Abstract: A hypodermic needle assembly configured such that the movement of a needle shield into position to block the needle tip occurs as a direct consequence of a longitudinal force applied by insertion of a syringe plunger is provided. The hypodermic needle assembly according to the present invention comprises a needle, a needle hub, and a safety spring clip assembly, the safety spring clip assembly being configured to automatically launch from the needle hub and slide along the needle until the spring clip meets a needle stop at the needle tip, thus preventing the guard from being removed from the needle shaft. A method of using the hypodermic needle assembly according to the present invention is also provided, which includes the method of launching the spring clip with a syringe having multiple advancing mechanisms.

Abstract: A coal-fired steam locomotive powered by reciprocating steam engines. The locomotive is a two-unit drawbar-coupled locomotive. The units, which are designated as a power unit and a support unit, are arranged back-to-back, with each having a cab-in-front. Operation of the locomotive is equally effective in both directions. The power unit basically contains a furnace and combustion system, an ash storage system, a gas cleanup and exhaust system, a boiler and steam generator, steam engines, a jet condenser, and a control cab. The support unit, on two 6-wheel trucks, contains a modular coal storage area, a stoker motor, a water storage area, heat transfer assemblies and fans for air-cooling circulating water, and a second control cab. The coal-gasification furnace, steam boiler, and steam engines are all in a closed system. Further, the steam engines of the locomotive are in the form of a four cylinder, balanced system for driving the running gear of the locomotive.

Abstract: A furnace system, especially a coal burning furnace and boiler system, in which the coal to be burned is placed on a grate at the bottom of the combustion chamber. According to the invention, automatic means are provided for supplying the coal to the boiler in response to the demands of the boiler. In addition, the boiler system of the present invention includes new and improved means for heating water to about 180.degree. F. to produce steam for use in generating power, such as in a steam locomotive railroad engine pulling up to at least 150 cars. The present invention also, in addition, provides the steam generating raw and distilled water supplies in indirect heat exchange closely adjacent the boiler in order to take advantage of the boiler for maintaining heating of the water supplies. Furthermore, the boiler system of the present invention provides means for recycling the combustion gases back into the combustion chamber whereby to enhance the heat producing efficiency of the boiler system.