Abstract: A helical formation (2) for a conduit (1). The helical formation (2) comprises an elongate member defining at least a portion of a helix, the elongate member comprising two inwardly extending portions (6, 7). The inwardly extending portions (6, 7) are spaced from each other and extend along the length of the elongate member in side-by-side relationship.

Abstract: An inflatable seal member for providing a fluid-tight seal. The inflatable seal member is particularly well suited to sealing a processing chamber having pressurized fluids therein. Outward forces (exerted by air pressure) to the inner surfaces of the seal member counteract inward forces (exerted by fluid pressure) to the outer surfaces of the seal member.

Abstract: A powered lift assist toilet seat assembly is disclosed for assisting physically impaired persons in being raised from and lowered to a position above a conventional toilet to perform normal toilet functions. The seat assembly includes a movable platform having a central opening, a toilet seat secured over the opening, and a pair of handrails secured to the platform on both sides of the toilet seat. An arrangement of link members are pivotally connected between the movable platform and a lower frame for controlling a movement of the platform upon actuation of a drive member. The arrangement of link members is such that the movable platform is pivoted and moved forwardly when the platform is raised by actuation of the drive member. The arrangement of link members includes first and second link assemblies positioned on respective sides of the platform which are interconnected by a pair of transverse shafts to increase a load capacity and stabilize the platform during operation.

Abstract: An improved prefabricated cabinet assembly similar in appearance to professionally installed customized cabinets, but that is easily, quickly and inexpensively installed in different configurations. The cabinet assembly comprises at least one cabinet unit having opposed sides and a rear wall. A hanger assembly is provided to suspend the cabinet units on a wall structure, comprising a horizontal bar mounted to the rear wall of the cabinet units having a downward-facing groove, interlocked with a horizontal bar mounted on the wall structure which has a corresponding upward-facing groove. The hanger assembly permits sliding cabinet units along the wall to a desired spaced-apart position. Spacer panels are mounted to span the spaces between adjacent cabinet units. Each of the spacer panels has a plurality of spaced apart grooves cut into its rear face, along with a plurality of visible, spaced apart cut lines to permit easy cutting of the spacer panels at desired widths.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a machine for positioning roof supports in a tunnel. The machine includes a body unit having a track engaging assembly by which the body unit may be suspended from an overhead track extending along the length of the tunnel. A drive motor is provided for impelling the body unit along the track. An arm assembly support member is mounted on the body unit for pivotal movement about a vertical axis under the control of a slewing actuator. In addition, an arm assembly is pivotally connected at one end thereof to the arm assembly support member for pivotal movement about a horizontal axis under the control of a lifting actuator. A yoke holder is mounted at the opposite end of the arm assembly so as to maintain a constant attitude during the raising and lowering of the arm assembly between a lowered position and a raised position of the arm assembly.

Abstract: A composite structure having a coating of thermoplastic material on a substantially inflexible substrate is disclosed. The composite structure comprises (a) a substantially inflexible substrate having a plurality of orifices in the surfaces thereof that is coated, the orifices being of a shape such that, at least in part, the cross-sectional area of the orifices increases as the distance from the surface of the substrate increases, and (b) a coating of solid thermoplastic material on the surface of the substrate. The thermoplastic material extends into the orifices at least as far as into the portion of the orifice of increasing cross-sectional area. Preferably the cross-sectional area of the orifices is greater than 0.005 square inches and the thickness of the coating is at least 10 mils. The substrate is preferably a cellulosic material, e.g., wood, hardboard plywood and the like, or metal. The thermoplastic material may be asphalt, bitumen, tar or a thermoplastic polymer, especially polyethylene.