Abstract: Magnetic fluidic valves of the present disclosure may include a valve body having at least one cavity therein, a ferromagnetic gate transmission element disposed within the cavity, an inlet port, an outlet port, a permanent magnet configured to bias the gate transmission element to a closed position, and an electromagnetic coil configured to, upon actuation, overcome a magnetic force acting on the gate transmission element from the permanent magnet. The gate transmission element may be configured to move from the closed position blocking the inlet port to an open position unblocking the inlet port upon actuation of the electromagnetic coil. Various other fluidic systems and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The lens holder of a lens focussing device is axially movable in a lens sleeve supported on a film holder on which it can slide. The rim of a focussing wheel is accommodated in the space between the collar of the lens and the top face of the lens sleeve. The rim thickness increases uniformly along half its periphery. This results in a relative movement of the lens holder and the lens sleeve when rotating the focussing wheel. The focussing wheel is axially deformable. Notwithstanding the focussing wheel being firmly mounted, this provision allows limited axial movement of the lens sleeve, rendering it possible for the lens sleeve to follow the course of the upper plate of the film holder.

Abstract: Guide rails having a guide section greater in width than in height with rectangular cross-section are provided for a cross-slide guide. Arcuate guide surfaces of sliding pads embrace the guide section in such a manner that they make contact with the two upper longitudinal edges of the guide section and a lower portion of the sliding pads reaches under the guide section with clearance between the two parts. This provision allows the sliding pads to slide smoothly along the guide section and to follow the direction of the guide rails.