Abstract: A valve having secondary spring force containment includes a valve body featuring an opening with a valve closure member sized to close the opening. A stem has a first end connected to the valve closure member. A proximal spring seat is positioned adjacent to the valve body, A distal spring seat is mounted on the second end of the stem. A spring is positioned between the proximal and distal spring seats so that the valve closure member is urged into a position where the valve body opening is closed. A hollow rod is attached between the proximal and distal spring seats to provide secondary spring force containment with the stem passing through the hollow rod.

Abstract: A valve having secondary spring force containment includes a valve body featuring an opening with a valve closure member sized to close the opening. A stem has a first end connected to the valve closure member. A proximal spring seat is positioned adjacent to the valve body, A distal spring seat is mounted on the second end of the stem. A spring is positioned between the proximal and distal spring seats so that the valve closure member is urged into a position where the valve body opening is closed. A hollow rod is attached between the proximal and distal spring seats to provide secondary spring force containment with the stem passing through the hollow rod.

Abstract: The integrated precast building system provides for all construction elements. The walls, floor, and roof form an integrated structure of module length (FIG. 3). Passages for HVAC, electrical wiring and piping are provided. Inserts for decorative panels and lighting are easily installed and removed. The sloped roof requires no covering. A flat roof can be made with the floor panel but the roof would not be as waterproof as the recommended sloped roof. The system is applicable to homes thru large commercial buildings. The building goes together faster and is completed quicker because all details of the structure are integrated. Life cycle costs are minimized because the structural elements need no painting and do not deteriorate. The basic structure is fireproof. Modifications are easy. Removing the inserts, installing the changes and replacing the inserts facilitate modifications. The buildings can withstand earthquake 4 requirements when post tensioned.

Abstract: A distance-measuring system includes a light source for transmitting a beam of light to a target, thereby generating a received beam. A calibration unit periodically calibrates the system by positioning a calibration target between the light source and the target so that the transmitted beam is interrupted, thereby generating a received calibration beam. The calibration unit also generates a calibration signal which is indicative of when the calibration target is generating the received calibration beam. A target sensor receives the reflected target and calibration beams and provides a target signal indicative of the reflected target and calibration beams. A reference sensor receives light from the light source and provides a reference signal to the processing circuitry. Processing circuitry receives the calibration, target, and reference signals and calculates the distance to the target based upon the target and reference signals and/or calibrates the system based upon the calibration signal.