Abstract: A voice-activated command and control system for remotely-controlled vehicles includes a voice-activated control module, a microphone, and a verbal or visual feedback indicator such as a speaker. The operator speaks instructions into the microphone to activate control functions on the vehicle. Confirmation of receipt and/or status of the verbally commanded instructions are sent back to the operator such as spoken through the speaker. The microphone and speaker can be implemented, for example, either in a headset (with a microphone and earphones) worn by the operator, or in the hand-held controller for the vehicle. The system can be alternately implemented without the speaker or other feedback element.

Abstract: A machine adapted for testing wear, wear-preventative and friction characteristics between a rotating specimen axially loaded against one or more non-rotated test specimens includes a load mechanism in the form of a low-friction, pneumatic diaphragm actuator, a load sensor in the load path to provide visual confirmation and feedback for automated load control, a linear motion sensor aligned with the load path for detection of specimen wear during the test, and a torque sensor for detection of the friction generated between the test specimens.

Abstract: A machine adapted for testing wear, wear-preventative and friction characteristics between a rotating specimen axially loaded against one or more non-rotated test specimens includes a load mechanism in the form of a low-friction, pneumatic diaphragm actuator, a load sensor in the load path to provide visual confirmation and feedback for automated load control, a linear motion sensor aligned with the load path for detection of specimen wear during the test, and a torque sensor for detection of the friction generated between the test specimens.

Abstract: A machine adapted for testing wear, wear-preventative and friction characteristics between a rotating specimen axially loaded against one or more non-rotated test specimens includes a load mechanism in the form of a low-friction, pneumatic diaphragm actuator, a load sensor in the load path to provide visual confirmation and feedback for automated load control, a linear motion sensor aligned with the load path for detection of specimen wear during the test, and a torque sensor for detection of the friction generated between the test specimens.

Abstract: A machine for testing material wear and lubrication properties between a bearing pin and opposing bearing blocks includes a wear-test loading apparatus comprising a guide mounted to the frame of the machine, a pair of bearing block holders slidably mounted to the guide, and a low-friction actuator such as a piston-type pneumatic mounted to the bearing block holders for movement there with and independently of the frame. The actuator piston rod is connected to the bearing block holder on one side of the pin adjacent the actuator, and the actuator housing is connected to the bearing block holder on the other side of the pin. When the actuator is pressurized, the piston and housing tend to separate under equal and opposite force due to the pressure in the actuator. This separation causes the bearing block holders to simultaneously slide on the guide and be drawn inwardly toward one another, and thus toward and into bearing contact with the pin, with equal and opposite force.

Abstract: Opposing insert holders disposed on either side of a rotatable pin for use in a wear testing machine includes wear specimen inserts releasably secured in complimentary shaped cavities by selectively moving first wall portions of the cavity toward second wall portions.

Abstract: An article of furniture and a method of making the same wherein a glass enamel is fused to the supporting surface of an extended surface glass member. A supporting member is then adhesively secured to the fused glass enamel to provide the desired support for the glass member.