Abstract: An electroplating system has a vessel assembly holding an electrolyte. A weir thief electrode assembly in the vessel assembly includes a plenum inside of a weir frame. The plenum divided into at least a first, a second and a third virtual thief electrode segment. A plurality of spaced apart openings through the weir frame lead out of the plenum. A weir ring is attached to the weir frame and guides flow of current during electroplating. The electroplating system provides process determined radial and circumferential current density control and does not require changing hardware components during set up.

Abstract: A piston pump as a return pump of a slip-controlled, hydraulic vehicle braking system is disclosed. There is a mushroom-shaped shut-off body as a spring-loaded outlet valve, the shaft thereof extending through a center hole of a tubular damper piston. The shut-off body is movable transversely to the opening and closing direction thereof, so that said shut-off body aligns with a valve seat upon closing. Upon opening, the damper piston forces brake fluid out of a damping chamber in which it is housed so that an opening movement of the outlet valve is dampened.

Abstract: A piston pump as a return pump of a slip-controlled, hydraulic vehicle braking system is disclosed. There is a mushroom-shaped shut-off body as a spring-loaded outlet valve, the shaft thereof extending through a center hole of a tubular damper piston. The shut-off body is movable transversely to the opening and closing direction thereof, so that said shut-off body aligns with a valve seat upon closing. Upon opening, the damper piston forces brake fluid out of a damping chamber in which it is housed so that an opening movement of the outlet valve is dampened.

Abstract: An improved condom for prolonging erections by means of a selectively adjustable constriction band fabricated as an integral element of the condom, wherein the band constricts blood flow through the penis to prolong the erection. The degree of constriction provided by the constriction band can be selectively adjusted by the person wearing the condom. The constriction band can be fabricated to include an O-ring and ball-locking element for selectively adjusting the degree of constriction around the penis. In an alternative embodiment, the constriction band can also be fabricated to include a stent that can be removed through an opening in the band to cause the ring to constrict around the penis. In another alternative embodiment, the constriction band can be fabricated as a selectively detachable element that can be detached from the condom when an individual wearing the condom so desires.