Abstract: Apparatus for performing analysis of a slurry including solid particles of elements in a liquid suspension has a container for receiving a sample of the slurry to be analyzed, and a conveyor for moving the container to a location at which the analysis is to be performed. A sampling probe is to be introduced into the slurry sample to perform the analysis. A separate probe is adapted to ultrasonically agitate the slurry sample to keep the solid particles in suspension. The agitating probe is automatically introduced into and withdrawn from the container in synchronism with the movement of the container into the desired location and immediately prior to the introduction of the sampling probe into the slurry sample.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automated smoking to replicate a predetermined draw profile of a smoking article is disclosed. In preferred embodiments, the smoking apparatus is digitally controlled and includes simulated flexible lips which are closed during puff phases of a recorded draw profile and which are open during smolder phases of a recorded draw profile. The apparatus can also include an automatically acting lighter and an improved control system for a human mimic smoking machine.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided to delaminate farmer's bales of tobacco. The apparatus includes a bed and a delamination chamber and is carried on wheels for portability. Within the delamination chamber, a farmer's bale is gripped by structure which feeds the bale at a uniform, controlled, and selected rate. The structure may include combinations of rollers, belts, or the like. Delamination is accomplished by engaging the bale with a delamination knife in a direction parallel to the lamina and slicing the bale into portions of suitable size for further processing.

Abstract: A string remover for breaking and removing encircling string or twine bale securing members, is disclosed. A plurality of generally parallel fingers are placed straddling the string and are caused to rotate. The string wraps about the fingers and is tensioned to the point of breaking. After it has broken, it continues to be wrapped about the fingers. A slideable push-off plate is then moved axially along the fingers and forces the wound up string off the fingers so that it can be disposed of. The string remover can be driven by a portable power source such as a hand held electric drill.