Abstract: A combustion powered cooling system (10, 100) includes a power loop (12, 102) and a cooling loop (14, 104). Heat produced by combustion is used to produce superheated steam in a steam generator (18). The steam is used to move a reciprocating steam piston (26) in a power unit (16). Power is transferred from the steam piston through a energy transfer mechanism (44) to a compressor piston (40) in the cooling loop. Refrigerant material in the cooling loop is used to provide air conditioning for a residence or other facility through a chilled water circuit (60). The system is also operative as a heat pump for heating a residence or other facility.

Abstract: An automated banking machine (10) identifies and stores documents such as currency bills deposited by a user. The machine then selectively recovers documents from storage and dispenses them to other users. The machine includes a central transport (70) wherein documents deposited in a stack are unstacked, oriented and identified. Such documents are then routed to storage areas in recycling canisters (92, 94, 96, 98). When a user subsequently requests a dispense, documents stored in the storage areas are selectively picked therefrom and delivered to the user through an input/output area (50) of the machine. The control system (30) for the machine includes a terminal processor (548). The terminal processor communicates with a module processor (552). The module processor (552) communicates with module controllers (554, 556, 558, 560, 562 and 564) which control the operation of devices.

Abstract: A coverplate storage device includes a threaded first portion and a second portion. The threaded first portion is screwed into the standard screw receptacle of a coverplate (either a switchplate cover or plug receptacle plate cover) and the second portion receives small items, such as key chains. The invention also includes a wall guard to protect the wall under the hanging items from damage. Other variations of coverplate storage devices are provided which are secured to the coverplate by the screw receptacle or held in place using the light switch or plug receptacle.

Abstract: A threading clutch apparatus 40 and method for a multi-spindle machine that is pneumatically actuated and electronically controlled. The threading clutch apparatus 40 shifts from a low speed side 48 to a high speed side 46 at a selected time interval. An electrical circuit 106 is in electrical communication with a limit switch 112 which is operatively connected to a threading tool. At a desired time in the machining process, limit switch 112 is tripped and electrically starts a count down timer 114,116 to energize solenoid valve 102 for selectively activating the high speed side 46 of the threading clutch apparatus 40. The threading clutch 40 allows varying static torque capacity with variable pressure control to eliminate clutch adjustment and electronically monitoring tap depth adjustment.

Abstract: An enhanced network monitor system (30) processes event messages and command response messages from automated banking machines such as ATM terminals (36). Both message types are assigned a single transaction code. The system includes an application program (34) in which the event messages and command response messages are processed in a host computer by parallel message processing regions (52, 54, 56). A modified VTAM communications protocol enables the application to control sequencing of messages generated by the ATM terminals. This enables both event messages and command response messages to be run in a response mode. The transaction processing limit for the parallel message processing regions may be set to a maximum value. The parallel message processing regions run the single transaction repeatedly without reloading which increases the rate at which messages are handled.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and dispensing medical items which are dispensed for administration to patients includes a data terminal (76, 338, 538) which is connected through a network (82, 328, 536) to at least one computer (84, 324, 532) having a processor and a data store. The system also includes a reading device (348, 538) which is operatively connected to the network. A user of the data terminal or the reading device is enabled to select a patient for whom medical items will be used, and responsive to a request to dispense items the requested items are dispensed from dispensing devices (96, 100, 344, 346, 450, 527, 540) connected to the data terminal. Storage locations in dispensing devices may be restocked using removable liners. The removable liners are stocked with medical items in a stocking location (550) and transported in a secure condition to the storage locations. The storage locations are accessed by an authorized restocking user.

