Abstract: A device for assembly to an end of a conduit is provided such that an internal surface of the conduit is not contacted by the device, through, for example, engagement of the device with an external surface of the conduit. Also, an assembly of one or more conduits and one or more devices is provided in which a test pressure may be measured near the conduit or conduits, which may allow for adjustment of fluid flow through the conduit or conduits to adjust the pressure in the conduit or conduits.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fixture that reduces the heat transfer between a thermally conductive work piece, such as a copper tube, and the fixture. In one embodiment, the fixture includes a pair of collet members, with each collet member having at least one work piece engaging protrusion, and a clamping mechanism that urges the collet members toward each other to engage and clamp the work piece between the collet members. The contact between the work piece and the protrusions of the collet members inhibit additional surface contract between the work piece and the fixture, reducing the heat transfer from the work piece to the fixture during welding.

Abstract: A collet for holding a workpiece having an axis includes a collet base defining a collet axis. A plurality of contact points that are not integral with the collet base are supported on the collet base for movement relative to the collet base in directions generally toward and away from the collet axis. The collet is self-aligning whereby the contact points help to align the workpiece coaxially with the collet base.

Abstract: The present invention is for a method of converting a standard jack knife hinge into a new hinge, which allows access to a storage area underneath the seat bottom while retaining the ability to be used as a sofa and a bed. The new hinge is created by removing the seat bottom frame from the seat bottom bracket, fixably attaching a first attachment bracket to the seat bottom frame, pivotally attaching the first attachment bracket to a second attachment bracket, and fixably attaching the seat bottom bracket and the second attachment bracket to the seat base frame. The present invention also claims the finished combined hinge as well as a convertible sofa utilizing the new hinge.