Abstract: A method for charging an energy storage device for use in a cleaning appliance includes the following steps: reading an energy demand signal representative of an energy required by the cleaning appliance for a predetermined cleaning run; and outputting a charging signal using the energy demand signal, the charging signal causing the energy storage device to be charged as a function of the energy required.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners that remove debris from water using a plurality of cyclonic flows, or that include a removable impeller subassembly, a check valve for a debris canister, a particle separator assembly having a handle that locks to the pool cleaner, a modular roller drive gear box, or a roller latch that secures a roller to the pool cleaner. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to the check valve and the roller latch themselves. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a filter medium for pool cleaners that includes embossments providing flow channels for water, and to roller assemblies for pool cleaners. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners including alternative pump motor engagements. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners power supplies that include a potted and contoured power board assembly, and to kickstands therefor. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pool cleaner caddy, and removable wheels therefor.

Abstract: A contaminant detection system for a portable computer with the computer having a camera, an integral screen and central processing unit (CPU; a. an enclosure having at least one grasper disposed for coupling the system to the portable computer; b. a light emitter capable of generating light of with least one excitation wavelength for a contaminant present in its output spectrum with output of the emitter oriented into the field of view of the camera; c. electronic communication between the computer and the emitter; c. software loaded onto the computer capable of (1) activating the emitter, (2) comparing a scene recorded by the camera to at least one emission wavelength for the specific contaminant corresponding to the excitation wavelength, and (3) displaying an output on the computer's screen corresponding to the areas within the camera's field of view where the contaminant is present in amounts greater than a detection threshold.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to a hair-shavings collecting sheet that includes at least four peel-back adhesives, in an exemplary embodiment, in each corner on the surface of one side of the sheet to releasably couple the sheet to a surface, such as a bathroom sink, where the adhesive may be optional for use due to the peel-off cover on the adhesives. In an illustrative example, the sheet may be formed of a polymer and made of (oxo-) biodegradable or recycled materials. The sheet may include multiple different adhesive locations disposed around the sheet, for example. In some implementations, the adhesive may have complementary release liners. A sheet with adhesive may securely but releasably keep the sheet in place, thus preventing spillage of shaved hair.

Abstract: Disclosed is a spin type mop cleaning bucket that is suitable for cleaning a foldable flat mop, comprising a bucket body and a spinning device mounted on a bottom portion of the bucket body, the spinning device having a spinning element and a pair of receiving recesses, and the spinning element being spun around a longitudinal axis of the spinning element to spin on the bucket body, wherein the pair of receiving recesses is provide to receive the folded foldable flat mop such that the spinning element of the spinning device spins on the bucket body as driven by a spinning force of the foldable flat mop which is spinning.

Abstract: A tube stripping device includes a main body and a pair of free rotating rollers. The main body has a first arm, a second arm, and a spring portion. The first arm and the second arm extend outwardly from the spring portion. The first arm and the second arm are manually movable relative to each other from a spaced apart default position to a stripping position. The spring portion normally biases the first arm and the second arm apart and to the default position. The first roller is rotatably disposed at a first free end of the first arm, and the second roller rotatably disposed on a second free end of the second arm. The first roller is oriented generally parallel with the second roller. The first roller has an uninterrupted outer circumferential surface, and the second roller has an outer circumferential surface with a groove formed therein.

Abstract: Wipes for preventing quaternary ammonium (“quat”) depletion suitable for commercial applications (e.g., industrial and consumer disinfectant wipes) are provided. The wipe includes at least one nonwoven layer, at least one pulp layer, and a cationic additive. The at least one nonwoven layer and the at least one pulp layer may be hydroentangled to form a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric having a first surface and a second surface. Additionally, the cationic additive may be disposed on at least one of the first surface or the second surface.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus connected with an information processing apparatus is provided. The image reading apparatus includes a specific parameter setting unit to set a parameter to be used in an image reading operation; an instruction receiving unit to receive input of an instruction to start reading of an image; a notification transmitting unit to transmit a read-start notification to the information processing apparatus; a parameter receiving unit to receive a parameter transmitted from the information processing apparatus in response to receipt of the read-start notification; and an image reading unit to read the image base on, at least with regard to the parameter set in the image reading apparatus, the parameter set by the specific parameter setting unit in place of the parameter transmitted from the information processing apparatus when the parameter transmitted from the information processing apparatus is received by the parameter receiving unit.

