Abstract: An optical system in which a coherent light beam is made more uniform in intensity in cross section. Two light shearing plates disposed at an angle to each other scramble the coherency of the light beam while homogenizing and expanding it. Each shearing plate has a partially reflecting element and a fully reflecting element. The resulting beam is of incoherent radiation having a high uniformity of illumination.

Abstract: A ball and socket workpiece holder is provided that may be locked to hold a workpiece in a predetermined position on a workholder arm. The workholder may be unlocked to permit the workholder arm and workpiece to rotate through a limited predetermined angle.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the sag of a transmission power line. A tension measuring device is provided to the power line and a distant signal processing unit connects to the measuring device by a cable. A cable shielding arrangement is provided to protect the system from electrical transients.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion for surrounding a package to be shipped. The cushion is formed of a grid of columns and rows of compartments adopted to be inflated. Selected compartments are sealed against inflation to permit orientation of the cushion and to enhance cushioning effect.

Abstract: A blanket or child's garment is equipped with a manually operable musical device that is enclosed in a waterproof envelope that in turn is enclosed in a cloth compartment attached to the blanket or child's garment.

Abstract: A clamping collet of the type used in spindle lathes is provided having a stop mechanism to effect accurate positioning of the workpiece. The stop mechanism includes a rod that is reasonably held in position by a locking collet.

Abstract: An expandable shaft of the slotted type made of metal and a fiber and resin composite material. The shaft is formed of an elongated shell having hollow portions filled with a fiber/resin material.

Abstract: A workpiece support is provided that is locked in its normal state. A balanced system of spring force is provided to lock the positioner in a chosen position. It will remain in the selected position until fluid pressure is provided to release it. The unit is designed to provide a large surface area for the fluid pressure.

Abstract: A system for determining the sag of an overhead power transmission line to prevent flashover to adjacent objects on earth. A small replica of the transmission line conductor is provided and located in proximity to the transmission line. The temperature of the replica is measured along with the ambient temperature. By appropriate calculations, the ampacity determination is made to determine the maximum permitted current through the transmission line under the particular weather conditions.

Abstract: A system for determining the sag of an overhead power transmission line to prevent flashover to adjacent objects on earth. Power line tension is measured as well as ambient temperature at two different times. From these measurements the Ruling Span of a power line can be calculated from which a determination can be made of the maximum safe current to avoid unsafe line sag.

Abstract: A jet propelled watercraft propelled using an internal combustion engine. The water providing the jet is drawn past a cooling device to cool the engine cooling liquid.

Abstract: A writing aid for use with a writing instrument as a pen or pencil that is to assist the writer in applying proper pressure to the writing surface.

Abstract: A movable platform or dolly for supporting heavy equipment in which the dolly rolls on tracks. Track sections are located under the dolly and additional sections can be attached to extend the track.

Abstract: A toy igloo construction for children consisting of a shell that is designed to collect falling snow. The shell serves as a support for the snow igloo and in addition may serve as a toy igloo in the absence of snow.