Abstract: An electrical connector and method of construction of an electrical connector of the type for use in seismic operations in corrosive environments is provided. The electrical connector assembly includes: a substantially hard plastic housing having a first end and a second end having an annular lip defining a chamber, the housing encapsulating at least one electrical connector therein, a section of the electrical connector extending into the chamber; an open ended shell connected to the annular lip; an insulated, electrical conductor connected to the electrical connector and extending outwardly therefrom; a potting material disposed within the chamber and about the connection between the electrical connector and the electrical conduit; and a tail member extending from the annular lip over the shell and a section of the insulated electrical conductor and bonded thereto.

Abstract: A quick-release cam lock for selectively locking the relative position of a hydraulic cylinder and a piston. The quick-release cam lock permits speedy unlocking and repositioning of the hydraulic cylinder and its accompanying piston and oversleeve, thus allowing for speed in repositioning, assembly or disassembly while also providing a secure positive positioning lock between the hydraulic cylinder, piston and oversleeve while the quick-release cam lock is engaged.

Abstract: An underground storage container for the storage of personal valuables and possessions to protect such items from theft, fire, riots and natural disasters. A generally cylindrical tapered container, made preferably of fiberglass, is hermetically sealed through the employment of seals and a cover designed to mate with corresponding flanges on the upper portion of the container's body. The underground storage container has a vacuum release mechanism to facilitate opening and closing the container and a raised spiral auger around the base of the container to assist in anchoring the underground storage container and facilitating its extraction upon removal.

Abstract: An improved guardrail post which eliminates environmental and health hazards of conventional wood and steel posts resulting from the use of chemical coatings, is disclosed. The improvement is achieved by the use of composite construction which is not subject to the decay, insect damage and corrosion of wood and steel posts which require the application of chemical coatings. Conventional composite posts, tubular in shape and well-known in the prior art, are easily adapted for application and use as guardrail posts. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, ground, recycled plastic is used as a filler material to prevent damage to the posts which may result from overtightening of guardrail attachment bolts. The plastic filler material may be omitted for an alternate embodiment. The guardrail post may be constructed by pultrusion or related processes.

Abstract: A flow through cell for non-invasive monitoring of fluids flowing therethrough includes a membrane covered view window through which sensors may monitor the fluids. The membranes are secured in position by a frame and retainer assembly with the frame and retainer clamping the membranes in place between the frame support structure and the retainer. The frame is snugly fitted into the cell and includes a sensor receptive chamber for positioning the sensors in the window and in position with the membranes.

Abstract: A method for thermally treating fouling infestations of macroinvertebrates is disclosed. The inventive method includes treatments of both large structures in contact with relatively static masses of water and smaller structures, such as pipes, in contact with dynamic water masses and comprises the steps of heating the water in contact with the structure to be treated and maintaining an elevated temperature for a time sufficient to kill substantially all of the infesting organisms.

Abstract: A method and apparths for filling and circulating drilling fluid in a wellbore during casing running operations is disclosed. A fill/circulate tool is placed partially within the upper end of a casing string so that fluid may be pumped into the interior of the casing string. The tool has a self energizing seal element which engages the interior wall of the casing string when the tool is fully lowered therein, said seal element being energized by the pressure of the fluid in the casing string so that fluid pumped into the casing string through the tool is circulated through the casing string and explled from the lower end of the casing string.