Abstract: The fountain attachment device which is adapted to be mounted to a conventional water faucet. The device has an upper portion for attachment to the faucet, a lower tubular portion for allowing water to flow downward out of a lower outlet opening of the lower tubular portion and an L shaped tubular portion that extends from the lower tubular portion to define at an upper open end thereof, an upper fountain outlet. A cylindrical carbon filter assembly is mounted in the fountain attachment device. A user of the device places a finger over the lower outlet opening to block downward flow of water and water flows out of the upper fountain outlet so that the user, while brushing his teeth can lean down to obtain water from the water flowing out of the fountain outlet to rinse his mouth with filtered water.

Abstract: A coupling system is provided. The system comprises a first hydraulic line element that is electrically conductive at least inside, a second hydraulic line element, an electrically conductive intermediate element that projects by a first end thereof at least partially into the first hydraulic line element, a releasable fastening element configured to couple the electrically conductive intermediate element to the second hydraulic line element, and a conducting device coupled to a predetermined electric potential and connected in an electrically conductive manner to the electrically conductive intermediate element. In this way, the two hydraulic lines can be coupled in a releasable manner and dissipate electric charge that may build up in, for example, a fuel system.

Abstract: Described are flexible sumps including a sump cavity comprising flexible walls and a platform coupled to an upper edge of the sump cavity. Some examples of the flexible sumps may also include a flange having a coupling section and an exposed section and/or an interface coupled to a lower surface of the sump cavity. In some examples, at least two coupling tabs are coupled to the platform and are configured to couple the platform to a lower surface of a fuel structure, which may include a sump aperture that is configured to surround the flexible walls of the sump cavity when the platform is coupled to the lower surface of the fuel structure.

Abstract: A modular arrangement is proposed with modules (10-25) added in a row direction, these being constructed at least partially as valve modules (16-21, 23, 24), wherein one module is constructed as a control module (10) and is connected to the other modules (11-25) by control and/or sensor lines (30) running transversely through these modules. Voltage supply lines (36, 37) powered by a voltage source (33) run transversely through the modules (10-25). At least one module is constructed as a safety module (12) and has a switching arrangement (38) for interrupting the voltage supply lines (36) to the modules (13-21) powered via the safety module (12) in the activated state. Safety-related control and/or diagnostic electronics are provided for activating the switching arrangement (38).

Abstract: Steam distributor for air treatment units, including at least one diffusion duct provided with steam outlet orifices, and at least one outer shell for thermally shielding said diffusion duct provided with openings corresponding to said orifices of said duct.

Abstract: A water purifier includes: a purified water tank storing purified water; a hot water tank connected to the purified water tank to receive the purified water from the purified water tank and including a heater heating the received purified water; a manipulation unit through which an extraction amount of hot water is inputted; and a control unit performing a control to supply the purified water of the purified water tank to the hot water tank by the extraction amount of hot water, when the extraction amount of hot water is inputted to the manipulation unit, and operating the heater to heat the water of the hot water tank. According to the present invention, the power consumption of the water purifier decreases in comparison with a conventional water purifier. Furthermore, it is possible to provide an accurate amount of hot water to a user without using a water level sensor.

Abstract: An apparatus for restricting fluid flow includes: a ball receiving element disposed in a fluid conduit and configured to receive a ball that has been advanced through the fluid conduit and at least partially restrict fluid flow; and at least one seating element at least partially disposed within the fluid conduit, the at least one seating element including at least one of: a shape that extends radially into the fluid conduit and is contoured axially to reduce a rate of deceleration of the ball upon contact with the ball receiving element, and a radially compliant element configured to reduce an impact between the ball and the ball receiving element.

Abstract: A device and method for delivering water to a person who is unable to reach household or other types of water dispensing faucets. In some embodiments, the device comprises a trough for delivering the liquid and an attachment member for attaching the trough to a faucet.

Abstract: A modular electrical bus system has a grounding circuit through a plurality of modular units with each unit being both electrically and mechanically connectable together via a bridge member connecting adjacent units and the main communication module. The bridge member and modular units are grounded together with a ground circuit that extends within both components.

