Abstract: A method and apparatus for graining a surface having a substantial area traveling at a substantial rate of speed. The method includes directing the surface past an array of electrical arcs traveling about a plurality of loop electrodes arranged to provide overlapping arc loop paths as the surface travels past the array of arc loops. The arc loops are established between the loop electrodes and the traveling surface, and thus contact the surface to grain the same. When each arc is struck between its loop electrodes and traveling surface, it is magnetically impelled about the loop of its electrode by a magnetic field established perpendicular of the direction of arc current flow. An annular sheath of gas is provided on each side of the electrode loop and the arc struck between the electrode loop and the traveling surface.

Abstract: An apparatus, called a wedge deadend, used to secure aerial fiber optic transmission lines or cables. The deadend and secured cable can effectively be attached to support structures such as poles or towers. The wedge deadend has a single assembled frame with an attaching cable for mounting to the support structure and two wedges that slide into the frame. The frame consists of two parallel plates. Each plate has two slots that are tapered and angled toward one another. The wedges are similarly tapered enabling them to be interlocked with the side plates. Both wedges also have a groove that is sized and textured to grip a specified cable. The wedges can be designed to compress the encased cable evenly along the entire contact surface of the wedge, or with varying force along such surface.

Abstract: A method for making a synthetic meixnerite which, when activated, has a high B.E.T. surface area, typically about 290 m.sup.2 /g or greater. The method comprises activating hydrotalcite, then cooling and hydrating such activated material in a carbon dioxide-free environment. Such hydration can produce a material that absorbs more than 100% of its weight in water. Following hydration, this material is activated a second time in a virtually carbon dioxide-free environment.

Abstract: A device used to fasten and retain two or more conducting elements with sufficient normal force to insure a reliable electrical contact. The device consists of three individual parts: a bolt, a nut, and a spring washer. The bolt of this invention differs from conventional bolts in that it has no threads and has a keying feature. The nut is distinguishable from a standard nut in that it also has no typical thread, but has a keying feature and internal ramps. The spring washer provides a linear increase in force proportional to deflection. Like the bolt and nut, the spring washer also has a keying feature.

Abstract: A connector using an multi-fiber ferrule, such as the MT ferrule or similar ferrule, that can be plugged into and received by an optical receptacle. Multiple alignment features help align and mate the connector to another multi-fiber object. The connector has a guide prong or forward extension beneath which is mounted the ferrule. The prong provides a reference surface that functions as a precise pre-alignment mechanism for the ferrule. Also, the prong has a groove that mates with a corresponding rail of the receptacle when the connector is plugged into the receptacle ensuring that the connector is properly seated within the receptacle. Further, the ferrule has apertures that align with and receive guide pins of the lightguide means or active device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a ring terminal connector which includes a pair of like circular, substantially flat apertured terminals. Each terminal has a raised bump or nib on its upper surface and a nib opening on its upper surface such that the pair of terminals may be interlocked by fixing the raised nib of each terminal in the nib opening of the other terminal. The terminals also each have a pair of inwardly directed slotted flanges and an elongated opening or groove to properly orient one terminal with respect to the other. One of the terminals may be turned over and engaged with the other terminal such that by rotating one relative to the other, the terminals may be interlocked. Further, the terminals each have an integral outwardly directed crimping arm to receive wires and maintain a positive connection between the connector and the wires and/or the bolt to which the connector is attached.

Abstract: An adjustable can conveyor comprises a fixed trackwork assembly and a moveable trackwork assembly. The fixed trackwork assembly includes at least two outer collars, a can guide track and two guide rails. The moveable trackwork assembly includes at least two inner collars, a can guide track and two guide rails. An interlocking mechanism is used to secure the two trackwork assemblies together such that a track able to convey can bodies is created. The locking mechanism is adjustable such that the conveyor may be set up to move cans of varying length. Because of the interlocking mechanism used, the moveable trackwork assembly is completely supported by the fixed trackwork assembly during adjustments. Further, the four guide rails associated with both trackwork assemblies may be rotated in such a manner that allows for adjusting the conveyor for cans of varying diameter.

Abstract: A universal joint yoke having a tubular body and a pair of ears projecting generally axially therefrom is provided. The ears-have an inner surface, an outer surface and an ear connecting surface. The ear connecting surface has a pair of lower portions, a pair of transition portions and an upper portion. The lower portions are oriented such that a generally straight line drawn in the tubular body connecting surface plane goes through (i) a point at the junction of the ear outer surface and the ear connecting surface; (ii) a point at the junction of the ear inner surface and the ear connecting surface; and (iii) a point on the axis of the tubular body. The upper portion is oriented such that a generally straight line drawn between (i) a point on the junction of the ear outer surface and the ear connecting surface and (ii) a point at the junction of the ear inner surface and the ear connecting surface is generally parallel to the common axis. The universal joint yoke includes a generally concave endcap.