Abstract: A clock control unit is provided that controls the gating of a clock signal received by an internal baud generator of a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) circuit during an active mode. The clock control unit monitors the UART circuit to determine whether the UART is currently idle. If the clock control unit determines that the UART is idle, the clock signal is gated by a synchronous clock gate circuit. Accordingly, the clock signal is not provided to the baud generator, and a corresponding baud rate signal that normally clocks the receiver state machine of the UART is not generated. Power consumption of the UART is thereby significantly reduced. When a certain predetermined system activity is thereafter detected by the clock control unit that indicates a need for activation of the UART, the clock control unit asserts a clock enable signal that causes the synchronous clock gate circuit to pass the clock signal to an input of the baud generator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to debeaking turkey and chick poultry through non-contact thermal transfer from a source of high frequency heat generating radiation. The present invention directs heat onto the upper beak of a live bird by convection or radiation to thereby affect the continued growth of the beak. Such heating of the bird's upper beak provides a debeaking method which allows the bird's upper beak to stay in place for several days allowing the bird to eat and drink. Heating the portion of the upper beak also allows the poultry tongue and lower beak to be shielded from the heat causing less trauma and injury to the bird. The heat may be directed onto the poultry upper beak by radiation or convection.

Abstract: A method for making a direct acting tappet in which an oil groove and interior structure defining a weld interface are formed in a cupshaped body by a rolling process, the body is heat treated, a web and hub structure is positioned against the weld interface and the resulting assembly is subjected to a localized, capacitive discharge welding process in the weld interface area. The weld interface is formed to a specific shape to enhance the integrity of the weld. Further, a baffle member can be assembled to the web and hub structure prior to its positioning within the body member.

Abstract: A tool for scraping paint and dusting the loosened particles away. The tool fits in the pocket of the painter's overalls which is designed for the scraper alone, and it eliminates the need for a separate brush or rag to dust a surface clean for painting. The Dusper has snapping pins on the handle for removing and replacing the brush.

Abstract: A direct acting hydraulic tappet and a method for making same in which an oil groove and interior structure defining a weld interface are formed in a cup-shaped body by a rolling process, the body is heat treated, a web and hub structure is positioned against the weld interface and the resulting assembly is subjected to a localized, capacitive discharge welding process in the weld interface area. In accordance with the invention, the weld interface is formed to a specific shape to enhance the integrity of the weld. In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a baffle member can be assembled to the web and hub structure prior to its positioning within the body member.

Abstract: An article of furniture that is convertible from a couch configuration into a bed configuration. The ability to convert the article is provided by a two pieced frame assembly including a seat section and a back section which are pivotally attached preferably at only two discreet points. The back section is provided with legs that support the back section in a horizontal position when the article is in its bed configuration which, in turn, is attached by pivots to the rear portion of the seat section and supports same. The front portion of the seat section is supported by separate legs.