Abstract: Disclosed is a hydrogen fuel cell which resists swelling of a proton-exchange membrane electrolyte by clamping the membrane between two catalytic electrodes in a tubular or frusto-conical configuration. Improved breathability and hydrogen sealing are obtained. The electrodes can be bonded to the solid electrolyte by employing an electrolytic proton-transporting polymer in the liquid-phase. Including finely divided platinum in the liquid phase provides an advantageous means of incorporating catalyst in the cell. Also disclosed is a blind tube porous carbon electrode assembly which can be manufactured by a method including coating a self-supporting electrode with a liquid-phase polymeric electrolyte material, for example, perfuorosulfonic acid, and curing it.

Abstract: A grip device for mounting along a horizontal line, such as a rope or cable, to prevent a load from falling when one end of the line is no longer supported in its horizontal position. The device consists of a shell in which is mounted by means of a pin, a clamping wedge arranged such that when the handle of the wedge is moved in either direction, the wedge becomes clamped against the rope or cable to prevent movement of the rope through the device, and therefore prevent falling of a person attached to the device by means of an approved belt, harness or lanyard.

Abstract: A rope grip which comprises a shell (12) and a plate (16) defining a first gripping surface and a cylinder (20) defining a second gripping surface is disclosed. The two surfaces are in a facing spaced relationship and define a passage (30) for receiving a rope. The cylinder travels in an angular field of motion with respect to the plate which causes a rope of appropriate size to become jammed between the plate and the cylinder depending upon the position of the cylinder. An operating arm (18) is mechanically coupled to the cylinder in order to control its position and accordingly, the distance between the surfaces of the plate and the cylinder.

Abstract: A safety system (10) for protecting workers at high altitudes from falling to the ground is disclosed. The system features a rope grip (12) having a rotably mounted wedge (18) in spaced facing relationship with a retaining member (20). The safety line (14) is jammed between the retaining member and the wedge. The rope grip is able to pass by an anchor (16) by virtue of the fact that the retaining member is held in place by rotating slotted wheels (44 and 46).

Abstract: A rope grip which comprises a guide means and operator means defining a channel for receiving a rope. The guide means defining a first gripping surface and the operator means defines a second gripping surface. The two surfaces are in a facing spaced relationship. Between these two surfaces a restricting means is disposed. The restricting means is springingly connected to an operating arm which influences its position. The extremities of the gripping surfaces are at different distances from one another, which causes a rope of appropriate size to become jammed between a gripping surface and the restricting means, depending upon the position of the restricting means.

Abstract: An electrostatic air filter comprising a first planar electrode, having planar surfaces, which is positioned, configured and dimensioned in such a manner that portions of a planar surface of the first planar electrode face other portions of its planar surfaces. A second planar electrode, also having planar surfaces, is positioned, configured and dimensioned to be supported between the facing planar surfaces of the first planar electrode with portions of its planar surfaces in facing relationship to facing portions of the first planar electrode.