Abstract: A method and apparatus suitable for producing an artificial snow surface for tire evaluation is provided. The process provides for manufacturing a series of snow layers, each layer followed by a packing and a grooming step to provide a multi-layered snow surface. Desirable shear strength properties of the snow surface are enhanced by a surface grooming technique that applies a layer of water to the upper snow surface followed by grooming of the surface. The manufactured snow surface allows the testing and evaluation of tires that compares favorably to tire evaluation data obtained from outdoor testing facilities.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for the supply of air for the treatment of sleep apnea. The apparatus of the present invention includes a motor and a fan unit. The motor and fan unit are enclosed in an inner case of flexible foam plastics material. The inner case is configured to contain the motor and the fan unit, and the inner case 48 is generally biased against the motor and the fan unit. The inner case is, in turn, contained within an intermediate case made of rigid material. The intermediate case conforms to and is substantially filled by the inner case such that the inner case is generally biased against the intermediate case. Finally, the intermediate case is contained within an outer case of rigid material. The outer case surrounds the intermediate case. The outer case is generally set apart from the intermediate case so that there is a gap between the intermediate case and the outer case.

Abstract: A method and apparatus suitable for producing an artificial snow surface for tire evaluation is provided. The process provides for manufacturing a series of snow layers, each layer followed by a packing and a grooming step to provide a multi-layered snow surface. Desirable shear strength properties of the snow surface are enhanced by a surface grooming technique that applies a layer of water to the upper snow surface followed by grooming of the surface. The manufactured snow surface allows the testing and evaluation of tires that compares favorably to tire evaluation data obtained from outdoor testing facilities.