Abstract: The invention features a bearing housing that employs fewer structural components than traditionally used. In one embodiment, endplates are integrated into the upper and lower housing structures such that essentially only two prefabricated pieces are required to form the bearing housing. Additionally, the integrated endplates house seal assemblies that prevent the ingress and egress of contaminants between the shaft and the bearing housing.

Abstract: A sleeve bearing system is provided in which wear is reduced and thrust loading capabilities are offered. An inner ring is secured tightly to a rotating member via a collar. The inner ring forms a plain or sleeve bearing with a bearing set. The bearing set may be supported within a housing designed to be fitted to a machine frame. A thrust extension of the bearing set interfaces with the collar to transmit thrust loading on the rotating member to the bearing set and housing via the inner ring and collar.

Abstract: A sleeve bearing system is provided in which wear is reduced and thrust loading capabilities are offered. An inner ring is secured tightly to a rotating member via a collar. The inner ring forms a plain or sleeve bearing with a bearing set. The bearing set may be supported within a housing designed to be fitted to a machine frame. A thrust extension of the bearing set interfaces with the collar to transmit thrust loading on the rotating member to the bearing set and housing via the inner ring and collar.

Abstract: A water faucet assembly includes a faucet operatively connected to a water source, an energy storage element, and a valve in operative communication with the faucet and the water source to selectively permit water flow from the water source to the faucet. A light detector mechanism is configured to detect ambient light. A control mechanism is powered by the energy storage element and is in operative communication with the light detector mechanism and the valve. The control mechanism is configured to activate the valve to permit water flow from the water source to the faucet responsively to the level of ambient light detected by the light detector mechanism.

Abstract: A self-calibrating fluid flow control apparatus for use with a fluid flow source is provided. A detection area is defined wherein the interposition of an object therein causes a control device to activate the fluid flow source. A calibrating device is configured to continuously define, at a predetermined rate, a steady state boundary of the detection area, wherein the steady state boundary conforms to objects interposed within said detection area so that a new detection area is defined which is free of interposed objects capable of activating the fluid flow source. An object left indefinitely within the detection area will not, therefore, cause the control device to indefinitely activate the fluid flow source nor, after deactivation by a timing mechanism, prevent the fluid flow source's subsequent reactivation.