Abstract: A single coil solenoid includes a permanent magnet with bi-directional assist capabilities. The solenoid includes an armature that during de-energization of a single coil of wire is attracted to the permanent magnet thereby maintaining a hold position and during energization of the single coil has a polarity that repels the permanent magnet thereby creating a push/pull force. In this regard, the permanent magnet operates to not only hold the armature but also is used to push the armature when current is induced in the single coil.

Abstract: An overhead livestock enclosure washing system for cleaning the pens of a livestock confinement building. The overhead livestock enclosure washing system includes a track member coupled to the ceiling of the building. A mobile unit operationally engages the track member and selectively advances along the track member. The mobile unit is for being in fluid communication with a fluid source to spray fluid into the interior space of the livestock confinement building to clean the interior space of the building when the mobile unit advances along the track member. A base unit is positioned on the floor of the livestock confinement building. The base unit is in fluid communication with the mobile unit whereby the base unit controls the flow of the fluid from the fluid source to provide the mobile unit with pressurized fluid when the mobile unit is cleaning the interior space of the building.

Abstract: A single coil solenoid includes a permanent magnet with bidirectional assist capabilities. The solenoid includes an armature that during de-energization of a single coil of wire is attracted to the permanent magnet thereby maintaining a hold position and during energization of the single coil has a polarity that repels the permanent magnet thereby creating a push/pull force. In this regard, the permanent magnet operates to not only hold the armature but also is used to push the armature when current is induced in the single coil.

Abstract: An air lubricated hydrodynamic bearing assemblage has a ceramic body and a ceramic shaft each made of tetragonal zirconium ceramic material. The bearing has flange portions on opposite ends a a generally cylindrical body. At least one of the flange portions has air channels formed therein in fluid communications with air inlet ports formed in the bearing body.