Abstract: The water tap has a tap stand, an outlet section and a storage frame. The tap stand is hollow and has a bottom end, an inlet and a flowing channel. The inlet is formed through the bottom end of the tap stand. The flowing channel is formed through the tap stand and communicating with the inlet of the tap stand. The outlet section is mounted on the tap stand and has an outfall communicating with the flowing channels. The storage frame is mounted on the tap stand and has a storage plank and a storage hole to hold the a rinsing cup or put on the other toiletries like a toothpaste, a toothbrush or a hand washing cream in order to keep the sink clean and use convenient.

Abstract: The water tap has a tap stand and a storage frame. The tap stand is has a flowing channel formed through the tap stand. The storage frame is mounted on the tap stand and has a flowing groove and a storage hole. The flowing groove is annular and formed in a top surface of the storage frame and communicates with the flowing channel of the tap stand. The storage hole is formed through the storage frame to provide a storage function.

Abstract: A refrigerant distribution unit for an air conditioner, includes: a refrigerant pipe provided on an outdoor unit side; branch refrigerant pipes provided on an indoor unit side; a distribution portion which distributes a refrigerant from the refrigerant pipe to the branch refrigerant pipes; a main unit which stores the distribution portion and includes a first side face from which the refrigerant pipe is drawn out and a second side face from which the branch refrigerant pipes are drawn out; and an electric component box. Each of the branch refrigerant pipes includes a branch gas pipe and a branch liquid pipe which are drawn out from the second side face. The adjacent branch gas pipes are disposed parallel such that lengths of the branch gas pipes increase sequentially from one toward the other, and the adjacent branch liquid pipes are disposed parallel such that lengths of the branch liquid pipes similarly increase sequentially.

Abstract: A temperature calibration device 1, comprising a calibrator block 3 having a cavity 4 and one or more heating elements and at least one temperature sensor being thermally coupled to the calibrator block 3, and where the heating elements and the temperature sensor is connected to a control system being adapted for controlling the temperature of the calibrator block 3, and where the calibrator block 3, at least partly, is surrounded by thermally insulating material 5. A number of channels 9 are arranged in the calibrator block 3 or the insulation material 5, and being connected to a gas supply 6, and where the control system is adapted for activating or deactivating the gas supply.

Abstract: An anti-ligature fixture is provided to prevent the attachment of ligatures, thereby aiding in the prevention of suicide attempts by hanging. The fixture includes a sloped outer body and an inner body that extend above a surface. The fixture is affixed to the support surface such that there are no potential ligature points. The fixture is proportioned at specified critical angles and linear values and the inner body is formed such that components within the fixture do not protrude, thereby preventing potential ligature points. In one embodiment, the fixture is an anti-ligature dispenser with automatic dispensing means. In another embodiment, the fixture is an anti-ligature faucet with automatic discharge means.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for producing hydrocarbons from production fluids that have water as an external phase. A method for transporting a hydrocarbon through a pipeline includes injecting water into a production stream at a production center. The production stream includes a hydrocarbon, and the water injection forms a transportation stream that includes a water external phase. The transportation stream is flowed through a transportation line to a surface facility, wherein the transportation line comprises a plurality of static mixers spaced at intervals along the transportation line.

Abstract: A modular electrical bus system has a grounding circuit through a plurality of modular I/O units with each unit being both electrically and mechanically connectable together via a bridge member connecting adjacent units and the main communication module. The bridge member and modular I/O units are grounded together with a ground circuit that extends within both components.

Abstract: A fluid flow control system having a fluid inlet configured to be operatively coupled to a fluid source, a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet such that fluid may exit the system therethrough, a proximity sensor for detecting the position of an object within a region adjacent the sensor, and a flow control device configured to regulate fluid flow between the inlet and outlet in response to object detection by the sensor, wherein the flow control device varies the fluid flow proportional to the detected distance of an object from the sensor. A water flow control system for use in a shower environment is also provided, as well as a shower control system, methods for controlling water flow based on sensing of the presence and location of an object, and methods for reducing water consumption.

