Abstract: A method of providing electronic instructions comprises defining the steps of a task and executing, by a script engine, a script. The script comprises a sequence of steps stored on a computer readable medium. The script is executed by a computing device and the sequence of steps instructs a user how to perform a task. Each of the sequence of steps comprises a question step or a timed step. The execution of the question step proceeds to a next step based on a user activated button. The execution of a timed step proceeds to the next step in response to the expiration of a timer. Each of the sequence of steps is represented by one of a plurality of multi-media interfaces illustrating one of the sequence of steps.

Abstract: A process and apparatus are described for direct chill casting. The apparatus comprises an open ended mould cavity formed by a casting surface with an upper and lower end. A refractory sleeve is located at the upper end of this mould cavity and has an inner diameter less than the inner diameter of the mould, whereby the sleeve forms an overhang with the mould cavity. This sleeve is adapted to receive molten metal. Below the lower end of the mould, means are provided for supplying coolant to chill the descending hot metal body thereby forming an ingot. A permeable wall element is disposed in the peripheral wall of the mould cavity below the overhang and this element has an inner wall forming part of the cavity. Means are provided for feeding gas into and through the permeable wall element to discharge through its inner wall.

Abstract: The disclosure is a high-power solid laser in which an emissive array of semiconductor lasers in a first stage pumps a solid YAG-type laser in a second stage. The structure of the emissive array, which is an integrated circuit, includes rods of semiconductor lasers alternating with grooves, the rods and grooves being parallel. The invention involves incrusting the material of the solid laser bars into the grooves between the rods of semiconductor lasers. This material is either placed in hybrid form or deposited to make an integrated structure.

Abstract: A steering wheel cover assembly includes an electric heating element for electrically heating the wheel and hands of the vehicle driver. The assembly includes a pair of structural elements. One of the structural elements is rotatable in association with the steering wheel, and the other structural element is in a fixed position. The two structural elements have electrical contacts which maintain contact during rotation of the steering wheel. The first and second structural elements are formed of at least two members secured together by mechanical fastening means to permit easy assembly and removal of the structural elements. The assembly also includes means for electrically connecting the electrical contacts of the structural element having a fixed position to a power supply means. An electric circuit having, in series, a switch and a thermostat for sensing the temperature of the steering wheel connects the heating element to the contacts of the rotatable structural element.

Abstract: A wafer of indium phosphide is disposed between two electrodes (102, 104) in a heated enclosure (100) into which ducts (110 and 112) admit nitrogen and ammonia. A high frequency electricity generator (108) forms a plasma between the electrodes which etches the exposed surface of the wafer. The invention is applicable, in particular, to forming semiconductor lasers emitting in the infrared for telecommunications purposes.