Abstract: A directional locking caster convertible between a locked position and an unlocked position by application of a lateral force. Also disclosed are transport devices including the caster. Additionally, a transport device including a directional locking caster that is convertible from a locked position to an unlocked position via a cable release.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for dissipating heat in a generator. A rotor having support wedges between each of its poles is mounted on a bored shaft in which a bored spindle having helical grooves along its outer diameter is fixed. A cooling medium is circulated through the bored shaft upon rotation of the shaft. The shaft has at least one outlet and one inlet through which the cooling medium can radially exit and return, respectively. Each of the support wedges has an inlet and an outlet between which a bore extends. In a preferred embodiment, a manifold is disposed about the bored shaft and mated to each of the support wedges so as to circulate the cooling medium from the bored shaft to the support wedges and back to the bored shaft, thereby dissipating heat from the generator rotor. In alternate embodiments more than one manifold is used to circulate the cooling medium through the support wedges.

Abstract: A spool valve is located within the shell of a hermetic compressor unit and shifted by a solenoid valve to direct the discharge of the compressor through either of two lines through the shell. Depending upon the line used as the discharge line, the compressor is suitable for either heating or cooling and is the equivalent of a reversible compressor. Alternatively, a spool valve can connect the suction line of a compressor to either of two lines extending through the compressor shell.

Abstract: A fluid pressure responsive member is shifted in accordance with the pressure differential between two lines either one of which can be a suction line with the other line being a discharge line of a reversible compressor. The fluid pressure responsive member has an arcuate recess formed therein which serves as a secondary suction port which provides fluid communication to the offset cylindrical chamber from the suction line in accordance with the position of the fluid pressure responsive member. Because the porting is responsive to the pressure differential between the two lines, the changeover of the porting is automatic upon the reversal of the operation of the compressor.

Abstract: A fluid pressure responsive member is shifted in accordance with the pressure differential between two lines either one of which can be a suction line with the other line being a discharge line of a reversible compressor. The fluid pressure responsive member has a pair of arcuate recesses formed therein which serve as secondary suction ports which provide fluid communication to the elliptical chamber from suction lines in accordance with the position of the fluid pressure responsive member. Because the porting is responsive to the pressure differential between the two lines, the changeover of the porting is automatic upon the reversal of the operation of the compressor.