Abstract: A Lens or other equipment cradling device and protector, supporter and divider for camera, and other, carriers, bags and packs; specifically suited for the use of storing and transporting photography equipment, lenses and other delicate equipment

Abstract: A piston type pumping apparatus comprises a vertically oriented cylinder having a top and a bottom with a first aperture. There are first and second passageways for liquid in the cylinder at the top and bottom respectively thereof. A piston is reciprocatingly mounted within the cylinder and has an area against which pressurized fluid acts in the direction of movement of the piston. A hollow piston rod is connected to the piston and extends below the piston and slidably through the first aperture. There is a reload chamber below the cylinder. The piston rod extends slidably into the reload chamber and has a third passageway for liquid communicating thereto. A first one-way valve is located in the third passageway. There is also a fourth passageway that extends from the reload chamber to a source of liquid to be pumped and a second one-way valve therein.

Abstract: Detecting erosion of refractory thermal insulation or a ceramic shield over a wide area is achieved by monitoring the gas pressure in at least one wide area planar grid, in or under the insulation or shield and parallel to its hot or impact face. The plane of the grid follows that of the hot or impact face of the shield. The grid is fabricated from one or more hollow conduits in fluid communication and a single fluid conduit connects it to a pressure detector. Using a plurality of grids at different distances from the hot or impact face enables monitoring erosion over time. This enables wide area coverage as much or more than eight square feet in, e.g., a coker, without unduly impairing the integrity of the vessel wall and eliminates the danger of sparks associated with electrical means.

Abstract: Detecting erosion of refractory thermal insulation or a ceramic shield over a wide area is achieved by monitoring an electrical property of at least one wide area, planar, electrically conductive grid through which a current flows. The grid is located in or under the insulation or shield, with the grid plane and parallel to its hot or impact face, preferably over at least two square feet. When erosion erodes part of the grid, the electrical property changes and indicates that erosion has reached the grid.

Abstract: An in-line connector for a hose is provided with an automatic release mechanism which allows the connector to uncouple when a predetermined level of tension is applied to the connector through the hose.