Abstract: A data decoding circuit which receives an input signal comprising a sequence of pulses and generates a digital data output signal and timing signals in response thereto. The circuit includes a phase-locked loop which generates timing signals in response to the input signal and an offset signal from a data separator circuit. The data separator circuit generates the digital data output signal and the offset signal, which measures the degree of correlation between the input signal as received by the data separator and the timing signal from the phase-locked loop, thereby obviating the need to match the data separator circuit closely to the phase-locked loop.

Abstract: An electrical fuselink having improved surge-resistant characteristics comprises a fuse element (1) disposed in an electrically insulating enclosure (4) having all or part of the air-space within the enclosure filled with a microporous or microcellular insulating material (2) which has low intrinsic thermal conductivity and cavities or cells of a size less than the average inter-molecular collision distance of the gas, normally air, occupying its cavities or cells. The fuse element is connected between electrical leads (3) which project from the enclosure for connecting the fuselink in an electrical circuit.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for subdividing parametric patches for use in a computer graphics system to develop images. The system utilizes initial data, provided as by an interactive user, to represent control points for an initial patch from which the system rapidly computes control points for subpatches using parallel processors. The disclosed system is recursive so that each level of subdivision leads to greater refinement of an initial patch. In one embodiment, the processors in the system compute multiple control points, the grouping of processors exploiting patch symmetrical properties.

Abstract: A system utilizing computed tomography (CT) as for surgery. A CT scanner provides data representative of or slices taken through a body member. Display apparatus reveals the slices. A reference apparatus (frame) affixed to the body, operates in conjunction with the scanner and the display apparatus. The frame includes: structure for affixation to the body, holder means for guiding the therapeutic instrument, and structure for providing reference indications. The system further includes a data processing structure and control means for transforming data between frame coordinates and slice coordinates.

Abstract: This block-shaped container is characterized by a spring means which maintains cover of the container above serrated cutter in its inoperative condition thus preventing the hands of the user from accidentally coming in contact with the cutter.

Abstract: A check valve assembly for use in a drill string to prevent reverse flow of drilling fluid through the string while permitting such fluid to be pumped downwardly through the well under normal conditions. The assembly includes: a valve body; a ball valve member, normally located out of the flow path in a side recess; a valve seat located above the valve member and means for controlling the rate of reverse flow of fluid required to move the valve member out of the side recess and against the valve seat.

Abstract: A machine for dispensing thick plastic film has two cradle rollers which carry a heavy roll of thick plastic film, two nipper rolls which draw film from the roll of plastic film, a timer regulated motor which drives the nipper rolls to dispense a pre-selected length of film and a knife to cut the film. The use of the knife reactivates the machanism to dispense a second given length of film and the process is infinitely repeated. The heavy plastic film dispensed is used to cover the sharp jagged edges of bones of primal or subprimal cuts of meat prior to the cuts being placed in plastic bags or wrapped in plastic film. The heavy plastic film protects the plastic bag or wrapping film from puncture by the jagged edges of the bones.