Abstract: Multilayered film and film based assembly which are environmentally-compatible, and which exhibit one or more desirable characteristics of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film and film based assemblies, such as clarity, flexibility and toughness, but without the environmental and health hazards associated with PVC materials, are provided. Also provided is a method of preparing such film and film based assembly.

Abstract: Multilayered film and film based assembly which are environmentally-compatible, and which exhibit one or more desirable characteristics of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film and film based assemblies, such as clarity, flexibility and toughness, but without the environmental and health hazards associated with PVC materials, are provided. Also provided is a method of preparing such film and film based assembly.

Abstract: A method and article for microwave bonding of thermoplastic pipe such as that used in the distribution of natural gas. The article is a composite bonding material (CBM) having a thermoplastic matrix (preferably polyethylene) which is miscible with the thermoplastic material of the pipe, and a plurality of microwave susceptor particles dispersed throughout the matrix. The preferred susceptors have improved heating properties whereby the total amount of metal oxide material in the CBM is about 1/10 of 1% by weight. A strip or sleeve is fashioned from the CBM and may be used, with or without a coupling, to join two pipes or repair ruptures. The method includes positioning of the article at the pipe joint or rupture, and application of microwave energy in an amount sufficient to heat the susceptors and cause both the CBM matrix and the adjacent portion of the pipe to melt and flow together, thereby producing a fusion bond.

Abstract: A method and article for microwave bonding of thermoplastic closures such as that used in splicing telecommunications wires. The article is a composite bonding material (CBM) having a thermoplastic matrix (preferably polyethylene) which is miscible with the thermoplastic material of the closure, and a plurality of microwave susceptor particles dispersed throughout the matrix. A strip is fashioned from the CBM and may be applied to the sealing edges of the closure. Upon application of microwave energy in an amount sufficient to heat the susceptors and cause both the CBM matrix and the adjacent portion of the closure to melt and flow together, a fusion bond is produced which seals the closure. If the closure is being used with a cable having an inner conductive layer or sheath, a second CBM may be used at this seal, having magnetically reactive susceptors.

Abstract: Circuitry controlled by a series of switch actuations per a preselected switch code provides a control signal. A plurality of flip-flop circuits are connected for series operation. A plurality of switches in excess of the number of digits in the code are available to provide an actuating signal for a flip-flop circuit. A time delay provided between successive flip-flop circuits enables a given switch to be used more than once for a switch code. Automatic resetting of the last flip-flop circuit at which the control signal is provided allows the control signal to be repeated one or more times before all of the flip-flop circuits are reset. A time delay circuit at the first flip-flop circuit provides for automatic reset of the circuitry. Each switch not connected to a flip-flop circuit as a digit of the switch code will, when actuated, reset the circuitry.

Abstract: Improved switching circuitry for use in connecting a remote control signal circuit to an electrically powered circuit wherein power for the remote control signal circuit is provided by the electrically powered circuit. Power metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOS-FETs) are connected to a control signal output of the control signal circuit and provide the function of at least one diode of a full-wave rectifier bridge in the switching circuitry. The MOS-FETs respond to a logic 1 control signal to establish a low impedance path across the output of the full-wave rectifier that is connected to the electrically powered circuit.

Abstract: A liquid level sensing circuitry using a conductive probe to sense and store an acceptable or unacceptable level signal. Any unacceptable level signal is stored a short time, determined by the circuitry, following termination of power to a power conductor. The circuitry provides a discernible indication of an unacceptable level when power is subsequently applied to the power conductor if an unacceptable level signal has been stored. A separate discernible signal is provided at such time if an acceptable level signal was stored.

Abstract: Liquid level sensing circuitry provides storage of a signal upon operation of a switch. The signal stored is dependent on whether a probe is in contact with the liquid sensed. Provision is made to prevent storage of a different signal for a period of time should the switch be operated more than once during such period of time. A different discernible indication is produced for each stored signal.

Abstract: Electrically-conductive paper comprising a mixture of electrically-conductive fibers, wood pulp and synthetic wood pulp, the ratio between the two types of pulp being so selected that the electrical conductivity of the paper does not change appreciably with changes in ambient moisture. The conductive paper may be encapsulated within an electrically-insulating moisture barrier.