Abstract: There is provided a seal configuration for use in connection with vacuum systems. The seal configuration finds particular use in vacuum waste flush systems, such as those used in passenger transport vehicles that have on-board lavatories with vacuum toilet systems. The seal configuration generally provides an offset configuration, which can result in a larger seal on the vacuum side. This can slightly delay the opening of the waste side seal with respect to the vacuum side seal of the system, proving an improved vacuum environment. This can also give the flow of waste a more direct transition across a vacuum plate as it flows through a flush valve.

Abstract: Gas permeable molds and mold segments having open porosity (60) are disclosed. Blind vents (56) in the mold wall's (54) outside surface (52) allow for an uninterrupted molding surface (62) while enhancing the gas permeability provided by the open porosity (60). Methods of making such gas permeable molds include forming them from sintered material. Methods also include the use of solid free-form fabrication followed by sintering. Also disclosed are unitary structures (150), for use in EPS bead molding, having a steam chest portion (152) with gas impermeable walls (156) and a mold section (154) having a gas permeable mold wall (172) having open porosity (176), and, optionally, open and/or blind vents (180, 178). Methods for making such unitary structures (150) include the use of solid free-form fabrication.

Abstract: A thermally and chemically inert valve seat is provided. The valve seat includes a sharp edge located on the periphery of the valve seat body, wherein the edge digs into a surface within the valve body to secure the valve seat. The valve seat may be case hardened to provide additional strength and sealing ability. The inner diameter of the valve seat may be flush against the valve fluid passageway, thereby decreasing the contact area between the diaphragm and the valve seat.

Abstract: High localized loading, galling, and high torque forces have been generally eliminated or greatly reduced in a two ferrule tube fitting assembly through suitable modification of the rear ferrule so as to redirect the reaction forces acting between the front ferrule and the drive nut. The rear ferrule has a cylindrical interior wall that closely surrounds the tube end and is provided on the interior cylindrical wall with a circumferentially continuous radial recess that is located between the nose and rear wall of the rear ferrule. The rear ferrule also has a radially external wall that is substantially conical and additionally shaped to extend radially outward toward the enlarged diameter portion or flange of the rear ferrule. The rear ferrule further includes a contoured face on the rear driven surface of the ferrule that engages the drive surface of the drive nut.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for producing articles by solid free-form fabrication processes. In particular, the present invention relates to such methods incorporating holistic optimization of the product and process design.

Abstract: A thermal isolator for a valve and an actuator includes a coupler that is adapted to be disposed between the valve and the actuator and to connect the actuator to the valve. The thermal isolator is adapted to increase the temperature gradient between the valve and the actuator when one of the valve and the actuator is exposed to an elevated or reduced temperature.