Abstract: A method comprises mixing a nano-filler and a polymer composition to form a nanocomposite; extruding the nanocomposite as a melt through a spiral mandrel die to form a molten tube; expanding the tube biaxially by means of mechanical force and air pressure to form a bubble; and collapsing the bubble to form at least one sheet of a biaxially oriented nanocomposite film, wherein the biaxially oriented nanocomposite film has a breakdown strength of at least 300 V/micrometer.

Abstract: A carrier sub-assembly having improved dimensional stability for applications in electronic and optoelectronic industries is disclosed. The carrier sub-assembly, when housed in an optoelectronic package, for example, includes a metal substrate and an insert which support optoelectronic devices that are optically coupled to one another. The insert allows for the attachment, for example, via laser spot welding, of electronic and optoelectronic devices where direct attachment of a device to the metal substrate is not practical. In one embodiment of the present invention, the carrier sub-assembly includes Kovar™ insert that is attached to copper/tungsten metal substrate in a recess of the metal substrate so that at least a portion of the insert is attached to the metal substrate in three dimensions. A fiber optic assembly is secured to the insert by a Kovar™ clip.

Abstract: A hurricane strap for securing at least one horizontal frame element to a vertical frame element includes a flexible metal strap having a first toothed end portion, an oppositely disposed second toothed end portion, and an untoothed middle portion, the teeth of each end portion being adapted to be pressed into a face of a vertical frame element for securing the strap to the vertical frame element. The strap is of sufficient length so that when in place in a working position, a multiplicity of teeth of the first end portion can be pressed into a first face of a vertical frame element, the middle portion can wrap around exposed faces of at least one horizontal frame element, and a multiplicity of teeth of the second end portion can be pressed into a second, oppositely disposed face of the vertical frame element.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for fabricating or repairing trusses, rafters, joints, and splices by pressing the barbs of a barbed connector plate into the lumber to be joined or spliced.