Abstract: An ultra high pressure waterjet cutting system which includes a valve for selectively delivering either a stream of ultra-high pressure water or alternatively, a moderately reduced but yet sufficiently high pressure to initiate cutting. The arrangement provides a convenient means for initiating cuts along the edges of workpieces and is particularly useful when encountering surfaces of brittle workpieces.

Abstract: A dual-hopper system for liquid/abrasive jet material cutting systems wherein a primary hopper provides a reservoir and source for abrasive particles for mixing with high pressure liquid, and wherein a secondary hopper is interposed between the primary hopper and the nozzle for controlling the flow of abrasive particles from the primary hopper to the nozzle. The secondary hopper comprises a vertically disposed elongated vessel with opposed end walls and with an annular divider plate interposed between the end walls. The annular divider plate is provided with an orifice in the form of an elongated tube which projects into the lower vessel chamber. Particulate material is forced through the tube into the lower chamber, and a column of particles is formed which creates a floating air lock between the chambers. Particulate falls by gravity from the lower chamber and into the cutting head.

Abstract: A computer includes a base unit and an upper unit which encloses all electronic components of the computer, such as an LCD display, system board, various drives, sound card, speakers, and modem. The base unit has dimensions of only about 11 inches by 7 inches and can easily be placed in small areas. The computer contains a life time counter that counts the amount of time the computer has been used from the time of purchase. The count data is useful in accessing how often a computer has been used if a purchaser return it to the manufacturer. The counter also assists manufacturers to accurately track and resolve field failures in addition to in-house quality testing. This provides a competitive advantage by allowing the computer design to be changed based on actual use conditions and increases field reliability and reduces costs in areas which are over-designed.

Abstract: An improved cutting head for a water jet cutting assembly utilizing water or other liquid medium at ultra high pressure, with the cutting head including an assembly with an elongated body having a central bore along its axis and including a delivery nozzle at the distal end of the assembly. Alignment of the components is maintained by incorporating a process of manufacture which utilizes the formation of a single bore extending through the body so as to both form and maintain axial alignment of the components. The arrangement is further characterized by having mating surfaces which are free of gaskets or other packing material, thereby establishing, maintaining, and preserving proper axial alignment of components.

Abstract: A computer includes a base unit and an upper unit having anterior and posterior housing members for enclosing all electronic components of the computer, such as an LCD display, system board, various drives, sound card, speakers, and modem. The base unit has dimensions of only about 11 inches by 7 inches and can easily be placed in small areas. Unlike a typical desk-top computer which has external cords or cables connecting the display to a main casing, the computer only requires a single power cable and a telephone cord and has a light weight which permits the computer to be easily transported to different locations. The upper unit can pivot relative to the base unit by simply pulling or pushing the upper unit with one hand to the desired angle and then releasing the upper unit. The base unit frictionally engages the upper unit to maintain the upper unit at the desired angle.

Abstract: A computer includes a base unit and an upper unit which encloses all electronic components of the computer, such as an LCD display, system board, various drives, sound card, speakers, and modem. The base unit has dimensions of only about 11 inches by 7 inches and can easily be placed in small areas. Unlike a typical desk-top computer which has external cords or cables connecting the display to a main casing, the computer only requires a single power cable and a telephone cord and has a light weight which permits the computer to be easily transported to different locations. The upper unit can pivot relative to the base unit by simply pulling or pushing the upper unit with one hand to the desired angle and then releasing the upper unit. The LCD display is mounted to a support frame with a plurality of fasteners. A plurality of spring members are inserted between the LCD display and the support frame for absorbing pressures exerted on the display.

Abstract: A computer includes a base unit and an upper unit which encloses all electronic components of the computer, such as an LCD display, system board, various drives, sound card, speakers, and modem. The base unit has dimensions of only about 11 inches by 7 inches and can easily be placed in small areas. Unlike a typical desk-top computer which has external cords or cables connecting the display to a main casing, the computer only requires a single power cable and a telephone cord and has a light weight which permits the computer to be easily transported to different locations. The upper unit can pivot relative to the base unit by simply pulling or pushing the upper unit with one hand to the desired angle and then releasing the upper unit. The base unit frictionally engages the upper unit to maintain the upper unit at the desired angle. The computer has a unique configuration in which input/output connectors of a typical motherboard are placed on a separate riser board positioned perpendicular to the system board.

Abstract: A microprocessor based system for monitoring the air pressure within an inflatable device and controlling the supplying of air to or venting of air from the device, as needed. A microprocessor based system controller includes controls for setting a desired air pressure signal and an input for receiving an actual air pressure signal from a pressure transducer connected to the inflatable device. If the desired air pressure signal is less than the actual air pressure signal, the system controller provides a vent control signal for application to an air vent control device to cause venting of air from the inflatable device. If the desired air pressure signal is greater than the actual air pressure signal, the system controller provides a fill control signal for application to an air inflating device to provide air to the inflatable device.