38th week of 2014 patent applcation highlights part 25 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20140261657 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL AND METHOD OF FORMING SAME - A solar cell comprises a back contact layer, an absorber layer on the back contact layer, a buffer layer on the absorber layer, and a front contact layer above the buffer layer. The front contact layer has a first portion and a second portion. The first and second portions of the front contact layer differ from each other in thickness or dopant concentration. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261658 | ORGANIC SOLAR CELL - An organic solar cell includes a conductive substrate, an organic material, and two metal layers. The conductive substrate includes an electrode. The organic material is disposed above the conductive substrate. The metal layers are disposed above the organic material, and a gap is configured between the two metal layers. The width of the gap is between 1 nm and 5000 nm. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261659 | Free-Standing Metallic Article for Semiconductors - A free-standing metallic article, and method of making, is disclosed in which the metallic article is electroformed on an electrically conductive mandrel. The mandrel has an outer surface with a preformed pattern, wherein at least a portion of the metallic article is formed in the preformed pattern. The metallic article is separated from the electrically conductive mandrel, which forms a free-standing metallic article that may be coupled with the surface of a semiconductor material for a photovoltaic cell. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261660 | TCOs for Heterojunction Solar Cells - Methods are used to develop and evaluate new materials and deposition processes for use as TCO materials in HJCS solar cells. The TCO layers allow improved control over the uniformity of the TCO conductivity and interface properties, and reduce the sensitivity to the texture of the wafer. In Some embodiments, the TCO materials include indium, zinc, tin, and aluminum. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261661 | FREE-STANDING METALLIC ARTICLE WITH OVERPLATING - A free-standing metallic article, and method of making, is disclosed in which the metallic article is electroformed on an electrically conductive mandrel. The mandrel has an outer surface layer having a preformed pattern. The outer surface layer has a dielectric region and an exposed metal region. The metallic article has a plurality of electroformed elements that are formed on the exposed metal region of the outer surface layer of the electrically conductive mandrel. A first electroformed element has an overplated portion formed above the outer surface layer of the mandrel. The metallic article is configured to serve as an electrical conduit for a photovoltaic cell, and forms a unitary, free-standing piece when separated from the electrically conductive mandrel. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261662 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A SOLAR CELL ELECTRODE - A method of manufacturing a p-type electrode of a solar cell comprising: (a) preparing an n-type semiconductor substrate comprising an n-type base layer, a p-type emitter and a passivation layer formed on the p-type emitter; (b) applying a conductive paste onto the passivation layer, wherein the conductive paste comprises, (i) 100 parts by weight of a conductive powder, (ii) 1 to 12 parts by weight of a lead-free glass frit comprising, 20 to 33 mol. % of Bi | 2014-09-18 |
20140261663 | High Haze Underlayer For Solar Cell - A solar cell has a substrate and an undercoating formed over at least a portion of the substrate. The undercoating includes a continuous first layer of tin oxide and a second layer having oxides of Sn, P, and Si. A transparent conductive coating is formed over at least a portion of the undercoating. The second layer includes protrusions on an upper surface that cause uneven crystal growth of the conductive coating. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261664 | Photovoltaic Cell Having An Antireflective Coating - The present invention relates to a photovoltaic cell that includes a transparent substrate that has a first surface and a second surface. A transparent conductive oxide coating resides over the second surface of the transparent substrate. A photovoltaic coating resides over the transparent conductive oxide coating. The photovoltaic cell also includes an antireflective coating that resides over the first surface of the transparent substrate. The antireflective coating includes, in order from the first surface of the transparent substrate: a first layer that includes one or more metal oxides, for example, zinc stannate; a second layer that includes one or more metal oxides, for example, silica and alumina; a third layer that includes one or more metal oxides, for example, zinc stannate; and a fourth layer that includes one or more metal oxides, for example, silica. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261665 | METHODS AND SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS SUITABLE FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - Methods and semiconductor materials produced by such methods that are suitable for use in photovoltaic cells, solar cells fabricated with such methods, and solar panels composed thereof. Such methods include a wet-chemical synthesis method capable of producing a Group I-III-VI | 2014-09-18 |
20140261666 | METHODS OF MANUFACTURING A LOW COST SOLAR CELL DEVICE - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to processes for making solar cells by simultaneously co-firing metal layers disposed both on a first and a second surface of a bifacial solar cell substrate. Embodiments of the invention may also provide a method forming a solar cell structure that utilize a reduced amount of a silver paste on a front surface of the solar cell substrate and a patterned aluminum metallization paste on a rear surface of the solar cell substrate to form a rear surface contact structure. Embodiments can be used to form passivated emitter and rear cells (PERC), passivated emitter rear locally diffused solar cells (PERL), passivated emitter, rear totally-diffused (PERT), “iPERC,” Crystalline Reduced-cost Aluminum Fire-Through (CRAFT), pCRAFT, nCRAFT or other high efficiency cell concepts. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261667 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE HAVING IMPROVED BACK ELECTRODE AND METHOD OF FORMATION - A back electrode for a PV device and method of formation are disclosed. A ZnTe material is provided over an absorber material and a MoN | 2014-09-18 |
20140261668 | GROWTH OF CIGS THIN FILMS ON FLEXIBLE GLASS SUBSTRATES - An article made by: sputtering molybdenum onto a flexible glass substrate, and depositing a photovoltaic material on the molybdenum by sputtering, thermal evaporation, multi-target ternary or binary sputtering, or nanoparticle techniques. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261669 | GROWTH OF CIGS THIN FILMS ON FLEXIBLE GLASS SUBSTRATES - An article made by: depositing a bottom contact onto a flexible glass substrate, and depositing a photovoltaic material on the bottom contact. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261670 | REDUCED CONTACT RESISTANCE AND IMPROVED LIFETIME OF SOLAR CELLS - A solar cell, having a front side which faces the sun during normal operation, and a back side opposite the front side can include a silicon substrate having doped regions and a polysilicon layer disposed over the doped regions. The solar cell can include a conductive filling formed between a first metal layer and doped regions and through or at least partially through the polysilicon layer, where the conductive filling electrically couples the first metal layer and the doped region. In an embodiment, a second metal layer is formed on the first metal layer, where the first metal layer and the conductive filling electrically couple the doped regions and the second metal layer. In some embodiments, the solar cell can be a front contact solar cell or a back contact solar cell. