Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for achieving conformal step coverage in a deposition process. In at least one aspect, a target provides a source of material to be sputtered by a plasma and then ionized by an inductive coil. At least a portion of the electrons provided by the plasma and ionized target material are deflected by a magnetic field established adjacent to the substrate. Under the influence of the attracted electrons, positively charged particles are induced to move in the direction of the electrons. The magnetic field may be provided by one or more magnets located internally or externally to the processing chamber and which can be rotated to ensure uniform deposition of the electrons and ions on the device features.

Abstract: An inexpensive mechanical indicator for measuring low pressure in an inflating bag includes a pair of sides connected to each other at one edge and pivotally connected at spaced parallel locations on the bag. A spring biases the sides towards each other in opposition to tension in the inflating bag. The distance between the sides is indicative of the pressure in the bag. The device is accurate at pressures below 0.05 psi.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining a coefficient of friction on a surface of objects such as rails. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a vertical sensor assembly for determining the coefficient of friction of a top surface of a rail. A different embodiment comprises a lateral sensor assembly for determining a coefficient of friction of a gage face of a rail. The sensor assemblies may include a shoe. The sensor assemblies may include a load cell. Other embodiments include various combinations of lateral sensor assemblies and vertical sensor assemblies. Structure for mounting the assemblies to a vehicle may also be provided.

Abstract: A system and method for recognizing a target and then guiding a projectile to that target. Initially, unique 3D features of the target are obtained and stored in a data base. The projectile is then directed to the general area of the target and the scene in that general area is observed by the projectile and compared with the data base on a three dimensional basis. When a target is located which contains the unique 3D features of the target of interest within some preset maximum margin of error, the projectile is then directed to that target.

Abstract: A self-contained, light-weight, programmable data-acquisition system is constructed largely from readily available personal computer (PC) subassemblies. It operates as a paperless recorder and event recorder, storing data from a plurality of analog inputs to a fixed disk for later retrieval by a PC. It also operates as a PC peripheral device permitting real-time viewing and analysis, as well as recording, of a plurality of analog inputs. As an event recorder it can store a fixed amount of data preceding the triggering event, which can be in the form of either a contact closure or the value of an analog input exceeding a preset minimum or maximum value. Configuration is performed at the PC and subsequently downloaded to the recorder where it is stored in non-volatile memory. Converted and recorded data display at the host PC is both graphical and numerical form. Channel data displayed at the host PC is uniquely identified in that each channel's data is uniquely colored.

Abstract: An infinitely variable transmission is capable of operating between a maximum speed in one direction and a minimum speed in an opposite direction, including a zero output angular velocity, while being supplied with energy at a constant angular velocity. Input energy is divided between a first power path carrying an orbital set of elements and a second path that includes a variable speed adjustment mechanism. The second power path also connects with the orbital set of elements in such a way as to vary the rate of angular rotation thereof. The combined effects of power from the first and second power paths are combined and delivered to an output element by the orbital element set. The transmission can be designed to operate over a preselected ratio of forward to reverse output speeds.

Abstract: A safety pressure regulator employing a diaphragm actuator that upon exposure to high temperature an element melts to release the valve from the actuator to effect its automatic closing.

Abstract: A cryogenic freezer is disclosed for embrittling scrap material, such as random size pieces of automobile tires, prior to fragmentation of the embrittled scrap material in an impact mill. The freezer includes a product discharge gas lock which is designed to minimize the loss of cryogenic refrigerant while, at the same time, accomodating unusually large pieces of scrap material.

Abstract: A burner for combusting hydrocarbon fluids which may contain additional components as additives or contaminants and in the form of a gas, liquid or particulate matter, e.g. waste oil wherein the oil is atomized in a nozzle disposed in a housing defining a combustion chamber for receiving an oxidizing fluid, e.g. oxygen, so that atomized oil is mixed with the oxidizing fluid for combustion. Control of the length to diameter (L/D) ratio of the combustion chamber results in lower operating noise levels for the burner during combustion.