Abstract: An automated transaction machine (10) includes a thermal printing apparatus for printing account statements for a user. A paper drive (36) moves a paper web (44) from a paper roll (42) through a printer (40). After indicia is printed on the paper, the paper is cut by a cutter (37) into sheets and delivered to a user by a presenter drive (30). After paper cutting, the paper is moved a short distance in a direction opposed to the direction that the paper normally moves during printing. A paper control device (49) operates to maintain a relatively constant resistance force to movement of the web in the printing direction after the paper has been retracted. The paper control device limits application of resistance forces to below a threshold as well as sudden fluctuation of resistance forces on the paper web which may otherwise cause the paper to slip relative to the drive and cause distortion of printed indicia or damage to the web.

Abstract: An apparatus for accepting return of unused medical items is part of a system (10) used for automated dispensing and tracking of medical items within a medical facility. The apparatus includes a return drawer (52) and a retrieve drawer (54) which are opened responsive to signals received from a display terminal (26) which is networked with a computer (12) which includes a database (14). The return drawer includes a pocket (74) therein. The pocket is accessible from outside of a housing (56) when the return drawer is moved to an open position. The pocket includes an opening (76). The pocket is closed by a trap door (78) when the return drawer is in the open position. Medical items to be returned (132) are placed in the pocket and the return drawer is closed. Upon the closing of the return drawer the trap door is moved to an open position by an actuator. The returned medical item passes from the pocket to a retrieve area (84) in the retrieve drawer.

Abstract: A method of forming abrasive grinding wheels includes the steps of preheating abrasive grains, an open circular mold and liquid epoxy binder, to a temperature below the curing temperature of the binder and at which the binder has relatively low viscosity. The binder is placed in the mold and the mold is rotated. As the mold is rotated the abrasive is added along a radian with respect to an axis of rotation of the mold. The rate of the addition of the abrasive grains and the rotational speed of the mold are controlled such that abrasive grains added during a prior rotation submerge in the binder by the time the mold again reaches the radian where more grains are added. After the binder is suitably filled with abrasive, the wheel is cured by heating and the solid mass removed from the mold and trimmed to size, removing any skin of excess binder. The method produces grinding wheels having low porosity, excellent balance and grinding characteristics.