Abstract: A device is provided for delivering fluids to, or removing fluids from, one or more fluid streams, the device having a body having a plurality of channels extending through the body from a first to a second end of the body, the body having one or more internal passages therein extending in a direction crossways to the plurality of channels. Each channel is in fluid communication with one or more of the passages via a porous wall between the respective channel and an associated passage. The one or more passages are in fluid communication with the exterior of the body.

Abstract: A water supplying device of a hand-held power tool has a water-conveying line and a valve arrangement arranged in the line for controlling the water flow through the line. The valve arrangement has a control valve with a valve body adjustable across a positioning travel. The opening cross-section of the control valve, as a function of the positioning travel, has a progressive characteristic line. An arrangement for actuating the water supplying device has an actuator that is separate from additional control elements of the power tool.

Abstract: In a soft start device for pneumatic systems comprising a primary inlet (P1) where compressed air can be supplied at primary pressure, wherein the primary inlet (P1) is, via a valve circuit, connected to at least one secondary outlet (P2) which can be coupled to a load and where compressed air can be discharged at secondary pressure, the secondary pressure being lower than or equal to the primary pressure, wherein a main valve of the type 2/2 nc (normally closed) which can be bypassed by means of a bypass (17) is installed between the primary inlet (P1) and the secondary outlet (P2), a restrictor device (13) being installed in the bypass (17), wherein the main valve (WV5) and the restrictor device (13) together with further directional valves (WV1, WV3, WV4, WV5, WV6) of the valve circuit are interconnected such and the valve circuit can be switched into a standard switching position for venting such that the secondary outlet (P2) is vented, the valves (WV1, WV3, WV4, WV5, WV6) of the valve circuit are interc

Abstract: A combined plug and sealing ring for a sprinkler nozzle includes a nozzle plug having a substantially cylindrical portion adapted to engage within a nozzle orifice of a sprinkler nozzle, and a cap overlaying the substantially cylindrical portion. A sealing ring is adapted to seat onto a threaded pipe fitting portion of the sprinkler nozzle. A leash interconnects the nozzle plug and the sealing ring. A combined plug and sealing ring in combination with a sprinkler nozzle, and a method of installing a sprinkler nozzle in a highly corrosive or extremely corrosive environment are also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device for expelling burrowing animals, in particular moles, rodents and such like, which comprises a signal generator unit for producing an expelling signal and a transmission body unit for propagating said expelling signal throughout the soil wherein the transmission body unit includes a number of conduits lines distributed throughout the soil which are of such configuration that the expelling signal will thereby be transmitted and/or distributed in a way ensuring propagation thereof into the soil areas surrounding said lines.

Abstract: A microfluidic chip device includes a substrate layer and a microfluidic layer. The substrate layer is made from a shape memory polymer, and includes a transformative portion that can change in volume when changing in shape between a memory shape and a temporary shape. The microfluidic layer is laminated with the substrate layer and has a microchannel that is in fluid communication with the transformative portion. The transformative portion produces a fluid driving pressure within the microchannel when changing between the memory shape and the temporary shape. A method of making the microfluidic chip device is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for purification of nucleic acids, to a kit for performing the method according to the invention and to a new application of magnetic particles for purification of a biological sample. The method according to the invention comprises the following steps: a) accommodating of the sample in a first sample vessel in an aqueous solution and lysing of the sample under non-chaotropic conditions; suspending of first magnetic particles in the solution and inserting of the first sample vessel in a sample vessel holder, wherein the sample vessel is inserted in the annular interior space of a ring magnet associated with the sample vessel holder; separating of the solution from the magnetic particles; and isolating of the nucleic acids from the solution.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (10) for fluid supply and control of a fluidic system comprising a housing (12), a control unit integrated into the housing (12), as well as at least one pump integrated into the housing (12) and at least one valve integrated into the housing (12) which are connected to the control unit by signal technology and which are adapted to be controlled by the control unit, wherein the housing (12) comprises a connection plate (24, 26) comprising standardized fluidic connection means (14, 16, 20) accessible from the outside for connected external fluidic connections, and wherein the at least one pump and the at least one valve (22) are connected to the connection means (14, 16, 20) of the connection plate (24, 26) in the interior of the housing (12).