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261671 | CONDUCTIVITY ENHANCEMENT OF SOLAR CELLS - Methods and structures for forming a contact region on a solar cell are presented. The solar cell can have a front side which faces the sun during normal operation, and a back side opposite the front side and a silicon substrate. The silicon substrate can include at least one doped region a dielectric layer formed over the doped region. The solar cell can also include a first metal contact, such as an electrolessly plated metal contact, within a contact region through a first dielectric layer and on the doped region. The solar cell can include a printed metal, such as aluminum, formed or deposited on the first metal contact. The solar cell can include a first metal layer having a first metal contact and the first printed metal. The solar cell can include a second metal layer, such as an electrolytically electroplated metal layer, formed on the first metal layer. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261672 | TITANIUM METAL AS ELECTRODE FOR ORGANIC SOLAR CELLS, FLEXIBLE ORGANIC SOLAR CELL ON TI FOIL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - Titanium metal is used as an electrode in organic solar cells. Methods of making an organic photovoltaic cell are described using titanium foil that is etched using lower and higher concentrations of a hydrofluoric acid solution. Subsequently, other layers were disposed on the titanium foil to complete the solar cell. Etching at the lower concentration for about 30 seconds properly treated the surface of the electrode and resulted in an advantageous solar cell. Etching at the higher concentrations resulted in a poor morphology that resulted in poor performance. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261673 | TUNING THE ANTI-REFLECTIVE, ABRASION RESISTANCE, ANTI-SOILING AND SELF-CLEANING PROPERTIES OF TRANSPARENT COATINGS FOR DIFFERENT GLASS SUBSTRATES AND SOLAR CELLS - Coating compositions disclosed herein include silane-based precursors that are used to form coatings through a sol-gel process including a hydrolyzed organosilane-based sol and a hydrolyzed tetraalkoxysilane-based sol. The coatings are characterized by anti-reflective, abrasion resistant, and anti-soiling properties and the tunability of those properties with respect to different glass substrates, solar cells or geographic locations of the solar panels. The coatings formed from the compositions described herein have wide application, including, for example, use as abrasion resistant coatings on the outer glass of solar cells, wherein the coating adheres through siloxane linkages. In some embodiments, when applied to glass and cured at a temperature of less than 300° C., the dried sol gel has abrasion resistance sufficient to pass standard EN-1096-2 with a loss of transmission of no more than 0.5% and enables a post-test light transmission gain of greater than 1% as compared to uncoated glass. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261674 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE HAVING PRINTED PV CELLS CONNECTED IN SERIES BY PRINTED CONDUCTORS - A PV module is formed having an array of PV cells, where the cells are separated by gaps. Each cell contains an array of small silicon sphere diodes (10-300 microns in diameter) connected in parallel. The diodes and conductor layers may be patterned by printing. A continuous metal substrate supports the diodes and conductor layers in all the cells. A dielectric substrate is laminated to the metal substrate. Trenches are then formed by laser ablation around the cells to sever the metal substrate to form electrically isolated PV cells. A metallization step is then performed to connect the cells in series to increase the voltage output of the PV module. An electrically isolated bypass diode for each cell is also formed by the trenching step. The metallization step connects the bypass diode and its associated cell in a reverse-parallel relationship. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261675 | PHOTOELECTRIC CELLS INCORPORATING WRINKLES AND FOLDS TO ENHANCE EFFICIENCY AND BENDABILITY AND METHOD OF MAKING - A photovoltaic cell and method of making are disclosed. The photovoltaic cell includes a substrate having a surface at least partially covered in wrinkles and folds, the folds dividing the surface into a plurality of domains. A photoactive layer is formed on the substrate. At least one transparent electrode is coupled to the photoactive layer and configured to allow transmission of light into the photoactive layer. The domains may have a wrinkle periodicity of less than 2 μm. The folds may have a fold density of less than 0.25. The transport layer may comprise PEDOT:PSS. The photoactive layer may comprise P3HT:PCBM. The photoactive layer may comprise a bulk heterojunction. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261676 | USE OF A BUFFER LAYER TO FORM BACK CONTACT TO A GROUP IIB-VIA COMPOUND DEVICE - A method of making a back contact to a Group IIB-VIA compound layer employed in a device such as a solar cell and in particular a CdTe solar cell. The method involves deposition of a contact buffer layer comprising an ionic conductor over a surface of a CdTe film, which is the absorber of the solar cell. A highly conductive contact layer is deposited over the contact buffer layer. In some examples, the compound device is a device such as a solar cell and in particular a CdTe solar cell in a sub-strate configuration or structure. The method involves deposition of a contact buffer layer comprising an ionic conductor on a surface of a highly conductive contact layer. A CdTe film, which is the absorber layer of the solar cell is then deposited over the contact buffer layer. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261677 | LAMINATED STRUCTURE AND LAMINATED STRUCTURE PRODUCTION METHOD - A laminated structure includes an anti-reflection structure having periodic concavo-convex parts on a surface thereof, and a transparent conductive layer formed on the concavo-convex parts. An arbitrary convex part, excluding a convex part located at an outermost side, and six convex parts having distances from the arbitrary convex part that amount to a smallest sum, are arranged to satisfy a condition requiring a connecting part to exist between the arbitrary convex part and each of four convex parts amongst the six convex parts, and a condition requiring a concave part to exist between the arbitrary convex part and each of two remaining convex parts amongst the six convex parts. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261678 | SOLAR CELL APPARATUS AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME - According to the embodiment, there is provided a solar cell apparatus. The solar cell apparatus includes a back electrode layer on a substrate, a light absorbing layer on the back electrode layer, a buffer layer on the light absorbing layer, a front electrode layer on the buffer layer, and a connection part making contact with the front electrode layer, passing through the light absorbing layer, and making contact with the back electrode layer. The connection part includes a material different from a material constituting the front electrode layer. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261679 | SOLAR CELL APPARATUS AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME - A solar cell apparatus according to the embodiment includes the steps of a support substrate; a back electrode layer on the support substrate; a light absorbing layer on the back electrode layer; a buffer layer on the light absorbing layer; and a front electrode layer on the buffer layer, wherein the back electrode layer comprises: a first electrode part having a first thickness; and a second electrode part adjacent to the first electrode part and having a second thickness less than the first thickness. A method for fabricating a solar cell apparatus according to the embodiment includes the steps of forming a back electrode layer on a substrate; etching the back electrode layer; forming a light absorbing layer on the back electrode layer; forming a buffer layer on the light absorbing layer; and forming a front electrode layer on the buffer layer. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261680 | SOLAR CELL AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME - Disclosed are a solar cell, and a method of fabricating the same. The solar cell includes: a back electrode layer disposed on a support substrate; a light absorbing layer disposed on the back electrode layer; a front electrode layer disposed on the light absorbing layer; a connecting wire extending through the light absorbing layer and electronically connecting the back electrode layer with the front electrode layer; and a side insulating part formed on a side surface of the connecting wire. