Abstract: This thermoplastic composition and process for making articles of the same includes a thermoplastic matrix that includes a resin and filler materials wherein the filler materials includes a combination of fibers, at least one lubricant, and thermally conductive material, for improving tribological performance of thermoplastic materials. In the alternative, a thermally conductive lubricant may be substituted for the combination of the lubricant and the thermally conductive material.

Abstract: An articulated work machine includes an engine mounted in front of a load carrying receptacle on a trailer. The articulated work machine includes a cab assembly which has a front axle assembly on which number of front wheels are mounted, and a seat for supporting an operator of the work machine. The articulated work machine further includes a trailer assembly having a rear axle assembly on which a number of rear wheels are mounted. The articulated work machine still further includes a receptacle adapted to receive and carry loads. The receptacle is supported on the trailer assembly. The articulated work machine yet further includes a coupling which pivotally connects the cab assembly to the trailer assembly. The articulated work machine still further includes an engine assembly for propelling the work machine. The engine assembly is mounted on the trailer assembly. The assembly is interposed between the receptacle and the number of front wheels.

Abstract: An articulating work machine, such as a scraper, wheel loader, or truck, is disclosed. The articulating work machine includes a fluid-powered differential and a pair of fluid-powered steering cylinders. The fluid-powered differential and the steering cylinders cooperate so as to steer the articulated work machine during advancement thereof. Moreover, the articulating work machine includes a number of rotational position and speed sensors for detecting operating parameters associated with the work machine. Such parameters are monitored by a processor in order to control operation of the work machine.

Abstract: A fender assembly for a work machine is disclosed. The fender assembly includes a fender body having an upper panel and a lower panel. The upper panel has a latch recess defined therein. The lower panel is spaced apart from the upper panel so as to define an actuator chamber. A latch assembly is positioned in the latch recess. A rod for moving the latch assembly between a lock position and a release position extends through the actuator chamber. The first end of the rod is coupled to the latch assembly, and the second end of the rod is positioned on the top side of the upper panel in order to be accessible to a user. The lower panel is positioned between the latch assembly and the wheels of the work machine in order to prevent mud, dirt, or other types of debris from contacting the latch assembly during operation of the work machine.

Abstract: A method of covering a valve and rocker arm area of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The engine includes an engine exhaust outlet and an engine air inlet. The method includes the step of providing a valve cover assembly which includes a housing having a chamber defined therein, and a conduit positioned in the chamber. The conduit connects the engine exhaust outlet to the engine air inlet. The method also includes the step of securing the valve cover assembly to the engine so that the cover portion of the valve cover assembly covers the valve and rocker arm area. The method further includes the step of advancing exhaust gas from the engine exhaust outlet to the engine air inlet through the conduit. The method still further includes the step of advancing fluid through the housing so as to cool the conduit. A valve cover assembly for use on an internal combustion engine is also disclosed.

Abstract: A position setting apparatus includes a control member and a slave member mechanically coupled to the control member, with the slave member having a plurality of notches defined therein. The apparatus further includes a retainer positionable between a first retainer position and a second retainer position, wherein (1) the retainer is engaged with one of the plurality of notches when the retainer is positioned in the first retainer position, and (2) the retainer is disengaged from all of the plurality of notches when the retainer is positioned in the second retainer position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for checking out an item through a self-service checkout station which includes a scanner which generates a first signal when the scanner detects a machine readable code associated with an item, a sensor which generates a second signal when the sensor detects a motion used to scan the item across the scanner, a recorder which generates a visual recording of the motion used to scan the item across the scanner, and a processing unit coupled to the scanner, the sensor and the recorder which causes the recorder to playback the visual recording on a display monitor when the processing unit receives the second signal but not the first signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a filter includes a support frame and a turn table for supporting the filter, wherein the turntable rotates in relation to the support frame during a filter cleaning operation. The apparatus also includes an air flow director for directing a flow of air against the filter, wherein the air flow director is fixed in relation to the support frame during the filter cleaning operation. A method of cleaning a filter is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for determining distortion of a member which results from the member being subjected to a welding operation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of (1) locating the member so that the member assumes a first position, (2) obtaining first data measurements of the member while the member is located in the first position, (3) performing the welding operation on the member whereby the member distorts and assumes a second position, (4) obtaining second data measurements of the member while the member is located in the second position, and (5) calculating distortion of the member based on the first data measurements and the second data measurements. An apparatus for determining distortion of a member which results from the member being subjected to a welding operation is also disclosed.