Abstract: A fractionation system comprising means for forming a three dimensional optical lattice that is operable to separate particles that have different physical characteristics. Preferably, the wells of the optical lattice are interlinked. For example, the wells may be linked in such a manner as to provide deflection greater than or equal to 15 degrees.

Abstract: A gearshift lever and a method of forming the lever is disclosed. The lever includes a one-piece shaft with a functional end and an operative end, the functional end being cold formed to a specific configuration for mechanical cooperation with components auxiliary to the lever. A channel region is provided along the shaft between the functional and operative ends for running electrical wire between the functional and operative ends, and a shaft covering material surrounds the channel region for containing the electrical wire within the channel region. The cold forming of the functional end of the lever reduces the cost of manufacturing the lever. In an alternative embodiment, the shaft of the lever is provided with a hollow bore along the length of the shaft for enclosing the wires.

Abstract: A vehicle gearshift lever assembly is disclosed and includes an upper lever member for manipulation by the vehicle operator, an insert shaft for operative connection with the vehicle gearbox and an isolator member located in the lower end of the lever member and receiving the upper end of the insert shaft. The isolator member is formed of a resilient substance such as rubber so that vibration from the gearbox and the insert shaft are absorbed to a substantial degree by the isolator thereby to inhibit transfer of the vibration and noise from the gearbox to the upper lever member.

Abstract: A knob for a gear lever comprises a cap, a gripping section having an axial bore through it and gear teeth about one end of the bore, and an annular anti-rotation member having an axial bore through it and gear teeth about each end of the bore. When assembled, a stem of the cap passes through the axial bores of the gripping section and of the anti-rotation member. The gear teeth of the gripping section mesh with the gear teeth of the anti-rotation member and prevent the member from rotating with respect to the gripping section. A base has an axial bore through it and gear teeth about one end of the bore. The bore has inwardly projecting ribs between which, when the knob is assembled, a spline of the stem of the cap fits at substantially all rotational positions of the spline relative to the base. The gear teeth of the anti-rotation member mesh with the gear teeth of the base and prevent the anti-rotation member from rotating with respect to the base.

Abstract: A head restraint for a vehicle seat is disclosed. The restraint comprises a support member for insertion into the vehicle seat and a shock absorbing assembly secured to the upper end of the support member and which comprises a wire lattice form having vertical and horizontal members defining the height, width and depth of said assembly and being welded to the support member at points of contact therewith. An elesticized foam padding is positioned over the lattice form.