Abstract: A method of making a solenoid actuator by laser direct metal deposition can comprise heating with a laser an outer surface of a circumferential groove of a solenoid tube blank constructed of a first material to create a heated area and depositing a second material upon the heated area to form a layer of second material. The second material can melt and then cool to thereby bond to the solenoid tube blank. A bore can be defined in the solenoid tube blank such that the bore includes an interior surface having a ring of second material disposed between a pair of portions of first material.

Abstract: A method of making a solenoid actuator by laser direct metal deposition can comprise heating with a laser an outer surface of a circumferential groove of a solenoid tube blank constructed of a first material to create a heated area and depositing a second material upon the heated area to form a layer of second material. The second material can melt and then cool to thereby bond to the solenoid tube blank. A bore can be defined in the solenoid tube blank such that the bore includes an interior surface having a ring of second material disposed between a pair of portions of first material.

Abstract: An apparatus for introducing gas into a large body of liquid, including a horizontal frame on ballast adjustable floats, a pressurized gas source, a vertical shaft rotatable about its axis, and a plurality of blades submerged in the liquid and extending radially from a hub on the lower end of the shaft. The blades each have an elastomeric membrane around a longitudinal member, where the longitudinal member is hollow with a closed end and in communication with the pressurized gas source through the shaft on the other end, with openings through its lower side, and the elastomeric membrane has perforations which are spaced from the longitudinal member openings. A drive on the platform rotates the shaft via a ring gear around the shaft with a key connection thereto allowing axial movement therethrough, and an inwardly facing surface supported on bearings. A selectively driven and smaller pinion gear directly engages the ring gear.

Abstract: A solenoid valve utilizes a single unitary member as a combined core/spool which is axially moveable between an extended deactivated position to a retracted activated position upon actuation of its coil. The valve includes a coil in which the windings on a bobbin are encapsulated by injection molding an outer member therearound. The valve also includes a washer which becomes adhered to the outer member during injection molding, a plug member supported on the washer and a sleeve encircling the coil. The plug member has an end positioned to be contacted by the core/spool upon actuation which is contoured to provide minimal contact surface between it and the core/spool.

Abstract: A hydraulic valve is disclosed including a valve body, a pressure inlet port, a return port, and a regulated pressure port. A cavity is formed in the valve body, in fluid communication with the various ports. The cavity comprises a first chamber having a desired first diameter and a second chamber, having a desired second diameter greater than that of said first chamber. A solenoid-actuated spool is movably retained within said cavity for selectively connecting the regulated pressure port to the inlet port and return port in response to an actuation force. The spool comprises a first section, retained within the first chamber, and a second section, retained within the second chamber, and having a respective corresponding predetermined diameters. A fluid passage establishes fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber.