Abstract: A method for aligning a sphere to a desired orientation includes imaging a non-surface alignment feature of the sphere and calculating a current orientation of the sphere based on an image of the non-surface alignment feature. Using these calculations, a relationship between the current orientation of the sphere and the desired orientation of the sphere is calculated and communicated to a motion control device, and aligning the sphere into the desired orientation using the motion control device.

Abstract: A method for aligning a sphere to a desired orientation includes imaging a non-surface alignment feature of the sphere and calculating a current orientation of the sphere based on an image of the non-surface alignment feature. Using these calculations, a relationship between the current orientation of the sphere and the desired orientation of the sphere is calculated and communicated to a motion control device, and aligning the sphere into the desired orientation using the motion control device.

Abstract: A traylike member is provided for use with a removable cover to form a container in which is accommodated a product. The traylike member includes a surface which subtends and supportingly engages the product. A marginal section extends from the periphery of the surface and is spaced outwardly from the product when the latter is engaging the surface. The surface is provided with a plurality of relatively spaced locating elements which are independently adjustable between operative and inoperative modes. When in an operative mode, the locating elements project upwardly from the surface and coact with one another to restrain relative lateral movement of the supported product with respect to the surface. When in the inoperative mode, the locating elements assume non-upwardly projecting positions relative to the surface.

Abstract: An accumulator-dehydrator assembly for an air conditioning system comprising an accumulator housing defining an enclosed chamber including an inlet and an outlet in the upper end and a refrigerant and oil accumulator in the lower end, and a vapor drier canister assembly comprising a one-piece plastic body defining a closed top wall, a closed side wall and an open bottom. The canister includes an integral outlet projecting into and sealingly engaging the outlet of the housing. A vapor filter is associated with the outlet of the canister such that refrigerant flows through the filter before passing through the outlet. A perforated plate is provided in the bottom of the canister for holding desiccant within the canister. A refrigerant and oil tube is mounted externally of the canister and has a lower end extending to the bottom of the chamber of the accumulator housing and has an upper end extending into the outlet of the canister. A filter is associated with the lower end of the tube.

Abstract: An improved transmission fluid filter and a method of assembly wherein the filter comprises a plastic first member having a planar peripheral lip, and a sheet metal second member with a planar ledge and a continuous peripheral flange crimped over the cover lip and capturing the lip against the ledge. In accordance with the invention, a bead having an arcuate surface extends around the outside edge of the cover lip, and the flange is preformed in a continuous progressive bending or curling operation prior to engagement with the bead.