Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of an ember blocking ventilation device are disclosed. The ventilation device may be a mountable device having a frame that can hold a layer of endothermic materials and bonded filters. The device can allow for normal ventilation of a building while preventing the entry of burning embers or flames into a building through ventilation shafts or open ventilation spaces.

Abstract: A cord material dispenser comprising a container including a surrounding sidewall having first and second openings and first and second cord materials disposed in the container. The first and second cord materials are dispensable through their respective first and second openings. The first cord material is preferably wound around a first spool and the second cord material is preferably wound around a second spool. The dispenser may include a first quantity of the first cord material and a second quantity of the second cord material, wherein the first quantity is less than the second quantity. For example, the first quantity may be one fourth of the second quantity. Preferably, the container includes indicia indicative of the ratio of the first quantity to the second quantity. The indicia may be in the form of a graphic representative of the intended use of the spooled materials.

Abstract: A cord material dispenser comprising a container including a surrounding sidewall having first and second openings and first and second cord materials disposed in the container. The first and second cord materials are dispensable through their respective first and second openings. The first cord material is preferably wound around a first spool and the second cord material is preferably wound around a second spool. The dispenser may include a first quantity of the first cord material and a second quantity of the second cord material, wherein the first quantity is less than the second quantity. For example, the first quantity may be one fourth of the second quantity. Preferably, the container includes indicia indicative of the ratio of the first quantity to the second quantity. The indicia may be in the form of a graphic representative of the intended use of the spooled materials.

Abstract: An insulated transition spool apparatus for mounting unheading devices to pressure vessels, such as coker vessels, and enabling repetitive operation thereof is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an outer housing, an inner housing that encloses an insulating space between the inner and outer housing, a side feed entry aperture in each housing and a spool adapter flange to facilitate attachment of the spool to the vessel.

Abstract: An insulated transition spool apparatus for mounting unheading devices to pressure vessels, such as coker vessels, and enabling repetitive operation thereof is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an outer housing, an inner housing that encloses an insulating space between the inner and outer housing, a side feed entry aperture in each housing and a spool adapter flange to facilitate attachment of the spool to the vessel.

Abstract: A deformation indicator is disclosed for repeatably adjusting the fasteners on a flange assembly to maintain a leak-free joint. The indicator is mounted on one of the fasteners used for fastening together the flange members, and extends to a predetermined distance from the adjacent flange member. When the flange fasteners must be adjusted to account for creep in the packing material in the flange, they are adjusted to restore the distance between the indicator and the adjacent flange member to the predetermined value.

Abstract: A joystick controller for a video simulation system having a geared potentiometer actuation mechanism. The joystick controller comprises a base, a handle mounted on an actuation shaft, and first and second gimbals pivotally mounted on the base by pivot members for rotational movement about respective axes. The joystick shaft is coupled to the first and second gimbals so that the gimbals rotate about their corresponding axes responsive to movement of the joystick handle. Each gimbal has a corresponding potentiometer for sensing the rotational movement thereof. The first gimbal has a first gear connected thereto for rotational movement therewith. The corresponding potentiometer is mounted on the base opposite the first gear and a second gear is connected to the stem of the potentiometer such that the second gear is in tooth engagement with the first gear. A similar gearing configuration is used to couple the second gimbal to the corresponding potentiometer.

Abstract: A connector having a horizontal channel member and a vertical channel member connected to the horizontal channel member. The vertical member has a lengthwise hole formed therein for receiving a screw. The vertical channel member is connected at a midpoint of the horizontal channel member such that the vertical channel member and the horizontal channel member form a T-shape protrusion. The vertical and the horizontal channel member are attached to a backplate which circumscribes the members. The connector is inserting into a T-shaped channel in a perimeter edge of a second sheet of composite material. A hole formed in a first sheet is positioned over the hole in the connector and a screw is driven into both holes firmly attaching the first sheet to the second sheet.