Abstract: A torque converter has a positive displacement pump (15,16) for charging and for circulating fluid for cooling purposes, which is driven at a speed equal to the difference in speed between the input and the output of the torque converter. The torque converter can be locked-up by stalling the pump flow by means of a valve (36).

Abstract: A continuously variable ratio transmission of the rolling friction type has a hydraulic control circuit including an end loading device for the transmission located upstream of a double sided piston used to balance roller reaction torque, and a valve for controlling the force exerted by the double sided piston. The valve has two outlets each feeding one side of the piston and communicating with the transmission's sump by way of a device for equalizing the flow rates from the two outlets to the sump. A feedback arrangement provides that the force exerted on the spool of the control valve is always proportional to the force exerted by the piston. The piston travel is limited by hydraulic end stops, upstream of which is provided a pressure relief valve to eliminate damaging transient overloads being exerted by the end loading device. The circuit also includes a facility whereby normal electrical/electronic control of the control valve can be overridden in an emergency.

Abstract: A filter for fluids has a chamber into which fluid is fed in such manner that it forms a vortex. Particulate matter tends to collect at the center of the vortex, leaving filter material in the wall of the chamber located away from the center of the vortex clear of clogging particulate matter. The filter is described in relation to its use in a vehicle coolant circuit wherein it removes particulate matter which would otherwise tend to block heat exchangers incorporated in the circuit.

Abstract: Apparatus for measuring the road wheel hub alignment of a vehicle on its production line includes a pair of electro-optical units for attachment to a pair of road wheel hubs and a master control and display unit. The electro-optical units each comprise an array of photo-sensitive devices which are illuminated by a directional beam of light from the other unit, and include a display for indicating to an operator the state of alignment of the hub to which the unit is attached. Alignment of both hubs can be monitored by a display on the master control unit, which includes an output to a data recording means so that the state of alignment of the hubs on each vehicle passing down the line can be automatically recorded. The photo-sensitive devices are arranged in a radial plane of the axis about which the hubs swivel for adjustment, and in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the road wheels to enable simultaneous independent adjustment of the hubs.

Abstract: A catalytic device for the decomposition of nitric oxide comprises a highly conjugated polymer possessing a high concentration of free electrons on sites of the catalyst. In a preferred form, for use in automobile engine exhausts, the polymer is pyrolized polyacrylonitrile.