Abstract: A method of constructing a metal tubular frame structure utilizing a first tubular member and a second tubular member is provided. The method involves utilizing at least one opening in the first tubular member and at least one end tab on the second tubular member that together produce a keyed tubular joint when the second tubular member engages the first tubular member with the tab inserted within the opening. Keyed tubular insert-type joints, keyed tubular miter-type joints and keyed tubular flush-type joints can be formed.

Abstract: A mixing bowl-tilt system for a horizontal mixer includes a multi-stage gear reduction unit having an input and an output, wherein the input is connected to be rotated by a motor and the output is operatively connected to rotate a mixing bowl. Rotation of the input results in rotation of the mixing bowl. The multi-stage gear reduction unit is non-back driving and self locking and includes a first stage reduction and a second stage reduction.

Abstract: A depositor apparatus includes a product source, a product source, a supply manifold for receiving product from the product source and a pump that pumps product from the product source to the supply manifold. Multiple deposit valves are connected to receive product from the manifold along respective flow paths. Each flow path includes a respective flow meter that measures product flowing through the flow meter. Each flow meter may include a processor that controls opening and closing of its respective deposit valve to effect deposit of a set amount of product. The flow meters may be of a mass flow meter type.

Abstract: A sliding stem seal assembly includes a stem having an outer surface and a seal slidably received on the stem. In one embodiment, the seal includes a flared end with inner and outer flanges. In some embodiments, the seal comprises low friction material, such as a TEFLON material for example. In one embodiment, the flared end is also provided with a recess and a cantilever spring, or finger members, tending to bias the inner and outer flanges to provide positive radial pressure for optimizing fluid sealing in low-pressure and zero-pressure modes while minimizing frictional forces in use.

Abstract: A sliding stem seal assembly for a fluid dispenser. In one embodiment, an insertable module retains a stem seal and a housing seal even when disengaged from the housing of the dispenser. The module isolates the stem seal from the housing such that it contacts the stem and a low friction surface of the module, and the module also isolates the housing seal from movement of the stem, for reduced wear from the housing and the moving stem.