Abstract: The invention is a method for sharpening opposed edges of a monocrystalline ribbon. The method consists of suspending a monocrystalline body of a material such as alpha-alumina in the form of a ribbon (or plate) in a body of a selected solvent, and providing relative movement between the ribbon and solvent with the direction of relative movement being generally normal to the plane of the ribbon.

Abstract: The invention is an improvement in apparatus for growing crystalline bodies from the melt. The apparatus comprises a crucible and a novel die assembly in which the die assembly is made in two parts and essentially comprises inner and outer concentric members. The inner and outer members are spaced from one another to define an annular lower capillary section. One member is longer than the other and is shaped so that its upper end overhangs and engages the upper end of the other member. A plurality of upstanding dies are formed in the upper end of the longer member. Each of the dies has a top end surface and is slotted in a generally radial direction with the slots being deep enough to intersect the annular space between the two members. The slots in the dies serve as capillaries to provide communication between the lower capillary section and the top end surfaces of the dies.

Abstract: A rechargeable battery comprising two or more electrochemical cells using a reoxidizable nickel oxide at the positive electrode and hydrogen as the negative electrode reactant. The electrodes of the cells are disposed in a common chamber in a battery case and connected so as to series couple the cells between a pair of terminals. The battery case is precharged with hydrogen gas while the positive electrodes are in a discharged state and then is sealed off. Additional hydrogen gas is evolved during charging and the state of charge can be determined by monitoring the gas pressure in the battery case. On discharging the battery, hydrogen is consumed down to the precharge level. The battery has inherent protection against damage from overcharging and overdischarging. The unique overdischarge mechanism prevents battery failure in the event that one cell in the series in discharged prematurely.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for continuously detecting cracks in aircraft blades while in flight. A hollow blade is sealed with a pressure differential, either above or below atmospheric. A reduction in the pressure differential such as results from cracks, is detected by a pressure sensor having a member which moves between a high pressure differential position and a low pressure differential position. A radiation source, typically a beta source, is carried on the member and moves from a shielded position to an unshielded position when the pressure differential drops. A radiation detector is mounted on a fixed portion of the aircraft and detects radiation from the source when the member moves to the unshielded position. The detector output may be used to operate a go-no go indicator providing a warning signal when the pressure differential falls below a predetermined value, or to operate an analog indicator providing an output varying as a function of the pressure differential.

Abstract: An improved semiconductor device is described which utilizes stable, slow diffusing resilient contacts that also serve as a suspension support for a semiconductor body.

Abstract: The invention is an improved apparatus for use in a system for growing crystalline bodies from the melt. The apparatus has a novel crucible die assembly in which the dies are located in cavities in the crucible side wall.

Abstract: The invention provides a machine for capping containers with closures made of heat shrinkable film and includes a film feeding mechanism, a film cutting mechanism, and a film shrinking head which is adapted to accommodate containers of different sizes. The film shrinking head comprises two elongate and opposed flexible heated members which are bowed away from one another so as to provide a space for introduction of a container and a sheet of heat shrinkable film that overlies the container, and means for drawing the two heated members and thereby the margins of the sheet of film tight against the rim of the container so as to cause the film to shrink and form a tight closure on the container.

Abstract: A low cost pressure transducer can be manufactured and assembled with automatic or semiautomatic production line techniques. The transducer includes a pressure fitting, a diaphragm, a strain gage comprising a bridge circuit and tabs with leads for the bridge circuit, and a termination board, all contained within a case. One end of the case is swaged over a flange on the fitting in order to sealingly clamp the diaphragm between a shoulder in the case and the fitting flange. The bridge portion of the strain gage is adhesively secured to the diaphragm. A pressure distribution member is placed over the bridge so pressure may be applied to the assembly during heat-curing of the adhesive which secures the gage to the diaphragm. The termination board has four terminals and a corresponding number of conductive strips. It is positioned in the case so that each of the conductive strips is pressed into electrical contact with a corresponding lead on the tabs of the gage.