| 16th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights (04-16-09/04-16-09_9) part 9 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20090095519 | CURRENT DISTRIBUTION STRUCTURE AND METHOD - An electrical structure and method of forming. The electrical structure comprises an interconnect structure and a substrate. The substrate comprises an electrically conductive pad and a plurality of wire traces electrically connected to the electrically conductive pad. The electrically conductive pad is electrically and mechanically connected to the interconnect structure. The plurality of wire traces comprises a first wire trace, a second wire trace, a third wire trace, and a fourth wire trace. The first wire trace and second wire trace are each electrically connected to a first side of the electrically conductive pad. The third wire trace is electrically connected to a second side of the electrically conductive pad. The fourth wire trace is electrically connected to a third side of said first electrically conductive pad. The plurality of wire traces are configured to distribute a current. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095520 | WIRING SUBSTRATE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - There is provided a wiring substrate. The wiring substrate includes: a core substrate formed of a conductive material and having a through hole therein; an insulating layer formed on first and second surfaces of the core substrate; wiring patterns formed on the first and second surfaces via the insulating layer; and a via formed in the through hole and electrically connected to the wiring patterns. The via includes: a conductor ball and a conductor portion. The conductor ball has a conductive surface and an insulating member covering the conductive surface. A portion of the conductive surface is exposed from the insulating member. The conductor portion is electrically connected to the exposed conductive surface and the wiring patterns. At least one of the insulating member and the insulating layer is interposed between the via and the core substrate. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095521 | CIRCUIT BOARD AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A circuit board has plated through holes which are laid out with a fine pitch and meets requirements relating to characteristics such as the thermal expansion coefficient of the circuit board. A method of manufacturing a circuit board includes: a step of forming a core portion by thermal compression bonding prepregs which include first fibers that conduct electricity and second fibers that do not conduct electricity, which have the second fibers disposed at positions where plated through holes will pass through, and which are impregnated with resin; a step of forming through holes at positions in the core portion where the second fibers are disposed; and a step of forming a conductive layer on inner surfaces of the through holes to form plated through holes at positions that do not interfere with the first fibers and thereby produce a core substrate. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095522 | Robotic Bypass System and Method - A system and method, and robotic equipment for mechanical and/or electrical bypassing of short sections of energized high voltage line conductors by gripping the conductor at two close-by points, making good electrical and mechanical connection, then drawing the two points towards one another so as to relieve both mechanical and current-carrying duty of the bypassed conductor section. Doing so can provide slack on the bypassed conductor section for maintenance or repair while simultaneously providing an alternative path for electric current, or increase tension on the adjacent conductor sections by essentially shortening the conductor in the region where the invention is applied. The invention may then reverse direction, placing (stretch) tension on the bypassed conductor section and the point of repair to assure its mechanical integrity. Mechanical bypassing only to temporarily shorten specific conductor spans may be achieved by the same device. Electrical bypassing only may be achieved in a similar manner by gripping and bridging two separate high voltage conductors, thus providing a means to connect and/or disconnect them with the aid of switching equipment incorporated into the invention. The invention allows all of the foregoing to be accomplished at line potential and in close line proximity by virtue of its being mounted on an insulated boom or suspended from a hovering helicopter or suspended from the line itself. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095523 | HOUSINGS FOR ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS - Housings for electrical or electronic components made using braid or woven fabric sheets having multiple sections treated with different materials as well as processes and materials for making such housings are disclosed. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095524 | CORE SUBSTRATE AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME - The core substrate is capable of securely preventing short circuit between an electrically conductive core section and a plated through-hole section. The core substrate comprises: an electrically conductive core section having a pilot hole, through which a plated through-hole section is formed; electrically conductive layers coating the inner face of the pilot hole and a surface of the core section; a gas purging hole being formed in the conductive layer coating the surface of the core section; an insulating material filling a space between the inner face of the pilot hole and an outer circumferential face of the plated through-hole section; and cable layers being laminated on both side faces of the core section. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095525 | Distributive Conductor - A distributive conductor electromagnetically shields and protects an insulated wire | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095526 | Method and Apparatus for Managing Rod Changes in Horizontal Directional Drill - This disclosure concerns methods and apparatuses for managing drill rods in horizontal direction drilling, among other things. Various embodiments concern a horizontal directional drilling machine comprising a rack frame, a carriage longitudinally movable along the rack frame, a mechanical arrangement coupled to the carriage and the rack frame, the mechanical arrangement controlling relative movement between the carriage and the rack frame, a thrust motor coupled to the carriage such that thrust or pullback output from the thrust motor moves the carriage relative to the rack frame, a gearbox mounted on the carriage, the gearbox longitudinally translatable along the carriage, the gearbox comprising a rotation motor, a spindle attached to the gearbox, the spindle rotatable by the rotation motor and having a distal end coupling, the distal end coupling configured to attach to the proximal end of a drill rod, a vise assembly mounted on the rack frame, the vise assembly comprising a proximal vise linearly and rotationally moveable with respect to the rack frame, the proximal vise comprising a clamping mechanism configured to secure the drill rod by clamping onto the drill rod, a rotation encoder sensor configured to output a rotation encoder signal indicative of rotation of the spindle, a rack encoder sensor configured to output a rack encoder signal indicative of relative movement between the carriage and the rack frame, a float sensor configured to output a float signal indicative of relative movement between the carriage and the gearbox, and control circuitry comprising a processor and memory, the processor configured to execute program instructions stored in memory, processor execution of the stored program instructions causing the control circuitry to determine the relative positioning of the gearbox relative to the proximal vise based on the rack encoder signal and the float signal, position the drill rod within the proximal vise using the determined relative positioning of the gearbox and the thrust motor, determine a state of threaded coupling between the drill rod and a drill string based on the rotation encoder signal and the float signal, and rotate the drill rod using the spindle rotated by the rotation motor based on the determined state of the threaded coupling. