Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing a hierarchical surface. The method comprises applying a first formulation comprising particles with a median particle diameter, D50, in the range of from 1 nm to 450 nm and a polymeric binder to a substrate, and then applying a second formulation comprising particles with a median particle diameter D50 in the range of from 500 nm to 1000 ?m on top of the first formulation. The particles self-assemble to provide a robust hierarchical structured surface. The particles can be functionalised to introduce functionalities, such as anti-viral functionality, which present at the surface. The method can be used to prepare robust, hydrophobic or super-hydrophobic anti-viral surfaces.

Abstract: A clip for use with a band clamp for securing one object to another object includes a generally U-shaped body defining a slot between an inner plate and outer plate where the slot is configured to receive the band of the band clamp. A fastener extends from the outer plate of the clip. When the band is formed into a closed loop but not yet fully tensioned about a first object, the clip is movable along the circumference of the closed loop. such that, the fastener may be accurately relocated as needed to align with a complimentary structure associated with a second object that receives the fastener. The band clamp may then be fully secured and locked to the first object allowing the two objects to be secured to each other.

Abstract: The present invention generally comprises a tubular body which is adapted to be attached to a drill string, where the body defines a bore therethrough which accommodates a piston slidably disposed between a first and second position. This piston is aligned generally normally respect to an actuating piston and an expandable tool. This piston is actuated by hydraulic pressure which moves the piston from a first, biased position to a second position where it engages the actuating piston of expandable tool to lock the piston in a locked or closed position. The flow restrictor serves to create a selected time delay before the piston is exposed to an increase in hydraulic pressure within the borehole. In such a fashion, an increase in hydraulic pressure in the borehole will overcome the bias of the piston only where the pressure is maintained for a selected period of time.

Abstract: An expandable eccentric reamer for placement in a drill string up-hole of a conventional drill bit. The reamer blade is actuated by drilling fluid pressure to radially extend to a drill out diameter greater than a pass-through diameter. The reamer body is shaped to have an eccentric outer surface configuration to accommodate the reamer blade therein. The reamer blade acts as a piston arm in response to drilling fluid pressure and moves along a shaft anchored in a hump region that forms an eccentricity in the outer surface configuration of the body. The reamer blade has an outer edge configuration that positions the cutters thereon to prevent them from engaging a casing of a well borehole upon deployment.

Abstract: A flexible coupling for use in a down-hole motor assembly such as a positive displacement moineau motor is presented. The flexible coupling includes two sets of flexible joints. Each joint consists of two cylindrically shaped slipper couplings angularly offset by 90 degrees. Each slipper coupling is comprised of mating male and female members which are joined together by ball bearings positioned in arcuate grooves located along the cylindrical mating surface.