Abstract: This invention presents a kiosk with novel kiosk housing. The kiosk housing has inner walls, outer walls, and an air circulation path between the inner walls and outer walls. The inner walls define an interior space. The kiosk further has a blower for supplying air into the air circulation path so as to fill the air circulation path with pressurized air. The kiosk can have a misting feature, visual and audio display, and scent feature.

Abstract: A flow tube for a bidirectional flow meter comprises a first means (for example in the form of a first flow chamber) for generating a periodic pressure fluctuation whose frequency varies in dependence on the flow rate of fluid through the meter in a first direction; and a second means (for example in the form of a second flow chamber) for generating a periodic pressure fluctuation whose frequency varies in dependence on the flow rate of fluid through the meter in a second direction, opposite to the first direction; wherein said first and second generating means are connected in series between an inlet port and an outlet port.

Abstract: An apparatus (200) for deriving an operation mode from a first fluidic device to a second fluidic device, wherein the first fluidic device has a first target operation mode (300) representing a desired behavior of the first fluidic device and has a first real operation mode (304) representing the actual behavior of the first fluidic device, wherein the second fluidic device has a second target operation mode (312) representing a desired behavior of the second fluidic device and has a second real operation mode (314) representing the actual behavior of the second fluidic device, the apparatus (200) comprising a first determining unit (202) adapted for determining the first real operation mode (304) based on the first target operation mode (300) and based on a preknown parameterization (302) of the first fluidic device, and a second determining unit (204) adapted for determining the second target operation mode (312) based on the determined first real operation mode (304) and based on a preknown parameterizatio

Abstract: A sanitary fitting (1) has a housing (2), an outlet (3) and functional parts (4) for carrying water. In this case, the outlet (3) is formed on the housing (2) or is connected or can be connected to the housing (2). The functional parts (4) are preferably arranged inside the housing (2). In the case of this sanitary fitting, as claimed in the invention the outlet (3) is substantially free from water-carrying functional parts (4), and at least the outlet (3) and preferably also the housing (2) are produced substantially completely from glass.

Abstract: The present invention is a quartz bubbler container with cross purge capability. This cross purge allows the user to easily purge air and chemical from the valve inlet and outlet by simply flowing inert gas, and avoids the requirement for a more complicated vacuum purging apparatus. The design incorporates two small footprint 3-way valves mounted on the bubbler container inlet and outlet connectors. The 3rd port of each valve is piped together between the valves with a crosspurge line. The valves are corrosion resistant, leak free, maintenance free, non-leaching of impurities, and can accommodate an optional breakseal crusher that will perforate quartz break seals (on the inlet and outlet of ampoule). Liquid out containers of various materials of construction are also contemplated.

Abstract: A vehicle washing system associated with a bay in which a vehicle is parked during the washing operation is equipped with a centering target which can be selectively deployed upon entry of a vehicle to assist the driver in placing the vehicle on the longitudinal centerline of the effective washing area in the bay. The target may be provided by a vertically-depending spray arm having internal LEDs which are illuminated in a flashing effect during vehicle entry and in constant colors during the washing program. Several alternative target arrangements are described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid processing unit through which fluid may flow while being processed. The fluid processing unit comprises a casing and one or more cassettes each comprising an outer housing being arranged so that the outer housing forms at least a part of the casing and each comprising a flow passage through the cassette. At least one of the cassettes comprises at least one fluid interaction component or is adapted to receive at least one fluid interaction component. The fluid processing unit comprises total pressure increasing means for at least partially overcoming the pressure loss due to the fluid flowing through the unit, the total pressure increasing means and one, more or all of the one or more fluid interaction components being encapsulated by the casing.