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095527 | Devices and Methods for Power Control in Horizontal Directional Drilling - The present disclosure is directed to methods and apparatuses for controlling pump power draw from an engine in horizontal directional drilling. Various embodiments of the invention are directed to a horizontal directional drilling machine that comprises an engine that outputs mechanical energy, a rotation pump that draws upon the mechanical energy output by the engine to operate a rotation motor that rotates a drill string, a thrust pump that draws upon the mechanical energy output by the engine to operate a thrust motor that longitudinally moves the drill string, a mud pump that draws upon the mechanical energy output by the engine to operate a mud motor that delivers fluid through the drill string, and control circuitry comprising a controller and memory, the processor configured to execute program instructions stored on the memory, processor execution of the stored program instructions causing the control circuitry to calculate a rotation pump power draw from the engine, calculate a thrust pump power draw from the engine, calculate a mud pump power draw from the engine, calculate a total power draw based on the rotation pump power draw, the thrust pump power draw and the mud pump power draw, compare the total power draw to a threshold, and decrease mechanical energy draw of each of the rotation pump, the thrust pump, and the mud pump from the engine based on the total power draw exceeding the threshold. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095528 | Downhole Motor Assembly with Torque Regulation - A downhole motor assembly for driving a drill bit. The assembly includes a hydraulic drive section with a stator and a rotor located inside the stator to form a flow path between the stator and the rotor. Fluid flowing through the flow path in response to a pressure differential across the hydraulic drive section creates an operative force to rotate the drill bit. The assembly also includes a regulation mechanism that includes a valve and a fluid flow diversion bore for diverting at least some fluid from the flow path when the pressure differential across the hydraulic drive section is greater than or equal to a transition pressure differential. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095529 | Measurement Ahead of the Drilling Bit by Analysis of Formation Cuttings Using Ultraviolet Light to Detect the Presence of Oil or Gas - An apparatus for determining the nature of the formation at the bottom of a wellbore being drilled with a tubular drill string through which drilling fluid is pumped to return the drilling fluid to the surface via the wellbore, the apparatus comprising a tool body for installation in a drill string with a bore extending there through and an ultraviolet fluorescence detector in a passageway in the tool body, the tool body being configured to receive drilling fluid from inside the drill string and to receive drilling fluid from outside the drill string, wherein the drilling fluid can be directed past the detector so as to enable measurements to be made. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095530 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GUIDING THE DRILLING OF A HORIZONTAL WELL - System and methods for guiding the drilling of a horizontal well are disclosed. A current is provided in at least one conductor positioned in a target vertical well. A magnetic field generated by the current is measured at a drilling assembly that is drilling the horizontal well. A direction from the drilling assembly to the target vertical well is determined based at least in part on the measured magnetic field. A distance from the drilling assembly to the target vertical well is determined based at least in part on the measured magnetic field. The determination of the distance includes determining at least one gradient. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095531 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING BACKWARD WHIRLING WHILE DRILLING - According to the invention, a system for drilling a cavity in a medium is disclosed. The system may include a bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly may include a first longitudinal segment and at least one drill bit. The first longitudinal segment may include a first length of chassis having a first cross section. The first cross section may be configured such that the first longitudinal segment may have a greater stiffness in a first lateral direction than in a lateral direction different than the first lateral direction. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095532 | SELF SHARPENING CUTTING STRUCTURE FOR EXPANDABLE EARTH BORING APPARATUS USING IMPREGNATED AND MATRIX MATERIALS - A tool for enlarging a borehole that includes an elongated tubular body; at least one movable arm affixed to the tubular body, the at least one movable arm comprising an outer surface formed of at least one of a matrix material and an abrasive material; and at least one actuating member for expanding at least one movable arm from the collapsed state to an expanded state is disclosed. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095533 | SELF-CONTAINED SYSTEM FOR DRILLING A DRAINHOLE - A self-contained system for drilling a drainhole laterally to a wellbore that includes a drill head with a tool for boring a drainhole and a self-propelled device for advancing the head into the drainhole during boring; a relay unit lowered into the wellbore, arranged to position the drill head against the sidewall of the wellbore in order to initiate the boring of the drainhole laterally to the wellbore; a cable for supplying electric power to the drill head, reeled out from the relay unit; and a mechanical system for removing cuttings from the drainhole during boring, the debris removed falling downhole. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095534 | Compositions and Methods for Treatment of Well Bore Tar - Of the many compositions and methods provided herein, one method includes a method comprising: contacting tar resident in a well bore with a treatment fluid comprising a styrene-acrylate polymer; and allowing the styrene-acrylate polymer to interact with the tar to at least partially reduce the tendency of the tar to adhere to a surface. Another method provided herein includes a method for treating tar sand comprising: contacting the tar sand with a treatment fluid comprising an aqueous fluid and a styrene-acrylate polymer, the tar sand comprising tar and sand; and allowing the styrene-acrylate polymers to interact with the tar to at least partially separate the tar from the sand. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095535 | Methods of Drilling and Consolidating Subterranean Formation Particulates - The present invention relates to improved methods for drilling well bores penetrating producing zones while controlling formation particulates. Some embodiments of the present invention provide methods of consolidating formation particulates surrounding a well bore comprising the steps of providing a drilling composition comprising a drilling fluid and a consolidating material, using the drilling composition to drill at least a portion of the well bore, allowing the consolidating material in the drilling composition to penetrate into the walls of the well bore, and allowing the consolidating material in the drilling composition to consolidate at least a portion of the formation particulates surrounding the well bore | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095536 | ROCK BIT WITH HYDRAULIC CONFIGURATION - A drill bit for drilling through an earthen formation to form a borehole with a radius R. In an embodiment, the drill bit comprises a bit body having a central bit axis and including a pin end, an internal plenum, and a dome side. The dome side includes a central dome region extending from the bit axis to about 10% of the radius R and an intermediate dome region extending from the central region to about 50% of the radius R. In addition, the drill bit comprises an intermediate receptacle having a central axis and extending through the intermediate dome region. Further, the drill bit comprises a first and a second rolling cone, each including an intermediate cone region. A projection of the central axis of the intermediate receptacle passes between the intermediate regions of the first cone and the second cone. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095537 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR VARIABLE JUNK SLOT DEPTH IN DRILL BIT BODY TO ALLEVIATE BALLING - An earth boring drill bit design for alleviating balling varies the junk slot depth in junk slots subject to balling from the other junk slots. Using variable depth bit bodies enhances the hydraulic characteristics of the bit as well as assists in the placement of the nozzles for machining purposes. This flexibility optimizes the area changes along the ducts required by the bit's operation. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095538 | Polycrystalline Diamond Composite Constructions Comprising Thermally Stable Diamond Volume - PCD composite constructions comprise a diamond body bonded to a substrate. The diamond body comprises a thermally stable diamond bonded region that is made up of a single phase of diamond crystals bonded together. The diamond body includes a PCD region bonded to the thermally stable region and that comprises bonded together diamond crystals and interstitial regions interposed between the diamond crystals. The PCD composite is prepared by combining a first volume of PCD) with a second volume of diamond crystal-containing material consisting essentially of a single phase of bonded together diamond crystals. A substrate is positioned adjacent to or joined to the first volume. The first and second volumes are subjected to high pressure/high temperature process conditions, during process the first and second volumes form a diamond bonded body that is attached to the substrate, and the second volume forms the thermally stable diamond bonded region. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095539 | CYCLE COUNTER FOR A LOADER - A cycle counter system for use with a loading machine having a loading bucket. The cycle counter system includes at least one weight sensor, an operator activated control and a processing circuit. The at least one weight sensor produces a weight signal relating to a measured weight of a weight lifted by the loading machine. The operator activated control in the loading machine selectively produces at least one control signal. The processing circuit receives the control signal and the weight signal. The measured weight is added to a selected of a plurality of weight values dependent on the at least one control signal. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095540 | Method for palm touch identification in multi-touch digitizing systems - A method for classifying input to a multi-touch sensitive digitizer that is obtained from a body part as inputs invalid for user interaction and inputs valid for user interaction comprises: identifying a plurality of discrete regions of input to a digitizer sensor; determining spatial relation between at least two of the regions; and classifying one of the at least two regions as either valid input region or invalid input region based on the spatial relation determined between the at least two regions. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095541 | INPUT DEVICE - Provided is an input device. The input device includes: n first input lines; m groups of n second input lines connected to the n first input lines in different manners, wherein m is larger than n; an input unit having m groups of n touch units correspondingly connected to the m groups of n second input lines; and an input signal determination part for decoding signals from the n first input lines to generate input signals. Therefore, the input device can generate a large number of input signals through a small number of input lines using an electrical touch sensor having a single pressure pad for detecting a contact. In addition, partially using a pressure sensor instead of the touch sensor, it is possible to generate a larger number of input signals. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095542 | TOUCH SENSOR AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF - Provided are a touch sensor and a method of operating the same. The touch sensor includes: a pulse signal generator for generating a pulse signal of which pulse width is calibrated in response to a control code; a pulse signal transmitter for transmitting the pulse signal when a touch object is out of contact with a touch pad and stopping transmitting the pulse signal when the touch object is in contact with the touch pad; a pulse signal detector for detecting the pulse signal transmitted through the pulse signal transmitter; and a controller recognizing a non-contact state and adjusting the control code to calibrate the pulse width of the pulse signal when the pulse signal detector detects the pulse signal. In the above-described configuration, the contact of the touch object with the touch pad can be sensed more precisely, and the occurrence of a malfunction in the touch sensor due to changed operating conditions can be prevented. As a result, the operating reliability of the touch sensor can be enhanced. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095543 | ELECTRONIC PEN WITH RETRACTION MECHANISM AND FORCE SENSOR - An electronic pen for interacting with a substrate having coded data disposed thereon. The pen comprises: an image sensor for sensing the coded data when the pen is used to interact with the surface; a cartridge having a nib for contacting the surface; a retraction mechanism for slidably moving the cartridge between a retracted position and an extended position; a force sensor cooperating with the retraction mechanism; a processor configured to generate indicating data indicative of the interaction with the substrate; and communication means for communicating the indicating data to a computer system. The image sensor is configured to sense the coded data only when the force sensor detects that the nib is in contact with the substrate. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095544 | Remotely controlled vehicle with a track mechanism and independently operated wheels - A remotely controlled vehicle with a track mechanism and independently operated wheels is described. The vehicle includes a track assembly that includes a center track drive wheel and corresponding endless center track. A pair of driving wheels are mounted on opposing lateral sides of the track assembly. Two independently operated motors are included, each supplying power to only one of the driving wheels. A differential gear set is operatively connected between each of the two motors and the center track drive wheel. The gear set is formed to drive the center track drive wheel in a vehicle driving direction when both motors are concurrently operated to drive the pair of driving wheels in the vehicle driving direction. The gear set also imparts a minimal force to the center track drive wheel when each of the motors are operating to drive the pair of driving wheels in opposing directions. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095545 | PRESSURE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A vehicle includes an engine and a liquid pump configured to pump liquid from a liquid intake system to an outlet. The vehicle further includes a pressure control system operably coupled to the engine via a communication connection, the pressure control system receiving a first signal from the engine representing engine speed. The pressure control system is configured to cause the liquid pump to change pumping pressure without changing the engine speed, and wherein the pressure control system is configured to cause the liquid pump to change pumping pressure without changing the engine speed when the pressure control system makes a determination relating to the engine speed. