Abstract: Methods and apparatus for removing particles from vials includes the use of a one sided pressure sensitive filament tape to remove external particles from vials. A roll of tape is juxtaposed relative to a line of vials moving along the production line. As each vial moves within the space between the tape the outside of the vial contacts the tape causing the particles to be removed and imbedded in the adhesive on the tape. A feed roll and a rewind roll provides for the tape to unwind while in contact with the outside of the vials and in conjunction with the movement of the vials along the production line. By causing the feed roll and the rewind roll to advance unused tape while in contact with the outside surface of the vials, the vials are caused to rotate at least 360 degrees while advancing down the line.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for laying marble tile flooring utilizes a form and method for using the form. The form provides for applying layers of a sealant, mud and thin set to a height determined by the form for laying the first tile in a horizontally level position. Second and subsequent tiles are laid relative to the first laid tile by gauging off the first laid tile and fixing the height of sealant, mud, and thin set such that the second and subsequently laid tiles are level with the first tile and parallel to the edges of the first laid tile. The result is a completely horizontal tiled floor with each tile level to an adjacent tile and parallel and or perpendicular relative to each other tile.

Abstract: An improved construction panel is diclosed comprising a foam core with thin metal skins attached to top and bottom surfaces of the foam core having am improved snap together joint. The joint includes a sealant pocket and stabilizing members. The sealant pocket further includes a bead or a protrusion to positively define a vertical sealant space between adjacent and connected construction panels.

Abstract: A platform for a boat including a top member, removable leg members and apparatus for storing the leg members to an underside of the top member when the legs are removed. A compact package results, which is readily storable in a hatch of a boat. The platform is readily assembled, attached to the boat, and then disassembled and stored.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for accurately determining the gel time of oxygen inhibited polymerizable compositions is provided. Gel times in these compositions are related to dissolved oxygen concentration. The inventive method and apparatus use a small diameter capillary tube filled with the composition and sealed thereafter at one end to include an air space between the end of the liquid column and the sealed end of the tube. A pulsed force of air is applied to the unsealed end of the tube which causes the column of liquid and air/liquid interface to move in accordance with the amplitude of the pulsed air force. A motion detector sensor is located at the air/liquid interface. A light source is then applied to the polymerizable column within the tube causing it to gel. Recording equipment appropriately connected to the motion detector sensor visually describes the motion of the air/liquid interface which becomes zero at the gel point.

Abstract: A disposable drape for a Mayo stand is disclosed. The drape includes a built-in tray which is disposable along with the drape. The tray is compartmentalized to receive various shaped surgical instruments. One or more flaps are provided adjacent the edges of the tray. The flaps cover entrances to an opening under the Mayo stand and the upper body of a patient where surgical tools invariably become lost.

Abstract: Door control apparatus is provided for a sliding door for use with a boat or a ship. The door control apparatus is unbiased in either direction and will substantially maintain any position in which it is placed, except during extreme rolling or pitching of the boat or ship due to heavy weather conditions. The door control apparatus provides for equal but opposite force to open the door as to close the door. The door control apparatus includes piston and cylinder means with fixed orifices. Other than the piston its associated parts, there are no moving parts to the mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention provides a standard toilet having a toilet tank associated therewith to be operable within a plurality of flush modes whereby more or less water may be flushed down a toilet. A simple two stage of flush mode of operation may be achieved by the present invention in order to flush either a liquid waste or a solid waste down a toilet. A cam adjusting member having a cam surface attached thereto is slid into or out of position relative to a standard cam member of a toilet flushing apparatus in order to limit or permit full rotation of the flush handle.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved tampon construction permitting instant maximal exposure of its absorptive surface immediately after insertion. The tampon originates as one or more rectangularly-shaped pieces of absorptive material having one end thereof being convergingly tapered from opposite sides of said rectangularly shaped material. The convergingly tapered end portion being folded over and against the remaining portion of said rectangularly shaped material such that a once folded-over end is created. A pull sting is attached to said rectangularly shaped material such that it extends from the edge of the once folded-over portion and longitudinally down therefrom extending beyond the folded-over edge of rectangularly shaped material whereby a gentle pull on the drawstring unfolds the folded-over portion while the tampon is in place intravaginally.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for efficiently and quickly determining the exact location of spicules of calcium within a test specimen of human tissue removed from a woman's breast. By exactly locating the clusters of calcification, a pathologist can dissect the portion of the test specimen containing the calcifications and quickly analyze the same to determine whether or not malignancy exists. A pair of grid plates is provided, one on top of the other, with clamping means to compress a test specimen therebetween in the present invention. The plates include a grid system which is opaque to radiographic filming which allows the determination of the exact location of the clusters of calcifications.