Abstract: A dual release buckle can be released either as a side-release buckle or as a remotely-released cable actuated buckle and can be incorporated into a garment, for example, a soldier's vest.

Abstract: A backpack can be used in many different configurations and is adaptable to support numerous attachments and accessories so as to support, for example, a soldier for up to five days or more. The main pack body includes a large main compartment, and upper and lower sewn-on secondary compartments on the backside of the pack. Two detachable side pouches may be provided, and a detachable bottom compartment. A suspension system includes a waist belt and a shoulder strap system.

Abstract: A helmet chin strap assembly includes a nape pad that is adjustably attached to straps extending below the ears of the user. The straps of the assembly are connected to a helmet by a coupling unit including an anchor strap and a plastic or polymeric reinforcement member attached to the strap. The strap and the reinforcement member are provided with aligned holes through which a threaded post is inserted to cooperate with a bolt or screw to attach the anchor strap to a helmet.

Abstract: An improved method for cleaning or purging of automated spray painting or coating equipment is disclosed which significantly reduces the solvent and time required to change from one color or coating material to another. The method of the present invention utilizes a ratio mixing valve to intermix a compressed gas such as air and a liquid solvent in a predetermined ratio which is then passed through the manifolds and supply lines of the painting or coating equipment to effect a thorough and complete cleaning thereof thus readying the equipment for use of the next paint color or coating material.

Abstract: Improved flow control valves are disclosed which are exceedingly accurate in maintaining a constant predetermined flow rate regardless of inlet and outlet pressures. The valves are preferably designed to enable them to be fabricated almost entirely from suitable polymeric composition materials. One embodiment disclosed is extremely well suited for ultra-pure applications which require extreme care to avoid any possible contamination of the liquid flowing therethrough. Another embodiment is disclosed which is designed to achieve substantially zero leakage flow thereby rendering it particularly well suited for use in applications requiring exceedingly precise flow control and in particular relatively low flow rate applications wherein leakage flow is of greater significance.

Abstract: An adjustable ratio mixing valve is disclosed which incorporates an automatic pressure compensating arrangement whereby the fluid pressure immediately upstream of each of the metering orifices is maintained in substantial equilibrium. This arrangement then enables the respective fluids to be intermixed in any desired volumetric ratio by merely suitably adjusting the open flow area of the metering orifices. In one embodiment the metering orifices are each externally adjustable to enable relatively easy changes in the mixing ratio to be made and may also be interconnected whereby flow volume may be changed while maintaining the desired present mixing ratio. In another embodiment, rapidly acting on/off valving is provided integral with the valve so as to render it uniquely suited for cyclic fluid flow.

Abstract: Improved flow control valves are disclosed which are exceedingly accurate in maintaining a constant predetermined flow rate regardless of inlet and outlet pressures. The valves are preferably designed to enable them to be fabricated almost entirely from suitable polymeric composition materials. One embodiment disclosed is extremely well suited for ultra-pure applications which require extreme care to avoid any possible contamination of the liquid flowing therethrough. Another embodiment is disclosed which is designed to achieve substantially zero leakage flow thereby rendering it particularly well suited for use in applications requiring exceedingly precise flow control and in particular relatively low flow rate applicatins wherein leakage flow is of greater significance.