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095546 | Directly Injected Internal Combustion Engine System - An engine system for a vehicle, comprising of a combustion chamber, a first in-cylinder direct injector configured to deliver a first substance including at least gasoline directly to the combustion chamber at a first pressure; and a second in-cylinder direct injector configured to deliver a second substance including at least an alcohol directly to the combustion chamber at a second pressure less than the first pressure. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095547 | Motorized Personal Mobility Transportation Device for Outdoor Recreational Access - A personal mobility transportation device is adapted for outdoor recreational use by a user. The device includes an aluminum frame employing non-corrosive fasteners. Four wheels, mounted on the frame, each includes a turf tire that is configured to operate in dry sand when loaded with at least 200 lbs. A seat includes a marine-quality weather-resistant foam. An electric transaxle motor drives the device. A marine-quality weather sealed battery supplies power to the electric transaxle motor. All controls necessary to control the device are mounted at the top of a steering column, thereby allowing control of the device without any inputs from the user's feet. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095548 | DRIVE SYSTEM WITH FLUID PUMP - A drive system ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095549 | HYBRID VEHICLE DRIVE SYSTEM AND METHOD AND IDLE REDUCTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - One embodiment relates to a hybrid vehicle drive system for a vehicle including a first prime mover, a first prime mover driven transmission, a rechargeable power source, and a PTO. The hybrid vehicle drive system further includes a hydraulic motor in direct or indirect mechanical communication with the PTO and an electric motor in direct or indirect mechanical communication with the hydraulic motor. The electric motor can provide power to the prime mover driven transmission and receive power from the prime mover driven transmission through the PTO. The hydraulic motor can provide power to the prime mover driven transmission and receive power from the prime mover driven transmission through the PTO. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095550 | ELECTRIC CABLE ORGANIZER FOR A BATTERY BOX IN AN AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE - A battery cable organizer ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095551 | ANTI-SKID CONTROL DEVICE AND AUTOMATIC BRAKE CONTROL DEVICE - An anti-skid control device or an automatic brake control device gradually increases a W/C pressure for a boost control valve for a front wheel FR or FL on a high-μ surface, by repeating a cycle in which the differential pressure for the boost control valve at the high-μ surface side is kept at the first differential pressure for a first period, and after that kept at the second differential pressure for a second period. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the individual variation in the capability for W/C pressure boosting, and accordingly to suppress the difference of the W/C pressures between the right front wheel and the left front wheel. Thus, it is possible to suppress the yaw torque applied to the vehicle and therefore to suppress the spin of the vehicle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095552 | Vehicle - The invention relates to a vehicle, especially a bicycle, comprising at least one drive wheel ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095553 | Straddle Type Vehicle - A straddle-type vehicle with a radiator having heightened support stiffness. An engine bracket extends vertically and has an upper portion mounted to a front end of a body frame and a lower portion suspending a front wall of an engine. The radiator includes an upper radiator arranged along a front surface of and mounted to the engine bracket, and a lower radiator. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095554 | Roll Over Protection System - Roll over protection system for a passenger car, comprising at least one extended top unit ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095555 | Rollover protection system for motor vehicles with a sensor-controlled actively deployable rollover body - The invention is based on a known rollover protection system for motor vehicles having
| 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095556 | Exhaust temperature reduction device for aftertreatment devices - An Exhaust Temperature Reduction Device for Aftertreatment Device is provided useful for lowering the temperature of exhaust gasses exiting the tailpipe of a vehicle having an aftertreatment device. The Exhaust Temperature Reduction Device for Aftertreatment Device may be manufactured from a single piece of formed sheet metal, two pieces of formed sheet metal that have been joined, or a net formed process such as investment cast stainless steel. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095557 | Inverter Buffer Structure for a Hybrid Vehicle - An inverter buffer structure for a vehicle is provided so that even when a head-on collision occurs, no damage is caused to the inverter case and its internal contents. In one embodiment an inverter buffer structure for a vehicle is disposed with an inverter in an engine compartment and is provided with buffer member between a surface of the inverter and a radiator core support that constitutes a portion of a frame of the vehicle to reduce an incoming force to the vehicle in the event of a collision. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095558 | Transmission Mount Assembly - A mount assembly ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095559 | Framework of vehicle - A framework of a vehicle provided with an engine mounted in an engine room and having a crank shaft, includes a subframe extending in the lateral direction of a space at the back of the engine. A steering gear box provided above the subframe extends in the lateral direction and an exhaust pipe that extends in the longitudinal direction crosses the gear box. A longitudinally extending recessed portion is formed on a top surface of the subframe so that the exhaust pipe provided under the steering gear box enters the recessed portion. Arch-shaped reinforcing members spanning over the exhaust pipe are provided on a top surface of the subframe at longitudinally spaced positions. The reinforcing member toward the front of the vehicle breaks when a physical impact is applied to the front of the vehicle before the reinforcing member disposed toward the rear of the vehicle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095560 | SUSPENDED FLOORBOARD - A materials handling vehicle is provided comprising: a frame; a set of wheels supported on the frame to allow the materials handling vehicle to move across a floor surface; a rider compartment located within the frame for receiving an operator; and an operator support assembly. The operator support assembly comprises a suspended floorboard upon which the operator may stand when located within the rider compartment and an energy absorbing structure coupled to the frame and the suspended floorboard for absorbing and dissipating at least a portion of energy resulting from disturbances encountered by the vehicle as it moves across the floor surface prior to the energy portion reaching the operator standing on the suspended floorboard, the energy absorbing structure including a damping element for effecting a dampening function. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095561 | Hydraulic Steering System for a Vehicle - A steering system for an agricultural vehicle with a hydraulic steering motor incorporates an internal pump, a distribution valve, an input shaft which in use is coupled for rotation by the steering shaft of a vehicle steering wheel, and connectors for hydraulic lines leading to a high pressure source of oil, to an oil reservoir and to hydraulic actuators connected to the steerable wheels of the vehicle. The steering motor is located remotely from the steering shaft and is coupled for rotation with shaft by hydraulic rotary actuators mounted on the steering shaft and the input shaft of the steering motor and arranged in a closed circuit with one another. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095562 | STEERING CONTROL DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - A steering control device for a vehicle includes a first adjustment value determination means for determining a first adjustment value of a value corresponding to a wheel steering angle based on an actual value and a target value of turning state quantity, the first adjustment value is a value directing to approximate the actual value to the target value, and a steering control means for adjusting the wheel steering angle by modifying the value corresponding to the wheel steering angle based on the first adjustment value, wherein the first adjustment value determination means includes an index value obtaining means for obtaining an index value indicating a probability of an occurrence of a side-slip of a wheel and a regulation means for regulating the first adjustment value so that the greater the probability of the occurrence of the side-slip is, the smaller the first adjustment value is set to be. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095563 | Hydraulic power steering system with charging valve and air cushion in the tank - A hydraulic power steering system which includes a tank and a power steering pump which takes in a pressure medium from an intake area which is decoupled from the prevailing atmospheric pressure on the side of the tank wall and delivers it under pressure to the power steering system. A valve device builds up a pre-pressure in the intake area and prevents a negative pressure and a positive pressure from building up on the interior of the oil tank. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095564 | Apparatus for controlling vehicle - Tire-uniformity components may generate a rotating force on the vehicle, when the vehicle is in a turning movement. The rotating force may spoil or deteriorate a turning performance of the vehicle. The controller controls a motor of an electric power steering system to modulate an assist torque acting on steerable wheels in accordance with the tire-uniformity components. The assist torque is modulated in the same direction as the rotating force. As a result, it is possible to suppress a deterioration of the turning performance of the vehicle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095565 | Apparatus for controlling vehicle - Tire-uniformity components may generate a lateral force on a vehicle body, when the vehicle is in a turning movement. The lateral force may cause vibrations on the vehicle body. The controller controls a motor of an electric power steering system to modulate an assist torque acting on steerable wheels in accordance with the tire-uniformity components. The assist torque is modulated in the same direction as the lateral force. As a result, it is possible to reduce vibrations on the vehicle body, since the modulated assist torque avoids conflict with the lateral force and release the lateral force. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095566 | Bandless hearing protector and method - A hearing protection device and method of use intended for a human ear. A plug member caps or enters ear canal, and may be shaped to conform to the external auditory meatus. The plug member may be part of a replacement assembly. The device is biased at least in part by a pressure pad to provide some force against the plug member. An optional handle may be provided to assist with temporarily pulling the plug member away from the ear canal or providing adjustment. An optional bow member clips about the pinna. The device may be adapted for use as an ear phone. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095567 | Platform ladder system - The present invention relates to a ladder system that incorporates a platform. The invention is portable, easy to assemble and disassemble and provides for a ladder system that can be configured in more than one arrangement. The ladder system provides a stable platform from which an individual can work. Furthermore, if the ladder is located on sloping ground the platform can still be positioned in a substantially horizontal plane. The versatile nature of the present invention provides that public with a useful ladder apparatus which overcomes the problems associated with conventional ladder or scaffolding systems which incorporate a platform. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095568 | LADDER ACCESSORY - A ladder accessory has a marrying pocket, a handle adapted to hold a paint vessel, and magnetic tool retainment. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095569 | Tree stand - A tree stand including a retaining collar. The collar has a pair of hingedly connected body segments for encircling a tree trunk and a number of clamps for grasping the tree trunk encircled by the body segments. At least one of the clamps is attached to each of the body segments. A number of braces is releasably fastened to the body segments of the collar and radiate outwardly from the collar. A number of decking plates, upon which one or more hunters can stand, is releasably fastened to the braces and is supported by the braces. A number of chairs, upon which an equal number of hunters can sit, is releasably fastened to the decking plates. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095570 | DEVICE FOR THE APPLICATION OF LUBRICANT ONTO THE RUNNING SURFACE OF RAILS FOR RAIL VEHICLES - A device for the application of lubricant onto the running surface of rails for rail vehicles includes at least one dispensing nozzle for issuing out a lubricant, and an air nozzle provided above the dispensing nozzle and aligned to blow out air in a direction of an upper edge of the dispensing nozzle and a railhead. The dispensing nozzle extends upwardly on an outer railhead surface which is distal to a contact surface for a rim of a running wheel of the rail vehicle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095571 | HIGH PRESSURE OIL MANIFOLD FOR A DIESEL ENGINE - A cast oil manifold ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095572 | Oil Valve Assembly of Linear Compressor - The present invention discloses an oil supply valve assembly of a linear compressor including a shell, the oil being stored at the lower portion of the shell, a cylinder disposed in the shell, a piston disposed in the cylinder, a main body frame to which the cylinder is fixed, and a linear motor connected to the piston, for driving the piston, comprising: a passage formed in the main body frame, for supplying the oil to a gap between the cylinder and the piston; an oil valve being coupled to the main body frame to communicate with the passage, and including an oil suction valve and an oil discharge valve; and an oil cover coupled to overlap with the oil valve and communicate with the passage of the main body frame. By this configuration, the manufacturing process of the oil supply valve assembly is simplified and mis-assembly of the components is prevented by reducing the number of the components. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095573 | Forklift strike plate attachment - An apparatus and method directed to modifying conventional forklift trucks to reduce or eliminate damage to pallets. A strike plate of sufficient width is secured to the upper and lower carriage rails of a forklift between the two forks of the forklift, positioned on the carriage rails such that the strike plate engages a structural member of the pallet. Damage from overtravel of the forks into the pallet is prevented because the protective strike plate will cause the whole pallet to move before the forks have the chance to rip up the first couple of deck boards on the top of the pallet. The strike plate is attached to forklifts having an upper carriage rail and a lower carriage rail. A permanently affixed latch is located near the top of the strike plate to engage the upper carriage bar, and a latch piece separable from the strike plate is provided to affix the bottom of the strike plate to the lower carriage rail. The means for securing the strike plate to the upper and lower carriage rails is completely accessible from the front of the forklift, and does not require any modifications on or to the rear of the upper or lower carriage rails. