Abstract: A system for measuring the quality and level of lubricant in an engine lubricant reservoir includes a valve for selectively directing a portion of lubricant from the engine through a first conduit for return to the engine or through a second conduit for removal from the engine. Within the first conduit are one or more sensors for sensing the condition of the lubricant passing through the first conduit. The sensors are monitored by a controller which is operative selectively to cause the valve to block the flow of lubricant through the first conduit and direct a portion of the lubricant through the second conduit based on the monitored conditions of the lubricant. Also, the controller directs a supply of fresh lubricant to the engine in response to the lubricant in the engine lubricant reservoir dropping below a predetermined level.

Abstract: The relative motion and force between two interconnected elements can be controlled by a semi-active two-stage adjustable damper to maximize isolation between the elements, while minimizing the instances of the motion exceeding acceptable limits. An algorithm determines when to apply the high force state of the damper to provide excellent isolation from input vibration and shocks. The dampers and control algorithms are useful in primary vehicle suspension systems, cab mounts, seat mounts and engine mounts.

Abstract: The relative motion and force between two interconnected elements can be controlled by a semi-active damper to minimize the instances of the motion exceeding acceptable limits, while maximizing isolation between the elements. Applying an algorithm to the control parameters of the damper provides excellent isolation from input vibration and shocks. The dampers and control algorithms are useful in primary vehicle suspension systems, cab mounts, seat mounts, and engine mounts.

Abstract: A pellet feeder (A) feeds pellets of vulcanized rubber or other materials and water or another fluid at controlled rates into a mixing tank (30). An agitator (32) mixes the pellets and fluid into a slurry. The slurry is pumped from the mixing tank to a mill (C) by a pump (34). The mill has a receiving region (70) defined between a stator (48) and a rotor (68) for receiving the slurry. The stator and rotor define a peripheral grinding zone (72) around the slurry receiving region. An impeller (74) has vanes which extend from the upper surface of the rotor to an abrasive surface (82) of the stator such that the impeller vanes are ground at the same rate as the stator and rotor wear to maintain a fluid seal around the impeller blades. Fluid cylinders (50, 52) maintain a constant pressure between the stator and rotor. The stator has a plurality of recesses (86, 86') which preferably have downstream extending relief areas (214).

Abstract: A pellet feeder (A) feeds pellets of vulcanized rubber or other materials and water or another fluid at controlled rates into a mixing tank (30). An agitator (32) mixes the pellets and fluid into a slurry. The slurry is pumped from the mixing tank to a mill (C) by a pump (34). The mill has a receiving region (70) defined between a stator (48) and a rotor (68) for receiving the slurry. The stator and rotor define a peripheral grinding zone (72) around the slurry receiving region. An impeller (74) has vanes which extend from the upper surface of the rotor to an abrasive surface (82) of the stator such that the impeller vanes are ground at the same rate as the stator and rotor wear to maintain a fluid seal around the impeller blades. Fluid cylinders (50, 52) maintain a constant pressure between the stator and rotor. The stator has a plurality of recesses (86, 86') which preferably have downstream extending relief areas (214).