Abstract: A gas pressure regulator comprises a central body having a first, gas inlet pipe and a second, gas outlet pipe; a shutter housed at least partially in the central body and mobile to adjust the opening of a section for the passage of the gas between a position (B) in which the section is fully open and a position (A) in which the section is closed; a silencing device located in the central body at the passage section, for reducing the noise created by the passage of the gas; and means for fastening the silencing device to the central body. The silencing device comprises a cylindrical perforated plate to allow the passage of the gas.

Abstract: A shower generally includes a shower enclosure, various shower systems having output devices, and a control panel having an electronic display and configured for receiving user inputs. Shower control systems and methods are provided for receiving and processing user inputs, displaying a graphical user interface on the electronic display, and controlling outputs of the various output devices.

Abstract: A shower generally includes a shower enclosure, various shower systems having output devices, and a control panel having an electronic display and configured for receiving user inputs. Shower control systems and methods are provided for receiving and processing user inputs, displaying a graphical user interface on the electronic display, and controlling outputs of the various output devices.

Abstract: A shower generally includes a shower enclosure, various shower systems having output devices, and a control panel having an electronic display and configured for receiving user inputs. Shower control systems and methods are provided for receiving and processing user inputs, displaying a graphical user interface on the electronic display, and controlling outputs of the various output devices.

Abstract: A shower generally includes a shower enclosure, various shower systems having output devices, and a control panel having an electronic display and configured for receiving user inputs. Shower control systems and methods are provided for receiving and processing user inputs, displaying a graphical user interface on the electronic display, and controlling outputs of the various output devices.

Abstract: A water-saving system for the management and disposal of liquid, semi-solid and solid wastes is described that comprises an open-rim toilet bowl for allowing the flow of greywater containing food residues, small pieces of soap, soapy water, toothpaste residues, shaving residues, hair and the like, without allowing the formation of obstructions throughout the length of the open rim; an anti-sedimentation tank placed above and connected to the toilet bowl, said anti-sedimentation tank being capable of receiving and storing greywater that will be reused to flush the toilet to clean the toilet bowl and flush the wastes contained therein; a washbasin-shaped tank lid located above and closing the upper part of the anti-sedimentation tank; and mixer valve installed in the washbasin-shaped lid and connected to cold and hot water supplies, where the mixer valve includes a third water supply intake which is also connected to a water outlet of the intake valve of the anti-sedimentation tank by means of a flexible hose.

Abstract: A water monitor. A flange assembly has a stationary portion, a rotatable portion disposed in the stationary portion, and a duct extending through the stationary and rotatable portions. A water-driven turbine has a rotatable water wheel in communication with the duct and an output shaft coupled to the water wheel. Fluid flowing through the duct causes the water wheel to rotate, the rotation of the water wheel causing the output shaft to rotate. An output crank, a first linkage, a rocker arm, and a second linkage comprising a first linkage member and a second linkage member are operable by the output shaft to convert the rotating motion of the output shaft to an oscillatory motion. Fluid exiting the duct is distributed by the rotatable portion in a determinable oscillatory pattern.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer for a pipe includes an ultrasonic source which produces plane waves. The transducer includes a housing having a face at least a portion of which is curved through which the plane waves produced from the source disposed in the housing are emitted and directed outward towards the pipe's interior wall so a full cross-section of the pipe's interior can be measured. A flow meter for detecting fluid flow rates in a pipe. A method for detecting fluid flow rates in a pipe.

Abstract: The invention provides fluidic devices having incorporated electrodes, systems for using such devices, and methods for manufacturing such devices. The invention also provides fluidic devices configured to absorb joule heating within the device.

Abstract: A washer pump apparatus having a washer fluid heating function, may include a housing having an inlet provided at a first end thereof to permit a washer fluid to flow thereinto, and an outlet provided at a second end thereof to permit the washer fluid to flow out therefrom, a heater unit disposed in the housing on a course extending from the inlet substantially to the outlet to heat the washer fluid passing through the heater unit, and having a hollow portion therein, a path member inserted into the hollow portion, and having on an inner circumference thereof a passage through which the washer fluid passes, an impeller unit provided in the housing and supplying the washer fluid from the inlet to the outlet, a check valve provided at a portion of the outlet, and being open when a discharge pressure of the washer fluid is a preset value or more, and a control unit selectively operating the impeller unit and the heater unit.