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095574 | Restraint Device for Traction Sheaves - A restraint device is disclosed that limits the movement of the cable or rope relative to the traction, thus reducing or eliminating the popping noise associated with the cable or rope snapping back against the traction sheave. In one embodiment, the restraint device comprises a molded component that is fitted to encompass the region of the sheave where separation of the wire rope from the sheave is most likely to occur. The restraint device may be mounted so that it is removable and replaceable with minimal dismantling of the hoist containing the sheave. The restraint device may be reversible so that one restraint device may by used for at least two cycles before being replaced. Indication of the need for replacement may be provided by including a second color material at the depth where wear reaches the allowable limit, thereby providing a visual signal to initiate replacement as seen during service. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095575 | ELEVATOR SYSTEM | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095576 | BRAKE CONDITION MONITORING - A system and method for monitoring the usage of brake members of an aircraft braking system. The system makes a separate record of each brake actuation in which there is relative movement of the brake member's facing friction surfaces which causes wear, determines the types of brake usage and operates a pricing/payment scheme to charge for brake usage | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095577 | Brake - A brake for retaining a mobile carriage on which apparatus such as storage facilities are located. The brake includes a pivot member with a release end and a locking end and with a claw at the locking end. The claw engages a slotted member when the locking end is depressed. The opposite end of the pivot member from the locking end is the release end. Adjacent the release end is a slot which rides on a stoop pin to prevent the release end from being depressed below the horizontal. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095578 | BRAKE ASSEMBLY FOR FINAL DRIVE - A braking system for a final drive for a wheel assembly of an independently powered wheeled vehicle. The system includes a service brake having a displaceable element actuatable to retard rotation of the individual wheel assembly. A park brake is positioned closely adjacent to the service brake and is actuatable independently of the service brake to displace the displaceable element to retard rotation of the wheel. Both the service brake and park brake are accessible without disturbing an electric motor with which they are associated. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095579 | Electric Linear-Motion Actuator and Electric Brake Assembly - An object is to increase the linear driving force in a linear-motion actuator of the type in which the rotary motion of the rotor shaft of an electric motor is converted to the linear motion of planetary rollers disposed between the rotor shaft and an outer ring member by rotating the planetary rollers about the axis of the rotor shaft and also about their own axes. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095580 | BRAKE WITH SPINDLE AND CAM DISK ARRANGEMENT - A brake, in particular for motor vehicles, has a friction member ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095581 | Floating disc brake - A floating disc brake assembly including a housing, a pair of diametrically opposed cylindrical cavities within the housing, and an end cover positioned over the opening and having an aperture therethrough. A shaft with an axis of rotation is positioned within the aperture with an end of the shaft positioned within the housing. The shaft includes a splined surface that mates with the splined surface on the interior of a bore of a disc shaped rotor mounted on the shaft. A pair of diametrically opposed stationary liners are attached to the end cover and positioned between the end cover and the rotor. A piston is positioned within each cylindrical cavity in the housing opposed to the stationary stators, and an axially slidable piston side liner is positioned between the rotor and each of the pistons, with the rotor being axially slidable over the shaft and the pistons being biased to cause the piston side liners to force the rotor against the stationary liners to create a braking force. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095582 | Internally Ventilated Brake Disk for Disk Brakes - The invention relates to an internally ventilated brake disk for disk brakes, in particular for motor vehicles, having two friction disks that are arranged adjacent to one another, that are connected to one another by webs that have an essentially radial, preset curvature, and that form cooling channels between them for cooling air, and that are separated from one another in the peripheral direction. According to the invention, the webs ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095583 | Heat sink for disc brake rotor - A disc brake rotor element for a vehicle braking system, the disc brake rotor having a plurality of heat sinks positioned in the surface area contacted by the disc brake shoes in order to aid in the dissipation of heat from the brake rotor, thus maintaining the brake rotor at a cooler temperature which improves the efficacy of the braking system. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095584 | DAMPER - A damper is comprised of an actuator (A) connected to a sprung member (B) side of a vehicle, the actuator (A) including a motion converting mechanism (T) for transforming a linear motion into a rotational motion and a motor (M) to which the rotational motion resulting from the transformation by the motion converting mechanism (T) is transmitted; a hydraulic damper (E) including a cylinder (C), a piston (P) inserted slidably into the cylinder (C) and defining two pressure chambers within the cylinder (C), and a rod (R) connected at one end thereof to the piston (P), wherein a linear motion of the actuator (A) being transmitted to one of the rod (R) and the cylinder (C) while the other of the rod (R) and the cylinder (C) being connected to an unsprung member (W) side of the vehicle; and biasing means ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095585 | VEHICLE DAMPER | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095586 | FLUID DAMPER - A fluid damper, in particular for damping the movement of parts of furniture such as a drawer or a door, includes a cylinder ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095587 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTAINING AND MAINTAINING HYDRAULIC PRESSURE FOR LOCKING A VEHICLE'S WHEELS - Hydraulic pressure for wheel lock is kept by trapping suitably pressurized brake fluid between a brake power unit ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095588 | Article Securement System - An article securement system for attaching an article to another article, such as article of luggage to another article of luggage. The article securement system includes a cord, such as an elastic cord, that is inserted through a handle. A cord locking mechanism is mounted on the cord as well. A second handle may be mounted on the cord as well with the cord locking mechanism between the two handles. In use, the cord is secured to a first attachment point on the first article, such as on a luggage handle. The cord and handle are pulled over the second article and engages over a second attachment point on the first article, such as an extendible handle. The cord is then through the handle until the tension is sufficient on the cord to secure the second article. The cord locking mechanism is then used to lock the cord from movement relative to the handle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095589 | LOCKUP DEVICE, AND FLUID-TYPE TORQUE TRANSMISSION DEVICE EQUIPPED WITH SAME - A lockup device | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095590 | Torque transmission device - The invention relates to a torque transmission device, in particular in the power train of a motor vehicle, having a hydrodynamic torque converter that comprises a converter cover connectable or rather connected with a drive unit that is connectable via an impeller with a turbine wheel, which can be bypassed by means of a torque converter clutch, which comprises a piston, which relative to the converter cover is displaceable axially restrictedly. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095591 | SPRAG RETAINER FOR AN OVERRUNNING CLUTCH - A retainer for sprags in an overrunning clutch is provided. The retainer is disposed between the inner and outer races of the clutch. The retainer includes first and second rings disposed about an axis and axially spaced from one another and a plurality of cross bars extending between the first and second rings. The plurality of cross bars are circumferentially spaced and define a plurality of openings. Each opening is configured to receive one of the sprags disposed between the inner and outer races of the clutch. At least the cross bars of the retainer are made from a tool steel, preferably S7 tool steel. The construction of the retainer increases the abrasion resistance of the retainer and extends the service life of the clutch. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095592 | Secondary clutch lever - Disclosed is a secondary clutch lever device for any vehicle having a handlebar for steering and a primary clutch lever mounted the handlebar. The secondary clutch lever has an adjustment feature and is biased to return to a secondary neutral position allowing the primary clutch lever to return to a primary neutral position. An adjustment prevents the secondary clutch lever from returning to the secondary neutral position also preventing the primary clutch lever from returning to a primary neutral position thereby retaining tension on the clutch cable allowing a reduction in the coupling forces in a clutch assembly causing the clutch assembly to slip momentarily until rotational forces of the engine overcome the slippage fully engaging the clutch assembly thereby eliminating stalling during propulsion. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095593 | COIN VALIDATION UNIT WITH CLIP FEATURE - A separate removable and replaceable coin validation unit for use in a coin-operated device has a housing and clip formations by means of which the housing is releasably held in a cavity in the coin-operated device. The coin validation unit is electrically operable and has electrical connectors which connect with complementary connectors in the cavity. The coin operated device is particularly a single bay parking meter. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095594 | CRACKING FURNACE - The invention relates to piping for use as a pyrolysis tube in a cracking furnace. The tube is formed such that it has at least one section whose centreline curves in three dimensions, to induce swirl flow in the tube. Preferably, the tube is formed as a helix. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095595 | TRAVEL SUPPORT MECHANISM FOR MOVABLE CONVEYOR BRIDGE - A travel support device for a conveyor bridge | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095596 | Workpiece transfer apparatus - A workpiece transfer apparatus is provided for transferring workpieces throughout an entire transfer path. A workpiece is transferred along a production line and is processed by processing facilities. Workpiece graspers grasp a workpiece. Rails are arranged above the processing facilities and movably hang the workpiece graspers. The rails are arranged so that at least the two of the rails partially overlap with each other above at least one of the processing facilities. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095597 | Board positioning system and method, and fence assembly - The system and a method are for lengthwise positioning of transversally-oriented elongated articles as they are being longitudinally conveyed, the system and method comprising sliding a laterally extending end of the elongated article against a fence oriented in a converging angle relative to the conveyor, to thereby displace the elongated article lengthwisely. The fence is comprised of a plurality of adjacent gates which can be individually moved out of interference with the elongated article once the elongated article has been lengthwisely displaced to the desired transversal position. The fence can be provided as a fence assembly having the plurality of gates mounted to a common base, and having a plurality of actuators each connected between the base and a respective gate for moving the gate. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095598 | APPARATUS FOR SORTING PREFORMS - An apparatus for sorting piece goods may include a receiving surface which can rotate about a predefined rotation axis and is designed to receive the piece goods. The apparatus may include a first guide rail for guiding the piece goods, wherein this guide rail has a gap through which one region of the piece goods passes and by means of which another region of the piece goods is held. The apparatus may include a turning device which pivots the piece goods with respect to a longitudinal direction of the piece goods. The apparatus may include a separating device which separates out some of the sorted piece goods which are not guided in a predefined manner by the first guide rail or by the turning device. The turning device may be arranged upstream of the separating device in the movement direction of the piece goods. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095599 | CONVEYOR BELT MODULE WITH RETAINED ROLLERS - A belt module with embedded rollers retained in cavities in the module by retention structure insertable into the module. The rollers and cavities are elongated in the direction of belt travel and closely separated by narrow dividers that form outward-facing surfaces that can serve as bearing surfaces for a belt made of the modules when the rollers are inactivated. When activated, the rollers, which rotate on axles parallel to the direction of belt travel, are supported directly on conveyor rolling surfaces. The dividers also carry the belt tension and stiffen the module. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095600 | Apparatus and method for the recording of images of objects moved on a conveyor device - An apparatus, in particular a code reader, for the recording of images of objects ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095601 | Circulation Type Conveying Device - An object of the present invention is to provide a circulation type conveying device easily transportable, easily assembled in installation, and useful for a user by projecting tables. The circulation type conveying device ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095602 | Electric Hand Control, Especially for Electrically Adjustable Hospital and Care Beds - An electric hand control, especially for electrically adjustable hospital and care beds comprising a number of activation switches ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095603 | KEYLESS IGNITION - An engine start system for use with a ground engaging vehicle, the system including an input device, a processing circuit, a display and an engine controller unit. The input device produces a signal when depressed, the signal initiates the application of electrical power to the engine start system. The processing circuit is activated by the application of electrical power thereto. The display is communicatively coupled with the processing circuit. The input device produces another signal when depressed. The other signal is detected by the processing circuit and the processing circuit, in response to the other signal, sends either a PIN request notice to the display or a start signal to the engine controller unit. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095604 | OXIDATIVE OPENING SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND METHODS - Embodiments of the invention are related to oxidative opening switches and related methods, amongst other things. In an embodiment, the invention includes a switch assembly including a first terminal, a second terminal, and an oxidative switch element in electrical communication with the first terminal and the second terminal, the switch element comprising a conductive material and an oxidizer, the switch element configured to interrupt electrical communication between the first terminal and the second terminal as a result of an oxidation reaction between the conductive material and the oxidizer. In an embodiment, the invention includes a fast opening switch for pulse power applications. