Abstract: Accurate measurements of production parts are obtained from a system which includes a first measuring apparatus in a laboratory, and a second measuring apparatus which is in a non-laboratory environment where it is subjected to greater temperature fluctuations than in the laboratory. A reference part of substantially the same size and shape as the production parts is inspected by both measuring apparatuses, and the production part is inspected by the second measuring apparatus. While being inspected, both parts occupy substantially the same location on the second measuring apparatus. Results of these inspections are processed by a computer to provide (1) target values which the shop machine would perceive when inspecting a perfect part as specified by the part drawings, or (2) values which indicate what the laboratory machine would perceive for the production part.

Abstract: A coordinate measuring machine obtains accurate readings by analyzing the mechanical vibrations which occur between a contact point where a probe contacts a workpiece and a readout point where a position-sensing device produces signals indicative of the relative positioning between the probe and the workpiece. The position-sensing device produces an oscillating signal due to the mechanical vibrations. A set of sequential readings is taken of this oscillating signal, and an average of these sequential readings is calculated to produce a final output signal which substantially represents an equilibrium position of the vibrations. The routine for producing the final output signal is triggered in response to the deceleration which occurs when the probe contacts the workpiece.

Abstract: In measuring apparatus, a workpiece-contacting probe is mounted on a probe-supporting assembly which is maintained at a constant temperature by bathing it with liquid. The liquid is supplied at a constant temperature by a heat exchanger system which also supplies liquid to hydrostatic bearings in the probe-supporting assembly. Before being measured, the workpieces are immersed in a bath which is maintained at a constant temperature. Liquid is fed into the immersion bath by a probe provided with liquid outlets which can be directed against selected areas of a submerged workpiece.

Abstract: A probe assembly has a housing connected to the head of a coordinate measuring machine, a carrier movably connected to the housing, and a piezoelectric crystal mounted on the carrier. A stylus is mounted on the carrier. An electronic circuit receives signals from the crystal and, at an adjustable threshold value, the circuit provides output signals which are greater than and substantially simultaneous with signals from the crystal. A timer maintains the output signal for a time interval after the signal is produced by the crystal.

Abstract: A fishing assembly including a line, a sinker, a fish snare which may include a hook, bait and/or lure, and a leader for said snare, and including a bimetallic member, adapted for changing state in response to the temperature of the water environment in which said assembly is located, is arranged for determining the depth of said line to its junction with said leader whereby said leader is positioned in water of a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A water or other fluid containing system is protected by a thermostatically controlled drain valve having input, output, drain and control ports. A slideable barrier within the valve selectively directs the flow within the valve between the ports. A small coupling orifice through the barrier and a particularly designed closure for the orifice are provided. A thermosensitive mechanism delivers pressure to the control port to open this closure when ambient temperature drops below a predetermined level. Equal static pressures developed by flow through the orifice in turn develop unequal forces on opposite sides of the barrier, to shift the barrier, redirecting the flow within the valve.

Abstract: A water or other hydraulic system is protected by a thermostatic drain valve having a bimetal disc arranged with a three port cavity and a specially designed and compliantly sealed valve core so that the spring action of the disc acting together with the pressure of the fluid in the system constitutes the only power required to operate the valve.

Abstract: A water or other fluid containing system is protected by a thermostatically controlled drain valve having input, output, drain and control ports. A slideable barrier within the valve selectively directs the flow within the valve between the ports. A small coupling orifice through the barrier allows equal static pressures to develop on opposite sides of the barrier, and a thermosensitive relief mechanism at the control port relieves the pressure on one side of the barrier when ambient temperature drops below a predetermined level. Unequal pressures upon the barrier shift the barrier, redirecting the flow within the valve.