Abstract: A spacer assembly for mounting a sign to a wall includes proximal and distal spacer members. The proximal spacer member includes a barrel and a coaxial coupling shaft extended distally from the barrel. The distal spacer member includes a distal barrel and a recess extending into the barrel and sized to slidably and rotatably receive the coupling shaft. A threaded stud extends proximally from the proximal barrel, and a distal threaded stud extends distally from the distal barrel. Each stud is removably threaded into its associate barrel. The distal member barrel supports a radially oriented set screw, movable toward and away from an advanced position in which the screw engages the coupling shaft to integrally secure the barrels. The spacer assembly allows the sign to be detached from the wall while leaving in place the studs coupled to the sign and wall.

Abstract: A continuous flow recirculating jet machining system incorporates a dynamic particle separator downstream of the fluid collection reservoir, for directing the water or other liquid in a serpentine path to promote separation of larger-diameter particulates. A filter bank downstream of the dynamic separator removes fine particles in several stages, providing several alternative fluid flow paths at each stage to facilitate filter replacement and other maintenance at each stage without interrupting system operation. The system further can incorporate a settlement tank between the dynamic separator and the filter bank to separate larger and intermediate sized particles upstream of the filter bank.

Abstract: An illuminated indicia enclosure apparatus includes a rear panel fixedly attached to an upstanding surface, the rear panel having apertures disposed therein for receiving and mounting one or more lighting elements on an inner surface thereof, an indicia-defining fascia, the fascia having a front panel and generally opposing side panels extending therefrom, and hinged tension securement elements for securing the fascia to the rear panel, wherein the hinged tension securement elements are configured to provide expedient installment and removal of the fascia to the rear panel.

Abstract: Automated forming apparatus including a horizontal feedbelt and an overlying gantry containing a number of tool heads for forming alphanumeric trim pieces for sign letters. A number of laterally and vertically controlled tool heads are indexed to the feedbelt and operative per programmed micro-instructions to clamp, bend and cut a spooled trim material to define an alphanumeric shape. One or more formed trim pieces are fitted to a flat panel that is separately formed to a corresponding alphanumeric shape to define a letter which can be used alone or as a cover to a mating canister.

Abstract: A changeable letter for signs is provided as a part of an illuminated sign or copy board system which provides different appearances when the changeable letters are alternately backlit or frontlit. The letter, understood to include letters, symbols and numerals, includes a translucent plate and first, second or additional layers of opaque, indicia-defining material applied thereto. The second layer is preferably of a lighter color than the first layer, and when superposed thereon, presents the appearance of a lighter colored letter surrounded by a darker border. However, when the letter is backlit as it would appear at nighttime positioned on an illuminated sign, the letter presents a black or otherwise darkened appearance surrounded by the lighted portion of the sign.