Abstract: An apparatus for supporting printed circuit boards during processing provides a peripheral frame, a multiplicity of support members having interfacing flat surfaces defining an imaginary reference plane from both sides thereof and clips for supporting printed circuit boards parallel and in reference to the imaginary plane which clips engage the support members along either of the interfacing surfaces defining the reference plane.

Abstract: Disclosed is a highly precise encoding structure utilizing incremental or absolute encoding techniques. The drum configuration allows the use of less expensive materials and the capability to manufacture such a device in a labor-saving and therefore less expensive manner. This is accomplished, in part, by utilizing drums having differing radius measurements, thereby requiring a simpler gearing interrelationship between the plurality of drums. Furthermore, in one embodiment, drums of differing sizes may be installed one inside the other in a space-saving configuration.

Abstract: A brilliant liquid crystal display having the capability of a wide variety of coloration is disclosed utilizing a photoluminescent transflector for concentrating the internal light and ambient light into a narrow frequency range which is coordinated with the dye selected for the liquid crystal, resulting in an enhanced brightness for the display. Masking all regions of the liquid crystal display except for the selectively annunciating segments thereof, the resultant display is capable of a broad range of colors having a significantly enhanced luminance characteristic.

Abstract: A contrast enhanced liquid crystal display is disclosed having two substantially identical liquid crystal displays with a transflector disposed in between such that light entering from the viewing surface of the first liquid crystal is attenuated twice by the dark areas of the first crystal, and light entering from the rear of the second crystal is attenuated twice, once by the rear liquid crystal and once by the front liquid crystal. This configuration provides an enhanced contrast for all viewing conditions ranging from bright sunlight to totally dark conditions wherein the contrast ratio is maintained relatively constant at between 9:1 and 11:1 when comparing the light areas of the display to the darkened areas when using single crystals each having a contrast ratio of between 4:1 and 4.5:1 in back lit conditions.

Abstract: A fastener is disclosed having an integral limiting configuration which is adjustable to provide a variable maximum torque transmitted from a threaded bolt to the mechanism being fastened. The torque transmission is controlled at its maximum by a friction-bearing surface in cooperation with a spring. By predetermining and setting the compression exerted by the spring to the friction-bearing surface, the maximum torque transmitted is controlled.

Abstract: An absolute-incremental hybrid shaft position encoder providing compacted high resolution. In the preferred embodiment an encoder track is superimposed by a shutter so as to make multiple track revolutions appear electrically as a single revolution.