Abstract: An release handle mechanism for a motor vehicle trunk lid is provided. The release handle mechanism includes a handle, that when activated can release the latch that couples the trunk lid to the vehicle body. The mechanism includes a housing having a plurality of sides. One side includes an inclined surface onto which the handle is pivotally connected such that the pivoting of the handle causes the handle to move outward and downward. The mechanism also includes a light source disposed within one side of the housing. The light source is disposed less than 4 inches away from the handle and is capable of directing light towards said handle as well as the trunk. The handle itself is comprised of a generally cylindrical horizontal portion and a pivot portion that is connected to the inclined surface. In the first embodiment the handle is comprised of a thermoplastic polymer resin, containing a phosphorescent, while in the second embodiment, the housing is made of material with the phosphorescent additive.

Abstract: A device and method for monitoring a vehicle storage compartment for the presence of a confined individual includes at least one sensor adapted for sensing the presence of a living being confined in a vehicle storage compartment and generating a sensor signal in response thereto and a controller coupled to the at least one sensor and generating an actuation signal in response to the sensor signal. The actuation signal may be used to automatically open the vehicle storage compartment and/or to cause an audible warning device coupled to the controller to produce a predetermined warning in response to the actuation signal. The actuation signal may also be used to produce a visual signal which draws attention to the vehicle.

Abstract: Means and method of operating a tunnel kiln in which green carbon articles are baked in the ware (article) space of a baking zone by heat produced by the combustion of fuel directed to chambers adjacent the zone. The combustion chambers are connected in fluid communication with flues extending lengthwise of the kiln, the flues having a pressure gradient that extends lengthwise of the flues. The method of the invention includes the step of changing the pressure gradient within the flues such that a pressure differential between the combustion chambers and the ware space is effected that causes products of combustion to flow into the ware space from the combustion chambers in amounts sufficient to impede and prevent the deposition of coke formations on the walls of the space without burning the carbon articles.

Abstract: A system for continuously determining the eccentric characteristics of a tube wall, including a positioning assembly supported by the tube when it travels in its lengthwise direction. Two thickness sensors are supported by the positioning assembly and have sensing axes disposed in a predetermined angular relation with respect to one another about the periphery of the tube. The two sensors continuously measure the wall thickness of the tube at the predetermined angular locations as the tube moves in its lengthwise direction. Signal processing circuits are provided for continuously computing the eccentricity characteristics of the tube based entirely upon the comparative values of the thickness readings of the sensors.

Abstract: A system for determining the eccentric characteristics of a tube wall comprising a positioning assembly supported by the tube which is moving in its lengthwise direction, and a plurality of thickness sensors supported by the positioning assembly having sensing axes disposed in predetermined angular relation with respect to one another for continuously measuring the wall thickness of the tube at predetermined angular locations about its periphery as it moves in its lengthwise direction. A signal processing means is provided for continuously computing the eccentricity characteristics of the tube based entirely upon the comparative values of the thickness readings of the sensors.