Abstract: A fluid dispensing system is provided which has a first diaphragm pump, a filter connected to receive the discharge of said first pump, and an accumulator/second diaphragm pump connected to receive the discharge of said filter. Hydraulic fluids pumped by cylinder/piston/stepper assemblies independently actuate each of the diaphragm pumps, providing accurate, controllable and repeatable dispense of the subject fluid. The system further includes a suck-back device downstream of the second pump.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for electronic ballasts control and dimming of gas discharge lamps such as fluorescent lamps. Conventional wiring is used, thereby permitting ready retrofit of existing installations. Circuits are provided in the electronic ballasts (typically in the lamp) and in a conventionally operated dimmer switch (typically installed on a wall). A user adjusts the dimmer switch in a conventional manner to achieve the desired level of dimming of the lamp. Such adjustments apply a corresponding control voltage in the dimmer switch circuit, causing a small notch to appear in the output voltage from the dimmer switch. The notch is demodulated by the circuitry in the ballast, and is used to control the brightness of the lamp or lamps.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing system is provided which has first diaphragm pump means, a filter connected to receive the discharge of said first pump, and accumulator/second diaphragm pump means connected to receive the discharge of said filter. Hydraulic fluids pumped by cylinder/piston/stepper assemblies independently actuate each of the diaphragm pumps, providing accurate, controllable and repeatable dispense of the subject fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus for exerting a drag force on a main gear within an assembly such as a fishing reel includes bearing means subject to selective amounts compressive force. Adjustable compressing means imposes compressive force on the bearing means, which force is translated into drag force on the main gear by linkage means between the bearing means and the main gear means. The bearing means may include a plurality of bearings mounted in a race, and may include a plurality of such races. The linkage means may include a plurality of washers selectively engaged with the main gear or with a sleeve about which the bearing means is mounted. Wear-resistant material may be operably disposed between two or more of the main gear, the plurality of washers, and the one or more bearing means.