Abstract: A hybrid circuit (300) for use in a miniature microphone assembly (100) reduces power supply noise on the audio signal input (214) of an impedance buffer amplifier (200) using one or both of shielding conductors 422, 424 to reduce parasitic capacitance between signal (418) and power supply (420) conductors. A ground plane (424), an interposing conductor (422) and combinations thereof are selectively placed and coupled to either ground (232) or a low impedance signal node (216) to reduce or eliminate the undesirable parasitic capacitance.

Abstract: A device that can be used to place lines on structures adjacent to a corner. The device includes an L-shaped body that has two sections that intersect each other at a right angle. A chalk-depositing roller is rotatably and movably mounted on each section and deposits chalk on a surface as the device is moved. The corner of a building is accommodated adjacent to the right angle of the L-shaped body.

Abstract: A hybrid circuit (300) for use in a miniature microphone assembly (100) reduces power supply noise on the audio signal input (214) of an impedance buffer amplifier (200) using one or both of shielding conductors 422, 424 to reduce parasitic capacitance between signal (418) and power supply (420) conductors. A ground plane (424), an interposing conductor (422) and combinations thereof are selectively placed and coupled to either ground (232) or a low impedance signal node (216) to reduce or eliminate the undesirable parasitic capacitance.

Abstract: A Cartesian robot comprises a base member disposed along an x-axis, a transverse member moveably mounted to the base member, and disposed along a y-axis transverse to the x-axis. The robot has a y-carriage for a measurement probe moveably mounted to the transverse member along the y-axis. The x, y, and z axes define a Cartesian coordinate system. The robot includes an innovative structure that achieves high precision with respect to the z-axis by providing a planarized and stable reference surface along the y-axis (vertical axis). The position of the y-carriage with respect to a z-axis is a predictable function of the measured position of the y-carriage on the reference surface, and rigid-body tilt of the reference surface. High accuracy and precision are achieved by utilizing a granite slab for providing the planarized reference surface disposed along the y-axis for the transverse member.

Abstract: A traction drive and speed changing device with a pair of aligned shafts extending out of opposite ends of a housing and in alignment. Contained within the housing is an internal race or annular bearing surface. A pair of rollers, each of lesser diameter than the race are interconnected by a first crank which maintains the rollers in frictional engagement with the race. A second crank couples the first roller to the input shaft. A third crank couples the first roller to the output shaft. A speed reduction related to the difference in diameters of the roller and the race. An annular version suitable for providing speed changes for a rotating body and to allow cables or conduits to pass through the device.

Abstract: Precision traveling optical table assembly having a rigid support framework and a rigid rectangular framework. The rigid rectangular framework is supported at three locations upon the rigid support framework. The rectangular framework includes a pair of spaced parallel rails. An optical table is provided. Carriages are mounted upon the pair of rails for longitudinal movement relative to the rails. The optical table is supported at only three locations from the carriages. A drive mechanism is connected between the carriages and the rectangular framework for causing relative movement between the optical table and the rectangular framework. At least one optical element is carried by the optical table.

Abstract: Gimballed coupling for use with a lead screw and nut assembly having a housing with the nut mounted in the housing and the nut threadedly engaging the lead screw. A transfer plate is provided. A thrust bearing assembly is carried by the transfer plate. First and second bearing members are provided which are disposed between the nut and the thrust bearing assembly. The first bearing member engages the housing and the second bearing member engages the thrust bearing. The first and second bearing members have cooperative spherical surfaces to permit the pivotal movement of the nut with respect to the transfer plate. Means is carried by the transfer plate and the housing for yieldably urging the housing towards the transfer plate. Additional means is provided for preventing rotation of the housing with respect to the transfer plate.