Abstract: A magnetic actuator or liner actuator with improved plunger control and a simplified construction technique is provided.

Abstract: A ball joint has a bushing with a defined housing space sized to receive ball joint components. The ball joint further has a cage member having an exterior surface that fits within the housing recess and an interior surface with a pattern of raised and recessed portions, and a cup member over-molded on the cage member component. The cup member complements the interior surface pattern of the cage member and includes an interior surface having a circular configuration. The ball joint also has a stem having a ball portion dimensioned to fit within and complement the interior surface of the cup member.

Abstract: A data transfer dongle for transferring information from an existing vehicle module to a predetermined replacement module. The dongle collects and stores data from an existing vehicle module in the original format and writes or uploads that original data to a repaired or replacement module. Preferably, the dongle is programmed for limited use and will disable itself after a successful data transfer.

Abstract: A self-learning lock cylinder assembly or lock tumbler and tools capable of teaching the self-learning key configuration of a pre-existing key is disclosed. The individual performing the self-learning does not need to have prior locksmith experience. The individual performing the self-learning procedure can verify that the original key and copies of the original key function properly within the lock cylinder prior to final assembly and installation in the lock through a self-learning test housing. The pre-installation testing eliminates problems associated with an incorrectly assembled lock cylinder.

Abstract: A self-learning lock cylinder assembly or lock tumbler and tools capable of teaching the self-learning key configuration of a pre-existing key is disclosed. The individual performing the self-learning does not need to have prior locksmith experience. The individual performing the self-learning procedure can verify that the original key and copies of the original key function properly within the lock cylinder prior to final assembly and installation in the lock through a self-learning test housing.

Abstract: A data transfer dongle for transferring information from an existing vehicle module to a predetermined replacement module. The dongle collects and stores data from an existing vehicle module in the original format and writes or uploads that original data to a repaired or replacement module. Preferably, the dongle is programmed for limited use and will disable itself after a successful data transfer.

Abstract: A filter assembly that includes a separator for separating gas from a fluid. The assembly includes; a base with surrounding walls that define a fluid reservoir; a baffle that overlies at least a portion of the reservoir; a filter element that is beneath the baffle and in the reservoir; and, a cover that is removably fastened to the base and includes a fluid inlet that terminates in a conical base with an unrestricted opening and the baffle includes a fluid impact cone.

Abstract: The disclosed transmission shift fork has improved contact areas that engage a gear that is shifted into and out of engagement with the drive train. As a result of the improved contact areas the gear and the shift fork have a more stable alignment that reduces wear during shifting and avoids uneven wear of the parts. The shift fork has an elongated pin that is positioned inside of a biasing spring. The pin has a length that is greater than the length of a compressed biasing spring, which contributes to increased stability and reduced wear from linear movement.

Abstract: A cap for closing a fill tube of a fluid container that includes fewer part and requires just a quarter turn between opened and closed positions. The cap has a lower plate for engagement with a free end of a fill tube and an upper plate that connects to a cover. The upper and lower plates have cooperating pawl and detent portions that form a ratchet member. Rotation of the cap by approximately a quarter turn moves the cap form an opened position to a closed position against the neck of a filler tube.

Abstract: A data transfer dongle for transferring electronic information from an existing specific vehicle module to a predetermined specific vehicle module. The dongle collects and stores data specific to a module or component in the original format and enables that original data to be written or uploaded to a repaired or new module or component. Preferably, the dongle is programmed for limited use and will disable itself after a successful data transfer to the module or component.

Abstract: A method for replicating a transponder key is disclosed. A first device reads a transponder code from a transponder key; captures bitting characteristics of the transponder key; and transmits the transponder code and the bitting characteristic of the transponder key to a remote location. An internet compatible device receives the transmitted transponder data and communicates it to a transponder duplication device at the remote location.

Abstract: A dongle for transferring electronic information from and to a vehicle module. The dongle collects and stores data specific to a module or component in the original format and enables that original data to be written or uploaded to a repaired or new module or component. Preferably, the dongle is programmed for limited use and will disable itself after a successful data transfer to the module or component.