Abstract: In a piezoelectric ejector assembly, a piezoelectric actuator is attached to an ejector mechanism, while a drive signal generator and a controller are coupled to the actuator. The drive signal generator is configured to generate a drive signal for driving the actuator to oscillate the ejector assembly. The controller is configured to control the drive signal generator to drive the actuator at a resonant frequency of the ejector assembly, and an auto-tuning circuit is provided to define the optimum drive signal frequency.

Abstract: In a piezoelectric ejector assembly, a piezoelectric actuator is attached to an ejector mechanism, while a drive signal generator and a controller are coupled to the actuator. The drive signal generator is configured to generate a drive signal for driving the actuator to oscillate the ejector assembly. The controller is configured to control the drive signal generator to drive the actuator at a resonant frequency of the ejector assembly, and an auto-tuning circuit is provided to define the optimum drive signal frequency.

Abstract: A linear measurement device may be formed from a first tube axially translatable with respect to a second tube. Inside the first tube may be placed a sensor capable of sensing a magnetic field. A magnet may also be found within the first tube and produce a magnetic field sensible by the sensor. The second tube may comprise a plurality of deviations disposed therealong capable of altering the magnetic field when near the magnet. As the first tube is axially translated with respect to the second tube, the sensor may sense alterations in the magnetic field due to the plurality of deviations thus allowing for a linear displacement to be determined.

Abstract: In a piezoelectric ejector assembly, a piezoelectric actuator is attached to an ejector mechanism, while a drive signal generator and a controller are coupled to the actuator. The drive signal generator is configured to generate a drive signal for driving the actuator to oscillate the ejector assembly. The controller is configured to control the drive signal generator to drive the actuator at a resonant frequency of the ejector assembly, and an auto-tuning circuit is provided to define the optimum drive signal frequency.

Abstract: In a piezoelectric ejector assembly, a piezoelectric actuator is attached to an ejector mechanism, while a drive signal generator and a controller are coupled to the actuator. The drive signal generator is configured to generate a drive signal for driving the actuator to oscillate the ejector assembly. The controller is configured to control the drive signal generator to drive the actuator at a resonant frequency of the ejector assembly, and an auto-tuning circuit is provided to define the optimum drive signal frequency.

Abstract: In a piezoelectric ejector assembly, a piezoelectric actuator is attached to an ejector mechanism, while a drive signal generator and a controller are coupled to the actuator. The drive signal generator is configured to generate a drive signal for driving the actuator to oscillate the ejector assembly. The controller is configured to control the drive signal generator to drive the actuator at a resonant frequency of the ejector assembly, and an auto-tuning circuit is provided to define the optimum drive signal frequency.

Abstract: An articulable joint is provided for use with at least two support arms, the joint comprising a front disc and a rear disc, each connected to respective support arms, the front disc rotatably connected to the rear disc around a shoulder bolt. The joint further includes a clutch washer located between the front and rear discs, the clutch washer having a front surface abutting the front disc and a rear surface located adjacent the rear disc, the rear surface of the washer having a plurality of spaced apart sockets, each socket configured for receiving a ball bearing therein. A pressure application means is releasably connected to the front disc and extends therethrough engaging the clutch washer for applying adjustable pressure to the clutch washer, thereby adjusting frictional resistance to, rotation of the front disc relative to the rear disc.