Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide multi-head fluid jet cutting systems and methods of utilizing such devices. A multi-head fluid jet cutting system includes a body having a plurality of fluid jet cutting heads installed therein. Each cutting head receives pressurized fluid from an intensifier and directs the fluid along a jet axis out of a nozzle of the head to form a cutting stream. In some embodiments, an abrasive material can be mixed with the fluid to form an abrasive fluid cutting stream. The body can be mounted to a motion system which moves the body, and therefore the cutting heads, relative to a work piece mounted upon a work bed. Each of the fluid jet cutting heads is coupled to an actuator which can control an on/off state of the cutting head. In some embodiments, an actuator mounting plate is provided to enable mounting of the actuators off of the jet axes.

Abstract: An abrasive jet apparatus is provided which includes an abrasive dispenser defining a compartment for storing a granular abrasive material and at least one metering orifice disposed in open communication therewith for dispensing the granular abrasive material. The apparatus also includes a shutter assembly disposed adjacent the metering orifice, which includes a shutter member angularly displaceable between first and second positions relative to the metering orifice. The shutter member has formed therethrough at least one shutter opening which in the first position is substantially fully aligned with the metering orifice, and in the second position is substantially fully offset therefrom. The apparatus further includes a position actuator operatively coupled to the shutter mechanism for reversibly displacing the shutter member to the first and second positions and a plurality of intermediate positions therebetween for occluding a selective portion of the metering orifice.

Abstract: A method for using absorbing means for optically coupling substrates together to significantly decrease or eliminate water or like liquid buildup or condensation between the coupled substrates. Two clean substrates are initially provided. A means for absorbing, such a polyvinyl alcohol film, is applied to a first substrate surface. The substrates are then bonded together so that the first substrate surface is in facing relation to the second substrate, and then positioned parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other. A clear means for optically coupling is then de-gassed to remove any gas within the means for optically coupling. Then, a pressurized means for injecting is filled with the means for optically coupling. The means for injecting then introduces the means for optically coupling within the two substrates from a peripheral edge, thereby allowing the means for optically coupling to permeate throughout the volume between the two substrates.

Abstract: A method for using absorbing means for optically coupling substrates together to significantly decrease or eliminate water or like liquid buildup or condensation between the coupled substrates. Two clean substrates are initially provided. A means for absorbing, such a polyvinyl alcohol film, is applied to a first substrate surface. The substrates are then bonded together so that the first substrate surface is in facing relation to the second substrate, and then positioned parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other. A clear means for optically coupling is then de- gassed to remove any gas within the means for optically coupling. Then, a pressurized means for injecting is filled with the means for optically coupling. The means for injecting then introduces the means for optically coupling within the two substrates from a peripheral edge, thereby allowing the means for optically coupling to permeate throughout the volume between the two substrates.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for optically cohering substrates together. Two clean substrates are bonded together, and then positioned at approximately a 10-70 degree angle (or range therebetween) parallel to each other and in close proximity to each other. An optically clear, refractive index means for optically cohering is then de-gassed to remove any gas within the means for optically cohering. Then, a pressurized means for injecting is filled with the means for optically cohering. The means for injecting then introduces the means for optically cohering within the two substrates from a peripheral edge, thereby allowing the means for optically cohering to permeate throughout the volume between the two substrates. The means for optically cohering is allowed to cure, thereby adhering the substrates together.

Abstract: A harmonic locking ring having a predetermined number of spaced holes centered on a major and minor circumference. Said holes fit over pins in concentric parts thereby locking parts together in desired positions within very close tolerances.