Abstract: A vehicle convoy system for use in connection with a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes at least one drive mechanism to impart drive to the vehicle, includes at least a first processor that is adapted to be placed in operative or communicative connection with the drive mechanism to effect control of the drive mechanism based upon data of the position of a leading vehicle in front of the vehicle so that the vehicle moves to follow movement of the leading vehicle. The vehicle can, for example, be a self-propelled wheelchair.

Abstract: A stereotactic surgical device includes at least two light guides adapted to converge light to a predetermined extent at a predetermined distance from a predetermined location on the surgical device. The surgical device may further include a light detector and a processor to receive image information from the light detector. Logic of the surgical device is applied to the processor to cause the processor to determine when the light has converged to the predetermined extent and to provide a signal thereupon.

Abstract: A two stage coffee roasting process includes a first stage, green coffee beans are roasted for 5-15 minutes to a roast color of 30-50 Lu. In a second stage, the beans are further roasted for ½-3½ minutes to a roast color of 4-19 Lu. The roasted beans have a reduced density in the range of 0.27-0.38, and a roast color of 4-19 Lu. Analysis of sulfur compounds in the coffee aroma reveals a high level of methylmercaptan, a key compound for the pleasant aroma of freshly roasted and ground coffee. Coffee beans roasted in accordance with the present invention have a generally high titratable acidity at a given density and roast color.

Abstract: A tool for driving uncollated nails includes a tool body with a nose portion defining a drive track wherein a driver blade moves in drive and return strokes. A magazine carried by the body supports a row of nails, and a pusher urges the nails along a feed path toward the drive track. The magazine is adjustable for tailoring the feed path width to the nail size. Individual nails are advanced from the magazine to a drive position in the drive track by an escapement mechanism operated in timed relationship with the driver blade, and an advanced nail is held in the drive position by a magnet assembly supported by the tool nose portion. Nails are positively advanced and are properly oriented by the escapement mechanism independently of the number of nails, the pusher force, or other conditions in the magazine. The tool magazine is quickly and conveniently loaded with nails supplied in an oriented condition from a loading chute.

Abstract: An assembly for loading a tool for driving uncollated nails. The tool includes a body with a driver blade for driving fasteners supplied from a magazine carried by the body and supporting a row of nails. A pusher urges the nails along a feed path in the magazine. Individual nails are advanced from the magazine to a drive position in the drive track by an escapement mechanism, and an advanced nail is held in the drive position by a magnet assembly. The tool magazine is quickly and conveniently loaded with nails supplied in an oriented condition from a loading chute. The loading operation is automatic in response to engagement of the magazine with the chute, and does not require awkward manipulation of the pusher. Coupling members on the magazine and on the chute are mated by means of ramp and guide structures. In the mated position, stops in the nail path are opened to permit nails to slide from the chute into the magazine.

Abstract: A compression tacker for driving fasteners includes a frame defining a nose portion and a grip portion. A front jaw is pivotally and removably mounted on the nose portion to define a drive track. A plunger is reciprocated in the drive track. The front jaw includes a locking mechanism that upon actuation by the operator of the tool, unlocks the jaw from the frame and allows it to be pivoted relative to the frame to expose the drive track. A handle for actuating the plunger is mounted on the frame and includes a bearing about which a spring is mounted. A workpiece engaging jaw may be removably fastened to the nose portion. The workpiece jaw includes upper and lower surfaces for engaging different workpieces.

Abstract: A compact tacker for driving fasteners into a workpiece includes a housing defining a handle and a nose portion. A driver is reciprocally mounted within a drive track defined within the nose portion. The tacker also includes a magazine assembly slideably mounted within the housing including a forward end that is positioned adjacent the drive track such that the driver reciprocates between the nose and the forward end of the magazine assembly. A bistable biasing member is mounted within the housing and in a first stable position, biases the magazine toward the nose and in a second stable position biases the magazine assembly away from the nose. In the second position there is defined an open area around the drive track to allow removal of jammed fasteners.