Abstract: A rotary/linear actuator of the type having power driven rotary balls adapted to impose a strain wave on a flexible sleeve for purposes of flexing screw threads carried by the sleeve radially into engagement with threads carried by an outer sleeve for purposes of effecting axial displacements of the outer sleeve relative to the flexible sleeve, employs an improved flexible sleeve permitting essentially uniform radial deflection of its screw threads in a direction extending lengthwise thereof. The actuator includes an improved motor mounting arrangement and alternative touch controlled potentiometer constructions. An alternative actuator construction is disclosed, wherein the flexible sleeve is formed as an integral part of an inner sleeve of the actuator.

Abstract: There is disclosed a rotary/linear actuator, wherein a power driver rotary component imposes a strain wave upon a flexible sleeve member, which is flexed into screw engagement with a rotationally fixed member for purposes of imparting linear movement to the sleeve member. The extent of linear movement of the sleeve member is preferably controlled by a rotational limit control device associated with the rotary component.

Abstract: There is disclosed a rotary/linear actuator, wherein a flexible sleeve member having a screw thread on its outer surface is arranged to surround a rotary component and a drive motor therefor; the rotary component resiliently deforming the screw thread of the sleeve member outwardly into engagement with an internally threaded outer sleeve member for purposes of imparting linear movement to the sleeve member incident to driven rotations of the rotary component. The actuator incorporates a potentiometer for producing a signal indicative of the position of the sleeve member.

Abstract: A closely wound, coil type tension spring of one hand having an initial tension exceeding that obtainable by prior spring forming techniques is formed by reverse winding an open-wound compression spring of the opposite hand. Alternative methods and apparatus for forming the tension spring are disclosed.

Abstract: A closely wound, coil type tension spring of one hand having an initial tension exceeding that obtainable by prior spring forming techniques is formed by reverse winding an open-wound compression spring of the opposite hand. Alternative methods and apparatus for forming the tension spring are disclosed.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved "harmonic screw" type actuator wherein rotary motion of the power input component is converted into linear motion of the output component by means of a strain wave imposed upon a flexible sleeve member of the assembly, which is flexed into intermittent screw engagement by a member which is motor-driven to rotate relative to the periphery of the flexible sleeve; thereby causing progressively advancing/retreating inter-engagements of thread-like surfaces formed on the axially stationary and axially movable components of the system. A variety of automatic "fail-safe" provisions are included as well as means for manual operation in power loss situations.

Abstract: An electric switching apparatus having a trough-shaped body member formed of tough, non-conductive, flexible and substantially fully resilient material within which are seated a plurality of switching mechanisms. A pair of tubular shaped sheath members formed of flexible highly resilient non-conductive material snugly encompasses the device in weatherproof electrically insulated manner; portions of said sheath members being shaped to simulate manually push-operable button devices for actuating said switching devices.

Abstract: A self-contained portable test stand for testing hoists and the like both statically and dynamically. The test stand includes a cantilever beam adapted to support a hoist at one end and a hydraulic cylinder at the other. A variable mechanical advantage force transmitting means which may include a chain and chain block is provided to interconnect the hoist and the cylinder. The hydraulic loading of the cylinder is regulated both by a variable relief valve and a variable pressure and flow hydraulic pump which is controlled by a feedback line responsive to the pressure and flow in the system.

Abstract: A fluidic actuator includes a retainer block having an internal regulating passage and air inlet and outlet passages interiorly connected to the regulating passage. Obstruction means, preferably a needle valve, partially obstruct the regulating passage, thereby causing a reduction in the pressure of air flowing therethrough. There is a backpressure passage within the needle valve, and this backpressure passage joins the retainer block outlet passage with a sensing cavity. The sensing cavity is covered by a diaphragm which supports a pusher. The air outlet passage is connected to an exit line, and when the end of the exit line is in any manner occluded, a backpressure condition is created within the actuator. This backpressure condition produces movement of the diaphragm, and the diaphragm in turn urges the pusher against a mechanically operated switch. A magnetic insert provides a latching capability.

Abstract: A pressure actuated reversing switch for a pendant hoist control station is provided in which manually exerted pressure causes the electrical contacts to make and break in a staggered sequence. The armature of the switch is spring loaded so that pressure exerted on the armature causes the armature to move both laterally and rotationally. This complex motion permits contacts at one end of the armature to be brought into electrical contact with the leads prior to power contact being made at the other end of the armature. When pressure is released, the complex motion permits the power contacts to be broken prior to the breaking of the contacts at the other end of the armature. Additionally, the complex motion permits a self-cleaning action which assures reliability and long life.

Abstract: A safety hook for use with lifting hoists and the like features a thumb operated keeper latch device arranged adjacent an end of a hook body gripping groove, which serves to both protect the fingers of an operator and position and operator's thumb for engagement with the latch device.