Abstract: A boat construction incorporating unique structural features for improved performance at a variety of speeds and water depths. The hull of the boat incorporates a deep-V forward section and a rear tunnel section extending longitudinally rearward from a midpoint of the boat. A vertically adjustable outboard is positioned at the forward end of the tunnel section of the hull. The outboard engine may be vertically adjusted to accommodate different water depths and operational requirements. The engine is positioned within a console above the midpoint for convenient maintenance access and insulation against engine noise. Steering may be accomplished by rotating the engine itself or separately through rudders mounted to the hull. The center mounting of the engine in conjunction with the tunnel section of the hull reduces planing upon acceleration, improves center of gravity and reduces the risk to swimmers and water skiers from a rear mounted propeller.

Abstract: A spiral wound gasket able to compress and seal under very low loads and provide sealing capabilities. The gasket generally includes a spiral wound metal portion and an outer guide ring to limit the compression of the gasket. For improved sealing capabilities a flexible graphite material is molded, extruded or layered onto the opposing faces of the gasket. In one embodiment, the graphite material is applied to substantially all of the gasket. In another embodiment, graphite sheets are applied to the outer guide ring while extruded graphite is applied to the outer surfaces of the metal winding. The spiral wound gasket provides a more durable gasket with low sealing load requirements and elimination of buckling under sealing loads.

Abstract: A mounting clip for maintaining optimum positioning between a gutter and gutter cover or deflector designed to prevent debris from entering the gutter while directing rainwater into the gutter. In addition to maintaining proper positioning between the components, the gutter cover mounting clips substantially expedite installation of the system. The mounting clip includes an outer clip member into prevent separation of the cover from the gutter and a nesting inner clip member to maintain a proper gap between the cover and the gutter. An edge of the gutter is positionally captured between cooperating second ends of the inner and outer clip members. While expediting installation of the gutter cover at an optimum position relative to the gutter, the clips are positioned substantially inwardly so as to be concealed from ground view creating a clear installation.

Abstract: A retainer for preventing abrasion of a lock spindle of a lock mechanism by a torsion spring used to return the lock assembly the center position. The lock mechanism includes an axial spindle operably connected to the knob and the lock bolt for selective operation. The torsion spring which returns the lock assembly to the center or at-rest position is coaxially mounted about the spindle. The retainer includes tabs disposed between the spring and the spindle to prevent contact therebetween and thereby eliminate abrasion of the spindle by the spring which can result in premature failure of the lock mechanism.

Abstract: A noise and vibration dampening device for mixing valves for faucets and the like. The device comprises an envelope comprised of flexible material defining an air pocket. The envelope is disposed in an area where it is in contact with water but is out of the direct stream of the water flow. The water in contact with the envelope is also in contact with the stream of water flowing into the mixing valve.

Abstract: An article is coated with a multilayer coating comprising a nickel layer deposited on the surface of the article, a palladium strike layer deposited on the nickel layer, a palladium/nickel alloy layer deposited on the palladium strike layer, a refractory metal, preferably zirconium, strike layer deposited on the palladium/nickel alloy layer, and a refractory metal compound, preferably zirconium nitride, deposited on the refractory metal strike layer. The coating provides the color of polished brass to the article and also provides abrasion and corrosion protection.

Abstract: An electrical circuit for controlling start windings in induction motors of various sizes or horsepowers providing a broad range of application. The circuit for controlling start winding switching measures the current through both the start and run windings of the motor allowing the use of a single solid state device in the circuit. This combined current develops a voltage across a resistor which is used to gate on the solid state device when the voltage exceeds a threshold level. By using the solid state device in combination with the special resistor, a motor start switch is formed which can be used to start a wide range of dual voltage motors.