Abstract: A system and method for feeding collar members to an attachment system for assembly of aircraft and similar large scale mechanical assemblies. Collars are fed sideways along a tube having a rectangular internal cross-section to a collar pathway defined by an clamp fork and swaging ram combination. The collar pathway is curved to present the collar to a receiving element mounted on a swaging die in a proper orientation relative to an attachment bolt which is moved through an opening in the workpiece and then through the collar. As the bolt is moved into the collar, the collar, receiving element and swaging die move together laterally to come into alignment with the bolt.

Abstract: A low mass draw and return tube assembly, for use in fuel tanks, is disclosed.

Abstract: A plurality of sets of clampable jaws are positioned on cooperating pairs of sub-towers, one of each pair moves along the x-axis and one along the y-axis. In using the apparatus, fenestration product frame members which have been precisely cut to a desired cut length are placed in the clampable jaws. The frame members are positioned so that their ends are in non-touching proximity to radiant heater and a limited length of the ends of the frame members melted and then quickly brought into contact to effect welding of the joints. The precision placement of the precisely cut frame members results in a low-flash window frame.

Abstract: An improved tool and method for enhancing the surface of a heat transfer tube are provided. The tool, which can be easily added to existing manufacturing equipment, includes cutting bits that may be retracted with a housing. The cutting bits include a cutting edge to cut through the surface of a tube and a lifting edge to lift the surface of the tube to form protrusions. A method for enhancing the inner surface of the tube includes mounting a tool on a shaft, positioning the tool in the tube and causing relative rotation and axial movement between the tube and the tool to cut at least partially through at least one ridge formed along the surface of the tube to form ridge layers and lift the ridge layers to form protrusions.

Abstract: A method of waterproof testing an electronic device at a rated water depth is provided. The method may comprise the steps of assembling the electronic device; subjecting the electronic device to a test vacuum pressure associated with the rated water depth; measuring a leak rate of the electronic device after the electronic device is subjected to the test vacuum pressure; rejecting the electronic device if the leak rate is above an allowable leak rate; and accepting the electronic device if the leak rate is below the allowable leak rate.

Abstract: A device and method for testing a slider of a head-gimbal assembly during disc drive manufacturing. The device includes a test disc, an actuator arm and a control module. The test disc has a first circumferential area for detecting contact between the slider and the test disc and a second circumferential area for burnishing sliders that contact the first circumferential area as the test disc rotates at or above the predetermined velocity. The head-gimbal assembly is affixed to a support, or flexure, on the actuator arm such that the slider is operable to move between an inner diameter and an outer diameter of the test disc. The control module controls rotation of the test disc and movement of the actuator arm, and thus the slider, relative to the test disc. The control module monitors the slider-disc interface for contact therebetween. If contact is detected, the slider is either burnished or the head-gimbal assembly is discarded altogether.

Abstract: There is provided a method of manufacturing a thin film magnetic head. The method includes forming a first recessed portion for insulation and a second recessed portion for contact that reach the substrate through the first insulating layer from a side of the first insulating layer of the substrate having the first insulating layer thereon; forming a second insulating layer on the substrate in the first recessed portion; and forming the lower shield layer in the first recessed portion and a contact portion in the second recessed portion.

Abstract: A tire assembly line including a wheel soaping work station, a tire soaping workstation, a tire and wheel assembly station, and a tire inflation station. The assembly line is formed from a plurality of modules that are interchangeable and releasably connected to one another. The modules support an endless conveyor member for circling movement.

Abstract: A manufacturing facility for manufacturing a fatigue life enhanced product from a plurality of workpiece parts. At least one fatigue enhancing operation is performed on a first workpiece at a first work station. At least one fatigue enhancing operation is performed on a second workpiece at a second work station. The first and second workpieces are transferred to a first assembly station, where the workpieces are joined to form a fatigue life enhanced product. Aerostructures manufactured according to the method may include components fabricated at different locations to have fatigue life enhancing properties, especially in bounding material adjacent to holes designed to accommodate fasteners. By use of this business method, the final assembly step can thus avoid the necessity to include the processing of holes to enhance fatigue life, since this step has been performed prior to bringing components into position to be joined in the final shape or assembly of the airframe.