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095605 | Switch assembly and earphone set with the same - A switch assembly and an earphone set having the same. The switch assembly includes a first plate in which a board is mounted, a second plate installed opposite the first plate, a connection member provided between the first and second plates so as to resiliently connect the first and second plates, a plurality of first contacts provided on a rear face thereof in order to selectively connect a circuit of the board, and a plurality of second contacts provided on a front face thereof in correspondence to the first contacts. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095606 | Programmable display switch - A programmable graphical display switch that provides users with a simple means of controlling other devices and for customizing how that control is initiated and communicated to the user. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095607 | SWITCH - A switch of the present invention has a light guide part having optical transparency formed between a light emitting device, which is arranged at an end of a light guide sheet, and a lower surface of the end of the light guide sheet, so that the light from the light emitting device passes through the light guide part and sufficient light can be introduced into the inside of the light guide sheet from the lower surface of the end, whereby a switch capable of realizing bright and satisfactory illumination is obtained with a simple configuration. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095608 | SWITCHING MECHANISM FOR SWALLOWABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A switching mechanism has first and second contacts, an elastic member, and a stopper. The first and second contacts are electrically connectable with each other. The operation of the first circuit is switched by electrically connecting the first and second contacts. The stopper maintains the elastic member in an elastically deformed state. At least a part of the stopper is capable of disintegrating by contact with a predetermined liquid. The elastic member recovers from deformation as at least of a part of the stopper disintegrates, and thereby displaces the second contact such that the second contact gets electrically connected to or disconnected from the first contact. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095609 | Sliding contact switch - An electrical sliding contact switch having a housing in which a common contact body and at least one selective contact body having a contact surface are arranged. A sliding area including electrically insulating material is arranged adjacent to the contact area of the selective contact body. A contactor that is in continuous electrically conducting connection with the common contact body and has at least one sliding contact is either in electrically conducting connection with the selective contact body or touches the sliding area. An actuating member is furthermore arranged in the housing such that upon actuation, it slidingly moves the at least one sliding contact of the contactor on a sliding path from the contact surface of the selective contact body into the sliding area and/or out of the sliding area to the contact surface of the selective contact body. Furthermore, embodied in the sliding path, are zones that are not touched by the sliding contacts during transit of the sliding area. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095610 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MAINTENANCE OF HIGH-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR WITH VOLTAGE - Method for maintenance of high-voltage switchgear/fuses in an installation, which method is performed while the switchgear/installation is under operation/voltage. It is further provided a device for carrying out the method, which device includes screening plates | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095611 | ELECTRICAL SWITCH WITH MULTIPLE SWITCHING CHANNELS - An electrical switch with multiple switching channels may include a frame, a panel with which a pointing element comes into contact. The electrical switch may have a location element which locates the point of contact of the pointing element on the panel which may include a plurality of switching elements. The electrical switch may have a detection element which detects at least one control action independent of the position of the point of contact with the panel. The electrical switch may have an intermediate plate on which the panel acts in order to cause the change in state of the switching elements. The intermediate plate may be configured to cause the change in state of switching elements and detection element. The plate can be at least in part deformed in order to actuate the detection element after changing the state of the switching elements. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095612 | MOVABLE CONTACT ASSEMBLY AND SWITCH USING THE SAME - A movable contact assembly includes a light guiding sheet which is light transmittable, and a movable contact provided on the light guiding sheet. The light guiding sheet has a portion having the movable contact provided thereon and a portion having plural grooves provided therein. The grooves constitute a light inlet for introducing light into the light guiding sheet. This movable contact assembly can illuminate a switch preferably with a simple structure, providing the switch with an easily operation. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095613 | KEY BUTTON, KEY ASSEMBLY USING THE KEY BUTTON AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE USING THE KEYPAD ASSEMBLY - A portable electronic device ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095614 | CLICK APPARATUS - At both of the upper and lower faces of flange section ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095615 | UNIVERSAL LIGANDS FOR THE ISOTOPE SEPARATION OF ELEMENTS - The present invention is directed to a method of isotope separation of one or more isotopes of a metal having a valence of two or more, comprised of selecting a ligand, such as BH | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095616 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEASURING VAPOR FLUX DENSITY - A two-chamber electron impact emission sensor effective for monitoring vapor flux of materials in the presence of interfering species is described. The sensor includes two independent electron excitation regions and one photodetector for monitoring emission from excited species from both chambers. Copper vapor flux from an evaporation source was accurately measured in the presence of interfering H | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095617 | BIAS SPUTTERING FILM FORMING PROCESS AND BIAS SPUTTERING FILM FORMING APPARATUS - The present invention provides a bias sputtering film forming process and film forming apparatus that can form a coating film having a good film thickness distribution in a minute coated surface of a complicated shape, such as contact holes, through-holes and wiring grooves, especially for the sidewall portions thereof. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095618 | Plating apparatus - A plating apparatus can form a plated film having a uniform thickness over the entire surface of a substrate without a change of members. The plating apparatus included a substrate holder, a cathode contact for contacting a conductive film formed on the substrate so that the conductive film serves as a cathode, a ring-shaped seal member for covering the cathode contact and bringing its inner circumferential portion into contact with the peripheral portion of the substrate to seal the peripheral portion of the substrate, an anode disposed so as to face the conductive film formed on the substrate, and an auxiliary cathode disposed to the seal member such that at least part of the auxiliary cathode expose on a surface of the seal member. Plating is carried out by bringing the conductive film, the anode and the auxiliary cathode into contact with a plating solution. | 04-16-2009 |
