Abstract: In a system for predictive maintenance of machinery based on vibration data history, a portable battery operated vibration data collector and processor unit (10) is equipped with an electro-optical wand (18) for reading a bar code affixed to each data collection station (22) on the machinery that is to be tested. The vibration of the machinery is sensed by electro-mechanical transducers (16) temporarily attached by an operator to permanent indexing mounts (24) at each test station. The bar code (26) identifies the station and automatically initiates a predetermined sequence of vibration data collection, processing and data storage operations.

Abstract: The invention provides a wide range pressure gauge comprising a thermal-conductivity gauge and a high-vacuum total or partial pressure gauge such as a hot-cathode ionization gauge or a residual gas mass spectrometer, mounted from a common flange. In order to allow the use of a filament (3) shorter than those conventionally used in thermal conductivity pressure gauges, means (49-54) are provided to maintain the filament temperature substantially constant over its entire pressure range. Pressure is measured by means (51, 52, 56-58) adapted to measure the power dissipated in the filament (3).

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for the recovery and recycling of metal, glass, plastic and paper containers and combinations thereof for beverages and similar article containers, which provides reimbursement of container deposits or fees upon the return of such containers. Apparatus and methods may be incorporated in an article dispensing machine with common coin exchange system and with a common container storage system. Apparatus and methods may be a self-contained unit independent of an article dispensing system. Apparatus and methods have the capability of performing operations of compacting, sorting, and storing received containers of varying composition. Apparatus and methods provide for removal of recovered containers from incorporated and self-contained container recovery systems. Apparatus and methods have the capability for reducing, detecting and controlling errors in the return of unacceptable containers. Apparatus and methods provide for the accounting of the recovered containers.