Abstract: An electronic component mounting apparatus includes a mounting device adapted such that the applying unit applies adhesive to a substrate located in a predetermined site, a mounting unit mounts an LSI onto the application of the adhesive, subsequently the applying unit applies another adhesive onto the LSI, and the mounting unit mounts a reinforcing plate onto the application of the adhesive, a conveying device which conveys the substrate with the LSI and reinforcing plate mounted in the predetermined site by the mounting device to a heating site, and a heating unit which bonds, by the application of heat, the LSI and reinforcing plate on the substrate conveyed to the heating site.

Abstract: A circuit component (1) is glued to the circuit substrate (2) by the following steps: a) seizing a circuit component (1) using a grip-per (4); b) moving the gripper (4) towards the surface of the circuit substrate (2) up to a target distance from the surface at which adhesive (3) applied between the circuit component (1) and the circuit substrate (2) is pressed; C) releasing the circuit component (1) and removing the gripper (4) from the circuit component (1); d) turning the gripper (4) around an axis (A) perpendicular to the surface of the circuit substrate (2); e) moving the gripper (4) into the target distance again; and f) removing the gripper (4) again.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for soldering an LED driving element to an LCD panel includes a panel holding unit, a rotating unit and a soldering unit. The panel holding unit holds the display panel. The rotating unit supports the panel holding unit at initial radial and angular positions relative to a center of rotation of the rotating unit and rotates the holding unit in a horizontal plane about the center of rotation to selected angular positions relative thereto. The soldering unit is disposed above the rotating unit at the initial radial position and at a first angular position relative to initial angular position of the holding unit, and is operable to solder the driving element of the display panel held by the panel holding unit when the rotating unit rotates the panel holding unit to the first angular position. The apparatus and method provide improved display panel productivity.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a pressure sensor (30) for harsh environments such as vehicle tires, formed from a wafer substrate (32) with a recess, a flexible membrane (50) covering the recess to define a chamber (58) containing a fluid at a reference pressure. In use, the flexible membrane (50) deflects due to pressure differentials between the reference pressure and the fluid pressure. Associated circuitry (34) converts the deflection of the flexible membrane (50) into an output signal indicative of the fluid pressure. An apertured guard (54) over the membrane formed using lithographically masked etching and deposition techniques protects the delicate MEMS structures. Forming the guard in situ by depositing material offers greater time efficiency and accuracy than producing a guard separately and securing it over the membrane. Semiconductor etching and deposition techniques allow highly intricate surface details.

Abstract: A substrate supporting apparatus includes a plate member of an aluminum alloy having a flat upper surface, bottomed pits formed in the plate member, and spacer members held in the pits, individually. The spacer members are sapphire spheres. The diameter of each spacer member is a little smaller than that of each pit. The upper end of each spacer member projects from the upper surface of the plate member. A spot facing is formed in a region that includes the open edge portion of the pit. A bending portion which is obtained by plastically deforming the open edge portion of the pit toward the spacer member is formed on a bottom surface of the spot facing. A V-shaped groove is formed behind the bending portion.

Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for ensuring proper assembly of an exhaust system. Ensuring proper assembly of an exhaust system is accomplished by providing an inflow exhaust subassembly for receiving engine exhaust, at least one intermediate subassembly that selectively mates and rotationally aligns with the inflow subassembly and receives engine exhaust therefrom, the at least one intermediate subassembly further configured to selectively mate according to a pre-selected alignment with an outflow subassembly, and the outflow subassembly configured to receive engine exhaust from the at least one intermediate subassembly. In certain embodiments, the at least one intermediate subassembly comprises a plurality of intermediate exhaust subassemblies each configured to selectively mate with adjacent subassemblies according to a pre-selected order and alignment.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for facilitating proper assembly of an exhaust system. The system includes a first modular exhaust treatment unit connectable to a second modular exhaust treatment unit. At one end, the first modular exhaust treatment unit includes a substantially continuous collar that integrates a first docking element therein. The second modular exhaust treatment unit includes a second docking element configured to engage the first docking element. When connected, the first and second docking elements operate to rotationally align and properly order the first and second modular exhaust treatment units.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing plate stacks for the production of coolers, cooler elements or heat sinks made of at least one plate stack for cooling electric or opto-electric components. The process includes the manufacture of plates or boards of metal, stacking the plates to form a plate stack, joining of the plates with the application of heat and pressure to form a stack, and post-treatment of the plate stack.

