Abstract: The parameters of an optical code are optimized to achieve improved signal robustness, reliability, capacity and/or visual quality. An optimization program can determine spatial density, dot distance, dot size and signal component priority to optimize robustness. An optical code generator employs these parameters to produce an optical code at the desired spatial density and robustness. The optical code is merged into a host image, such as imagery, text and graphics of a package or label, or it may be printed by itself, e.g., on an otherwise blank label or carton. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.

Abstract: A ball joint includes a tubular outer shroud having a unique one-piece weld-free socket which receives a complementary ball of a tubular inner shroud. The ball joint is preferably formed by plastically deforming the outer shroud to integrally form the socket around the ball. The socket may be formed around a preformed ball, or both the ball and socket may be integrally plastically formed simultaneously.

Abstract: An expansion joint includes a pair of tubular fittings joined together by a bellows for accommodating differential movement therebetween. The fittings include balls at respective distal ends thereof which engage complementary sockets fixedly joined to opposite ends of the bellows. The respective ball and sockets additionally accommodate pivotal and rotary movement. The bellows allows pressure and spring forces to engage the sockets against their respective balls for continuously seating the balls in the sockets during operation and maintaining effective seals against leakage.

Abstract: An expansion joint for connecting first and second fluid-carrying pipes comprising first and second annular couplings which are operably affixable to respective ones of the pipes. In a preferred embodiment the couplings include cylindrical bores of substantially the same diameter disposed relative to one another to form a passage for providing flow communication between the pipes. An annular bellows extends between the couplings for accommodating relative axial movement and angular misalignment between the pipes and is disposed radially outward of the passage to capture any fluid leaking between the interfacing surfaces of the couplings. A second cylindrical bore of a first one of the couplings engages an outer spherical surface of the second coupling to allow the second coupling to pivot in a manner which accommodates angular misalignment between the pipes.