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261681 | FLEXIBLE SOLAR CELL PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLY PREPARED WITH FLEXIBLE SUBSTRATE - This invention is directed to a flexible solar cell photovoltaic module with high light transmittance based on modified substrate, which belongs to the field of thin-film solar cell technology. The objective of the present invention to provide a technical solution for a transparent flexible solar cell module and its fabrication method. Technical features include using a stainless steel template to mold a modified polyimide PI substrate (the PI substrate). The PI substrate has light-passing through-holes, including draining holes and convergence holes, through and distributed on the PI substrate, a conductive film layer, and various stacked photoelectric conversion film layers. The creativeness of the present invention is obvious, such as reducing the short circuit and current leakage due to crystallization of the photoelectric layer interface caused by a subsequent process of laser etching the conductive film layer, reducing the composition on the surface of the solar cell, reducing steps of the fabrication process, and lowering the production cost. Further, the present invention significantly increases the conversion efficiency and load capacity of the solar cell and the quality-cost ratio. The transparent flexible solar cell photovoltaic module also has a broad range of applications. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261682 | Photovoltaic Modules Incorporating Lateral Heat Removal - In one embodiment, a photovoltaic module includes a stack of layers, the module having an active layer and a planar heat sink positioned within the stack of layers adjacent the active layer, the heat sink being adapted to laterally remove heat from the active layer and the module. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261683 | OPTICS FOR SOLAR CONCENTRATORS - Optics are provided for use in solar concentrators, the optics having a light guide, a redirecting layer including a plurality of lenses, and a plurality of reflector elements. Sunlight is received by the redirecting lenses, which focus the sunlight onto reflective surfaces of the reflector elements. The reflective surface of each reflector element redirects the light into the light guide, which guides the light toward a solar energy collector, such as a photovoltaic cell. The light from the light guide may be directed onto the solar energy collector by a light conditioning element. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261684 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes: a front surface glass plate disposed on the light reception side; a rear surface glass plate provided so as to be opposed to the front surface glass plate; a photovoltaic device between the front surface glass plate and the rear surface glass plate; and a filler that fills a space between the front surface glass plate and the rear surface glass plate. The front surface glass plate and the rear surface glass plate have a bonded region which is melt-bonded at peripheral edge sections. Further, an air gap is present between the bonded region and the outer peripheral section of the filler. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261685 | THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WTIH LARGE GRAIN STRUCTURE AND METHODS OF FORMATION - Embodiments include photovoltaic devices that include at least one absorber layer, e.g. CdTe and/or CdS | 2014-09-18 |
20140261686 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH A ZINC OXIDE LAYER AND METHOD OF FORMATION - Photovoltaic devices with a zinc oxide layer replacing all or part of at least one of a window layer and a buffer layer, and methods of making the devices. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261687 | METHOD OF REDUCING SEMICONDUCTOR WINDOW LAYER LOSS DURING THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE FABRICATION, AND RESULTING DEVICE STRUCTURE - A completed photovoltaic device and method forming it are described in which fluxing of a window layer into an absorber layer is mitigated by the presence of a sacrificial fluxing layer. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261688 | HIGH EFFICIENCY PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE EMPLOYING CADMIUM SULFIDE TELLURIDE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A photovoltaic device is disclosed including at least one Cadmium Sulfide Telluride (CdS | 2014-09-18 |
20140261689 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A photovoltaic device is disclosed, the device having a zinc-containing layer, such as a ZnO | 2014-09-18 |
20140261690 | INTERMEDIATE BAND SOLAR CELLS WITH DILUTE GROUP III-V NITRIDES - A single junction solar cell may be manufactured with a material having multiple bands. That is, a single semiconductor with several absorption edges that absorb photons from different parts of the solar spectrum may be constructed. The different absorption edges may be created by splitting a conduction band of the solar cell material into multiple intermediate sub-bands. The solar cell may include a photovoltaic material deposited on a substrate, in which the photovoltaic material is a III-V semiconductor alloy, such as AlGaNAs, AlGaAsNSb, or AlInGaNAsBi. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261691 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREFOR - A method is disclosed for manufacturing an absorber layer, such as a CIS-based absorber layer, in a thin film solar cell, such as a CIS-based thin film solar cell. One method includes a selenization step, an annealing step, and a sulfuration step. Another method includes an annealing step and a sulfuration step. Additionally, a disclosed CIS-based absorber layer has a surface-to-bottom ratio of gallium which is greater than that for a conventional absorber layer and the ratio of sulfur to sulfur-plus-selenium is less than that for a conventional absorber layer. Also provided is a process for producing an absorber layer, such as a CIS-based absorber layer, over a large area where the layer is capable of achieving both a high open circuit voltage and a high fill factor by preferable depth composition profile through controllable gallium-diffusion/sulfur-incorporation and the enlarged grain size. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261692 | Tunable Photoactive Compounds - Photoactive compositions of matter, methods for their design and synthesis, and various applications of such compositions of matter are disclosed. Such photoactive compositions may, for example, include any one or more of the following: a core moiety; a primary electron donor moiety; an electron-withdrawing moiety; and an alkyl tail. Some photoactive compositions may further include multiple additional electron donor moieties, electron-withdrawing moieties, and alkyl tails. Applications of such photoactive compositions of matter may include use in photovoltaic cells (e.g., as a p- or n-type material of the active layer of some photovoltaic cells, or as a dye to be employed in other photovoltaic cells); batteries, field-effect transistors; and light-emitting diodes. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261693 | IRRIGATION SYSTEM WITH FREEZE PROTECTION AND METHOD - Apparatus and method are provided herein for causing and controlling the injection of antifreeze material into a water line of an irrigation system. The irrigation system comprises an antifreeze supply unit including an antifreeze storage container containing a liquid antifreeze coupled to a water line of the irrigation system. A control unit is coupled to the antifreeze supply unit. The control unit is configured to cause the antifreeze supply unit to inject at least some of the liquid antifreeze from the antifreeze storage container into the water line. The control unit can cause the antifreeze supply unit to inject the liquid antifreeze from the antifreeze storage container in response to temperature data received from a sensor unit or in response to user input at the control unit. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261694 | VALVE WITH FAIL-SAFE DEVICE - A power operated valve for controlling fluid flow is provided with a fail-safe device responsive to failure of the power supply to the valve to shut-off fluid flow. A valve member is coupled to linear actuator for movement towards and away from a closed position for controlling fluid flow through the valve. The linear actuator is held in a control position by the fail-safe device for normal operation of the valve with the power supply on. The fail-safe device responds to failure of the power supply to release the linear actuator. When the linear actuator is released, energy stored n a spring while the linear actuator was held in the control position is released and biases the linear actuator away from the control position causing the valve member to move to the closed position to shut-off fluid flow. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261695 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING NATURAL GAS TO MULTIPLE ENGINES DISPOSED UPON MULTIPLE CARRIERS - Apparatus for providing natural gas from an external gas source to multiple engines disposed upon multiple carries includes a gas supply conduit mounted upon each carrier. Each gas supply conduit has a connector conduit engaged at one end therewith and being releasably engageable at the other end with the gas supply conduit of another carrier or the gas source. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261696 | IN-LINE VALVE WITH IMPROVED FLOW - An improved in-line fluid valve for use with low pressure fluid sources containing pollutants. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261697 | WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM TANK SELECTOR VALVE ASSEMBLY - A valve assembly for a twin tank-type water treatment system includes and a tank selector valve assembly that includes first and second rotary selector valves driven in concert with another by a reversible electric motor. The motor drives the first and second selector valves between (a) a first position in which an untreated water inlet and a treated water outlet of the valve assembly are coupled to a first resin tank, and a second resin tank is connected to a regeneration valve, and (b) a second position which the untreated water inlet and the treated water outlet of the valve assembly are coupled to the second resin tank, and the first resin tank is connected to a regeneration valve. The rotary valves may be disks that rotate relatively rapidly on a common shaft driven by the electric motor through an arc of 180° or less. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261698 | WAFER CARRIER WITH TEMPERATURE DISTRIBUTION CONTROL - Wafer carrier arranged to hold a plurality wafers and to inject a fill gas into gaps between the wafers and the wafer carrier for enhanced heat transfer and to promote uniform temperature of the wafers. The apparatus is arranged to vary the composition, flow rate, or both of the fill gas so as to counteract undesired patterns of temperature non-uniformity of the wafers. In various embodiments, the wafer carrier utilizes at least one plenum structure contained within the wafer carrier to source a plurality of weep holes for passing a fill gas into the wafer retention pockets of the wafer carrier. The plenum(s) promote the uniformity of the flow, thus providing efficient heat transfer and enhanced uniformity of wafer temperatures. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261699 | MAIN VALVE WITH INTERNAL RIGID STRUCTURE - A valve assembly is described herein that includes a valve plate and a main valve contacting the valve plate, the main valve having an internal rigid structure and an outer shell, the internal rigid structure having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side surface. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261700 | HIGH THERMAL TRANSFER FLOW-THROUGH HEAT EXCHANGER - A flow-through heater for heating a fluid comprises: a high thermal conductivity conduit-defining body shaped to provide, within the conduit-defining body, a helical-shaped or spiral-shaped conduit that extends between an inlet port and an outlet port; and one or more heating elements operatively connected to an exterior of the conduit-defining body for providing heat to the conduit-defining body and to any fluid flowing through the conduit. Because of the high thermal conductivity of the conduit-defining body, all of the surfaces of the conduit-defining body that actually define the conduit contribute significantly to heating the fluid in the conduit. Each conduit-defining surface may contribute to heating the fluid in approximately equal proportion to its conduit-defining surface area. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261701 | Collapsible Air Duct with Inflatable Insulative Sleeve - A collapsible air duct with inflatable insulative sleeve for supplying preconditioned air from a remote source to aircraft and similar vehicles. The system includes first annular interior chamber substantially surrounded by an a non-rigid inflatable sleeve which provides a thermal barrier from adverse environmental conditions. The non-rigid inflatable sleeve is filled by a portion of the air supply transiting the annular interior chamber through a series of perforations, thus providing an insulative air layer. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261702 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING POWDER GENERATED DURING FILM DEPOSITION PROCESS - An apparatus for controlling a flow of gas comprises a spiral path guiding member. The spiral path guiding member comprises at least two groups of guiding plates. Each guiding plate of each group is disposed in an axial direction to form a longitudinal axis. Each group is spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. A surface of each guiding plate is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. At least one guiding plate of each group has a guiding plate opening. Guiding plate openings of the guiding plates may facilitate gas to flow in a spiral flow path. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261703 | METHOD TO DETECT VALVE DEVIATION - Methods for detecting valve leakage and apparatus for the same are provided. In one embodiment, a method for detecting a valve leakage includes flowing a gas through a diverter valve, determining a pressure in a gas source provided to the diverter valve, comparing the determined pressure value with an expected pressure value, and generating a signal in response to the comparison. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261704 | GAS REGULATOR, CONTROL INTERFACE MODULE, AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL APPLICATIONS - A regulator for regulating the pressure and flow of gas traveling between a gas inlet and a gas outlet. A first pressure regulator in fluid communication with the gas inlet and configured to prevent gas flowing downstream of the first pressure regulator from exceeding a first pressure. A first line between the first pressure regulator and the gas outlet. A second pressure reducing device in fluid communication with the first line downstream of the first pressure regulator and configured to prevent gas flowing in the first line at a point downstream of the second pressure regulator from exceeding a second pressure. A control valve actuatable to an open position when gas is transmitted to a first pilot valve at or below the second pressure, the first pilot valve in fluid communication with the first line. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261705 | LIQUID TRANSPORTING APPARATUS AND LIQUID TRANSPORTING METHOD - A liquid transporting apparatus includes a driving section that transports a the liquid; a control section that controls the driving section, based on a control pattern; and an operation section that is operated to change the control pattern for controlling the driving section. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261706 | Media Suction Devices and Methods - Devices and methods are provided for removing media from a culture vessel that decreases disruption of the interface between the cellular material and media within the vessel such that aspiration and removal of cells or cell clusters along with the media is minimized. In addition, the media fluid turbulence is decreased so as to minimize the activation or disruption of cells and cell clusters. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261707 | PORTABLE TANKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Some embodiments include a method of providing substantially uninterrupted gas service by coupling at least one gas cylinder to a portable tanking assembly. The tanking assembly can include a cart including a rear frame and a coupled carrier frame supported on an axle with wheels. In some embodiments, the carrier frame can include a caged regulation assembly housing at least a portion of a regulation apparatus with an upstream supply end coupled to a downstream delivery end. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus includes a primary regulator coupled a one relief valve. The relief valve can be coupled to a downstream regulator, coupled to a water column gauge. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus further includes a delivery valve. In some embodiments, the delivery valve comprises a distribution manifold assembly including a manifold and a plurality of distribution couplers coupled to the manifold. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261708 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MANIPULATING DEFORMABLE FLUID VESSELS - A fluid container comprises a first vessel, a second vessel connected or connectable to the first vessel, and a sealing partition preventing fluid flow from the second vessel. The container further includes a spherical opening element initially supported within the second vessel by the sealing partition and configured to be contacted with the sealing partition to open the sealing partition and permit fluid flow from the second vessel | 2014-09-18 |