Abstract: A process for attaching a wheel cover to a wheel in which a wheel cover and wheel are placed together and a foamable adhesive is injected into the gap defined between the wheel cover and wheel. After the foamable adhesive is injected into the gap defined between the wheel cover and wheel at an injection station, the cover/wheel assembly is transported to a station in which the cover/wheel assembly is heated to a temperature that is sufficient to effect the forming, expansion and curing of the foamable adhesive. The cover/wheel assemblies are supported and transported on carriers that are provided with clamping mechanisms.

Abstract: A nail slicer apparatus for treatment of an ingrown nail includes upper and lower jaw members with handles hingedly connected. The upper jaw member contains a blade holder with the cutting blade oriented perpendicular to the surface of the lower jaw member when the apparatus is in cutting or slicing position.

Abstract: A utility knife has a body comprising a blade-receiving cavity defined by first and second generally opposing walls; a retention element laterally moveable with respect to the cavity via a hole in one of the walls; an actuator moveable longitudinally relative to the cavity between a retention position and a release position; the actuator having a recess opening towards the cavity and a cam surface; wherein the hole and the recess are aligned when the actuator is in the release position and offset when the actuator is in the retention position; the actuator in the retention position causes the cam surface to engage the retention element to force the retention element to a protruding position in the cavity; the actuator in the release position allows the retention element to be withdrawn, allowing the blade to be removed. Also, a related method of assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved pruning device which is capable cutting and/or retrieving or collecting items without such items being damaged or falling on the user or out of his/her reach. Thus, items which are beyond the reach of a user may thus be easily retrieved both in high or hard to reach areas, whether by distance or hazard (thorns, uneven surfaces, irritants, etc.).

Abstract: A pair of hairdressing scissors and a positioning device thereof, the pair of hairdressing scissors installs at least a connecting structure, the connecting structure is formed a recess, a protrusion and a through hole. A positioning device is disposed in the through hole and includes a retaining member, an elastic member and a fixing member. When coupling a plurality of pairs of hairdressing scissors together, the protrusion of a pair of hairdressing scissors is engaged in the recess of another pair of hairdressing scissors. The protrusion moves toward and presses the retaining member, so that the retaining member will overcome the elastic force of the elastic member and retract into the through hole.

Abstract: A blade of ceramic material is treated to enhance the strength and sharpness of the cutting edge. In one embodiment, ceramic particles along at least one margin of an edge-forming face are fused, such as by a laser treatment. The edge margin can have a hard ceramic coating of a different ceramic material such as a nitride of chromium, zirconium, titanium, titanium carbon or boron. The hard ceramic coating can be used alone or in conjunction with the laser treatment. The invention includes the methods of treating the edge, both to form the hard ceramic coating and to fuse the particles by scanning with a laser, such as an ultraviolet laser.

Abstract: The invention relates to blades. In some embodiments, the invention relates to devices comprising blades disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the invention relates to the use of serrated blades to remove films from a surface. In further embodiments, the invention relates to the use of serrated blades and devices comprising said serrated blades to remove adhesives or films from a surface.

Abstract: A non-contact position sensor includes an indicator element mounted on an actuating unit by an assembly apparatus. A detector unit has a sensor for producing a sensor signal in response to a geometrical position of the indicator element relative to the sensor. The actuating unit is moveable in an actuating direction substantially parallel to an actuating axis. The assembly apparatus is rotatable about the actuating axis between a pre-assembled position and a final assembled position. In the pre-assembled position the assembly apparatus holds the indicator element in a defined position relative to the detector unit and in the final assembled position the geometrical position of the indicator element is changeable relative to the detector unit by the actuating unit.

