Abstract: A funnel device for a counting system comprising a hollow cylindrical body portion, a tapered funnel portion, at least one inlet port and at least two outlet ports in the cylindrical body portion, and a plurality of vents in the funnel portion. The inlet port of the cylindrical body portion is adapted to receive a pressurized air supply, each outlet port operative to inject a respective high velocity air flow into a first passageway of the cylindrical body portion and to direct the respective air flow downwardly into a second passageway of the funnel portion. The directed air flows create a Venturi effect in the funnel device whereby a speed of flow of the products is increased and a rate of collision of the products is decreased as the products pass through the funnel device.

Abstract: Materials and novel methods for producing carbon anodes for Li-ion batteries are described. These materials use natural flake graphite that has been processed to improve physical properties but retains residual impurities including silicates and other silicon containing minerals that are difficult to eliminate economically. For the purposes of battery anode material production, further purification is required and traditionally uses hydrofluoric acid, adding significant cost and environmental management requirements. Alternate novel processes result in less costly and more environmentally friendly methods when compared against the standard acid purification with hydrofluoric acid. Methods for direct graphitization of unpurified spheroidized graphite material that includes a carbonaceous coating in production of a lithium ion battery anode are provided. Materials generated using these methods may be blended with artificial graphite and particulate Silicon or SiOx materials for enhanced properties.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a supporting device (101, 201) for a tablet computer (105). The device (101, 201) includes a barrel (107) having an opening (111) for receiving an edge of the tablet computer (105). The device (101, 201) has a housing (106) and means (109) for rotatably mounting the barrel (107). The barrel (107) is rotatable about a longitudinal axis (X) between a first position in which the opening (111) is at least partially covered by the housing and at least a second position in which the opening (111) is exposed to receive the tablet computer (105). The housing (106) can, for example, take the form of a table. The supporting device (101, 201) can be provided in a vehicle.

Abstract: A seating system for use with a vehicle. The seating system includes: a seat device arranged proximal to a rear edge of the vehicle, arranged to be deployed at least partially beyond the rear edge; and a platform arranged to be moveable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the platform is arranged to be positioned for use as a footrest by a user seated on the seat device.

Abstract: A pneumatic coupler having a pneumatic control device and a coupler detection module. The coupler detection module coupled to the pneumatic control device. The pneumatic coupler also having a signal bearing medium that is communicatively coupled to the coupler detection module and to a pneumatic device coupled to the pneumatic coupler. The signal bearing medium storing one or more of an identification of the pneumatic coupler and instructions for the pneumatic device.

Abstract: A deployable table apparatus for a vehicle includes a support arm and a carrier member. The carrier member is mounted to the support arm and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A table is mounted to the carrier member and is pivotable between a first position suitable for stowage and a second position suitable for use. A biasing mechanism is provided for biasing the carrier member towards the extended position. Movement of the carrier member from the extended position to the retracted position is inhibited when the table is in the second position. Pivoting the table to the second position is inhibited when the carrier member is in the retracted position.

Abstract: A seating system for use with a vehicle. The seating system includes: a seat device arranged proximal to a rear edge of the vehicle, arranged to be deployed at least partially beyond the rear edge; and a platform arranged to be moveable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the platform is arranged to be positioned for use as a footrest by a user seated on the seat device.