Abstract: A system for utilizing the exhaust gases from a hydrocarbon combusting apparatus to enhance plant growth comprising an enclosure for plants having an outer covering and an inner permeable membrane spaced from the outer layer, the membrane being less permeable to toxic gases, present in the exhaust, than to CO.sub.2, and means for conducting the exhaust gas from the hydrocarbon combusting apparatus to the space between the covering and the permeable membrane. In the preferred embodiment, the outer covering and membrane are transparent to light.

Abstract: A scale for weighing vehicles in motion comprising a rigid load platform supporting structure having torque transmitting bars arranged around the perimeter thereof and a support and roller assembly associated with each end of each torque bar for low friction, and a single load cell operating with low vertical travel.

Abstract: A thrust augmenting fluid rectifier for a pulsed combustor comprising ducting having a converging inlet section, a flow redirecting section and a diffuser section, the inlet of the ducting being spaced upstream from the combustor inlet to define a thrust augmentor utilizing the backflow from the combustor inlet as primary fluid. In one embodiment the rectifier ducting extends rearwardly to a chamber that combines it with the combustor outlet. Substantial pressure gain is obtainable making the invention suitable for gas turbine applications.

Abstract: An apparatus for the removal of meat from Crustacean members having tubular shells, particularly crab legs. The apparatus comprises a shell slitting device including an eccentric rotary cutter and a stationary cutter. The stationary cutter includes an elongated guide member which is introduced into an open end of the tubular shell between the meat and the shell. Also described is a conveying apparatus and a device for opening the slit shells for the removal of the meat.

Abstract: A system for continuously monitoring air for the presence of tritiated water vapor comprising: contacting a predetermined mass flow of an air sample with a predetermined flow of a liquid miscible with tritiated water to transfer any tritiated water vapor in the air sample to the liquid; stripping radioactive noble gases from the liquid with a stream of gas; and analyzing the liquid for beta radiation to determine the presence of tritium. In the preferred embodiment of the apparatus an air-liquid contactor, a gas-liquid separator and a stripper are combined into a single unit with a common outlet for the contacted air and stripping gas.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for joining zirconium alloy appendages, such as spacers, to zirconium alloy members, such as sheaths for nuclear fuel elements. The appendage, coated with a material that will form a eutectic with a zirconium alloy, is heated to a temperature sufficient to form a eutectic with the coating material. The appendage is heated in proximity with the member such that the member is also heated but to a temperature that is below the alpha to beta transformation temperature. The heated appendage and member are brought together and heating is continued to complete the joining process, again with the temperature of the member remaining below the transformation temperature. The invention provides that there is substantially no alpha to beta transformation of the member or other adverse thermal effects such as residual stresses, geometrical distortions, compositional changes in fuel materials, etc.

Abstract: An accelerated strength testing method and apparatus for concrete in which a concrete mix sample is subjected to elevated temperature and pressure to accelerate curing. In the preferred embodiment, a prediction of 28-day strength is provided in about five hours. The apparatus comprises a container for the sample comprising a cylinder and a piston closure, means for applying force to the closure to pressurize the sample and seal the container, and heating means for heating the sample within the container.

Abstract: A method of making a decorative particleboard incorporating colored wood particles. The colored particles either make up the entire board or form a surface layer only. Some or all of the particles are colored one or more different colors. In other respects the method of manufacture may be similar to that of conventional particleboard. In the preferred form the particleboard is sanded to produce a marbleized surface pattern. A wide variety of effects are possible dependent on the size and shape of the particles, choice of colors, uniformity of coloring of individual particles, surface treatment, etc.

Abstract: This invention relates to planting containers which facilitate the mechanized planting of seedlings in large numbers. The containers comprise a square cross-sectioned tubular portion and an earth penetrating nose portion. For immediate root egress the containers have apertures which are offset to one side in order that they are blocked by the wall of another similar container when placed contiguous therewith. The containers are adapted to be grouped into bundles which facilitate the nursery, transporting and planting operations. The containers may be formed of a biodegradable material or may comprise separating sections to allow unimpeded root development.

Abstract: An icing detector for moving or stationary installations which comprises a probe subject to atmospheric icing, and ice formation sensing means disposed in a duct through which flow of ambient air is induced by ejector defining elements. The induced air flow provides high sensitivity regardless of the relative ambient velocity. An ice/de-ice cycle is repeated providing continuing icing detection. Specific embodiments of the invention provide a measure of icing severity or ambient liquid water content.

Abstract: A fluidic device using a free jet in which a control nozzle or nozzles terminate within the emitter jet, is disclosed. Positioning the ends of the control nozzles within the emitter jet avoids jet distortion when acted upon by control fluid for deflection. In the preferred embodiment, geometric symmetry is provided, either with control nozzles in pairs disposed opposite to each other, or another control member, such as a rod, disposed opposite to each control nozzle. A receiver for preventing air or gas entrainment is also disclosed. The device provides high efficiency, low noise, and operates with low pressure.