Abstract: The present invention concerns an apparatus and method for making a core structure for use in a seal assembly, trim assembly, and the like. According to the method of the present invention, a plurality of individual core segments of resilient material such as metal are conveyed along a predetermined path in spaced apart unattached relationship to one another. Next, a first strip of flexible material such as fiber reinforced adhesive tape is applied to one surface of the segments as they travel along the predetermined path and subsequently, and a second strip of flexible material is attached to the opposite surface of the segments. In the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the invention, the individual segments are conveyed by utilizing a rotatable wheel having a plurality of individual spaced apart recesses formed therein, which are adapted to successively receive the individual segments.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a clutch assembly for selectively coupling a supercharging blower or other driven device to a mechanical output of a prime mover, such as a diesel engine. The clutch assembly includes an input member which is preferably flexibly coupled to a rotatable blower drive gear member connected to the engine. The input member is journalled about a centrally disposed hub. An output shaft is secured to the hub and carries power to the driven device. The input member includes a plurality of longitudinally oriented slots which receive radially extending lugs formed on a first plurality of disc pack clutch plates. A second plurality of clutch plates or separators is interleaved with the first plurality of clutch plates to form a friction disc pack clutch. The second plurality of clutch plates includes centrally disposed splines which engage complementarily sized splines formed on the hub. A radially extending piston plate is formed integral with the hub.

Abstract: An improved gas-fired cooking device and associated cooking utensils is disclosed. The cooking device includes a hollow cylindrical base member having a closed bottom end. A plurality of legs are secured to the base member, each leg having a lower end adapted to engage a horizontal surface and an upper end extending vertically upwardly above the base member. An annular support ring is secured to each of the legs at the upper end thereof. A cooking vessel is provided having support means attached to the exterior surface thereof for engaging the support rings so as to be supported above the base member. A gas burner assembly is adjustably supported on the bottom end of the base member. The gas burner assembly may be adjusted upwardly or downwardly so as to move it toward or away from the supported cooking vessel. Cooking baskets are also provided for use within the cooking vessel.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a unique vibration detector for sensing movement or vibration of an associated object. The detector includes an infrared light transmitter positioned to direct light toward a reflective fluid mass such as, for example, mercury. A cooperating infrared receiver is positioned to receive at least a portion of the light reflected off the fluid mass. As the object and detector are vibrated, the surface of the fluid will be disturbed, thus varying the amount of light energy detected by the receiver. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the fluid mass of mercury is contained within a cylindrical chamber having a relatively small diameter such that the upper surface of mercury provides a generally convex-shaped reflecting surface. The vibration detector can be utilized, for example, in a vehicle anti-theft system.

Abstract: A control switch assembly for cruise controls and the like includes multiple mounting adapters which facilitate mounting to a variety of vehicles. The switch assembly housing is a rectangular parallelepiped which defines a mounting structure. The mounting structure receives one of a plurality of interchangeable mounting adapters which engage various components of the vehicle and secure the switch housing thereto. For example, one mounting adapter facilitates mounting of the switch housing on the turn signal lever. Another facilitates mounting to a flat surface and still another replaces a portion of the turn signal lever with the switch housing.

Abstract: An improved dental flossing device includes a generally cylindrical body portion and a curved end portion. The cylindrical body portion is hollow and includes means for mounting a spool of dental floss therein. Floss from the spool is fed through a first locking means formed within the cylindrical body to the curved end portion. The locking means consists of a cylindrical boss extending radially inwardly of the body portion which defines a through aperture. A movable member is received in the aperture therein. A passageway formed in the movable member receives the dental floss. The movable member is spring-biased such that the passageway formed therein is normally seated within the aperture formed in the boss so as to frictionally engage the dental floss and prevent movement therethrough.