Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of making metal ceramic composites and the metal ceramic compositions and articles made therefrom, especially net-shaped articles having a wide variety of applications.The present invention involves preparing a combustion synthesis mixture comprising at least one substance containing a combustible mixture of powders and at least one low-melting metal, forming this mixture into a desired final shape in a die, and carrying out a combustion synthesis therewith. Ceramic or metallic reinforcements may be incorporated in the combustion synthesis.The present invention allows the control of porosity in the resultant composite compositions and can result in composites having high toughness characteristics.

Abstract: A coin freed vending machine for coins and/or goods, which comprises a coin acceptance device co-acting with a stop device to provide an anti-cheat mechanism, the coin acceptance device consisting of a coin bucket mounted on one end of a see-saw member, the other end of which co-acts with the stop device to prevent unauthorized movement of a slide or drawer for delivering the coins and/or goods. The machine also includes coin lock-out mechanism to prevent jamming of the machine with coins in excess of requirements, and also a coin hopper to facilitate filling of one or more coin storage tubes.