Abstract: A multi mode ion source is disclosed that includes an ion source incorporating an ionization chamber for ionizing gas species and configured to have at least two discrete modes of operation; namely, an arc-discharge mode and a non-arc discharge mode of operation.

Abstract: Various aspects of the invention provide improved approaches and methods for efficiently:

Abstract: Various aspects of the invention provide improved approaches and methods for efficiently:

Abstract: A modular rotational assembly is providing having an upper plate and at least one radiant energy source. The modular rotational assembly may have at least two radiant energy sources. The modular rotational assembly may also include at least one reflective cup, wherein the radiant energy source is located within the reflective cup. The modular rotational assembly may also include a web cutter. The web cutter may include at least one cutting member and at least one wheel assembly.

Abstract: A web cutter is provided comprising an at least one wheel assembly. The wheel assembly includes a wheel housing and at least two wheel members. A cutting member is disposed between the wheel members, wherein the wheel assembly has a first position wherein the cutting member does not extend below the wheel members and a second position wherein the cutting member extends below the wheel members. The web cutter may include an upper plate having a receiving hole, and the wheel assembly may include a post that is in slideable communication with the upper plate receiving hole. The cutting member may be in fixed communication with the upper plate.

Abstract: A system for heat-shrinking a film onto an open-topped container is provided, including at least one reflective cup having a reflective interior surface, and at least one radiant energy source. The reflective cup and the radiant energy source may be rotationally mounted. The interior surface of the reflective cup has as least an elliptical portion and a parabolic portion.

Abstract: Various aspects of the invention provide improved approaches and methods for efficiently:

Abstract: A bridging beam for bridging a weakened area of a pole to reinstate the pole. The beam includes a sleeve for abutting the external surface of the pole on an inner surface of the sleeve and an external brace extending outwardly from an outer surface of the sleeve. The brace is constructed to brace the sleeve in radial and tangential directions relative to the sleeve. The brace is formed as an elongate tubular box section.

Abstract: A clamping device (2) adapted to be used to grasp an article or to clamp a tool to a workpiece, comprising: (a) a substantially flat or curved vacuum chamber (21) having a lower surface contained or comprised in a vacuum body (14, 15); (b) a compressible seal (18) located at or adjacent the perimeter of the vacuum body, the compressible seal being located in a groove (19) in the vacuum body, the groove being so dimensioned that the compressible seal, when pressed against an article or workpiece, expands and/or moves into a space in the groove thus stabilizing the position of the compressible seal and improving its airtight qualities; and (c) a source of vacuum (23) for connection to the vacuum chamber.