Abstract: Gas/solids contact apparatus includes a tower-like, vertical vessel divided by internal wall structures into three axially-extending, concentric spaces. An inner space, typically of generally circular cross section and extending along the axis of the vessel, receives the gas which is to be contacted with particulate solids. An intermediate space, which may have a variety of configurations, surrounds the inner space and, during operation the contactor, contains a downwardly moving bed of solids. An outer space, typically of annular configuration, surrounds the intermediate space and serves to collect gas which flows from the inner space, generally horizontally through the moving bed of solids and then into the outer space for discharge through a gas outlet. In a preferred embodiment the moving bed of solids is contained by louvered walls, and these walls are constructed as modules which can be arranged to provide contactors having different gas and solids handling capacities.

Abstract: An animal litter box includes a housing and a tray for containing a bed of litter material. The tray is provided with a porous bottom spaced from the bottom of the housing to define an air space. An exhaust fan is connected to a port through the wall of the housing to draw air downwardly through the litter bed to dry the litter and exhaust the litter odors. The exhaused air may be passed through the odor absorbing filter assembly to deodorize the air before venting the air.

Abstract: An animal litter apparatus includes litter supply bin pivotally mounted above a litter trough. The litter supply bin has an opening at the lower end thereof to allow dispensing of the litter on the trough by the oscillating movement of the supply bin. As the bin swings in a forward direction, litter is pushed along the trough to form a litter bed. Continued oscillations of bin push the spent litter in the trough to a collection receptacle. The collection receptacle may include a washing apparatus to spray water onto the spent litter and carry the litter and animal waste to a sewer system.

Abstract: A self-propelled, three-wheeled vehicle includes a power-driven single front wheel used also for steering the vehicle and two transversely spaced apart rear wheels. The front wheel is rotatably mounted on a front frame which is pivotally connected to a rear frame to allow steering movement of the front frame. The rear wheels are connected to the rear frame, which supports the rider or riders, by a parallelogram-type balancing linkage which allows the vehicle frames and the rider to lean into turns and also to remain upright when the vehicle passes over or is parked on laterally inclined terrain. The front wheel is driven by one or more hydraulic motors supported by the front frame. Hydraulic pressure to the motor(s) is supplied from an engine-driven pump assembly supported by the rear frame.