Abstract: A redox ammoximation process in which a ketone or aldehyde is reacted with ammonia and oxygen in the presence of a catalyst, wherein: the catalyst is an aluminophosphate based redox catalyst having the qualitative general formula (I) M1M2AlPO-5 (I) in which M1 is at least one transition metal atom having redox catalytic capability; M2 is at least one metal atom in the (IV) oxidation state; M1 and M2 are different from each other; and a proportion of the phosphorous atoms in the M1M2AlPO-5 type structure are replaced by M2 atoms.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for computing a three dimensional model of a surface of an object are disclosed. At least one directional energy source (106-109) directionally illuminates the object (101). An imaging assembly (104), having at least two spatially separated viewpoints (111,112) at fixed positions relative to each other, records a series of images of the object at each viewpoint when the object is illuminated by the source. At least one localisation template (102,103) having predetermined geometrical features is visible to at least one of the viewpoints simultaneously with the object. The images recorded at the viewpoints are analysed so as to determine the location and pose of each viewpoint relative to the template for each image in the series of images. Photometric data for the object is generated using the calculated location and pose of the viewpoints and the image data.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a new class of isomorphously metal-substituted aluminophosphate materials with high phase purity that are capable of performing selective Brönsted acid catalyzed chemical transformations, such as transforming alcohols to olefins, with high conversions and selectivities using mild conditions. Isomorphous substitutions of functional metal ions for both the aluminum ions and the phosphorous ions were successful in various AlPO structures, along with multiple metal substitutions into a single aluminum site and/or a phosphorous site. This invention can be used towards the catalytic conversion of hydroxylated compounds of linear and/or branched moiety with the possibility of being substituted to their respective hydrocarbon products, preferably light olefins containing 2 to 10 carbon atoms, among other chemistries.

Abstract: A scanner system and corresponding method, the system comprising: a scanner device (1); a target 17) and a processor (21). The scanner device (1) comprises: an emitter (13) for projecting patterned light and a sensor (12) for capturing images of the object (19). The target (17) has predetermined features visible to the sensor simultaneously with the object for enabling the processor to determine the location of the sensor with respect to the object. The generates a three-dimensional model of the object on the basis of images of the object with the patterned light projected thereon. The scanner device further comprises a light source (14) for directionally illuminating the object (19), and the sensor (12) is arranged to capture images of the illuminated object. The processor generates sets of photometric data for the object when illuminated from different directions.

Abstract: A rear loading system for vehicles where a platform (16) is raised from the ground to a position level with the tray (2) of the vehicle. Typically the platform is raised by turning handle (32) which turns a shaft hidden in frame member (20) of U-shaped frame (4). The shaft in turn rotates a sprocket of an endless chain hidden in frame member (22). All four lifting cables (18a-d) run over pulleys in the U-frame and are attached to the endless chain so that on turning of the handle all of the cables are pulled by exactly the same distance and the platform rises in a horizontal attitude. When level with U-frame (4) the platform (16) can be locked thereto and frame and platform can be pivoted to a vertical position to act as a tail gate.

Abstract: Undesirable distortions of electrical grid conductors (12) from thermal cycling are minimized and related problems such as unwanted thermionic emission and structural failure from overheating are avoided by providing for a flow of fluid coolant within each conductor (12). The conductors (12) are secured at each end to separate flexible support elements (16) which accommodate to individual longitudinal expansion and contraction of each conductor (12) while resisting lateral displacements, the coolant flow preferably being directed into and out of each conductor through passages (48) in the flexible support elements (16). The grid (11) may have a modular or divided construction which facilitates manufacture and repairs.

Abstract: A catalyst suitable for steam reforming, especially at low temperatures and high pressures, which is resistant to polymer deactivation, comprises nickel, alumina and ruthenium, optionally together with an oxide, hydroxide or carbonate of an alkali metal or alkaline earth-metal wherein the amount of ruthenium does not exceed 0.8% by weight of the weights of the other components of the catalyst. The nickel and aluminium components of the catalyst are prepared by coprecipitation with the nickel and aluminium components, by impregnation of the precipitated nickel and aluminium components or by physical blending of an insoluble ruthenium compound with the precipitated nickel and aluminium components.

Abstract: The installation of precast concrete paving slabs as used in the construction of paths, patios and swimming pool decks involves heavy and cumbersome lifting, risk of injury to the worker's hands and, using conventional tools, a possibility of breaking and chipping slabs. The task is made more difficult by the close proximity of one slab to the next, a matter of particular significance when it is required to raise and reset an existing installation. In the present invention a wheeled hand barrow supporting a gripping means attached to the slab reduces the lifting load, eliminates dangerous handling, permits slabs to be gripped when closely laid and generally overcomes the aforesaid difficulties. Two flanged jaws, separated by the width of the slab, are hinged to a horizontal extensible beam and may be urged inwardly by an outward thrust imparted to their upper ends by a push rod operating in mutual opposition between the jaws. Tightening of the jaws is achieved by a cam integral with the push rod.