Abstract: A high degree of flexibility and speed in dot matrix printing are achieved by providing printing cartridge modules that are so thin, a number can be stacked together and run simultaneously. Depending on the array used, several lines can be printed at the same time, or a single line can be developed from a standard dot matrix character into a fully formed character. In one embodiment, the print wires are formed into a linear array parallel to the flat side of the cartridge module, and the modules are stacked vertically with respect to the print medium. This embodiment is preferred for overlay printing. In a second embodiment, the print wires are formed into a linear array perpendicular to the flat side of the cartridge module, and the modules are stacked horizontally with respect to the print medium. This embodiment is preferred for multiple line printing, and has the additional advantage of being sufficiently flat to fit within the upper and lower planes of a ribbon cartridge.

Abstract: A silver metallizing paste for attachment of silicon semi-conductive devices in lead-frame packages, specifically ceramic packages, which is less expensive than a gold preform but useable in hermetic packages, and provides better electrical and thermal conductivity, and higher bond strength, than silver polyimides. From 25 to 95% of silver is blended with a low-melting glass, preferably one having 95-96% PbO, and a paste or ink is formed with a suitable vehicle at 75-85% solids. Use of the paste follows conventional practice. Selection of Ag:glass ratio depends on the type of die bonding to be used. The paste is particularly useful in MOS technology, where low contact resistance is required, and also finds applications as a solder substitute and bonding chip capacitors. It is most advantageous in attachment of larger-area integrated circuits in that stress cracking associated with the gold-silicon eutectic is avoided.

Abstract: A batch process including a circulating reactor and an agitated reactor for the production of dialkyl xanthogen formates, including means to increase yields of products, inhibiting chloroformate hydrolysis, suppress production of xanthic anhydride as a byproduct, and generally control product/byproduct yields based on intended use. Certain product mixtures are particularly useful as flotation reagents, specifically collectors in the flotation of molybdenum-bearing copper ores, where molybdenum recovery has been increased by more than 10% without adverse effects on copper recovery.

Abstract: A cup, including a closed annular chamber and a vertical passage. When the main central chamber is filled with a liquid, the liquid also fills the vertical passage, but air is trapped and compressed to a degree in the annular chamber. When the cup is tilted as for drinking, trapped, compressed air reaches the vertical passage and squirts liquid therein into the drinker's face.

Abstract: A disposable, "match box" razor including novel means for maintaining the shaving head in an operative position, a pattern of "living hinge" score lines that facilitates easy opening and closing, and ball-and-socket snaps that maintain the razor in either the open or closed position. The razor can be fabricated either by injection molding or by scoring, cutting, etc. from sheet stock.

Abstract: A highly efficient and economic solar distillation unit comprising a plurality of angled trays in a frame, each tray including a vaned absorber element on the bottom surface. The trays are extruded in plastic and cut to size, as are the absorber elements and frame sidewalls. Frame endwalls are cut from flat extrusions. A transparent glass removable cover completes the basic assembly, but many variations are possible, including means to monitor and control water level within the unit from a storage tank. With the exception of an optional check valve there are no moving parts. There are no metal parts, and the basic unit is glued together from plastic extrusions and flat plates.

Abstract: Dialkyl xanthogen formates are known collectors, but the reaction that produces them, between an alkaline alkyl xanthate and an alkaline chloroformate, also causes side reactions which produce varying amounts of xanthic anhydride, carbonyl sulfide and dialkyl carbonate as by-products, and yield of formate may be as low as 30%. There are here disclosed processing schemes for controlling the amount and type of products and by-products produced in the reaction, and flotation tests show that certain product mixtures are significantly improved collectors for sulfide ores.

Abstract: A silver metallizing paste for attachment of silicon semi-conductive devices in lead-frame packages, specifically ceramic packages, which is less expensive than a gold preform but useable in hermetic packages, and provides better electrical and thermal conductivity, and higher bond strength, than silver polyimides. From 25 to 95% of silver is blended with a low-melting glass, preferably one having 95-96% PbO, and a paste or ink is formed with a suitable vehicle at 75-85% solids. Use of the paste follows conventional practice. Selection of Ag:glass ratio depends on the type of die bonding to be used. The paste is particularly useful in MOS technology, where low contact resistance is required, and also finds applications as a solder substitute and bonding chip capacitors. It is most advantageous in attachment of larger-area integrated circuits in that stress cracking associated with the gold-silicon eutectic is avoided.

Abstract: Dialkyl xanthogen formates are known collectors, but the reaction that produces them, between an alkaline alkyl xanthate and an alkaline chloroformate, also causes side reactions which produce varying amounts of xanthic anhydride, carbonyl sulfide and dialkyl carbonate as by-products, and yield of formate may be as low as 30%. There are here disclosed processing schemes for controlling the amount and type of products and by-products produced in the reaction, and flotation tests show that certain product mixtures are significantly improved collectors for sulfide ores.

Abstract: A welding cylinder truck adopted to hold one large tank on one side and, on the other side, either one similarly sized or intermediate sized tank of another gas or a pair of small tanks. The carrier of the invention, by virtue of this design, is more versatile than carriers heretofore available.

