Abstract: Several embodiments of a method for manufacturing an optical assembly for use in an optical flying head are provided. The optical assembly may include a solid immersion lens and a magnetic coil. Techniques are provided for fabricating the solid immersion lens and the magnetic coil. Techniques are also provided for installing the optical assembly into a slider for the optical flying head. Other embodiments are described in which a solid immersion lens is installed in or is integral with a transparent slider. A magnetic coil may also be installed in these embodiments.

Abstract: Several embodiments of a method for manufacturing an optical assembly for use in an optical flying head are provided. The optical assembly may include a solid immersion lens and a magnetic coil. Techniques are provided for fabricating the solid immersion lens and the magnetic coil. Techniques are also provided for installing the optical assembly into a slider for the optical flying head. Other embodiments are described in which a solid immersion lens is installed in or is integral with a transparent slider. A magnetic coil may also be installed in these embodiments.

Abstract: Several embodiments of a method for manufacturing an optical assembly for use in an optical flying head are provided. The optical assembly may include a solid immersion lens and a magnetic coil. Techniques are provided for fabricating the solid immersion lens and the magnetic coil. Techniques are also provided for installing the optical assembly into a slider for the optical flying head. Other embodiments are described in which a solid immersion lens is installed in or is integral with a transparent slider. A magnetic coil may also be installed in these embodiments.

Abstract: A method for forming cementitious material, such as gunite or the like, to a desired cross-sectional profile for an interior structure such as a swimming pool, skateboard bowl or the like. A forming assembly includes a cutting edge, which is formed so as to correspond to the final desired profile of the structure. The forming assembly is mounted so as to be pivotable about a pivot axis substantially coincident with the center of the structure being formed. In this manner, when the cementitious material is applied to the side walls and bottom of the excavation to a depth slightly greater than that as finally desired, and the forming assembly pivoted 360.degree. about its pivot axis, the final desired cross-sectional profile of the structure is attained due to the action of the forming assembly striking off the excess material applied to the excavation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reinforcing a concrete block wall. A flexible reinforcing member, such as a chain, is adapted for placement within a vertical passage formed by cooperating cores of blocks forming the wall. The upper end of the chain is fixed to a retainer plate adapted for placement on top of the wall, and the lower end of the chain extends through an opening formed in the bottom of the wall. An anchor is adapted for connection to the foundation, and the lower end of the reinforcing member is fixed to the anchor. A portion of the floor slab above the foundation is preferably removed so that the anchor can be directly secured to the foundation. An eye bolt is connected to the upper end of the chain and has a threaded portion protecting above the retainer plate. Tension is introduced to the chain through a nut threadedly engaged with the threaded portion of the eye bolt.

Abstract: An instantaneous steam generator is disclosed which has a plurality of heated channels having open tops. Each channel has a base having a steam generation surface with substantially parallel, sharp transverse ridges. The steam generation surface is heated to a temperature substantially above that at which an insulating vapor barrier forms between the surface and a water layer thereabove. The water flow is directed transversely over the ridges so that the vapor layer is separated from the water layer above and so that the water is instantaneously converted into steam rather than riding on an insulating layer of water vapor. The channels can be enclosed in a box having openings. The box is pressurized by a blower drawing relatively cool, ambient air so that relatively wet steam is distributed throughout the entire interior volume of a large oven. Control apparatus for heating the channels and controlling the water flow thereto are described.

Abstract: An apparatus for reinforcing a concrete block wall includes an elongated reinforcing member, an upper retainer plate, and an anchor plate disposed in the block wall above the foundation. A threaded portion is provided at the upper end of the reinforcing member, to introduce tension into the reinforcing member after connection to the lower anchor plate and the upper retainer plate. The upper retainer plate is provided with a bracing means for bracing the top of the wall against lateral movement.

Abstract: A humidifier assembly for bakery proof boxes for inservice removal of water and water-borne impurities has a water receptacle with a nonstick coating which includes an interior bottom with a raised section and a contiguous lowered sump. Surrounding sidewalls contain water which is heated. Water from a water supply passes through a solenoid valve and into a nozzle injecting water against the raised floor. The water contacts a near sidewall, creating turbulence and a scrubbing action and spreads over the entire raised floor.Heating elements are provided to heat the raised bottom section of the receptacle without heating the sump and water in the sump. Such elements are cast in the bottom section of the receptacle.Water and impurities are removed from the sump through an outlet conduit which is connected to a venturi. The venturi is connected to a drain line and to the water supply through a flush solenoid valve. A siphon breaker is provided.