Abstract: A diagnostic device is provided that includes a plurality of retainment regions interconnected through at least one fluid processing passageway or separated by at least one barrier. A fluid flow modulator can be provided in the fluid processing passageway if a fluid processing passageway is provided. The barrier and/or fluid flow modulator can comprise a polysaccharide, a derivative of a polysaccharide, or a combination thereof. For example, the barrier can comprise a chitosan material.

Abstract: A vacuum chamber is evacuated through a first evacuation passage provided with a first valve and a second evacuation passage provided with a second valve. An opening degree of the first valve is adjusted so that a pressure in the vacuum chamber becomes substantially equal to a process pressure P; an opening degree of a butterfly valve further provided in the second evacuation passage is adjusted to substantially equal to a set value determined by a table in order to set flow rates of gases to be evacuated through the first evacuation passage and the second evacuation passage to be substantially equal to corresponding set values determined by the recipe; and an opening degree of the second valve is adjusted so that a measurement value of a differential pressure gauge further provided in the second evacuation passage becomes substantially equal to a differential pressure written in the table.

Abstract: A valve diaphragm is provided with indicia of origin, batch number, date of manufacture and other information. Critical indicia are disposed on outwardly projecting tabs that can be see when the diaphragm is operatively mounted in the valve. Indicia may be provided on elastomeric and non-elastomeric portions of the diaphragm.

Abstract: Various embodiments of air treatment devices (and housings therefor) are provided. The housings are generally configured to provide air treatment devices that lessen the perceived size of the air treatment devices. Further, embodiments provide housings that are typically easier to clean and maintain and to provide ease in access to internal components of the air treatment devices. Embodiments may also position a control display associated with an air treatment device, such that the control display is visible from a position in front and above the air treatment device. Embodiments may also be configured to minimize and/or inhibit air exiting from the air outlet of the air treatment device from immediately reentering the air inlet and thus being recirculated.

Abstract: Apparatus for preventing energy leakage from a transmission line treats the line as a “partially closed” vessel. A gas stream with a pressure slightly different from ambient pressure is provided to the interior of the transmission line and a conduit that allows gas to pass between the transmission line and the ambient environment is provided. The gas flow rate at the conduit is then detected and monitored. If the flow rate falls outside a predetermined threshold, an electrical energy leakage is indicated. In another embodiment, the pressure of the input gas to the transmission line is continuously checked by a pressure switch, which will detect a change in pressure if the transmission integrity is compromised and disable the energy source.

Abstract: A pet drinking fountain assembly having a pump forming part of a fountain mounting arrangement that includes a lift tube coupling a cover to the pump coupled to a lower basin by a mount. The mount and lift tube attenuate pump noise and vibration by providing isolation from the basin and cover and can function as dampeners. In a preferred embodiment the pump is part of a pump module that includes a module housing to which the pump is attached by another noise-attenuating mount. Each mount is formed by one or more suction cups with the cups and lift tube made of vibration dampening material, such as a resilient vibration dampening or isolating material that can be an elastomeric material. The module includes a lift tube coupling discharge that registers in fluid flow communication with a pump outlet and can include a ring or bushing therebetween providing additional noise attenuation.

Abstract: In aspects, the present disclosure provides a device that includes a shape memory member having a sealed outer surface and a permeable inner mass and a selected fluid placed and sealed within the inner mass at a first temperature. The selected fluid is released from the inner mass when the shape memory member is heated to a second temperature.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a planter system for supporting living plants on a vertical surface that includes a fabric folded into one or more vertically-arranged knife pleats; the pleats are secured and horizontally segmented into vertically arranged, upward facing pockets by a securing mechanism. The upward facing pockets are adapted hold a plant growth medium. Other aspects of the invention include a simple system for removing failing plants, and replacing them with healthy plants, already embedded in growth medium within a root liner pouch. The invention further includes an irrigation system.