Abstract: A hand-held image scanner can scan an object larger than the scanner itself. Successive multiple partial images scanned in the Y (or longitudinal) direction) are combined to form a single image by keeping track of the position and motion of the scanner in both the Y direction and the X (or latitudinal) direction. The scanner measures distance moved in either the X or the Y direction, but it cannot measure in both directions at once, nor does it scan when it moves in the X direction.

Abstract: An edge protector for an electrolysis electrode onto which a thick-electrodeposited copper product is deposited for producing an electrolytic copper product, has an outer surface shape in the central portion thereof which reduces the thickness in that portion to improve uniformity of cooling, and thereby reduce stress cracking as a result of the reduced buildup of thermal stresses. The outer surfaces may be inclined planes or suitable curved shapes that converge from an outer jaw toward an inner jaw. In one embodiment an edge protector is taught such that its top end is angled downward from its center outward at an angle of less than twenty degrees to prevent creation of sharp edges and difficulty in removal. A spreader bar has a shape which enables clamping of the edge protector onto an electrolysis electrode without excessive expansion of the outer jaw, thereby lengthening service life, and easing installation. Both a hollowed and a tapered spreader bar are taught for end insertion.

Abstract: A sorting apparatus for a solid waste sorting system has a first set of three belt conveyors, for conveying solid waste at a first speed, and a second set of three belt conveyors, each of the latter disposed with one end connected to the downstream end of a corresponding one of the first three belt conveyors, for conveying solid waste at a second speed which is greater than the first speed. The first three belt conveyors extend transversely into a feed-out path of a storage section in such a way that the conveyor lying successively furthest away from the storage section along the feed-out path is of successively longest upstream-end extension. The solid waste is sorted manually on the second set of three belt conveyors and is then supplied to a draft-sorting machine.

Abstract: A power semiconductor bridge circuit includes two power semiconductor components connected in series between positive and negative voltage sources. A connection between the two power semiconductor components is connected in common to an unsteady load. The connections between each power semiconductor component and a respective one of the positive and negative voltage sources includes at least two parallel-connected conductors. By reducing the current variation in each conductor, the parallel connections reduce self-induction and thereby voltage spikes due to rapid variations in the unsteady load. In one embodiment, one of the conductors connecting to the positive voltage source is arranged parallel to, and spatially proximate to, one conductor connecting to the negative source and likewise with the conductors connecting to the negative voltage source. In the latter embodiment, a further reduction in induction is obtained.

Abstract: The present invention provides a nonvolatile semiconductor memory that comprises one-transistor cells and yet is able to read information from a selected memory cell without mistake.

Abstract: An alignment tape for magnetic recording and playback devices contains recorded tracks useful for aligning the tape path on a rotating drum. The recorded tracks are spaced apart a sufficient distance to avoid interference from adjacent recorded tracks when the playback head is off-track. The alignment tracks are spaced apart a distance equal to the distance normally occupied by three tracks. This ensures that interference from an adjacent track when the head is off-track is minimized or eliminated. An apparatus is disclosed for controlling the recording of the alignment tape.

Abstract: A control valve feeds pressurized fluid for moving an actuator in first and second directions. A meter-out valve controls return flow of pressurized fluid from the actuator during actuation in the second direction. The meter-out valve is controlled by a pilot pressure controller independently of the actuator in response both to pilot pressures and to engine speed. The meter-out valve includes both a restricted channel and an unrestricted channel. The restricted channel, and the unrestricted channel are selectively connected dependent on the pilot pressures and the engine speed to supply sufficient fluid flow to permit stable operation of the actuator.

Abstract: A spiral flow connector imparts a spiral flow of air to urge parts being transmitted toward a central axis to avoid contact with the walls of the transmission passages of a pneumatic transmission apparatus. The invention is especially useful for preventing damage to fragile parts such as small resin molds, metal parts or powdered material. The spiral air flow prevents air stalling in the transmission passages.

Abstract: A multi-layer disk fan with blades operates quietly. The multi-layer disk fan with blades is formed by laminating a multiplicity of annular disks in a measured spaced relation, the arrangement having such a feature that a multiplicity of blades are interposed between the annular disks and the ends of the respective blades. The blades are further positioned a circumferentially measured spaced apart distance inward of the outer peripheral edges of the annular disks. Turbulent air flow caused by peeling-off at the tips of the blades through the effect of laminar flow by the disks is effectively prevented. Likewise, distortion in outlet speed at the outer peripheral edges of the annular disks is controlled, reducing noises from turbulent flow and interference and resulting in quiet operation.

Abstract: A dismountable, materially separable circuit package is made up by stacking pairs of heat sink, carrier, and bridge components in a back to back fashion. The package is mechanically clamped to form pressure clamped contact of the circuit components. Such piggy-back packaging reduces space requirements by approximately fifty percent. Pressure clamping provides a demountable, repairable structure.

Abstract: A coin holding tool includes a rectangular frame with a slidable magnifier-loading platform, orthogonally disposed to and attachedly mounted thereon. The coin holding tool enables one to identify, arrange and preserve collected coins. Additionally, the means for loading a magnifier permits one to compare rare coins and distinguish and appreciate subtle differences in their respective appearances. A stand is also taught which enables the frame to be propped at an oblique angle.