Abstract: An apparatus generally includes a latch and a keeper. The latch has a latching surface and is movable between at least a closed position and an opened position. The keeper has a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface. The latch is movably coupled to supporting structure relative to the latching surface such that the moment created by a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface biases the latch towards the closed position.

Abstract: An apparatus for latching a tailgate to supporting structure of a vehicle generally includes a latch, a keeper, and a member for rotating the keeper relative to the latch. The member is rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable between at least a first position and a second position. The latch includes a latching surface, and the keeper includes a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface. The latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position. To disengage the latching surface from the keeper surface, the member is rotated from the first position towards the second position, which, in turn, causes the keeper to rotate and to pivotally move the latch from the closed position towards the opened position.

Abstract: An apparatus generally includes a dump frame pivotably coupled to a vehicle's chassis, and a slide frame slidably coupled to the dump frame. The apparatus further includes at least one slide frame actuator for causing sliding movement of the slide frame, and at least one dump frame actuator for causing pivotal movement of the dump frame.

Abstract: An apparatus generally includes a dump frame pivotably coupled to a vehicle's chassis, and a slide frame slidably coupled to the dump frame. The apparatus further includes at least one slide frame actuator for causing sliding movement of the slide frame, and at least one dump frame actuator for causing pivotal movement of the dump frame.

Abstract: This patent relates to a machine that automatically assembles, inspects, and packages disposable prophylaxis angles. The machine includes a movable table including a plurality of fixtures on which angle components are assembled and the assembled angles are inspected. The movable table is surrounded by a number of stations, each of which performs a different operation of the assembly and inspection procedure. Feeders automatically supply the angle components to their respective stations for assembly. Angles that are incorrectly assembled are automatically rejected. Properly assembled angles are automatically sealed in individual bags. Individually bagged angles are counted into batches by the machine and automatically sealed into cartons.

Abstract: The dual flange hopper tee or other fitting connects to the bottom of a hopper for use in unloading the contents thereof, and has a relatively low profile for ground clearance. When used in conjunction with a valve, the tee or other fitting can be removed from the hopper without requiring removal of the valve, and can allow opening of the valve without interfering with flow through a horizontal pipe section of the fitting.

Abstract: This patent relates to a machine that automatically assembles, inspects, and packages disposable prophylaxis angles. The machine includes a movable table including a plurality of fixtures on which angle components are assembled and the assembled angles are inspected. The movable table is surrounded by a number of stations, each of which performs a different operation of the assembly and inspection procedure. Feeders automatically supply the angle components to their respective stations for assembly. Angles that are incorrectly assembled are automatically rejected. Properly assembled angles are automatically sealed in individual bags. Individually bagged angles are counted into batches by the machine and automatically sealed into cartons.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for molding a part with at least one passage at least partially therethrough. Generally, the method includes injecting a molding material into a mold cavity having at least one pin disposed therein to form the passage. In preferred implementations, the injection of molding material can cause displacement of a movable support for the pin and allow molding material to surround the pin to form the passage. Additionally, or alternatively, preferred implementations can include the movable support, when extended into the mold cavity, guiding and ensuring proper alignment of a free end of the pin for capture within a recess defined by at least one portion of the mold. Still yet other preferred implementations can additionally or alternatively include the extended movable support straightening out the pin and/or inhibiting deflection of the pin, which can be caused by the injected molded material.

Abstract: A dental prophy angle having a forwardly opening end formation and a closure which overlaps the end formation. The angle has a drive shaft having no lengthwise parting line, such that smoothness of operation is improved.

Abstract: A dental appliance having an elongated hollow body including a tubular handle and a tubular extension. The extension has at its forward end a recessed forward end formation defining a forwardly opening recess. A closure mates with the forward end formation on the recess on a mating plane generally transverse to the axis of the bore in the extension. The recessed forward end formation of the extension and the closure define a chamber at the forward end of the extension when the closure is applied. The bore in the extension is accessible from the forward end of the extension when the closure is away from the forward end of the extension for assembly of the appliance.

Abstract: A dental appliance having an elongated hollow body including a tubular handle and a tubular extension. The extension has at its forward end a recessed forward end formation defining a forwardly opening recess. A closure mates with the forward end formation on the recess on a mating plane generally transverse to the axis of the bore in the extension. The recessed forward end formation of the extension and the closure define a chamber at the forward end of the extension when the closure is applied. The bore in the extension is accessible from the forward end of the extension when the closure is away from the forward end of the extension for assembly of the appliance.