Abstract: A remotely controllable mixing system (210) in which a plurality of mixing assemblies (10a-10e) are arranged in an annular configuration, and wherein each assembly (10) employs a central chamber (16) and two outer, upper and lower, chambers (12, 14). Valves (18, 20) are positioned between chambers, and these valves (18, 20) for a given mixing assembly (10) are operated by upper and lower control rotors (29), which in turn are driven by upper and lower drive rotors (270, 270b). Additionally, a hoop (278) is compressed around upper control rotors (29) and a hoop (278b) is compressed around lower control rotors (29) to thus insure constant frictional engagement between all control rotors (29) and drive rotors (270, 270b). The drive rollers (270, 270b) are driven by a motor (213).

Abstract: A dual motion valve (A) includes two dual motion valve assemblies (10, 12) having a rotary input which allows the benefits of applying both rotary and axial motion to a rotary sealing element (24) having a plurality of ports (43). The motion of the rotary sealing element during actuation provides axial engagement of the rotary sealing element with a stationary valve plate (22) which also has ports (38). Fluid passages are created through the valve when the ports of the rotary sealing element are aligned with the ports of the stationary valve plate. Alignment is achieved through rotation of the rotary sealing element with respect to the stationary valve plate. The fluid passages provide direct paths which minimize fluid turbulence created in the fluid as it passes through the valve (A).

Abstract: A peristaltic pump (A) is disclosed which includes a roller assembly (D) having a plurality of pump rollers (12) carried thereon. As the roller assembly is rotated by a drive gear (66) the pump rollers (12) are driven in reverse rotation by means of a stationary ring gear (70) and pump roller gears (72). An upper pressure shoe plate (B) and a lower pressure shoe plate (C) are positioned above sets of flexible tubing (E) which interlace with each other at a back side (25) of a frame. The tubing (14, 16) is sandwiched between the pressure shoe plates and the pump rollers (12). A highly compact pump is provided having twice as many fluid channel lines as is conventional. The peristaltic pump device may be remotely operated by means of a rotary actuator (100) which rotates a driving hub (86, 88) to move the shoe plates (B and C) by means of eccentrically mounted links (89, 90).

Abstract: A variable length strut device (A) is illustrated for connecting two associated structures which includes an outer load bearing shell (B), a drive assembly (C), a length varying compliance assembly (D) positioned by drive assembly (C), and a strut rod locking assembly (E). Load bearing shell (B) includes a connecting part (32) adapted for connection to a first associated structure. A strut connection rod (58) has a connecting part (88) adapted for connection to a second associated structure and a distal end having a piston driver (74) slidably carried in a housing 44 of compliance assembly (D). Two compliance pistons (62, 64) act in opposing directions on the piston driver to provide longitudinal compliance in a compliance mode of operation. Locking assembly (E) includes locking balls (90) which are urged in a locking ring (92) as locking bolt (82) is urged to the left by fluid pressure.

Abstract: A structural array and electrical rotary joint for transmitting an electrical power between large space structures having relative rotational movement therebetween is disclosed as including large support framework structures A and B which rotate relative to one another about a common axis of rotation X. A rotary interface joint 14 is defined between the structures A and B. A cylindrical hub member C is carried by the structure A and a cylindrical hub member is carried by support structure B with hub member C being received concentrically within hub member D for relative rotation. Tension connecting cables connect hub member C and hub member D with their associated outer structures A and B whereby relative rotational movement between structures A and B is transmitted to the cylindrical hub members for unitary motion therewith.

Abstract: A biocentrifuge (10) is provided as part of a bioresearch centrifuge system (1) for subjecting caged animals to long term centrifugal forces that create gravity conditions aboard orbiting spacecraft. The centrifuge comprises a generally circular, rotatably mounted frame carrying a plurality of removable and replaceable cages (40) for the animal specimens. Pairs of opposing cages may be removed from the frame while it is rotating, by means of a cage exchanger (20) which rotates concentrically within the centrifuge and the speed of which is controlled independently of the frame speed. An image rotator (17) is provided for selective observation of the rotating animals. The system further includes a waste conveyor system (70), a food supply system (80) and a water supply system (90) for each cage for creating a life sustaining environment so that the animals can live in the rotating centrifuge for extended periods.

Abstract: A descent device is provided for emergency descent from tall structures and for lowering objects from high elevations such as a hovering helicopter. The device includes a rotating spool having a cable wound thereon for descent and a rotation-retarding vane member which rotates in a fluid cylinder. An adjustable bypass is provided for the fluid as the vane member rotates therein so that the speed of descent can be adjustably controlled.

Abstract: An optical pantograph for directing light beams and the like from a source to a receiver according to the movement of a pointer. The device can be used for, among other things, directing a laser beam and the like to a target for etching patterns on a target according to the movement of a pointer relative to a pattern trace.