Abstract: A brush cleaning cup includes a bottom and one or more sides forming an internal volume for cleaning brushes, such as makeup or cosmetic brushes. The brush cleaning cup can include a plurality of projections, such as tines and ridges on interior surfaces of the bottom and/or sides to facilitate cleaning. In some forms, the bottom and/or sides may include one or more holes, for draining a cleaning agent, such as water. A brush may be positioned in the cup and rubbed against the projections in the presence of the cleaning agent to remove material therefrom.

Abstract: A self-propelled cleaning apparatus for cleaning a submerged surface of a pool or tank includes a housing having a front portion as defined by the direction of movement of the apparatus when propelled by a water jet, an opposing rear portion and adjoining side portions defining the periphery of the apparatus, and a baseplate with at least one water inlet. Rotationally-mounted supports are coupled proximate the front and rear portions of the housing to enable movement of the apparatus over the submerged surface. A water pump is configured to draw water and debris from the pool through the inlet for filtering. A stationary directional discharge conduit is in fluid communication with the pump and has at least one discharge opening through which a pressurized stream of water forming the water jet is directionally discharged at an acute angle with respect to the surface over which the apparatus is moving.

Abstract: A substrate cleaning apparatus which can sufficiently clean a pen-sponge in its entirety, and can prevent particles, which have been once removed, from being reattached to the pen-sponge is disclosed. The substrate cleaning apparatus includes: a substrate holder configured to hold and rotate a substrate; a sponge cleaning tool to be brought into contact with a surface of the substrate; a cleaning element provided adjacent to the substrate held by the substrate holder; and a cleaning-tool moving mechanism configured to bring the sponge cleaning tool into contact with the cleaning element. The cleaning element has a cleaning surface that is to come in contact with the sponge cleaning tool, and a central portion of the cleaning surface is located at a higher position than a portion, of the cleaning surface, outside the central portion.

Abstract: A mop bucket (100) having a side (104) and a detachable wringer (112). Part of the side extends into the bucket to form a support (108) for the detachable wringer (112). The side may be the base (102) of the bucket. The wringer support (108) may have a cavity (111) that is accessible from the side and which is shaped to receive a corresponding support on a corresponding bucket.

Abstract: A door handle (1) is adapted to apply liquid or gel (liquid/gel) to a user's hand. The handle (1) comprises a handle grip (2) and a liquid/gel reservoir (6) associated with the handle (1). A liquid/gel displacement device is arranged in the grip (2) and a non-return valve (53) is provided to allow liquid/gel to flow from the reservoir (6) to the displacement device. A hollow trigger (8) is displaceably mounted on the grip (2) and adapted to actuate the displacement device when the handle (1) is gripped for displacement of liquid/gel from the displacement device, into the trigger (8) and then on to a hand or its digits gripping the trigger (8).

Abstract: A method of using a device for washing and rinsing brushes includes providing the device, washing a brush head along a plurality of first texturing features distributed over a first surface region of the device, and rinsing the brush head along a plurality of second texturing features extending along a second surface region of the device. The first texturing features provide a directionally neutral first texture adapted for movement of the brush head substantially equally in all directions along the first surface region, and the second texturing features provide a directionally oriented second texture adapted for movement of the brush head in a predetermined direction along the second surface region.

Abstract: A pallet conveyor includes a conveyor track to guide pallets, and a service station deployed on the conveyor track, the service station to perform a service operation in the pallet conveyor.

Abstract: A method, system, and computer-program product for preventing overfilling in a dishwasher are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a method for preventing overfilling in a dishwasher is provided, wherein the dishwasher includes a water valve for providing water to the dishwasher and a drain pump for removing water from the dishwasher. The method comprises detecting an overfill condition in the dishwasher with at least one detection device, wherein the overfill condition corresponds to a water level in the dishwasher that is greater than a predetermined threshold. The method further includes controlling the drain pump and the water valve in response to detecting the overfill condition in order to facilitate removal of the overfill condition.