Abstract: A ruler for draws or measurements of circle, straigth line, and angle. The line drawing or measuring is sliding belong in the ruler's track; which is at middle and parallel on the ruler's length. These techniques are combined for a simple ruler.

Abstract: An XY stage module, a storage system including the same and a method for fabricating the XY stage module are provided. The XY stage module includes: a base; an XY stage horizontally moving above the base in a first direction and a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction; a supporting unit disposed at the base for elastically supporting the XY stage; a stiffener for preventing the XY stage from being rotated; and a position sensor having a movable comb-shaped structure disposed at one side of the stiffener and having at least one movable comb and a fixed comb-shaped structure fixed on the base and having at least one fixed comb meshed with the movable comb to be separated at a predetermined gap for measuring a movement of the XY stage in the first direction and the second direction.

Abstract: A bow sight having a support structure, and two or more vertically aligned vertical pins connected to the support structure is provided. At least two of the vertical pins include a sight point. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a bow sight having a support structure connected to two or more sight points is provided. The two or more sight points are rotationally adjustable such that they can be rotated into vertical alignment. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a bow sight having a support structure, a sight point connected to the support structure, and a dampener is provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a laser theodolite device and kit for converting a new or pre-existing theodolite into a laser theodolite. More specifically, in one embodiment, the laser theodolite device comprises a theodolite having a visible and/or reflective laser source integrally mounted within the theodolite telescope for generating a laser line along the centerline portion of the telescope line of sight. The kit for assembling a laser theodolite from a new or pre-existing theodolite includes a universally mountable bracket with a laser source secured thereto. The universal bracket is constructed and arranged to be mounted at a forward end of a theodolite telescope housing with the laser source being positioned at about a right angle with respect to the telescope centerline.

Abstract: An alignment device and method for aligning an antenna with a satellite. The device includes a grooved cylindrical sleeve inserted into a ridged cylindrical sleeve, a raised azimuth indicator ring and a magnetic or digital compass mounted upon the grooved cylindrical sleeve, and a bubble level mounted on a capped cylindrical sleeve that fits over the grooved cylindrical sleeve. A known value of optimal azimuth alignment is offset from the North Magnetic Pole so that a reference and alignment mark may be placed on the antenna mounting pole. This alignment device and method eliminate the need for two technicians and eliminate the need for a signal strength measuring device.

Abstract: The present invention is a monocular pupillary distance (PD) ruler designed to help an eye care professional align the optical center of prescription eyewear with the patient's eye. The ruler is a planar body having an upper and a lower edge. A bridge is sized and shaped to fit upon the nose of a person being measured for eyeglasses. The bridge is located at a center point of the ruler. The ruler also includes units of measurements originating from the center point and measuring out from either side of the center point. The ruler may include a handhold extending from an end of the ruler. The handhold may be rotatable for ease of storage.

Abstract: The nut and bolt measuring tool is a clamping hand tool that is used to rapidly and accurately measure the size of nuts, bolts and other similar fittings. The measuring tool has a first arm, a second arm, a medial pivot, and a spring member. The first arm and second arm are pivotally connected medially, and each have a clamping portion that are held together in a closed position by the spring member bias when the tool is not in use. Handle portions on each arm may be squeezed together in order to fit the tool over a fitting to be measured, with the spring member allowing the tool to be locked in place. One handle is equipped with a double-sided measurement arm that engages a pair of pointers on the other handle for making a measurement while the tool is in use.

Abstract: A warning device of the type that is typically employed to warn pedestrians of a wet floor operates a floor dryer into its design so that, in addition to warning pedestrians of the wet floor, the device may be employed to dry the floor. An air director element produces a beneficial air flow providing increased drying efficacy.

Abstract: Devices are disclosed that are attachable to or are integral with an existing shoe such that an audible percussive sound is heard upon impact of the shoe against a surface. Furthermore, the devices are composed of materials that minimize or avoid damage to flooring. The devices described act as substitute for conventional metallic taps or heavy wood performance shoes.

