Abstract: An electronic file containing height field mapping data is output to a specialized printer and used to create one or more three dimensional molds. The molds, in turn, may be used to fabricate bas-relief tiles and similar three-dimensional objects from various materials. The process allows for rapid deployment of customized design elements in many construction applications and environments.

Abstract: A hydrostatic power steering device (11;111) is provided of the type including a primary, spool valve (35;135), and a follow-up, sleeve valve (37;137). During normal operation, relative rotation of the spool and sleeve define one or more variable flow control orifices (A1A5; AN; A1) and these orifices have a first area versus deflection relationship when the sleeve is biased to its first position (FIG. 5; FIG. 10). The sleeve may be moved toward a second position (FIG. 6; FIG. 11) in response to an input (95, 99) other than rotation of the vehicle steering wheel. In the second axial position of the sleeve, the flow control orifice has a different area versus deflection relationship, the difference providing a useful steering or ancillary function.

Abstract: A hydrostatic power steering device is disclosed, which may be either a fluid controller (15) or a torque generator 111. The device is of the type including a housing (19;135) defining a fluid inlet port (29;113) and a return port (31;115). The device includes valve means (36;171) defining a neutral position and a first operating position. The device includes a gerotor mechanism (23;143) for imparting follow-up movement to the valve means in response to fluid flow through the gerotor, and a follow-up mechanism (49,51;183,185) transmits the follow-up movement to the valve means. The valve means defines a return fluid region (87,89,31g;205,197,157) which comprises part of the main fluid path. The return fluid region is isolated from the follow-up means and from the interior of the valving.