20140261709 | CONTROL RELIABLE PNEUMATIC ENERGY ISOLATION VALVE WITH SOFT START FUNCTION - A valve assembly includes a valve including an inlet and an outlet, and a soft start valve in a normally closed position and located upstream of the valve. The soft start valve opens when a percentage of an outlet pressure at the outlet of the valve to an inlet pressure of the inlet of the valve reaches a predetermined percentage to allow fluid to flow through the soft start valve to the valve. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261710 | Faucet Dryer - A faucet with a forced air dryer. The forced air dryer provides forced air for drying an object adjacent the faucet water outlet. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261711 | EffiCiently and Easily Opening and Closing a Canister Valve - The present disclosure relates to a method including the steps of receiving a canister in a canister connection housing. The canister includes a canister fitment and a canister valve. The housing includes a receiver fitment and a door. The method includes the step of lowering the receiver fitment of the housing over the canister fitment. The lowering of the receiver fitment is caused by a closing of the housing door. The present disclosure further relates to an apparatus. An apparatus including a nest configured to receive a canister, a door configured to rotate about an angle so as to open and close, a receiver fitment configured to connect to a canister fitment, and an over-center movement mechanism connected to the door and the receiver fitment. The over-center movement mechanism is configured to move the receiver fitment along an axis as the door is rotated about the angle. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261712 | Skimmer System - A method and device for extracting fluid from a body of fluid is has a bellows with a feed system interfaced to a first end of the bellows. A floating head is interfaced to a distal second end of the bellows and has one or more buoyancy elements. The buoyancy elements cause the floating head to float at a surface of the fluid. One or more inlets on a lower surface of the floating head are in fluid communication with the distal second end of the bellows, such that, fluid from a stratum beneath the surface of the fluid is drawn into the inlet(s), passes through the bellows, and into the feed system. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261713 | Fluid Path Set with Turbulent Mixing Chamber, Backflow Compensator - A fluid path set includes a first fluid line having a proximal end fluidly connectable to a source of a first fluid and a second fluid line having a proximal end fluidly connectable to a source of a second fluid. A flow mixing device is in fluid communication with distal ends of the first and second fluid lines. The flow mixing device includes a housing, a first fluid port provided for receiving the first fluid, and a second fluid port for receiving the second fluid. A mixing chamber is disposed within the housing and is in fluid communication with the first and second fluid ports. A third fluid port in fluid communication with the mixing chamber for discharging a mixed solution of the first and second fluids. A turbulent flow inducing member is disposed within the mixing chamber for promoting turbulent mixing of the first and second fluids. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261714 | Advanced Valve Actuator With True Flow Feedback - A valve and actuator assembly that includes a valve configured to control a flow of liquid into a coil or heat exchanger. The valve and actuator assembly further includes a valve actuator configured to control opening and closing of the valve via positioning of a valve closure member. The valve actuator is further configured to provide both a maximum flow rate and a minimum flow rate of the liquid through the valve. In an embodiment, the valve actuator includes a valve closure member position sensor configured to determine the position of the valve closure member based on a flow rate of the liquid through the valve. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261715 | REDUCING PRESSURE DROP BUILDUP IN BIO-OIL HYDROPROCESSING REACTORS - A method is provided involving reducing a pressure drop across a hydroprocessing reactor having a reactor feed and producing a hydroprocessing product, where the reactor feed includes a bio-oil feed and a hydrocarbon diluent; and the step of reducing the pressure drop comprises stopping or substantially reducing the bio-oil feed supplied to the reactor and supplying the hydrocarbon diluent to the reactor with a mass flux of at least about 1,000 lb/hr/ft | 2014-09-18 |
20140261716 | Systems and Methods for Fluid Pump Outlet Pressure Regulation - Fluid pump pressure regulation systems and methods have a valve body with a bore and a valve spool. The valve spool connects a first and second port to a third port in different valve spool positions. The first port is in fluid communication with an output of a fluid pump to receive a first fluid pressure from the fluid pump. The second port is in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir. The third port is in fluid communication with a fluid pump input to provide a second fluid pressure to the fluid pump to control the first fluid pressure from the fluid pump. A linear actuator is adjacent the valve body, with a first spring and a second spring biasing the valve spool in a first or second direction. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261717 | DIALYSIS CONTROL VALVE HAVING SELF-CLEANING MODE - A valve system is provided that includes an electromechanical solenoid, a gas valve including a magnetic flapper, a power source in electrical communication with the electromechanical solenoid, and a controller. The controller is configured to control the power source to supply an intermediate voltage that causes the electromechanical solenoid to move to a neutral position between a default position and a fully-actuated position. In so doing, the magnetic flapper is maintained in a neutral position between two gas ports and a flow of gas between the ports can be used to clean foreign particles from the magnetic flapper. The controller can also provide a varying voltage to the electromechanical solenoid while in the neutral position to cause vibration of the magnetic flapper and further assist in removing foreign particles. A closed loop system including a feedback circuit can be used for adjusting the voltage applied to the solenoid based on pressure sensed. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261718 | MAIN STAGE IN-LINE PRESSURE CONTROL CARTRIDGE WITH OPTIONAL REVERSE FLOW FUNCTION - A main stage in-line pressure control cartridge. The cartridge selectively controls flow in-line in the same direction as opposed to directing flow at a 90 degree angle like other cartridges. A tubular poppet can be mounted into a body and has a sliding control sleeve that can expose radial holes in the poppet to an open position and to seal the radial holes in a closed position. The cartridge can be configured in numerous ways in order to serve many functions, such as a pressure relief valve, a counterbalance valve, and a flow control valve. The cartridge can also be configured to allow or prevent reverse flow. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261719 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REGULATING A CONSTANT POSITIVE PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL WITHIN A CONTAINER - A system and method for regulating a constant positive pressure differential within a container in order to maintain the waterproof integrity of the container. In one embodiment, the system for regulating a constant positive pressure differential within a container is comprised of a valve member, a control member, and an air supply member. In another embodiment, the system for regulating a constant positive pressure differential within a container is also comprised of a container member. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261720 | FLAMELESS FLUID HEATER - Heat from a rotating prime mover(s) driving a fluid shear pump, heat from the prime mover and any exhaust heat generated by the prime mover is collected. The heat energy collected from all of these sources is transmitted through heat exchangers to a fluid where heat energy is desired. This fluid heating process is performed in the absence of an open flame. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261721 | System and Method for Acoustic Focusing Hardware and Implementations - The present invention is a method and apparatus for acoustic focusing hardware and implementations. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261722 | Auxiliary Mobile Power System - The present disclosure is directed to a hydraulic vehicle power system. The auxiliary mobile power system may be configured to supply power to at least one auxiliary function and a primary hydraulic system for a vehicle. The auxiliary mobile power system may include a hydraulic pump configured to provide hydraulic pressure to the at least one auxiliary function and the vehicle's primary hydraulic system. The auxiliary mobile power system may also include a control valve connected to the hydraulic pump. The control valve may be configured to control the hydraulic pressure to the at least one auxiliary function and the primary hydraulic system for the vehicle. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261723 | BIDIRECTIONAL FLUID FLOW VALVE AND METHOD - The present disclosure relates to a bidirectional valve design that provides for more rapid deflations/evacuation of fluid flow and in one example includes a valve body, a spindle piston movably coupled in a bore of the valve body and an electronically controllable motor that moves the spindle valve between a fluid evacuation position and a fluid fill position. In one example, the spindle piston includes piston structures on ends of a threaded rod. In another example, a mattress system is disclosed that employs the valve and a fluid source to provide quick evacuation of air from a patient support. In another example, the valve is coupled to an alternating pressure block valve which is then coupled to a patient support. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261724 | Balanced Port Sense Profile for Improved Capacity Performance - A fluid regulating device includes a regulator valve having an inlet, an outlet, and a valve port disposed between the inlet and the outlet. An actuator is coupled to the regulator valve and includes a valve disc that displaces along a longitudinal axis to open and close the fluid regulating device. The valve disc includes a sealing surface disposed adjacent to an outer radial end of the valve disc, and the sealing surface is adapted to sealingly engage the valve port in the closed position. The valve disc also includes an intermediate surface disposed inward of the sealing surface, and a groove is formed in the intermediate surface. The groove extends along a groove axis extending along the intermediate surface normal to the longitudinal axis, and the groove axis is at least partially curved when viewed along the longitudinal axis. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261725 | PIPING STICK SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Embodiments of a piping stick and methods of manufacturing and using a piping stick are disclosed herein. The piping stick can define a scalable volume including a plurality of piping sections and a plurality of control sections. The non-connected in his of the piping sections of the piping stick can be capped. The piping stick can be assembled by assembling the plurality of control sections and the plurality of piping sections, pressurizing, the piping stick at a first time, and determining the integrity of the piping stick by evaluating the pressure in the piping stick at a second time. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261726 | Valve Exerciser for an Emergency Shutoff Valve of a Steam Turbine and Method for Using the Same - An apparatus for exercising an emergency shutoff valve of a steam turbine and methods for operating the same are disclosed herein. A cover of the valve exerciser mounts on top of an emergency shutoff valve body and through a stroker bolt threadingly engaged with the shutoff valve lever arm, the valve stem is moved within a passageway of the cover a small amount so that the aperture between the steam inlet and outlet is not blocked, thereby permitting normal operation of the steam valve while the valve stem is exercised. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261727 | VIAL ADAPTER FOR SIDE ENGAGEMENT OF VIAL CAP - A vial adapter for side engagement of a vial cap includes a needleless connector having a housing and defining one or more fluid pathways therein; an elongated piercing spike operatively coupled to the needleless connector, the elongated piercing spike having a longitudinal axis and one or more channels for fluid connectivity with the one or more fluid pathways; at least one housing arm coupled to the housing and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a coupling member configured to orthogonally receive a vial cap with respect to the longitudinal axis, the coupling member having a planar surface, an aperture of the planar surface longitudinally aligned with the elongated piercing spike, and at least one support arm extending from the planar surface operatively coupled with the at least one housing arm to allow relative longitudinal movement between the coupling member and the elongated piercing spike. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261728 | COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS PRESSURE REGULATOR PROTECTIVE BRACKET - A protective bracket for a compressed natural gas pressure regulator mounted in an engine compartment of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The compressed natural gas pressure regulator is disposed between a natural gas pressurized tank and an intake system for an internal combustion engine within the engine compartment, and the protective bracket comprises a main body disposed essentially about the entire external volume of the compressed natural gas pressure regulator. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261729 | FILTER WITH INTEGRATED BAFFLE - An airbag assembly may include an airbag and an inflator in fluid communication with the airbag. The inflator may have a first chamber containing a first gas source and a second chamber containing a second gas source. A filter module may be positioned to filter and redirect gas flows from the first and second gas sources. The filter module may be constructed by securing a baffle within an interior cavity of a filter medium having a generally tubular shape, prior to installation of the filter module the inflator. The baffle may be supported directly by the material of the filter module, by a bracket, or by a support structure formed of wire thicker than that of the filter medium. The baffle may maintain isolation between the first and second chambers, or may help gas from the first gas source initiate gas provision from the second gas source. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261730 | FIRE HYDRANT COVER WITH WATER PRESSURE INDICATOR SYSTEM - Devices, systems and methods for visually indicating the presence of a fire hydrant and the range of gallons per minute water flow associated with the hydrant. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261731 | FIRE HYDRANT PRESSURE INDICATOR - Devices, systems and methods for visually indicating the presence of a fire hydrant and the range of gallons per minute water flow associated with the hydrant by using a single-piece fire hydrant cover. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261732 | EFFICIENTLY AND EASILY OPENING AND CLOSING A CANISTER VALVE - The present disclosure relates to a canister connection apparatus designed to efficiently and easily connect a pressurized canister to an external system. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261733 | Processing Chamber Gas Delivery System with Hot-Swappable Ampoule - Disclosed are apparatus and methods for supplying a constant flow of precursor gas to a processing chamber. The apparatus described, and methods of use, allow a precursor ampoule to be removed from the gas delivery system without interrupting the process. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261734 | ELECTROMECHANICAL APPARATUS SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING OR PURGING FLUIDS - An improved electromechanical apparatus for injecting or purging fluids on demand is disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and methods for using the apparatus, including automatic fertilizer injection/injecting and water line purging systems for use in lawn maintenance. The apparatus can be located in a main water line before the distribution valves of an irrigation system, for example, where it can be activated or deactivated without interfering with the normal usage of the system. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261735 | AUTOMATIC VACUUM SEWERAGE SOLIDS CLEANING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - This application discloses novel vacuum break devices useful in automatic vacuum flushing systems. The vacuum break devices are capable of rapidly breaking the vacuum in a storage tank of a sewer line, thus enabling efficient flushing of sediments and cleaning of the sewer system. The invention also provides automatic vacuum flushing systems comprising these novel rapid vacuum break devices and methods thereof for sewer or storage tank sediment cleaning in urban drainage systems. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261736 | FLUIDICS SYSTEM FOR SEQUENTIAL DELIVERY OF REAGENTS - The invention provides a passive fluidics circuit for directing different fluids to a common volume, such as a reaction chamber or flow cell, without intermixing or cross contamination. The direction and rate of flow through junctions, nodes and passages of the fluidics circuit are controlled by the states of upstream valves (e.g. opened or closed), differential fluid pressures at circuit inlets or upstream reservoirs, flow path resistances, and the like. Free diffusion or leakage of fluids from unselected inlets into the common outlet or other inlets at junctions or nodes is prevented by the flow of the selected inlet fluid, a portion of which sweeps by the inlets of unselected fluids and exits the fluidics circuit by waste ports, thereby creating a barrier against undesired intermixing with the outlet flow through leakage or diffusion. The invention is particularly advantageous in apparatus for performing sensitive multistep reactions, such as pH-based DNA sequencing reactions. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261737 | GATE VALVE WITH TRACK CLEANOUT - Methods, systems, and apparatus for a gate valve include a valve body having an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface and the outer surface defining an inlet, an outlet, and a fluid path therebetween, a track defined in the inner surface, the track defining a bottom surface; a gate having a wing; a scraper having a leading edge, the scraper mounted to the wing of the gate; a biasing element, the biasing element biasing the leading edge of the scraper against the bottom surface of the track. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261738 | SELF-DRAINING ULLAGE FUEL TANK SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS - Self-draining ullage fuel tank system and related methods are described. An example fuel tank apparatus includes a fuel tank and a ullage tank positioned at an elevation relative to the fuel tank. The example fuel tank apparatus also includes a fluid path to fluidly couple a cavity of the fuel tank and a cavity of the ullage tank. The fluid path having a first end coupled to the cavity of the fuel tank. The fluid path having a second end extending through an opening of an upper wall of the ullage tank and having an opening positioned adjacent a bottom surface of the cavity of the ullage tank. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261739 | DENSE PHASE PUMP WITH EASILY REPLACEABLE COMPONENTS - A dense phase pump has two housings that are attached together using a single releasable fastener. The fastener can be released to allow the two housings to be separated thereby providing access to replaceable components. The replaceable components may include one or more pinch valves or one or more barrier elements. A pinch valve for a dense phase pump has a shape or profile for aligning the pinch valve when the pinch valve is installed in a pinch valve body. The pinch valve optionally has two end flanges, with each end flange having a shaped periphery. The two end flanges may have the same size and shape so that the pinch valve can be installed in either of two orientations that are inverse. A dense phase pump has a pump chamber that can be purged by purge gas that enters the pump off-axis from a purge path axis. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261740 | System for Detecting a Valve Replacement Kit and a Method of Use Thereof - A system for detecting a valve replacement element including a flush valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a main valve element adapted for movement between a first position in which the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are in fluid isolation, and a second position in which the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are in fluid communication is disclosed. The main valve element includes a replaceable portion. The system also includes a sensor for monitoring usage of the replaceable portion of the main valve element, and an indicator in communication with the sensor for alerting an operator when the replaceable portion of the main valve element should be replaced. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261741 | RAPID-CONNECT COUPLER WITH VENT-HOLES - An embodiment includes a coupling system having a rapid-connect coupler configured to engage a male fuel receptacle to convey a fluid. The coupling system may be configured to transition between a coupled configuration and a de-coupled configuration. When transitioning between configurations, significant pressure may build up inside various coupling orifices such that when a disconnection procedure is invoked, the pressure may cause significant forces to push the rapid-connect coupler off of the male receptacle. This may lead to damage and injury. Thus, coupling system may further include vent holes configured to allow pressure inside to be relieved when transitioning from the coupled configuration to the de-coupled configuration. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261742 | THERMAL PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Apparatus, methods and systems for inspecting and/or sensing defects in a thermal pressure relief device. The thermal pressure relief apparatus may comprise a bulb having a fluid therein. In some implementations, a sensor may be used to determine whether the fluid within the bulb exceeds a fill level threshold. Upon determining that the fluid is below the fill level threshold, an action may be taken. In some implementations, the action may comprise providing a notification. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261743 | WATER VALVE WITH SUPPORTED OPENING FUNCTION - Water valves and methods of regulating fluid flow for low ambient pressure water sources that reduce the amount of filtration needed for valve mechanisms operating in the water source. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261744 | THERMOSTATIC VALVE - A thermostatic valve is provided. The thermostatic valve includes a first seat, a second seat spaced axially apart from the first seat, and a shuttle. The shuttle is located between the first seat and the second seat, has a first side and a second side axially opposite the first side, and is movable between a first position in which the first side of the shuttle seals against the first seat and a second position in which the second side of the shuttle seals against the second seat. At least one of the first seat, the second seat, and the shuttle comprises an overmolded portion for sealing between the shuttle and at least one of the first seat and the second seat. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261745 | PROJECTION WELDED PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE ASSEMBLY - This invention relates to a pressure relievable tank comprising a cylinder, a pressure relief valve having a housing with an upper end, a lower end and a sidewall disposed therebetween, a flange connected the upper end of the housing, and a bottom having a central aperture and an upwardly facing rim surrounding the central aperture. The bottom is connected to the lower end of the housing and the bottom and sidewall form a cavity. A retainer is fixed in the upper end of the housing, a seal is disposed in the lower end of the housing, and a spring is compressed between the retainer and the seal for holding the seal against the upwardly facing rim. A projection weld welds the flange to the cylinder. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261746 | Methods And Systems For Improving The Operation Of Transmissions For Motor Vehicles - A pressure regulator valve to replace the pressure regulator valve of a “factory installed” automotive transmission has a pressure regulator balance circuit provided internally within a first portion of the pressure regulator valve. The pressure regulator valve also has a decrease exhaust circuit provided internally within a second portion of the pressure regulator valve. One or more outer lands of the pressure regulator valve has a width greater than that of the outer land of the “factory installed” pressure regulator valve, and the pressure regulator valve has an inner land having a greater width than that of the inner land of the “factory installed” pressure regulator valve. The pressure regulator valve provides efficient pump control while providing support and stability greater than that provided by the “factory installed” pressure regulator valve. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261747 | MIXING VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR FAUCET - A mixing valve for a faucet includes a body configured to receive therein end portions of a fluid supply line and a fluid outlet line, and a coupler. The coupler is configured for insertion through a sidewall of the body to engage features of the fluid supply line and the fluid outlet line so as to retain the fluid supply line and the fluid outlet line within the body. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261748 | VALVE MECHANISM WITH FRANGIBLE PLUG - A valve mechanism is herein described that utilises a frangible plug. The valve mechanism comprises a valve body having an inlet port and an outlet port and a passageway extending therebetween. The valve mechanism comprises a frangible plug that is held within the valve body to block the passageway when the plug is intact. The plug comprises a predefined fracture plane and is configured to fracture across the predefined fracture plane upon application of an impact force. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261749 | FAUCET ASSEMBLY - A touch-free faucet provides control over flow and/or temperature by detecting object presence in one or more detection zones. In one embodiment, the faucet provides for continuous-flow water flow wherein the spout of the faucet pours water for a period of time regardless of whether an object is detected in a detection zone, such as the sink, during that time. The faucet may initiate continuous-flow based on the detection of an object in another detection zone, and may cause continuous-flow operation for a determined period of time based on the amount of substantially uninterrupted time during which an object is detected in a detection zone associated with initiating continuous-flow mode. Furthermore, the faucet may provide for user-programmable sensitivity affecting the amount of continuous-flow time that is determined based on the amount of time that the faucet detects object in the continuous-flow mode detection zone. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261750 | CAPACITIVE SENSING FAUCET INCLUDING A CONDUCTIVE POLYMER - A capacitive sensing faucet is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the faucet includes a a faucet body hub; a spout coupled to the faucet body hub; an insulator defining a capacitive coupling between the faucet body hub and the spout, wherein the insulator is formed from an electrically conductive polymer; a capacitive sensor having an electrode coupled to the faucet body hub; and a controller coupled to the capacitive sensor, the controller determining if the spout is touched by a user based on an output signal from the capacitive sensor. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261751 | PRESSURE BALANCE UNIT - A pressure balance unit for a valve assembly includes a first shell having a tongue extending therefrom, a second shell having a groove indented therein, and a sliding element having a shaft defining an axis. The groove in the second shell is configured to receive the tongue from the first shell for aligning the shells. The first and second shells are united using a sonic welding process. The first shell defines a first bore and the second shell defines a second bore. The first and second bores include inlet ports in circumferential faces thereof, the ports defining openings transverse to the axis. The sliding element includes a first end movable along the axis within the first bore and a second end movable along the axis within the second bore. The ends of the sliding element open and close the inlet ports by sliding across the ports. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261752 | REPLACEABLE BLADE - A flexible structure inflation device, comprising an inflation assembly configured for insertion between first and second overlapping film layers of a web of material, the inflation assembly having a fluid conduit configured directing a fluid in between the layers to inflate the web; and a cutting member held magnetically in an operative position adjacent the inflation assembly to cut the film passing over the inflation assembly. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261753 | RUBBER COMPOSITION AND DESIGN FOR SNAP-IN TIRE VALVE - A snap-in tire valve for mounting in a valve hole in a wheel rim, having a valve body and a resilient member having an overall shape including a groove and a rib adapted to snap into and be retained in the hole. The resilient member may include a rubber that is the reaction product of ethylene-propylene copolymer elastomer, a peroxide curative, zinc diacrylate or zinc dimethacrylate, and a high-density inert filler, such as barium sulfate. The resilient member may include a first and second rubber members of different compositions from each other and defining two layers under the groove. The thickness of the layer of the first rubber member is preferably greater than the thickness of the layer of the second rubber member. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261754 | ATTACHMENT FOR DIFFERENT AIR VALVES - An air valve connecting device or attachment includes a housing having an inlet mouth, a sliding member slidably engaged in the housing and extendible out of the housing, the sliding member includes two pathways and two chambers communicating with each other, two gaskets are engaged into the chambers of the sliding member respectively for engaging with different inflation valves, and the outer peripheral walls for forming the chambers of the sliding member are compressible to engage with the gaskets and to grasp and retain the inflation valves and the gaskets in the chambers of the sliding member respectively when either of the outer peripheral walls is engaged into the housing. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261755 | CLOG RETARDING FILTERING APPARATUS FOR INLET FLUID INTO A PRESSURE CHAMBER OF A SPRAYER - To assist the filtering from a tank into the inlet port of the pressure chamber of a sprayer, an additional pumping structure is attached to the pumping mechanism of the sprayer. A hose extends into the tank of the sprayer and draws fluid from the tank into the additional pumping structure. Fluid is pumped from the additional pumping structure via the hose to provide a jet of fluid upon a filter over the inlet port. The jet of fluid flushes the filter and retards the accumulation of debris thereon, thereby retarding the clogging of the filter. | 2014-09-18 |
20140261756 | VACUUM ISOLATION VALVE - The vacuum isolation valve includes a housing installed between a chamber and a chamber cleaning gas supply and including a tube connecting the chamber to the chamber cleaning gas supply, a tube isolator formed at a predetermined position of the tube, a first blocking unit installed to the housing, and a second blocking unit installed to the housing, for, when the first blocking unit moves in the first direction, maintaining communication between the chamber and the chamber cleaning gas supply by moving in a second direction and pressing the first blocking unit and for, when the first blocking unit moves in an opposite direction to the first direction, blocking communication between the chamber and the chamber cleaning gas supply. | 2014-09-18 |