Abstract: An integrated line voltage converter and microprocessor-controlled tone generator allow advanced alarm features to be implemented in standard appliances as powered by a high-voltage line power. An integrated switch may also be used to allow the addition of alarm features to standard appliances as a drop-in replacement for door switches.

Abstract: A process of protecting a vehicle wheel or hub is provided that includes the application to the vehicle wheel or hub of a composition. The composition includes a water soluble polymeric film former, a plasticizer and a carrier that solubilizes or suspends the film former and the plasticizer. After allowing the composition to dry to form a coating, the coating is exposed to debris contaminants. The coating and the debris contaminants are then removed. The coating is readily removed by water washing alone.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for MIG welding is disclosed. When in an ac mode the output is unbalanced, or the balance may be controlled. The balance may be controlled to provide a desired deposition rate and/or to obtain a desired dilution. The frequency may be any frequency, for example 30 Hz, 60 Hz, 90 Hz, or more. The weld path may have groove with angle of less than 50 degrees. A consumable, cored, wire may be used, and provide at rates of 30 or 35 pounds per hour using a single arc. In various embodiments the balance may have a negative portion of at least 1.5 times the positive portion. The process may be started using an extended negative portion, for example 0.5 or 0.75 seconds.

Abstract: A capacitor is made from a laminated structure having multiple layers of metallized, dielectric film and having a solderable, metal termination at each of two ends. The metal termination at each of the ends is generally rectangular with a top edge, a bottom edge, and two side edges and is finished so as to have a finished surface, which is characterized by a three-dimensional pattern of ridges having solderable surfaces and grooves having solderable surfaces. The ridges alternate with the grooves and the ridges and the grooves at both of the ends are parallel to the side edges. Thus, the three-dimensional pattern facilitates reflow soldering to the finished surface.

Abstract: A fastener including a body portion having a head member and a shank member integrally formed with one side of the head member, the head member including a central aperture and at least one flexible engagement member intergrally formed with the head member opposite the shank member and extending intothe aperture a predetermined distance, the shank member including at least two substantially resilient leg member each having a conically shaped interior surface which oppose each other forming a tapered axial bore through the shank member tapering away from and in cooperative alignment with the aperture and a drive pin having a predetermined length and cross-sectional configuration for complementary engagement with the aperture, flexible engagement member, axial bore and leg members, the drive pin icluding at least a first concave longitudinal channel formed along its length and extending into the drive pin which includes at least a first lateral ramp member extending across the width of the first channel for coo