Abstract: A system and method for high volume production of nanoparticles, nanotubes, and items incorporating nanoparticles and nanotubes. Microwave, radio frequency, or infrared energy vaporizes a metal catalyst which, as it condenses, is contacted by carbon or other elements such as silicon, germanium, or boron to form agglomerates. The agglomerates may be annealed to accelerate the production of nanotubes. Magnetic or electric fields may be used to align the nanotubes during their production. The nanotubes may be separated from the production byproducts in aligned or non-aligned configurations. The agglomerates may be formed directly into tools, optionally in compositions that incorporate other materials such as abrasives, binders, carbon-carbon composites, and cermets.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for initiating a process gas plasma. A conductive plate having a plurality of conductive fingers is positioned in a microwave applicator. An arc forms between the conductive fingers to initiate the formation of a plasma. A transport mechanism may convey process materials through the plasma. A spray port may be provided to expel processed materials.

Abstract: A method of assembling two or more parts together that may be metal, ceramic, metal and ceramic parts, or parts that have different CTE. Individual parts are formed and sintered from particles that leave a network of interconnecting porosity in each sintered part. The separate parts are assembled together and then a fill material is infiltrated into the assembled, sintered parts using a method such as capillary action, gravity, and/or pressure. The assembly is then cured to yield a bonded and fully or near-fully dense part that has the desired physical and mechanical properties for the part's intended purpose. Structural strength may be added to the parts by the inclusion of fibrous materials.

Abstract: An apparatus for heat treating manufactured components using microwave energy and microwave susceptor material. Heat treating medium such as eutectic salts may be employed. A fluidized bed introduces process gases which may include carburizing or nitriding gases. The process may be operated in a batch mode or continuous process mode. A microwave heating probe may be used to restart a frozen eutectic salt bath.

Abstract: Chemical processing apparatuses which incorporate a process vessel, such as a crucible or retort, and which include a gas separation or filtration system. Various embodiments incorporate such features as loose filtration material, semi-rigid filtration material, and structured filtration material. The vessel may comprise material that is a microwave susceptor. Filtration media may be selected so that if it inadvertently mixes with the chemical process or the reaction products of such process, it would not adversely affect the results of the chemical process.

Abstract: A method of reducing target metal oxides and passivated metals to their metallic state. A reduction reaction is used, often combined with a flux agent to enhance separation of the reaction products. Thermal energy in the form of conventional furnace, infrared, or microwave heating may be applied in combination with the reduction reaction.

Abstract: An electronic watch which is both thin and water resistant. The watch comprises a back, a bezel and an electronically controlled module for digitally displaying a time signal. Its crystal includes an upper member the lower surface of which is adjacent to the upper surface of the module, a first flange extending downwardly from the edge of the upper member adjacent to the side of the module and a second flange which extends laterally outwardly from the bottom of the first flange. Contact means is provided which has a longitudinal portion sealed into the first flange and an inner end which is electrically connected to the module. A plunger is mounted for axial movement in a bore in the bezel and its inner end is engageable with the contact means. A sealing member is positioned between the second flange of the crystal and an upper surface of the back. It also includes means for holding the upper surface of the back against the sealing member.

Abstract: An electric-optic display device having an electrically controllable optical means for selectively indicating one of the seven days of the week by means of a combination of two letters. The device comprises two arrays, a first array composed of a plurality of segments arranged in such a pattern that all of the letters positioned in the first place of the seven combinations expressing the 7 days of the week can be indicated. The second array is composed of a plurality of segments arranged in such a pattern that all of the letters positioned in the second place of the seven combinations can be indicated. The first letters of the days of the week are formed in uppercase letters, the second letters of certain days of some days of the week are formed about one-half as high as the first letters of the days of the week and the second letter of at least one day of the week is formed as a lowercase letter.