Abstract: An LCD includes a liquid crystal panel, a backlight unit, a rear cover, a mold frame and a front cover that slides down over and couples with the rear cover to form a space within which the liquid crystal panel, mold frame and backlight unit are protectively enclosed. The front cover has a lateral part with a first coupling part and a feature for receiving a lateral projection on the mold frame. The rear cover has a mold frame lateral wall with a second coupling part adapted to slidably engage and couple with the first coupling part when the front cover is slid down on the rear cover, and the mold frame has a lateral projection that is received in the front cover receiving feature when the front and rear covers are fully assembled together. The foregoing features enable deformation of the lower cover to be minimized during assembly of the device.

Abstract: An article of footwear is provided, particularly a soccer shoe, having one or more sensors mounted in the shoe upper which, when impacted by a ball, are effective to send a signal to a controller representative of the magnitude of the force with which the ball was struck by the shoe. A liquid crystal display, mounted within a housing which also carries the controller, provides a visual indication of the force of the ball strike which can be readily observed by the wearer of the shoe.

Abstract: A spike assembly has a spike and spike connector. The spike connector has multiple threads formed on an inner surface. The multiple threads include a specific thread has a width larger than that of the others. The spike has multiple grooves formed in an outer surface. The multiple grooves include a specific groove having a depth deeper than that of the others and corresponding to the width of the specific thread on the spike connector. Accordingly, the spike is easily connected with the spike connect at a specific orientation, and to assemble the spike assembly is convenient.

Abstract: A snowplow laser guidance system is disclosed. The system can include, for example, a laser light source, a laser exit window through which a laser beam generated by the laser light source is transmitted, and a pressurized gas conduit. The pressurized gas conduit can have an opening positioned such that gas released through the opening flows across a face of the laser exit window. This can be useful to remove accumulated material, such as snow, ice, water, and dirt. The gas can be, for example, pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source of a snowplow vehicle. Release of pressurized gas across the face of the laser exit window can occur at a programmed frequency and/or in response to an operator signal, such as a signal from a switch on a control panel. The system also can include a heater connected to the laser exit window for defrosting.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an articulated joint between the back boom and the main boom of a multiple boom for an excavator so that it: permits a sufficiently wide angle of movement between both parts of the boom, permits maximum boom reach, and is in a position to accept high forces, all while also providing a cost-saving design.

Abstract: An excavator coupler that is either attached to, or for attachment to, an excavator arm of a digger for connecting an attachment, such as a bucket, to the excavator arm of the digger, the attachment having at least one bucket or coupler pin, wherein the coupler comprises a jaw for engaging that pin, the jaw comprising an interior space for the pin, and lips that partially occlude the interior space so as to provide a profile for the jaw that has a widened interior relative to either the gap between the lips or the opening of the jaw, if narrower, one lip being provided on an upper wall of the jaw and the other lip being provided on a lower wall of the jaw.

Abstract: A steam iron comprises a soleplate (1) and a separately arranged steam generator (30) having heating means (31) for heating a content of the steam generator (30). The soleplate (1) comprises an embossed area (11) for distributing the steam. As the soleplate (1) does not play a part in the process of generating steam, and does not need to comprise additional means for distributing steam, it is designed in a relatively lightweight manner, which has the advantage that the time needed for a temperature change of the soleplate (1) is relatively short. On a top surface of the embossed area (11), heating tracks for heating the soleplate (1) are arranged. As the top surface of the embossed area (11) is not capable of directly touching other objects, for example objects to be ironed, situations in which the heating tracks are subjected to severe thermal shocks are avoided.

Abstract: A retractable badgeholder device, including a housing having a side wall. The housing may include first and second portions pivotally interconnected with one another. A cord is retractably disposed within the housing, and attached to an object at a free end thereof. A window may be formed in the housing, with a slit formed in the side wall of the housing so as to be in communication with the window for insertion of a sheet therethrough so as to be viewable through the window. The sheet includes identifying indicia, such as a photograph.

Abstract: A module unit is to be mounted to the exterior surface of a trunk door or rear door of a vehicle for displaying a license plate. Without requiring a key or special tool, the module unit protects the license plate from being removed by an un-authorized person. The license plate can only be removed when a locking unit in the module unit is unlocked by activating a release unit from the interior side of vehicle. Such a module unit also protects the annual registration stickers from being removed by an un-authorized person.

Abstract: A signage system for use on construction sites that includes a pair of stakes, which are inserted into vertical channels into a signboard, and when inserted into the ground support the sign board, which is preprinted with categories of identifying criteria and entry positions for manual entry of information specific to a construction site and with a document storage container for attachment to the signage system. The signboard of the signage system is reusable, erasable and waterproof.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide an inflatable bag comprising an airtight container, a cavity and a light-emitting unit. The cavity is formed at a top of the container. The cavity comprises a top opening flush with the top of the container, the opening being in communication with the container and the external. The light-emitting unit is mounted in the cavity by inserting through the opening. The light-emitting unit comprises a battery, a light-emitting member provided at a bottom in the cavity distal the opening, and a switch provided at a top projecting from the cavity. The battery is not electrically connected to the light-emitting member after inflating the container to a predetermined shape. The bag is adapted to emit light only by pressing the switch projected from the container to electrically connect the battery to the light-emitting member.

Abstract: A plurality of identification bracelets removably attached to one another, each bracelet having a first end which includes a cover tab and a second end defining a closure tab having an adhesive portion. The cover tab of a second bracelet removably overlies the adhesive portion of a closure tab of an adjacent first identification bracelet. Upon separating the first and second bracelets, the adhesive portion of the first bracelet is exposed and the cover tab remains with the second bracelet as it is removed. The adhesive portion of the closure tab of the first bracelet is adhered to a surface of the first bracelet as it is moved from an open position to a closed position encircling an object to be identified.

Abstract: A display tag holder that has a mounting portion, an intermediate portion, and a display portion, and a method of thermoforming such a display tag holder. The mounting portion mounts to a merchandise display hook with the intermediate portion extending above the hook so as to extend downwards and forwards of the forward tip of the hook. The mounting portion has at least two restrictions for mounting on attachment points of the merchandise display hook to a base mount, the restrictions providing an interference fit between the hook and the mounting portion, and may include a raised portion. These features help to prevent the holder from falling off the hook or hanging under the hook in the event that a customer accidentally bumps or brushes against the holder. The display portion includes a parallel pair of grooves for retaining a display tag, and which can extend either vertically or horizontally.

Abstract: A display holder comprising a first and a second panel slidably attached with a space is defined there between. At least a portion of said first or second panels is transparent. In some aspects, the slidable attachment comprises respective tongue and groove elements disposed on longitudinal edges. In other aspects a guide, a stopping means, and a raised portion are disposed on the first or second panels, and a smooth recess is disposed adjacent to the raised portion. Alternatively, an opaque border is disposed around the perimeter of the first and second panels. Furthermore, a locking mechanism is disposed on the first or second panel. In some aspects, the holder can have at least one hanging component which can be an adhesive pad, a suction device, or similar device.

Abstract: A magazine for a firearm includes an elongated containing body and a closure member adapted to hold cartridges. The closure member longitudinally slides on the containing body and is extendable to open a side of the containing body for cartridge loading. The closure member has opposing sidewalls forming an integral handle surface that can be grasped for moving it. A follower and spring bias cartridges toward one end of the magazine. A latching mechanism is provided for holding the follower in a disengaged position when the closure member is extended, and is configured to release when the closure member is closed. Preferably, the containing body and closure member are constructed to include integrally formed features that cooperate with an automatic latching mechanism, thus minimizing parts.

Abstract: A mount for mounting a device to a firearm that includes a side plate, a support plate and a mounting rail. The side plate has a first end and a second end. The support plate extends from the first end of the side plate at approximately a right angle. Moreover, the support plate is adapted to support a device resting thereon. The mounting rail is coupled to the second end of the side plat. In addition, the mounting rail extends out from the side plate in a direction that is approximately opposite the direction the support plate extends from the side plate.