Abstract: In an ink-delivery system of an ink-jet printer, the needle of the interface mechanism is fully recessed into a cavity of a needle-holding structure and the septum seals the end of a hollow tower. The connection between the needle and a septum tower allows for transportation of ink from an ink reservoir to an ink-jet pen in the printhead. The tower is configured to be inserted into the cavity so that the needle pierces the septum. To prevent needle pricks and cuts, the cavity has an aperture with a diameter less than that of a human finger. Therefore, the narrow diameter aperture prevents inadvertent digital access to the needle. Furthermore, the septum tower may be attached to a replaceable component, such as an ink reservoir or a pen. Each time that a component is replaced, the relative positioning of its septum tower may change. A floating-bushing assembly loosely retains the needle-holding structure so that the structure has limited freedom to move.

Abstract: A matrix arrangement for inkjet pens used in inkjet printing mechanisms provides increased throughput and a narrower product than the traditional pen arrangements laying side-by-side along the scanning axis. The matrix inkjet cartridge has at least two chambers perpendicular to the scanning axis. For example, a two-by-two matrix arrangement in a four pen cartridge system requires less distance for all of the nozzles to traverse the entire print zone. Thus, throughput, often measured in pages per minute, is increased. Moreover, the overall product width may be decreased to provide a more compact product for consumers. A method is also provided of dispensing ink using an inkjet printing mechanism, as well as a method of delivering ink through an inkjet cartridge where ink is extracted from storage chambers through ports located on opposing sides of a plane parallel to the scanning axis.

Abstract: An x-ray CT system modulates x-ray tube current as a function of gantry angle to reduce the total patient dose without significantly increasing image noise. A modulation waveform is stored in a table as a function of gantry angle, and during a slice acquisition, values are periodically read from this table and employed to calculate tube current commands. Tube current is monitored and compared with the latest command to ensure the proper x-ray dose is applied.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for bonding blends of cellulosic fluff pulp and fusible synthetic pulp or fiber having a melting point less than 250.degree. C., by high-speed dielectric heating. The process works in the absence of any dielectric sensitizing material, but requires the resulting blend have a density between 0.005 and 0.50 g/cc so that the blend can be bonded in less than 15 seconds. The process is useful for producing disposable baby diapers, adult incontinence products and feminine pads.

Abstract: A flow control apparatus for use primarily in plug-type and ball-type valves provides means for continuously varying the flow rate of fluid through the valve while using the same operator that is used to control the open and closed position of the valve. The upper trunnion is integrally connected to a butterfly member and connected to the plug by a mechanical linkage comprising a latch rod and a roller latch with corresponding detents in the valve body and upper trunnion, respectively. The butterfly member controls the fluid flow with the plug in the open position in response to 90 degrees of overtravel in the same operator that controls the position of the plug.

Abstract: A toggle gate valve having a double block and bleed retractable sealing configuration which utilizes accurately positioned steel inserts as trim assembly guide plates to permit a significant reduction in valve body machining. The valve body as well as removable upper and lower bonnets form a pressure boundary that houses a toggle link actuated seal plate to close the valve and a through-conduit that is coaxially aligned with the input and output ports when the valve is opened. A novel stem configuration and removable through-conduit permit field servicing of the trim assembly (plug and seal plate) by means of access through the lower bonnet/body interface.

Abstract: A lever operator for use primarily with valves of the plug type in which a tapered plug is raised to unseat associated slips and then rotated to a valve open position during opening of the valve and is rotated to a valve close position and lowered to seat the associated slips for closing the valve. The lever operator comprises an elongated lever arm having an eccentric cam at one end thereof connected to the trunnion of the valve to which the invention is assembled and also comprises a unique dual slot gate mechanism which houses the lever arm and restricts the motion of the arm to the requisite vertical and rotational movement which must be carried out in the appropriate sequence to properly operate the tapered plug mechanism of the valve.

Abstract: A tubing article is fabricated from a fluid permeable fibrous plexifilamentary polyolefin material having a porosity .epsilon. of 0.5 to 0.7, a contact angle of greater than 85.degree., and a Gurley-Hill porosity in the range of 4 to 70 sec/100 cc.The tubing is particularly useful in sub-surface and trickle or drip type irrigation systems used in agriculture.