Abstract: A carousel and first and second members have common axes in a first direction. The carousel, preferably cylindrical, has a ring-shaped configuration defined by inner and outer diameters. The first member has an outer diameter preferably contiguous to the carousel inner diameter. The second member has an inner diameter preferably contiguous to the carousel outer diameter. The carousel is divided into compartments by vanes. The carousel rotates at a substantially constant speed past radiation directed by an accelerator in the first direction. When a fault occurs in the system operation, (1) the carousel and radiation stop and (2) the carousel reverses in direction. When the fault is resolved, the carousel moves in the forward direction at the substantially constant speed and the radiation resumes at the position where the article was being irradiated at the time that the fault occurred.

Abstract: An apparatus for assembling and disassembling roller chain and the like is provided. The apparatus includes a base portion made up of a baseplate and side plates, a rotatable cam and an interchangeable die set inserted into the base portion which is in contact with the cam. The die set is sized to fit a particular type and size of chain. The particular die set may be designed to punch out connecting pins in a link of the chain. Alternatively, the die set may be for purposes of installing a link plate onto connecting pins or for purposes of deforming the ends of connecting pins during the assembly process.

Abstract: An storage tube for storing extender tubes for spray cans is provided. The storage tube of the present invention includes a hollow tube having an internal constriction along its length. The constriction acts to releasably retain a storage tube inserted therein. The storage tube may be attached to spray cans and the like.

Abstract: A serial transmission system for controlling a network of input/output devices is provided. The serial transmission system includes: a three wire serial link; a master unit for controlling communication over the serial link; multiple input remote units for receiving information from the input devices; and multiple output remote units for controlling the output devices. The master unit includes a programmable optically isolated microcontroller adapted to initiate a synchronous data link control (SDLC) communications protocol with the remote units. In addition the master unit includes memory tables for storing input/output, error, diagnostic, status and node availability information. This information can be shared with a PC or host controller. In addition, the PC or host controller can include programs for directing the master unit and remote units to initialize, reset, scan, or maintain an idle condition.