Abstract: An X-ray detector using a semiconductor detector, most preferably a Silicon Drift Detector, utilizes a field effect transistor or other voltage-controlled resistance to generate an output voltage proportional to its input charge (which is generated by the X-ray photons incident on the semiconductor detector). To keep the charge (and thus the output voltage) to an acceptable range—one wherein the relationship between output voltage and input charge is substantially proportional—a feedback circuit is provided between the output and input terminals, wherein the charge on the input terminal is depleted when the output voltage begins leaving the desired range. Preferably, this is done by a comparator which monitors the output voltage, and provides a reset signal to the input terminal when it begins moving out of range. Alternatively or additionally, the reset signal may be a pulse supplied to the input terminal from a pulse generator activated by the comparator.

Abstract: A tundish system for teeming an entire heat from a furnace into a mold. The tundish includes a plurality of chambers; one chamber including a nozzle. The chambers are arranged to interrupt the flow of the heat from one chamber to another thereby causing better separation between the metal and the slag. The tundish is mounted on a movable frame supporting a plurality of molds. A trough is disposed between the tundish and the molds. During the pour, the tundish remains stationary as the trough and the molds are moved underneath in succession.

Abstract: A circuit for automatically matching the gain and offset of a time-shifted digitizing channel in a data acquisition circuit which includes a reference digitizing channel, having a fixed voltage reference, and at least one time-shifted digitizing channel having components that are adjustable for gain and offset. Feedback is provided by examining the dynamic range and average value of a known input signal which is digitized, sent through the time-shifted digitizing channel and stored in memory. A microprocessor reads the stored data and, by separately varying the gain and offset parameters, computes optimal values for each parameter. Digital-to-analog converters (DAC's) allow the microprocessor to communicate with one fixed-gain variable-offset amplifier in the front end and with one fixed-gain variable-offset amplifier and one analog-to-digital converter (ADC) in each time-shifted digitizing channel.

Abstract: A boring head for drilling deep holes of large diameter has a cylindrical body provided with a transverse slot in which a rectangular insert holder is clamped. The insert holder has a plurality of indexable inserts mounted thereon and a semi-cylindrical stabilizer is attached at each end of the insert holder and is provided with wear strips to support the boring head in the workpiece. The stabilizer and insert holder form a "D" shaped cross section which creates an annular space for the discharge of chips and coolant. The insert holder is provided with pockets cut at preselected angles which determine the rake angle of the inserts.

Abstract: Digital data acquisition apparatus for periodically sampling a waveform. Periodic data acquisition signals are provided at predetermined intervals with the waveform being sampled at the predetermined intervals in response to the data acquisition signals. The apparatus has at least a first operation mode wherein waveform sampling is initiated on the occurrence of a trigger event. In this operation mode, the apparatus includes an improvement for increasing its effective sample rate by providing a first data acquisition signal, following a trigger event, at an interval after the trigger event that is shorter than the interval between subsequent data acquisition signals. A second mode of operation may also be provided wherein sampling is manually initiated. In either operation mode, a phase locked loop may be employed to regulate, or tune, the interval between data acquisition signals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a stove of the type having a firebox and a second outer wall that defines an air passageway around the fire-box. Provided with the stove is a fan for forcing air around the defined air passageway for collecting heat from a burning fire within the firebox. A flue is communicatively connected with the firebox and extends therefrom through the defined air passageway and on through the outer wall structure of the stove. Co-axially disposed around the flue and communicatively connected with the air passageway is a vent for directing heated air from the stove. The co-axial relationship of the vent and flue assures that the flue gases must pass within the heated air passing in the vent or vice versa, and this gives rise to a very efficient stove inasmuch as a substantial portion of the heat associated with the flue gases being exhausted is transferred to the vented air.