Abstract: An automated banking machine (10) identifies and stores in storage areas documents such as currency bills deposited by a user. The machine selectively recovers such documents from storage areas and dispenses them. The machine includes a central transport (70) wherein documents deposited in a stack are unstacked, oriented and identified. Such documents are then routed to storage areas in canisters (92, 94, 96, 98). Documents in the storage areas are selectively picked therefrom and delivered to a user through an input/output area (50) of the machine. Each canister includes a memory (626) which holds information concerning the number and type of documents housed in the canister as well as other information concerning the hardware and software resident on the canister. The memory also includes data representative of individuals responsible for loading and transporting the canister.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and dispensing medical items includes a plurality of hook registers (10). Each of the hook registers includes sensors (48, 60, 62, 64) sensing the removal or addition of a medical item to the storage location on the hook register. Each hook register has a microprocessor (66) connected to the sensor which stores a count of the items added or removed from the location. The microprocessor also includes location identifying information specifically associated with the particular hook register. The microprocessor is periodically polled by a controller (72) which reads and stores the count and location identifying information from each of the hook registers. The controller information is periodically read by a data terminal (76) which is connected through a local area network (82) to a remote computer (84) having a processor and data store.

Abstract: A capping machine (10) and method for installing a cap (12) having a threaded portion onto a container (14) having a threaded portion, the threaded portion of the cap corresponding to the threaded portion of the container, the capping machine having a rotatable turret (20) and a rotatable cap chuck (16) which grips the cap and positions the cap on the container. The cap chuck is rotated by a spindle (22) driven by a servo motor (24) at adjustable and reversible rotational velocities independent of the rotational velocity of the turret. The number of rotations of the cap is determined by monitoring the number of rotations of the servo motor compared to the number of rotations of the turret and is transmitted to a spindle drive control(70). The torque imparted to the cap is monitored by a torque monitor (50) and is transmitted to the spindle drive control. The rotational velocity of the cap is adjustable in response to the compared monitored number of rotations and monitored torque.

Abstract: An eye article (10) for a taxidermy form (21). The eye article includes a generally convex first surface (16) and a general concave second surface (14). The eye article is preferably injection molded of a thermoplastic material like polycarbonate and the first surface is shaped to resemble the surface of an animal eye. The eye article further includes a ring surface (20) which is adapted to fit within the taxidermy form. The eye article further includes means for providing a selected color (68) for pigmentation resembling the appearance of the desired animal eye. The color is preferably applied to the eye article via a pad printing process.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing an indication of a type and/or a condition of a note passing through the apparatus includes a note transport (12) which moves the note past transversely spaced spot sensing assemblies (18). Each spot sensing assembly includes four emitters (32). Each of the emitters produces radiation at different wavelengths. The spot sensing assemblies include a reflectance detector (20) and a transmission detector (22) which are disposed on opposed sides of the passing note. The emitters direct radiation onto test spots (34) on the passing note. Radiation reflected from and transmitted through the test spots is detected by the respective reflector and transmission detectors. A control circuit (24) produces sensed values that correspond to the detected radiation. A data store in operative connection with the control circuit comprises memories (138) that include stored data representative of transition and reflectance values for know note types.

Abstract: A pressure indicating device for self contained breathing apparatus includes a piston arrangement which is responsive to the relative pressures of the supply and the pressure at the outlet of the first stage regulator to assume several different positions in the containment housing. Piston position is recognized by electronic circuitry and an LED display is lighted accordingly to provide a series of unique signals to the user, of the remaining quantity of breathing fluid. In one embodiment of the invention, plural, graduated-size pistons provide a progressive indication of the air supply. In another embodiment, a single, stepped piston effects progressive electrical contact at various positions in the travel of the piston.

Abstract: An apparatus (100) for selectively discharging a stream of liquid has a body (102) adapted for connection to a source of liquid under pressure, a throttle valve assembly (120) for maintaining a constant output flow throughout changes in supply pressure, a smooth bore barrel (140) for providing a deluge stream, a fog tip (160) for providing an aspirated fog spray and a shut off valve (180). The fog spray pattern is variable from a straight stream parallel to the axis of the apparatus to a wide spray at an angle to the axis of the apparatus. The deluge stream and the fog spray are selectable separately or in combination.

