Abstract: A collapser/collector and strapping apparatus for processing box partitions to place them in condition for shipment. The assembled partitions are collapsed and moved vertically into transversely indexed slots of a collector. From the indexed slots, the partitions are placed into bundles of a preselected number of partitions. The bundles are then delivered to a strapping section where straps are applied to hold each bundle together for further processing.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for supporting a vehicle chassis from at least one vehicle axle is adapted for use on a steering axle and includes an integrally formed stool type axle seat with an outrigger extension member extending into the wheel well area, an inner extension member with bracket members to pivotally attach a sway bar, and a lower extension member with bracket members to pivotally attach a pair of torque rods. An upper frame extension member extends into the wheel well area and aligns with the outrigger member of the stool axle seat so that an air spring may be mounted and extend between them. A hanger assembly is mounted forwardly of the axle seat and has a U-shaped bracket to pivotally support the forward end of each of the two torque rods.

Abstract: A space-defining mounting for a window-type air-conditioning unit which holds that air-conditioning unit wholly external of both tracks of a double-hung window, and which also provides an insulating air space adjacent the lower sash of that double-hung window whenever that lower sash is closed.

Abstract: O-rings, which are disposed within pneumatic couplings and which are recurrently moved past ports within those pneumatic couplings, tend to be abraded as they recurrently engage the changes of surface at the mouths of those ports. The present invention minimizes the abrading of the O-rings by providing the ports with bell mouths which merge smoothly into at least two spaced points on the surface of the body in which the ports are located.

Abstract: A first embodiment of a suspension supports a vehicle from a drive axle and includes a forward hanger and a rearward hanger depending downwardly from the chassis, an axle seat assembly attaching the suspension to the axle, a first torque arm pivotally connected between the axle seat asssembly and the forward hanger, a second torque arm pivotally connected between the axle seat assembly and the rear hanger, a central elastomer spring mounted between opposing surfaces of the torque arms, and an upper radius rod pivotally connected and extending between the forward hanger and axle seat assembly to form a parallelogram with the first torque arm to control and stabilize the axle. A second embodiment of the same suspension mounts a vehicle chassis to a steer axle with the radius rod being offset inwardly and the axle seat being mounted to the top of the steer axle to accommodate space limitations.

Abstract: A pitcher for pouring water or other liquids having a container portion. A lid is hinged at the top of the container portion allowing pivoting of the lid between an open position for access to the interior of the container and a closed position for covering same. A spout is located at the hinge, and a handle is located at the side of the pitcher opposite the spout and hinge, whereby the contents are poured, and the lid opens, in a direction away from the handle. There is also included a flap at the spout opening which is mounted for swinging movement between a closed position with the pitcher upright, and an open position with the pitcher tilted for pouring.

Abstract: A mine tool bit is retained in an open ended block with a cylindrical button insert transversely mounted in the shank of the bit, the insert having a cylindrical button extending radially outwardly from the shank and biased by a coil spring. The button must be manually depressed to insert or remove the bit from the block.

Abstract: A first embodiment of a leaf spring suspension assembly for a tractor trailer or the like having single or multiple axles includes a first and second hanger with a camelback spring slidingly secured to an axle bracket assembly with a single torque rod extending between the forward hanger and the axle bracket assembly to stabilize same and prevent axle wind up or wheel hopping. In a multiple axle vehicle, a pivoting type equalizer is mounted between leaf springs and provides the bearing support for an end of each spring. In a second embodiment, an equalizer is supported from the chassis member by an elastomeric spring member with a shock absorber dampening the oscillation thereof. The equalizer is stabilized in the fore and aft direction by a mounting bracket and web assembly within which the mounting bracket extends, and a telescoping tube assembly vertically aligned and surrounding the shock absorber to permit vertical movement but restrict fore and aft movement of same.

Abstract: A coiled heat exchanger utilizing a sandwich plate type construction with a plurality of spot welds equally spaced throughout, the plate being inflated to expand the passageways therebetween, has fluid tight connections feeding through the outside of the coil for accessing both passageways adjacent and opposite the center divider plate. One or more arcuate slots are punched in the center divider plate and surround a spot weld, with a larger hole punched in the adjacent outer plate and a tube welded against the divider plate to seal the arcuate slot and form a fluid connection between the passageway opposite the divider plate and the outside of the coil.

Abstract: This invention relates to a cold pack for keeping beverage kegs cold during shipment, storage, and use. The cold pack comprises a container for the keg of rigid insulating material closely conforming to the keg and a tight fitting lid. The lid has a removable central panel to allow access to the keg valve. Upper and lower refrigerant cases are sized and shaped to fit the top and bottom of the keg, respectively, contacting the keg over a substantial area to facilitate conduction of heat from the keg. The upper case has a central hole designed to receive and surround the keg valve.

Abstract: A hip stabilization device is adaptable to all patients, and has a hinged brace held in alignment with the hip joint by a belt adjustably engaged about the patient's waist, with the belt engaging the top of the brace. A support is adjustably engaged about the patient's thigh, and is secured to the bottom of the brace. The mounting of the upper and lower parts of the brace to the belt and support respectively are adjustable to accommodate the height and proportions of the patient. The brace prevents rotation of the hip joint and lateral motion of the leg. The range of motion of the hinge is adjustable to permit the maximum flexion consistent with the patient's injury and proper stabilization of the joint. The attachment on the belt to mount the brace is such that when the belt is turned over, it can engage a brace on the other side of a patient. The support and brace are universal to fit the patient's other leg and hip, so that the same parts can be used to support either hip joint.

Abstract: A method of producing rapidly solidified metal powder utilizes a spinning metal source and a laser beam to melt the surface layer of the source and atomize it. The laser beam is directed at a glancing angle along the surface of the spinning metal source. The source spins at a high speed of 10,000-30,000 revolutions per minute. The atomized metal is solidified rapidly in an inert gas atmosphere. Very high cooling rates up to 10.sup.6 .degree. C. per second can be achieved. Very small and uniformly distributed particles of rapidly solidified metal can be obtained having a narrow particle size distribution from about 50-150 microns and typically having a high percentage of the particles at a particle size of below 100 microns.

Abstract: Self-propelled irrigation apparatus for watering non-circular areas includes a main arm assembly pivoted at one end and supported at intervals by self-propelled support towers. An extension arm assembly is mounted on self-propelled support towers and has one end pivotally connected to the free end of the main arm assembly for irrigating portions of the field outside the circular area traversed by the main arm. Electrical control means are provided to rotate the extension arm assembly relative to the main arm assembly as the latter rotates.