Abstract: For both orthopedic and sports uses, a foamed plastic pad is integrally molded to a fabric. More particularly, a knitted sleeve is constructed having a terry loop on the interior surface of a hydrophobic yarn (e.g. acrylic) and an exterior surface of a hydrophilic yarn (e.g. cotton), whereby moisture is wicked away from the surface in a hydrokinetic fashion. A soft, hydrophilic polyurethane foam pad, which acts as a sponge, absorbs the moisture, is molded integrally with the sleeve, leaving the terry loops free for skin contact. For sports uses, knitted or woven fabrics may be employed, and stiffer, polyurethane foams are preferred.

Abstract: An improved integrated circuit ceramic package meeting JEDEC-11 standards and having a nominal pin (lead) count of from 24 to 156. Control measures and assembly procedures referenced to the precise center of the die-attach area provide closer dimensional control and lead coplanarity which facilitate automatic die-attach and wire-bonding operations. A lead frame is provided with both diagonal and axial (X-Y) registration points, and internal and external lead tie-bars. It is precisely attached in special tools to a ceramic cover element, and the internal tie bars are sheared off. The cover sub-assembly is then secured to a ceramic base in similar tools. Devitrification of the sealing glass follows. The external tie bars form a convenient carrier protecting the leads, and the registration points provide precise siting for die-attach and wire bonding.

Abstract: A point-of-sale rack for display and open-stock storage of plastic (acrylic) picture holders. Preferably fabricated from wire stock, the rack provides a novel tripartite support system for the display of each size of frame offered for sale, and, directly underneath each displayed frame, means for compactly supporting a supply of the frames displayed. The rack may be fabricated readily for either counter-top or floor usage, depending on the number of tiers of display/storage couples that are desired.

Abstract: An improved printing cell and head for dot matrix impact printers, including an armature of exceptionally low mass mounted on a pair of straight, cylindrical spring elements, and driven by a pair of coils wired in parallel. By careful selection of the ramp angle of respective pole faces, and a resilient preset and energy-absorbing device, printing speeds of 2,500 Hz can be achieved with remarkably quiet operation.

Abstract: Various aspects of electro-magnetic testing are facilitated by inserting a foamed plastic dielectric lens at a particular position between a particular radiating source and the test aperture. The lens is constructed according to electro-optic formulae and the radiation wavelength to produce a plane wave of uniform phase. To control extraneous energy contributed by reflections from the flat face of the lens, this surface is provided with two layers of high-performance absorber material. The amplitude characteristics in the test region are controlled by appropriate selection of the source antenna. Radiation-absorbent material is also provided to eliminate amplitude distortion. This makes possible testing under far-field conditions in test cells of modest size, which has heretofore been possible only with elaborate parabolic reflectors. Weather restrictions on use of free-space ranges, the sheer size of such ranges, and security problems attendant on their use, are all thus avoided.

Abstract: Tools for stamping very delicate lead frames for semiconductor packages, including scored and bent-up tabs that retain groups of inner lead tips in position through subsequent operations, after which they are broken off. Sequential punch and die sets are used to (1) define the tabs, (2) bend down the leads, (3) score the tabs and coin the lead tips, and (4) bend the tabs up. At stations (3) and (4) means are provided to lift scored tabs out of the die and to allow the frame strip to move over the tab-bending die without interference.

Abstract: A collimated light source, preferably coherent, is directed at an optical system comprising a plurality of controllably rotatable mirrors, the source going from one to the next in seriatim, and each mirror being mounted a small number of degrees "off" the optical axis, so as to oscillate upon rotation. With the rotational speed of each mirror individually controllable, a substantially infinite number of patterns can be generated. Further variations in pattern generation can be achieved with a beam clipper, pulse modulation by an analog (e.g. audio) signal, and/or other known beam-modifying devices. A preferred embodiment is adapted for entertainment purposes and employs a low-power laser and three mirrors. Other applications include pattern-recognition testing of individuals for optometric or psychological purposes.

Abstract: For both orthopedic and sports uses, a foamed plastic pad is integrally molded to a fabric. More particularly, a knitted sleeve is constructed having a terry loop on the interior surface of a hydrophobic yarn (e.g. acrylic) and an exterior surface of a hydrophilic yarn (e.g. cotton), whereby moisture is wicked away from the surface in a hydrokinetic fashion. A soft, hydrophilic polyurethane foam pad, which acts as a sponge, absorbs the moisture, is molded integrally with the sleeve, leaving the terry loops free for skin contact. For sports uses, knitted or woven fabrics may be employed, and stiffer, polyurethane foams are preferred.

Abstract: A pipe-encircling steel shield includes integral bands with inclined slots for engagement with screw-type tightening elements. The shield compresses a gasket or packing member against the pipe ends to be coupled. This structure reduces the number of parts in comparable couplings by about one-half. The shield area preferably includes longitudinal slots which trap gasket material during tightening, facilitating use with irregular pipe sections.

Abstract: A cleat for hanging objects on a wall, comprising a flat plate having a pair of parallel 45.degree. edge bevels and one or more angled grooves for mounting screws. The object to be hung is provided with a cooperating 45.degree. bevel on a rear surface. Objects can be hung at a precise level by sliding the plate up or down and placement of the screw or screws is not critical. It is preferred to manufacture the cleats in modular break-apart strips.