Abstract: An integrated hinge system that provides for temporary checking of a vehicle door is provided, the system including a hinge pin, a door hinge bracket, a pillar hinge bracket, and a latching device. The latching device is releasably affixed to the door hinge bracket and rotates with the door hinge bracket relative to the hinge pin and the pillar bracket. One of the hinge pin and the pillar bracket define engagement points that the latching device engages to releasably retain the door hinge bracket in any one of at least two angular orientations relative to the pillar hinge bracket.

Abstract: A facility access system includes a system microprocessor and input and output subsystems. The input subsystem can include switching devices connected in a parallel configuration for actuating the system microprocessor in a sequencing mode of operation. Input devices are also disclosed which produce input signals corresponding to particular memory storage locations for accessing directional and other information in a look-up mode of operation. The directional and other information is output to text display, graphical display and audio output devices. A user's computer can be linked to the system microprocessor for downloading information therefrom. An emergency subsystem provides emergency exit information, dials out to summon assistance and includes a backup power source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed which allows a plurality of dissimilar simulation systems to act in a cooperative manner such that they may act to provide a single overall simulation of a system. The system to be simulated is partitioned into these simulation systems and subsequently these systems are networked and synchronized. This interaction of these dissimilar simulation systems is accomplished by a simulation tool which allows a simulation system to route messages to other systems, synchronizes the operation of all simulation systems, allows partitioning elements to be stored and downloaded to these systems, and allows each simulation system to utilize its own native programming language during the creation of the single system simulation associated therewith.

Abstract: A process for fabricating a printed circuit board includes the steps of producing data in a printing-scan format representative of a designed area circuit pattern; with such data, printing a mask pattern, corresponding to said circuit pattern, on the metal surface of a dielectric substrate; and etching to remove unmasked portions of the metal layer.

Abstract: Printer apparatus of the kind having: (i) print/cartridges for printing on successive line sectors of print media that are advanced into and out of the print zone; (ii) a platen means including a feed/transport periphery that is movable around an endless path past a sheet ingress zone, the print zone and a sheet egress zone; (iii) a sheet supply station for positioning a stack of sheet print media at a position upstream of the sheet ingress zone; and (iv) structure for effecting periodic feeding engagements between the platen and successive face sheets of a positioned stack, features a pressure roller, located proximate the sheet ingress zone at a position upstream of the print path, for biasing a sheet moving therepast into drive transmission relation with the platen. The printer can also comprise a downstream guide, located proximate the sheet egress zone at a position downstream of the print zone printing means.

Abstract: The length of an ink jet filament as a function of stimulation amplitude is measured in an ink jet printing apparatus by locating a narrow charging electrode near the drop break-off point of the ink jet filament, varying the stimulation amplitude to vary the filament length, and measuring the amount of charge imparted to the ink drops as the filament length is changed. Stimulation amplitude is automatically adjusted by as a function of the measured charge.

Abstract: Information relating to the impact position on a catcher face of a deflected ink jet is used to adjust various parameters of an ink jet printing system, such as the charge voltage, the time between orifice plate stimulation and drop charging, etc., or to check the occurrence of malfunctions such as crooked jets, misregistration between the charge plate and the jets, etc. According to the invention, means integral with the catcher cooperate with the ink flowing on the catcher face to vary an electrical property at said catcher face as a function of the portion of that face which is ink wetted. In one embodiment the jet impact position is derived from an electrical resistance measurement. In another embodiment this position is derived from a capacitance measurement.

Abstract: Ink jet printing apparatus having an improved system for start-up or maintenance includes elements for adjusting ink flow to impact on lower print head structure and elements for thereafter air skiving the ink from that structure.

Abstract: A system for cleaning lower print head structure of ink jet printing apparatus effects: (i) a condensation cycle wherein a droplet stream(s) are directed past such print head structure in a solvent condensing mode, (ii) a drying cycle in which air is directed across said print head structure to remove condensed solvent and (ii) a heating cycle wherein the lower print head structure is heated to a temperature obviating condensation of solvent from said stream(s).

Abstract: An ink jet print head includes a manifold defining a fluid receiving reservoir, and an orifice plate mounted on the manifold and defining a plurality of orifices which communicate with the reservoir. Fluid flows through the orifices and emerges as fluid filaments which break up into jet drop streams. A stimulator transducer contacts the orifice plate and, upon receipt of a drive signal, vibrates the orifice plate so as to cause bending waves to travel along the plate. The bending waves stimulate the breakup of the jet drop streams. A sensor transducer is mounted on the orifice plate at the opposite end thereof from the stimulator transducer. The sensor transducer produces an electrical feedback signal which is proportional in amplitude to the amplitude of the bending waves. This feedback signal is used by a drive circuit to control the amplitude of the drive signal applied to the stimulator transducer.

Abstract: An ink supply system for supplying ink through the print head of an ink jet printer includes a pump arrangement supplying ink to the print head from a supply tank and, further, plural ink return lines connected between the pump outlet and the pump inlet. Each of the ink return lines includes a flow restriction, with the flow restriction in each line providing a fluid flow impedance which differs from the impedances provided by the other flow restrictions. A valve arrangement controls the connection of the pump outlet to a selected one of the ink return lines, such that the flow rate of ink through the ink supply line to the print head is effectively controlled.