Abstract: Processing and drying of a sample, such as a semiconductor or MEMS device, is performed in a single pressure chamber. The sample is sealed in the interior volume of the chamber, which has surfaces formed of a nickel-copper alloy. Hydroflouric acid (HF) is flowed into the sealed chamber to fill the interior volume and to contact the sample with HF. The HF is allowed to etch portions of the same for a desired time before removing the HF from the sealed chamber. After removal of the HF, the interior volume is cooled to a temperature less than 10° C. The sealed pressure chamber is filled with liquid carbon dioxide. The interior volume is then heated to a temperature greater than 31° C. and a pressure greater than 1072 psi (i.e., the critical point), after which gaseous carbon dioxide is exhausted from the sealed chamber to allow subsequent removal of the sample.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing cleaning solvents is provided. The method includes selecting a small plurality of test solvents from a large plurality of perspective solvents. The equilibrium composition of a multi-component solution is preferably described by the Hansen solubility model. A small plurality of test solvents is applied to solute samples and the degree of dissolution or swelling recorded. Based on the degree of dissolution or swelling, at least one solvent is selected from the large plurality of perspective solvents based on the Hansen parameters.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a dish washer which is capable of finishing a rinse mode within a predetermined time by changing an operation start time of a heater according to the temperature of washing water at the time of a final rinse mode of the dish washer, and a method of controlling the same. The method of controlling the dish washer including a washing tub for containing dishes to be washed using washing water and a heater for heating the washing water includes sensing a temperature of the washing water, determining an operation start time of the heater on the basis of the sensed temperature of the washing water, and operating the heater according to the determined operation start time of the heater.

Abstract: A method and system for removing substances from a surface, in which the surface is irradiated by high-energy laser radiation, characterized in that the laser parameters are chosen to selectively remove one or more predetermined substances from the surface without removing other substances from the surface.

Abstract: A substrate is moved in a linear direction simultaneously between a processing face of an upper proximity head and a processing face of a lower proximity head. As the substrate is moved, a first meniscus of processing liquid is generated between the processing face of the upper proximity head and a top surface of the substrate, and a second meniscus of processing liquid is generated between the processing face of the lower proximity head and a bottom surface of the substrate. The first meniscus has a meniscus protrusion extending in the linear direction in which the substrate is moved and positioned on a trailing side of the first meniscus relative to the linear direction in which the substrate is moved. The meniscus protrusion is centered on the substrate relative to a diameter of the substrate as measured perpendicular to the linear direction in which the substrate is moved.

Abstract: Methods of cleaning a processing chamber with nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) are described. The methods involve a concurrent introduction of nitrogen trifluoride and a reactive diluent into the chamber. The NF3 may be excited in a plasma inside the chamber or in a remote plasma region upstream from the chamber. The reactive diluent may be introduced upstream or downstream of the remote plasma such that both NF3 and the reactive diluent (and any plasma-generated effluents) are present in the chamber during cleaning. The presence of the reactive diluent enhances the chamber-cleaning effectiveness of the NF3.

Abstract: A method for removal of wax deposited on an inner wall in contact with a fluid stream. The method includes the steps of cooling the inner wall and the fluid stream to a temperature of or below the wax appearance temperature, enabling wax to dissolve and precipitate on the inner wall, and heating of the inner wall for a short period of time to release the deposited wax from the surface of the inner wall, mainly in the form of solid parts. The thickness of wax deposits in a pipe section can be determined by computing the temperatures obtained upstream and downstream in the said pipe section, before and after applying heat pulse.

Abstract: A dishwasher, in particular a domestic dishwasher, having at least one substantially closed water circuit in which washing liquor is recirculated in a first direction in accordance with a program control unit, with the washing liquor being conveyed through a filter element during recirculation in order to filter impurities. Provision is made of a device for reversing the direction of flow, and this allows recirculation of the washing liquor in a second direction, which runs counter to the first direction, in order to flow through and eliminate impurities from a first screen, with the first screen being arranged in the water circuit in such a way that liquid forcibly flows through the first screen during recirculation of the washing liquor both in the first and in the second direction.

