the one or more shafts. The auxiliary cleaning system also includes a cleaning apparatus configured to implement a cleaning procedure on the gas turbine engine while the external motoring source is turning the one or more shafts of the gas turbine engine.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure address problems presented by contaminants, such as dirt and debris, by providing an optical apparatus with techniques and methodologies for self-cleaning. In that regard, embodiments of the present disclosure employ techniques and methodologies for maintaining a very thin (e.g., few microns thick) layer of liquid, such as a non-stick liquid, on an optical window of an optical body that shields or protects an optical device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gel for removing a graffiti from a surface of a solid substrate, consisting of a colloidal solution comprising an inorganic viscosifying agent, at least one solvent, optionally at least one surfactant, and optionally at least one dye and/or pigment. The invention also relates to a method for removing a graffiti from a surface of a solid substrate, wherein the gel is applied to said surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a coating line (1) cleaning apparatus (20) and a method for cleaning at least a selected part of a coating line.

Abstract: A medical instrument with an elongated outer housing and inner drive shaft and including an instrument flushing system that enables the medical instrument to be effectively cleaned after use is disclosed. The medical instrument may be configured such that the instrument flushing system receives a flushing fluid through a port at a proximal end of the instrument and directs the flushing fluid through a flushing fluid plenum created between an inner surface of the elongated outer housing and an outer surface of the inner drive shaft. The flushing fluid plenum may be maintained by a standoff formed from a collar with one or more axially extending grooves. The instrument flushing system may include a seal to seal portions of a drive system in communication with the inner drive shaft and extending radially outward from a main body of the medical instrument.

Abstract: A foot operated pump includes a water and airtight flexible and collapsible wall between a top plate and a base plate and an interior variable volume chamber. A flexible hose is selectively attachable to either an inlet port or an outlet port on the top plate member. The contents (air and/or liquid) within the variable volume chamber are forced out of the outlet port upon forced downward movement of the top plate member towards the base plate member. As the top plate member returns to a normally relaxed state in separated, angled relation to the base plate, the variable volume chamber enlarges and air is sucked through the inlet port to fill the variable volume chamber. An opposite end of the flexible hose attaches to various adapters and fittings for clearing clogged drain lines and other conduits.

Abstract: An injection tip assembly 10 and methods for use more reliably provide for delivery of fluid substances, such as materials that promote removal, destruction, or isolation of contaminants, into targeted zones within soil or bedrock. The injection tip assembly 10 permits the application of pressurized fluid 163 so as to erode or cut a desired cavity or eroded volume 164 within the subsurface 14, allows for timely observation, adjustment, and control of pressure within the cavity, and directs the delivery of a second substance or fluid that may incorporate desired materials. The consequence of managed erosion and pressure control is to nucleate and propagate a hydraulic fracture of desirable form that optimally delivers remedial agents throughout the targeted formation.

Abstract: Chemically oxidizing a wide range of targeted contaminants in soils, sludges, groundwater, process water, and wastewater and assisting in the eventual (over time) biological attenuation of the contaminants utilizing persulfates activated by trivalent metals, such as ferric iron. The use of trivalent metal activated persulfate results in a chemical oxidation process that yields degradation compounds which facilitate further attenuation via biological processes.

Abstract: An apparatus for rolling strip having a periodically fluctuating strip thickness has a roll stand with a set of rollers defining a gap, an adjustment actuator for adjusting the gap of the set of rollers, unwinder for feeding the strip with an initial thickness to an intake side of the roller gap, winder for receiving the strip with a desired final thickness from an output side of the gap, respective upstream and roller assemblies each having an immersion roller provided upstream of the roll stand between the unwinder and the roll stand and downstream of the roll stand between the roll stand and the winder. The strip is guided around the immersion rollers. A controller sets positions of the immersion rollers while operating the rollers of the roll stand at a constant roller speed, for determining the roller gap in dependence on the setting of the rollers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tool handling system (1) for removing or inserting a bending tool (2) in a tool mounting (3), comprising a bending tool (2) having a gripping recess (16) and a locking device (7) that cooperates with the tool mounting (3), the locking device being deactivatable by an actuating element (10) which is arranged in the gripping recess (16) and is accessible therein, and further comprising a gripper (11) with a gripper base body (12), comprising a first gripper finger (14) arranged on the gripper base body and at least a second gripper finger (15) which is adjustable on the gripper base body (12) by means of an articulation (20). The invention is characterized in that the first gripper finger (14), when positioned in the gripping recess (16), and the adjustable second gripper finger (15), when positioned in a release position, do not contact the actuating element (10) and that the adjustable second gripper finger (15) contacts the actuating element (10) in a gripping position.

Abstract: A combined device for bending and cutting ribbon-shaped elements is described, comprising first guiding and supporting means (1, 101) adapted to allow positioning a ribbon-shaped element (T, T1), second guiding and supporting means (3, 103) adapted to prevent the rotation of the ribbon-shaped element (T, T1) with respect to an axis belonging to a plane on which the ribbon-shaped element (T, T1) rests, first translating means (41, 1041) and rotation means (4, 104) adapted to move a tool (5, 105) with respect to the second guiding and supporting means (3, 103); the second guiding and supporting means (3, 103) comprise a portion of bending profile (8, 108) adapted to bend theribbon-shaped element (T, T1) and a portion of cutting profile (9, 109) adapted to cut the ribbon-shaped element (T, T1). A method is further described for bending and cutting ribbon-shaped elements performed through such device.

Abstract: A controller alters a cycle time of a die arrangement, configured to hot stamp metal into components and having an active cooling system, based on an amount of heat transferred from the components to the active cooling system such that a grain structure of the components transitions from an austenitic state to a martensitic state.