Abstract: An improved diaphragm, which operates and has the structure of a short-thick beam, is comprised of a plug having a channel, a tire cord reinforcement is bonded to the plug, an elastomer cured to the reinforcement means, and a sleeve bonded to the elastomer. This diaphragm is capable of being used in many applications, particularly, fluid-handling devices.

Abstract: Non-destructive examination of an article, particularly a tire for the presence, and particularly the depth below the surface, of an anomaly such as a discontinuity, void or foreign matter inclusion, employs ultrasonic energy. A transmitter of ultrasonic energy is disposed normal to the touching the surface of the article to be examined so as to feed ultrasonic energy thereinto. Ultrasonic energy receivers spaced apart from each other and from the trasmitter receive ultrasonic energy emergent or radiated from the surface of the article. With the tire, or other article, moving at a constant rate relative to the transmitter and receivers, a subsurface anomaly occludes or interrupts the energy beamed to the first receiver and then to the second. The time lapse and distance traveled between the two interruptions are proportional to the depth below the surface of the anomaly causing the interruptions. The energy received including the successive interruptions is displayed on an oscillograph.