Abstract: A method for data quality management may include collecting data related to a project. The method may also include generating a predetermined representation of the data and implementing or performing an improvement related to the project in response to the representation of the data indicating a trend toward not meeting a predefined project goal. The method may further include defining a control plan in response to the data indicating a trend toward meeting the predefined project goal.

Abstract: The disclosed web splicing apparatus and method provide for the in-registry lap splicing of a new web, that has a spaced, regularly repeating pattern thereon to an expiring web that has an identical, spaced, regularly repeating pattern thereon and that is moving under tension and at a relatively high speed along a predetermined path of travel. The leading end =of the new web is prepared for a splice so that a pattern thereon is aligned with a first pre-selected point. During a splice, a portion of the expiring web is substantially stopped and then moved at a relatively slow speed past a sensor that is positioned at a second pre-selected point downstream from the first pre-selected point and that senses the passage of the next pattern on the slowly moving expiring web.

Abstract: A manipulator having at least two segments, rotatable with respect to each other, measures the angle formed therebetween and is self calibrating to insure the accuracy of the measurement. An electrical resolver is employed, with its rotor attached to one of the segments and stator attached to the other, with the rotor and stator slotted, in registration, at a relative position indicating electrical zero. Each segment has a pin formed on it positioned to engage the slots in the rotor and stator at a mechanical zero degrees output, insuring a zero degrees mechanical output for zero volts electrical output.

Abstract: A guide for a poppet in a check valve includes an annular, cylindrical rim and a guide hub concentric therewith. At least one web extends radially from the guide hub to the rim. The outer periphery of the rim includes at least one projection defined at a position angularly spaced from the web. The projection is engaged by the inner periphery of the check valve such that the guide is held within the check valve, with a stem on the poppet extending through the guide hub. The guide hub includes at least one lug to engage the stem to prevent rotation of the stem relative to the check valve. The guide is formed of a smooth bearing material, and the rim thereof is capable of flexing, in the area where the projections are provided.

Abstract: A backflow preventer in a fluid conduit permits flow from the inlet to the outlet of the preventer when the inlet is pressurized and prevents reverse flow upon termination of flow through the preventer. An apertured diaphragm between the inlet and outlet closes a valve seat between the outlet and a vent passage when the inlet is relatively pressurized. A check member upstream of the diaphragm closes the diaphragm aperture if the outlet is relatively pressurized and maintains the diaphragm aperture closed upon pressurization of the inlet until after closing of the vent valve seat. A second vent communicates with the interior of the preventer and is closed by a portion of the diaphragm upon pressurization of the interior. A relief port in the chamber includes a temperature responsive element that opens the relief port once ambient temperature reaches a preselected level. The inlet includes an internally threaded sleeve within the housing that may be secured to an externally threaded fluid hydrant.

Abstract: A hydrant for controlling the flow of water from an underground supply includes a casing connected at its lower end to the supply and its upper end to a nozzle for delivery of water from the casing. The flow of water from the supply to the casing is controlled by a main valve operated by a handle on the hydrant casing. An ejector purge apparatus drains the casing after the flow of water through the casing has been terminated by the main valve in order to prevent frost damage. The ejector purge apparatus includes a purge valve controlling flow from the supply through a conduit to a location outside of the hydrant casing. The conduit includes a flow constricting element and a port adjacent the flow constricting element that is in fluid communication with the casing. Flow through the purge valve and the flow constricting element results in venturi evacuation of the water within the casing.