Abstract: A drill bit with dropping tendencies includes an active region, a passive region, a biased mass distribution, an uneven torque generation, and an imbalance force vector directed toward the middle of the active region. Cutting elements in the active region of the drill bit may be more aggressive than those in the passive region through manipulation of, e.g., backrake angle, blade length, cutter sizes, blade angles and bit profile. The imbalance force vector may be achieved by manipulation of bit geometric parameters such as cutter radial position, angular position, longitudinal position, and rake angle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically forming ceramic shell molds as part of an investment casting process. The apparatus includes structure defining a plurality of processing stations which together define a process line through which set ups are conveyed and coated with cermic material. The first station includes a pickup arm assembly operative to transfer a set up from a transfer cart to a slurry tank where it is released. A transfer arm forming part of a second station engages the set up rotates it within the slurry tank for a predetermined time, after which, the slurry transfer arm transfers it to a spin-off tank and releases it. A stucco transfer arm assembly forming part of a third station engages the set up and rotates it to spin-off excess slurry solution after which the stucco transfer arm transfers it to a stucco tank and releases it.

Abstract: A method of producing cast metal tooling, especially injection molds or dies, characterized by the steps of making a thin walled, investment cast shell which defines the functional cavity surface of the tooling, and casting a suitable backing metal against the shell to form a composite die or mold structure.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting off castings from investment cast set-ups comprising a mandrel assembly engageable with the inside of the center tree of the set-up to clamp it with its longitudinal axis in a horizontal plane, a vertically movable carriage support, a carriage movable along the support parallel to the longitudinal axis of the center tree, a cut-off assembly including a horizontal abrasive disc on the carriage, and structure permitting lateral adjustment of the cut-off assembly in a direction normal to that of carriage movement.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for cyclically metering charges of a granulated wax-like or resinous material from a bulk supply and feeding such metered charges into a heated, pressurized reservoir. Each charge of the granulated material is fluidized with a stream of air under pressure to insure flow of the granules. The stream of air also serves to pressurize the reservoir and prevent the escape of hot air therefrom. Cooling of the reservoir inlet to prevent agglutination of the granules also is contemplated.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for cyclically metering charges of a granulated wax-like or resinous material from a bulk supply and feeding such metered charges into a heated, pressurized reservoir. Each charge of the granulated material is fluidized with a stream of air under pressure to insure flow of the granules. The stream of air also serves to pressurize the reservoir and prevent the escape of hot air therefrom. Cooling of the reservoir inlet to prevent agglutination of the granules also is contemplated.