Abstract: A connector for an integrated circuit (IC) to secure the IC during testing. The connector includes a unique latching system which includes an actuator and a hook which are pivotally connected in an over-center movement fashion to significantly increase the clamping force from the force applied to latch the actuator or a connected latch plate.

Abstract: A locking mechanism having a latch and linkage system that automatically unlocks the lid on trash bins when the trash bin is lifted into the air and then automatically re-locks the lid when the trash bin is placed back on the ground. A leg and pod assembly is attached to the linkage system and pulls the linkage system pivotably downward to move the latch away from the lid when the bin is lifted and thereafter pushes the linkage system upward to pivotably move the latch to secure the lid when the bin is repositioned.

Abstract: An improved carry-on case having a built-in travel cart capable of being towed by itself or with several pieces of luggage. The handle of the cart can be retracted for convenient storage.

Abstract: A frame for a recreational vehicle wherein the rear frame section is dropped or offset relative to the front frame section. The drop frame permits a recreational vehicle body carried by the frame to have a ample inside head room with a smaller outside profile. A pair of substantially vertical shock absorbers extend between frame connected shock towers and torsion bar connected wheel carrying pivot arms.

Abstract: A chip carrier socket which includes conductive contacts each having an outwardly extending upwardly directed cantilevered projection which engages a moveable top forming a part of the socket. The top, when moved downwardly, relative to the base of the socket which carries the contacts forces the contacts outwardly to allow the insertion or removal of the chip carrier. The top includes a multiple-angled camming surface which engages the upwardly extending cantilevered projection of each contact to apply a more generally even force against the contact during depression or downward movement of the top.

Abstract: A hanger wheel mount wherein the mounting pin includes an annular land for contacting only a portion of the wheels interior surface. The use of the annular land reduces the pull required to move a door suspended by a hanger bracket. The roller or wheel includes an inturned lip which contacts a portion of the pin adjacent the bracket to reduce wheel wobble.

Abstract: A shiftable snare strainer for a snare drum including a body secured to the drum shell and a slide longitudinally shiftable relative to the body. The slide is connected at its lower end to the snares. A lock is pivotally carried by the body for engaging the slide to hold the slide in a down position wherein the snares are spaced from the head. The lock is released by striking a release pad to allow the slide to shift upwardly to engage the snares with the drumhead.

Abstract: A laminar flow control valve has a valve housing with an inlet and an outlet, an orifice plate, a poppet, an operating mechanism such as an electrically powered proportional solenoid, and a mechanism for realigning the poppet and orifice plate to maintain selected surfaces of those components in substantially parallel relation. The gaseous flow is throttled between respective parallel surfaces of the orifice plate and poppet such that the volumetric flow rate is linearly proportional to the pressure differential across the parallel surfaces. The poppet is mounted to a stem of the operating mechanism so as to be free to move in more than one plane relative to the orifice plate. In the embodiment illustrated, the poppet is free to swivel so that the metering surfaces "self-align" each time the valves close. The preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes a flat orifice plate and poppet. The poppet is attached to a stem of the operating mechanism by mechanical means.

Abstract: A seat frame for reclining type seat which includes a toggle actuated release mechanism for the back support pivot joint. The release mechanism includes a toggle arm connected to peripheral lock members which mesh with rotatable gears connected to the back support. A manually operable lever arm is connected to the toggle arm knee joint to selectively shift the toggle arm between a normally locked position and an unlocked position wherein the back support may be shifted.

Abstract: This invention comprises an improved system for raising and lowering an object, most usually a craft, from and into the water. This improved system includes a plurality of pistons, usually disposed at each corner of a rectangular frame, actuated by a remotely disposed valve system which is connected to a common water hose. The pistons are comprised of a pair of cylinders one portion of which is secured to a slip or float and the other portion of which is secured to the craft-supporting rectangular frame. When water is introduced into the system, the craft is raised from the water and when the fluid is evacuated from the system, the craft is lowered.