Abstract: An improved solenoid poppet valve includes an endless magnetic gap loop which overlies the valve chamber. The axis of the poppet valve intersects the magnetic gap and can be self centered by the energizing of the solenoid. The valve chamber can be sealed from the solenoid coil and magnetic poles using a relatively thin isolating material which can be fully supported by the magnetic pole structure. A novel dual rate spring combination supports and centers the poppets in the valve chamber. The spring provides one force to maintained the valve in the closed position and a second, greater force to "kick" the poppet away from the magnetic poles when the solenoid is deenergized. In alternative embodiments, the valve of the present invention can control the flow of one or several fluids. Yet other embodiments can provide several valves to control the flow of a single fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for producing a color display from a substantially monochromatic source utilizes a liquid crystal cell combination together with a plechroic filter to differentially polarize the light components comprising the light emitted from the source. The liquid crystal cells are connected in push-pull fashion to individually retard light by one fourth of a wave as a function of the control signal applied to them. A fourth wave plate followed by a linear polarizer completes the optical combination. A signal at a first level applied to the cells causes transmission of one component color and blocks the other. A signal at a second level blocks the one component color and transmits the other. An intermediate level signal transmits both colors, resulting in a third, combination color.

Abstract: A display apparatus for use with headgear, includes in combination visor means adapted to attach to the headgear and having a visor viewing area segment positioned in the line-of-sight of a wearer of the headgear. Optical display generating means are adapted to be attached to the headgear. Parabolic mirror means are interposed in the optical path from the optical display generating means to the visor viewing area segment. Fold mirror means, including at least one fold mirror positioned to receive the image from the parabolic mirror means for directing the image to the visor viewing area segment, is provided, whereby the size and curvature of the visor can be minimized without affecting transmission of the image.

Abstract: A visor for mounting on a helmet adapted to be worn by an individual, includes a substantially transparent visor having an inner concave surface, and, with reference to an orthogonal, right-handed xyz Cartesian coordinate system of spatial reference having its origin located on the inner concave surface and its z-axis parallel to the line of sight of the individual wearing the helmet, the inner concave surface being defined by a cross-section of the visor in the x-axis of reference, which is symmetrical about both the origin and the y-z plane of reference, having one-half of the cross-section of the visor in the x-axis of reference being a first circular segment containing the origin at one end and connected to its opposite end to one end of a first paraboloid segment which is connected at its opposite end to one end of an elliptic segment whose opposite end forms a side boundary of the visor, and by a cross-section of the visor in the y-axis of reference having a second circular segment, one end of which for

Abstract: Gate valve means connected in a waste pipe system have a hollow housing with an inlet and an outlet connected to the waste pipe system. A blade is disposed in the housing at a substantially right angle to the waste pipe system and is selectively movable between a closed position blocking the inlet from the outlet, and an open position allowing waste flow between the inlet and outlet. The blade moves between the open and closed positions and a pair of seals are disposed in the housing in an abutting relationship aligned to receive the blade therebetween when in the closed position and to seal waste flow between the inlet and outlet from the interior of the housing when the blade is in the open position. Each of the pair of seals has a unique design enabling it to mechanically rotate with the blade, thereby limiting wearing forces thereon.

Abstract: A non obstructing, flap type valve for a circular conduit is defined as a right angle section from a cylinder wall of the same diameter. A mating, right angle section taken from the end of the circular conduit defines the valve seat. The valve is end mounted and pivots from a closed sealing configuration to an open, free flow position. A flattened rod cooperates with a cam surface to lock the valve in the closed position, or a bias spring may maintain the valve closed.

Abstract: A hydraulically operated drain valve is interposed in the cleaning fluid path before the spray/rinse outlet. The fluid under pressure activates a piston which operates the drain valve. A precharge reservoir is also interposed in the supply line before the spray rinse outlet to store a measured precharge which drains into the tank after the drain valve has closed. A manual override is provided to open the drain valve in the event of a failure of the hydraulic system.

Abstract: A flexible stick tank gauge is made of a thin metal or plastic tape. The tape is sufficiently thick to be self-supporting when held vertically from the lower end. Alternatively, the tape is curved to be a narrow sector of a cylinder. Measuring indicia are applied to at least one surface of the tape. The tape remains flexible at extreme environments of temperatures and will not break in normal use such as airline fuel measuring operations.

Abstract: A direct reading tank gauge is made of plastic tape or thin metal in an endless loop. Measuring indicia are applied to one surface of the tape in a display tape assembly. An armature is fixedly mounted to the tape. A tank float is magnetically coupled to the armature, which follows the float and fluid level. A hinged window enables visual observation of tape indicia representing the position of the float, armature and liquid level and removal of the entire display tape assembly for service or repair.