Abstract: A fluid flow channel may include a scavenger system, which may expel solids from the channel. The channel may be supported by structure and include a floor surface, a transition surface, and a ramp surface. The scavenger system may include an actuator that may be pivotally mounted to the structure. The actuator may be attached to a face plate framework which may include a box structure for increased strength. The actuator may propel the face plate framework across the floor surface, transition surface and ramp surface of the channel. The face plate framework may be adapted for rolling reciprocating contact with the channel surface. The channel floor may afford a park position for the scavenger system and the ramp surface may be angled to reduce jamming of the scavenger system. The channel may also include a wear plate to reduce wear between the scavenger system and the channel.

Abstract: An automated cleaning system for an aircraft fuselage interior is provided. The system has a movable assembly designed to fit within an aircraft fuselage interior to be cleaned. The movable assembly has a removable track assembly and an automated transport mechanism mounted on the removable track assembly, the automated transport mechanism being a guided cart that travels on the removable track assembly. The movable assembly further has a manifold and frame assembly mounted on the automated transport mechanism and a fluid dispensing assembly coupled to the manifold and frame assembly for dispensing fluids onto an aircraft fuselage interior surface. The system further has a fluid management system coupled to the movable assembly for supplying the fluids to the fluid dispensing assembly. The system further has a control system that communicates with and controls the movable assembly and the fluid management system.

Abstract: A method for removing a resist on a substrate includes supplying unsaturated hydrocarbon gas or fluorine substitution product gas of unsaturated hydrocarbon, at a lower pressure than an atmospheric pressure, to a system of reaction capable of heating the substrate and supplying ozone gas at a lower pressure than the atmospheric pressure to the system of reaction. The ozone gas is an ultra-high concentration ozone gas obtained by separating only ozone from ozone-containing gas by a difference of vapor pressure through liquefaction separation and by vaporizing a liquefaction-separated ozone again. The substrate may be cleaned with pure water. A susceptor that holds the substrate is provided in a chamber of the system of reaction and is heated by a light source that emits infrared light. An internal pressure of the chamber is controlled so that a temperature of the substrate is 90° C. or less.

Abstract: Disclosed are a nozzle cleaning apparatus and a nozzle cleaning method, which are capable of effectively cleaning a nozzle for discharging a process liquid to a substrate. A nozzle 30 is accommodated in a cleaning container 2 having a funnel-shaped portion 2b. A solvent T as a cleaning liquid is supplied along an inner surface of the funnel-shaped portion 2b. The solvent T forms a vortex flow whirling around the nozzle 30. By exposing the nozzle 30 to the vortex flow, the nozzle 30 can be effectively, thoroughly cleaned.

Abstract: A method of maintaining a floor comprises discharging a diluting fluid from a first reservoir to a mixing apparatus, discharging a cleaner concentrate from a second reservoir to the mixing apparatus, continuously identifying changes in fluid level within the first reservoir with a level sensor, providing a first signal indicative of an identified change in fluid level, passing the cleaner concentrate and diluting fluid through a flow control device, and processing the first signal to generate an output signal and controlling operation of the pump and the flow control device in response to the output signal to provide a flow of fluid to a cleaning device at a substantially constant ratio of the diluting fluid from the first reservoir to the cleaner concentrate from the second reservoir for substantially all fluid levels of the first reservoir.

Abstract: A cleaning device includes a support and a cleaning arm partly embedded in the support. The cleaning arm includes a flexible polymer matrix and a carbon nanotube film structure at least partly embedded into the flexible polymer matrix. The carbon nanotube film structure includes a number of carbon nanotubes combined by van der Waals attractive force therebetween.

Abstract: A method for wet treatment of wafers includes a first plate and a second plate substantially parallel to the first plate, and a wafer is held between the first and the second plate substantially parallel. A first dispenser introduces fluid into a first gap between the first plate and the wafer when being treated, and a second dispenser introduces fluid into a second gap between the second plate and the wafer when being treated. At least one vibrating element is acoustically coupled to at least the second plate, and a holder and the second plate are rotated relative to each other about an axis substantially perpendicular to the second plate.

