Abstract: An improved optical disk data storage system method are disclosed. In an optical disk storage system, a data compression device is interposed between a host computer and an optical disk controller to permit data storage and retrieval operations on an optical disk to occur at a faster rate than would otherwise be possible. Data is compressed when it is received by the optical disk controller and is decompressed before it is sent to the host computer. In this way data may be efficiently stored on an optical disk while providing plug compatibility with a host computer designed to store and retrieve data on a magnetic media data storage device.

Abstract: An improved type of rolling element bearing, in which race land regions are protected against wear or scoring, is described. In particular, it is shown that a coating of a hard, wear-resistant material such as titanium nitride, applied to the race land region of a rolling element bearing, is effective in preventing wear or scoring of the race land region.

Abstract: A compact coherent jet of water is directed downward into a body of water to create surface currents flowing outward from the jet that carry along floating substances, such as an oil slick. Relative horizontal movement between the jet and the body of water creates a bow wave that diverges downstream to push floating substances laterally of the jet as respects the direction of the relative movement. A line of such jets is used to divert an oil slick. Laterally-spaced jets in front of an oil skimmer are used to funnel an oil slick into the skimmer entrance.