Abstract: A self-aligning valve assembly and a valve plug therefor includes an elastomeric valve plug having an annular outer sealing portion with an annular sealing surface for sealing a drain hole valve seating of a receptacle. A central mounting portion is secured to a pair of telescoped tubes. A flexible diaphragm with a circular convoluted fold integrally connects the mounting portion and the outer sealing portion, and is capable of yielding to permit radial and/or tilting displacement of the outer sealing portion relative to the central mounting portion of the plug to accommodate limited misalignment between the valve tubes and the drain hole.

Abstract: An improved lavatory drain plug includes a split hub structure, normally separated axially, upon which a cylindrical sealing member is mounted. Bringing the hub together exerts an outward radial force on the sealing member while the rim adjacent the hub exerts both radial and axial forces, resulting in a net outward movement of the member to sealingly engage the walls of a conduit into which the plug has been inserted.

Abstract: A liquid storage tank is provided with an internal fixed support tube. Magnet-bearing liquid level and liquid density indicator floats are concentrically related to the fixed support tube externally thereof. Concentrically related, magnet-bearing indicator tubes are movably disposed within the fixed support tube and furnish liquid level and liquid density readout information when their respective magnets become magnetically latched with the float magnets.

Abstract: An improved access port cover latching assembly is provided with an interlock that normally requires the presence of a component within the access port. A first pin encounters the component and, when displaced, releases a second pin to slide, thereby allowing a latching assembly to seat fully, thereby securing the cover. An independent signalling device may be provided to indicate the absence of the component in the event that the interlock is intentionally defeated to enable latching of the cover.

Abstract: A fluid coupling of the type which couples automatically on the engagement of two coupling members and which uncouples automatically on the application of a predetermined minimum axial separation force, as is useful in refueling operations between moving vehicles. One coupling member has an annular groove about its outer surface, and the other carries at least one locking ball which may be held in engagement with the groove by a lock ring having graduations in internal diameter. Applying a tensile force between the coupling members compresses a spring and simultaneously displaces the lock ring with respect to the ball until an unlocked position is reached, allowing uncoupling by release of the ball from the groove. Uncoupling may also be effected manually and independently of the tensile force applied, and there is a convenient adjustment of the threshold force necessary for uncoupling.

Abstract: This invention relates to an aircraft toilet drain assembly of the type utilizing a drain plug, intended to prevent a maintenance operator from failing to replace the drain plug at the completion of after-flight servicing. The assembly is installed at the end of an outlet tube from a toilet holding tank in a position adjacent an access opening in the aircraft, which is closed in flight by an access panel. The assembly includes an outlet nipple, secured to the outlet tube, and a releasable cover mountable on the end of the nipple. A handle mounted on the cover is selectively movable between an extended position in which it obstructs the access opening to prevent the access panel from being closed and a depressed condition in which the access panel can be closed. An interlock responsive to the presence of the drain plug in the nipple locks the handle in its extended position unless a drain plug is present.

Abstract: A fluid impervious housing having an upper cavity for a water meter and a lower cavity for pressure regulating apparatus. A removable partition separates the cavities and removal of the partition provides access to both cavities for maintenance. The pressure regulator includes a reciprocable valve and the partition has a guide for such valve so that when the partition is removed the valve is accessible. The lower cavity is arranged to accommodate a valve structure employing Bellofram seals. A back pass check valve for affording reverse flow should the output pressure exceed the input pressure. A pressure relief valve for releasing water to the exterior of the apparatus should pressure downstream of the apparatus reach an excessive level. A screen for preventing entry of solid particulates into the relatively delicate meter mechanism in the upper chamber.

Abstract: A coupling device for cryogenic fluids which allows passage of liquid and vapor simultaneously through one coaxially arranged assembly. Principle features include low heat transfer insulation integral with the coupling and the ability to connect and disconnect it without use of tools. The coupling consists of a male and a female portion, each of which comprises three coaxially arranged metal tubes.

Abstract: A quick-release coupling suitable for refueling racing cars and the like which avoids jamming of the coupling parts during rapid disconnection in a condition of misalignment between the coupling parts. A housing connected with a fuel receptacle includes an open passage in which is positioned a valve seat. A plunger is resiliently biased against the downstream side of the valve seat to close it. A hollow probe connected to a fuel supply, such as a dump can, includes a nose connected to the probe by a stem. A sliding sleeve surrounding the probe is resiliently biased into sealing contact with the nose to prevent fluid flow outwardly of the nose. During coupling, the probe is inserted into the passage so that the nose contacts the plunger to unseat it from the valve seat while at the same time bringing an outer surface of the sleeve into sealing relation against the upstream side of the valve seat.

Abstract: A hydraulically operated drain valve is interposed in the cleaning fluid path before the spray/rinse outlet. The fluid under pressure activates a piston which operates the drain valve. A precharge reservoir is also interposed in the supply line before the spray rinse outlet to store a measured precharge which drains into the tank after the drain valve has closed. A manual override is provided to open the drain valve in the event of a failure of the hydraulic system.