Abstract: A method for a stage device of an electron beam exposure system which conducts a cleaning operation and an electron beam (EB) exposure operation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of moving a movable stage within a predetermined range and regulating pressure of gas supplied to an air bearing; and setting a floating height of the movable stage in the cleaning operation lower than that in the EB exposure operation and setting the pressure in a differential pumping portion in the cleaning operation equal to that in the EB exposure operation, or setting the floating height of the movable stage in the cleaning operation equal to that in the EB exposure operation and setting the pressure in the differential pumping portion in the cleaning operation higher than that in the EB exposure operation.

Abstract: A method for operating a dishwasher that has a washing container; at least two spray devices disposed inside the washing container; a circulating pump to deliver liquid to the at least two spray devices; a first drive to drive the circulating pump; and a reversing device; wherein, based on a position of the reversing device, the circulating pump delivers the liquid to one or both of the two spray devices. The method includes adjusting the position of the reversing device and detecting the current position of the reversing device based on an operating parameter assigned to the first drive.

Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact surfaces on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing contact surface structure allows chemical sterilizing agents to controllably flow in response to a contact event, from within the article to exude upon a portion of the contact surface.

Abstract: A method of cleaning industrial equipment includes propelling a sublimable media through a discharge wand. An inner surface and an outer surface of an object are contacted with the media. The media subsequently dissipates or is consumed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning undesired substances from a surface in a semiconductor processing chamber. An cleaning gas mixture is formed onsite and stored in a buffer tank for a time, prior to its introduction into a semiconductor processing chamber, to remove an undesired substance from a surface in the chamber. The undesired substance is removed without the generation of a plasma in the chamber, and at a temperature of less than 300° C.

Abstract: A dish washing machine configured to consume the smallest possible amount of water has a device for storing the washing liquid, in which at least one storage reservoir is provided that is made of a flexible material for holding at least a portion of the washing liquid located inside the dish washing machine. The dish washing machine offers the possibility of removing, at any time during the washing program, at least a portion of the washing bath from the washing circuit, of storing it in the storage reservoir and, when needed, of supplying it once again to the washing circuit. Thus, for example, after completing the last clear rinsing cycle, the washing bath is at least partially retained in the storage reservoir until use of the bath in a subsequent washing cycle, whereby by and large reducing the consumption of water of the dish washing machine.

Abstract: A method for treating objects with at least one treatment agent in a household device includes the step of operating a first part of an identification system to identify data of a second part of the identification system, the data of the second part of the identification system comprising information on a dosing device operable to dose the treatment agent, and the data of the second part of the identification system being associated with a packaging for the dosing device. The method also includes the further step of adapting a treatment of objects by the household device or a dosing of the treatment agent based upon the identified data.

Abstract: A magnetic sweeper configured to collect magnetic metal debris, such as nails, screws, sheet metal fragments, staples, rivets and the like from a surface, and to permit easy removal of the collected debris from the sweeper is disclosed. The sweeper comprises a non-metallic body, a permanent magnet disposed within the body, a non-metallic cover hingably mounted to the underside of the body and an integrated latch configured to removably secure the cover to the body. The sweeper is configured to removably engage a handle for controlling the sweeper, and in another embodiment, an extendable, telescoping extender may be connected between the coupler and the handle to permit the sweeper to be used in a wide variety of locations. Preferably, the sweeper body is configured to swivel upon application of torque to the handle. In use, the sweeper is passed over metallic debris using the handle to guide the body.

Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact surfaces on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing contact surface structure allows chemical sterilizing agents to controllably flow in response to a contact event, from within the article to exude upon a portion of the contact surface.

Abstract: Solutions for limiting the undesirable spread of pathogens by indirect contact are provided. The solutions involve event-controlled self-sterilization of contact surfaces on articles or fixtures. A self-sterilizing contact surface structure allows chemical sterilizing agents to controllably flow in response to a contact event, from within the article to exude upon a portion of the contact surface.

Abstract: The invention provides a cleaning apparatus for removing particles attached to the fine roughness on the surface of an insulating body coated on the metal surface of a vacuum processing apparatus.

