Abstract: A biodegradable pod or package designed to work in single serve beverage machines. The package of the present invention includes a base, a filter, and a top, all of which are biodegradable. In some embodiments, the base and filter are formed from a biodegradable polymeric material such as polylactic acid (PLA); preferably, both the base and the filter are formed from PLA or include a coating of PLA thereon (for example, paper with a PLA coating). The top can be formed from a cellulosic material or other plant-based material. The package utilizes a unique bond between the three components so as to withstand the temperature and pressures to which the pod is exposed by the beverage machine. The bond is formed by melted or softened biodegradable polymeric material from the base and the filter that also adheres the top.

Abstract: Disclosed is a printing solenoid for a high speed wire matrix printer which provides efficient operation at voltages in the order of 10 to 12 volts DC while maintaining a reduced physical size while at the same time drawing no noticeable increase in current over printing solenoids of comparable size which normally require 24 to 28 volts DC for their operation. The printing solenoid of the subject invention is comprised of a minimum number of parts including a three piece bobbin having a stainless steel core and cold rolled steel end pieces. Wound on the bobbin is a solenoid coil of a predetermined number of turns (300) of wire of a particular size (No. 29 AWG) which enables efficient operation at 12 volts DC. A spring biased armature to which is uniquely bonded a small diameter print wire is axially located within the bobbin and is operable for reciprocal movement upon the energization and deenergization of the solenoid coil.