Abstract: An extruded, tubular vehicle axle for front and rear wheel applications, is formed with integral, radially outwardly extending ribs, at the radial top and bottom dead centers of the axle, and continuously extending longitudinally along substantially the entire length of the axle parallel to the axis of the axle. The opposite end portions of the axle are snugly inserted within corresponding sockets formed, for example, in a vehicle axle yoke or carrier or housing, which sockets are provided with internal grooves for snugly receiving the ribs at the respective end portions. The exterior wall surface of the axle is substantially uniform in cross-section. The interior wall surface of the axle tube may vary, at pre-selected locations, to increase or decrease the wall thicknesses at such locations. The axle resists rotation relative to the sockets, under extreme torsional loads, and resists longitudinal bending or flexing, while being of relatively light weight.

Abstract: The test apparatus of the present invention tests the power supply on a military aircraft, which power supply provides power to missiles carried by the aircraft. The apparatus tests for an overvoltage condition, wherein the power supply output exceeds the maximum allowable voltage of the missiles. The test apparatus includes an electrical connector for interfacing the test apparatus with the aircraft power supply, and an electrical comparator that compares the voltages from first and second inputs. The first input is clamped to a voltage which is representative of the maximum voltage limit of the missiles and the second input is tied to the output of the aircraft power supply so as to vary with the power supply output. The comparator activates a warning lamp when the second input voltage exceeds the first input voltage to warn an operator of an overvoltage condition.