Abstract: A pad washing system is provided. This system includes a filter device that further includes: a filter component having a textured top surface and at least one baffle formed on the underside thereof; a filter support apparatus adapted to receive the filter device, wherein the filter support apparatus further includes: a base, a plurality of vertical support columns formed integrally with the base, a plurality of caps mounted on top of the vertical columns, and a plurality of biasing members disposed between the caps and the tops of the vertical columns; a bucket for receiving both the filter device and the filter support apparatus; a threaded rim attached to or formed integrally with the top edge the bucket; and a splash guard mountable within the threaded rim.

Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning sidewalls of a liquid container. The cleaning device includes a cover that can be removably disposed over a flotation device. The cover has a lower cleaning portion that cleans the sidewalls of the container upon contact with the sidewalls. The cover also has an upper noncleaning portion.

Abstract: An adjustable hose clip is provided for use with a pool cleaner debris bag, including a first member having a retaining arm and a second member having a retaining arm. The hose clip also includes means for connecting the hose clip to a pool cleaner debris bag and resilient means for resiliently biasing the retaining arms towards each other such that at least a portion of a pool hose can be retained between the retaining arms. In one example, the resilient means is adapted to automatically adjust the distance between the retaining arms to accommodate various pool hoses having various diameters within the range of a minimum diameter to a maximum diameter at least 50% larger than the minimum diameter. In addition or alternatively, an arrangement for cleaning a swimming pool can include an automatic pool cleaner, a debris bag, a hose and an adjustable hose clip.

Abstract: A combined extendable pole and counterbalance system for washing the windows of a building includes an elongated pole including a handle portion adjacent the lower end thereof and a window cleaning utensil adjacent the upper end. The handle portion is adapted to be grasped by a workman while standing on the ground. An elongated flexible line is suspended from the roof or some other an upper part of the building above the windows to be washed. The line extends downwardly toward the ground and is connected to the pole. A spring driven drum biases the line upwardly thereby lifting part of the weight of the pole. The line is preferably connected to the pole adjacent the handle portion thereof but passes around and is guided by a pulley located adjacent the upper end of the pole so as to stabilize the upper end of the pole to prevent it from falling from side to side.

Abstract: A floor maintenance apparatus having a floor maintenance machine and an attached sulky which allows an operator to ride in a standing position or walk behind the floor maintenance machine. A wheeled sulky having a first attaching portion, a stopping portion, a wheel receiving portion, and a platform portion having a first portion and a second portion is also provided. Methods of operating the apparatus are also provided.

Abstract: In summary, this invention is a rain gutter debris removal system, including a rain gutter and a debris removal device operable within the gutter. The gutter includes a back wall and a bottom channel member. The debris removal device includes an upright scavenging blade mounted within and lengthwise of the channel for movement between a home position retracted against the back wall, and an extended forward position across the channel. An actuator moves the scavenging blade between home and extended positions, whereby to expel debris from the channel. The scavenging blade includes a wiper blade along its bottom for wiping engagement with the gutter channel. The actuator includes a reciprocable expansible chamber device positioned between the back wall and the scavenging blade, and connected to the back wall for pivotal movement up and down, the wiper blade thereby maintaining wiping engagement with the gutter channel as the blade traverses the channel.

Abstract: Provided is a method of removing particles on a photomask. The method includes fabricating a photomask formed with a thin film pattern over a transparent substrate; identifying positions of particles on the photomask by inspecting the photomask; and removing the particles using a nanotweezer.

Abstract: Example embodiments of the invention include a cleaning system having both daily cleaning tasks and periodic cleaning tasks for cleaning and dusting a room. By utilizing less inventory and more biocompatible, “bio-safe” products than traditional systems, embodiments of the cleaning system requires less tools yet, allows its users to combine cleaning processes in a time-saving feature. The invention further includes the use of an inventive cleaning brush apparatus for which allows dirt and dust to be swept into gaps between rows of bristles, which are attached to a handle via metal rails. Accordingly, dust is concurrently collected into a row of suction holes without requiring separate steps to sweep and collect the dust. As such, the spacing of the inner and outer bristles allows for dust to be trapped in the gaps rather than permanently dispersing into the breathing air.