Abstract: A secure enclosure (10) for an automated banking machine includes a chest portion (12) and a moveable door (14). The door of the secure enclosure has mounted thereon a locking bolt work mechanism (24) which operates in a secure condition to engage locking bolt engaging apertures (46). The door further includes dead bolt projections (150) which engage apertures (62) when the door is in the closed position. The bolt work mechanism includes a drive cam (122) which is engageable by a member of a lock (126). The drive cam is connected to a pair of idler cams (118, 120) by L-links (134, 136). The idler cams are connected to a locking bolt (102) by S-links (138, 140). Movement of the drive cam enables moving the locking bolt between extended and retracted positions.

Abstract: An automated banking machine (10) has a housing (12). A rollout tray (32) supports serviceable components including a display (36) and a keypad (48) thereon. The rollout tray includes a service opening (54) which is used to access service points on the serviceable components when the rollout tray is extended from the housing. When the tray is retracted access through the service opening is blocked.

Abstract: An apparatus for accepting return of unused medical items is part of a system (10) used for automated dispensing and tracking of medical items within a medical facility. The apparatus includes a return drawer (52, 156) and a retrieve drawer (54, 158) which are opened responsive to signals received from a display terminal (26) which is networked with a computer (12) which includes a database (14). The return drawer includes a pocket (74, 160) therein. The pocket is accessible from outside of a housing (56) when the return drawer is moved to an open position. The pocket includes an opening (76, 156). The pocket is closed by a trap door (78, 170) when the return drawer is in the open position. Medical items to be returned (132, 184, 186) are placed in the pocket and the return drawer is closed. Upon the closing of the return drawer the trap door is moved to an open position by an actuator. The returned medical item passes from the pocket to a retrieve area (84, 188) in the retrieve drawer.

Abstract: A retrofit system for a multi-spindle machine which includes a brake clutch (72), a feed clutch (70), and a high speed clutch (68) which are incorporated into the drive train gear layout of the multi-spindle machine. All three clutches are controlled by an electrical control circuit which includes a timer (80). When the multi-spindle machine shifts from high speed to low speed the control system activates the brake clutch for a short time period set in the timer, which causes the drive train gears to quickly slow down, allowing synchronous meshing with the low speed drive train of the multi-spindle machine and enabling a reduction in machine cycle time.

Abstract: A chuck (10) has a jaw bell (20), a lower bell portion (22) surrounding a plurality of jaws (40) and a hub (28) surrounding an upper portion of a jaw stem (60). A second portion of the jaw stem extends beyond a jaw bell hub (28) and is surrounded by a compressed jaw stem spring (76). The jaw stem spring is retained between a bell hub collar (34) and a jaw stem collar (70). The force of the jaw stem spring holds the jaw bell around the jaws, holding the jaws in a closed position. A stripper (80) has an upper end (82) carried within the jaw stem. A stripper spring (90) located above the upper end of the stripper is compressed and surrounded by the jaw stem. The lower end of the stripper has a disk (84) with a frusto-conical cross-section in slidable contact with the jaws. The jaw stem spring exerts more force downward on the jaw bell than the stripper spring exerts downward on the stripper to hold the jaw bell around the jaws and the jaws closed.

Abstract: An electrode for collecting surface electromyographic (EMG) signals consists of a generally bolt-shaped structure having a circular signal-gathering head and an integral shaft for support purposes and for transmission of electrical signals. The head of the electrode is configured as a disc having a plurality of pyramids distributed substantially evenly over the signal gathering surface with the tips of the pyramids projecting outwardly of the head for contact with the skin of a patient. Preferably, the electrode consists entirely of 316L stainless steel, the pyramids are formed by grinding or electromachining and the shaft is threaded for receipt of a clamp nut. The electrode is adapted for mounting in a hole in a thin, flexible support member by means of the shaft to maintain spacing among adjacent electrodes and to assure proper contact with the patient.

Abstract: An automated banking machine includes a light source (42) for selectively illuminating either a fascia (36) or an interior area (20) of an enclosure (10). The light source is movably mounted on brackets (54) so as to be movable into a light conducting passage (46) which conducts light to illuminate the fascia. When the interior area of the enclosure is to be illuminated the light source is moved relative to the brackets to be positioned outside the light conducting passage. Service of serviceable components (22, 24, 26) is facilitated by using the light source to illuminate the interior area of the enclosure.