Abstract: This invention is directed towards a method of reducing longitudinal modes in vibrating strings of musical instruments having a plurality of strings of fixed lengths, such as pianos and harpsichords. The strings of musical instruments vibrate primarily in transverse modes, but longitudinal modes that are often inharmonious with the transverse modes can also be excited. The method of the present invention identifies those parameters of string vibration that excite longitudinal modes, and minimizes them by avoiding those combinations of parameters that excite them, including transverse frequency modes, longitudinal wave velocity, string length, and placement of the string-exciting device.

Abstract: The invention comprises a pair of horizontal runners held above a foldable X-frame dolly by means of adjustable vertical supports to provide placement of the tops of the runners at the exact height of the action bed of a grand piano to allow the piano's action to be drawn directly out upon the runners, supported by the assembly, and moved about for servicing without the need of ever lifting the action, and to be re-installed in the piano in the same manner.

Abstract: An improved print roller for applying dye to a textile material in a predetermined pattern is provided wherein the core of the roller, which is operatively supported in a rotatable position by a shaft, is encapsulated with a cover formed of a substantially impervious elastomeric material. Dye applicators are then bonded to the cover.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing moisture from a porous textile web. The web is passed sequentially through a plurality of drying regions, dividing each of the drying regions into an upper drying zone and a lower drying zone. Air is drawn through the traveling web by variable speed fans disposed in the drying regions, the air forced by each of the fans into an air passageway having fluid communication with all of the upper drying zones and separated into air channels by divider panels.

Abstract: A nonferromagnetic linear variable differential transformer for accurately measuring mechanical displacements in the presence of high magnetic fields is provided. The device utilizes a movable primary coil inside a fixed secondary coil that consists of two series-opposed windings. Operation is such that the secondary output voltage is maintained in phase (depending on polarity) with the primary voltage. The transducer is well-suited to long cable runs and is useful for measuring small displacements in the presence of high or alternating magnetic fields.