Abstract: A process for the removal of water from dispersed particles such as vinyl resins uses electrofiltration to yield a high total solids content wetcake. A final dryer such as a fluid energy dryer is used to yield a dry, finely divided resin or polymer. Accordingly, the need for various spray drying methods accompanied by subsequent harsh grinding steps are eliminated. Substantial energy cost savings are realized and the need for coagulation additives are eliminated as well as the necessary removal and neutralization of undesirable residues.

Abstract: A moisture detection unit for sensing the moisture content of tobacco is disclosed. A capacitor sensor forming part of a C.R. network is arranged so that the tobacco is passed through or near the sensor. The capacitance of the sensor is proportional to the moisture content of the tobacco, and this capacitance determines the frequency derived by an oscillator to which the C.R. network is connected. The output frequency is inversely proportional to the sensor capacitance. A frequency to voltage converter derives a voltage proportional to the frequency and this voltage signal is then passed through an inverter. The inverter has an off-set which compensates for the standing capacitance of the sensor, to derive an output voltage which is proportional to the moisture content of the tobacco. This voltage can then be used to drive a digital read-out.

Abstract: According to the invention chip steaks initially deposited on a conveyor in close consecutive order are re-spaced to assume an extended order en route to facilities for stacking the chip steaks in erect piles; the re-spacing being accomplished by accelerating at least one section of the conveyor and as well, by diverting the stream of chip steaks conveyed as aforesaid into two branch streams, at least, respectively directed to separate and separated stackers.

Abstract: The meat slice stacking apparatus includes a carrier on which meat slices are piled in discrete stacks and means for dropping successive meat slices onto the stacks; said dropping means including a trap which is alternately movable between a closed position in which it takes delivery of a meat slice from a transport and an open position in which it drops the meat slice onto the stack; the movements of the trap being governed by a sensor which senses meat slices on the transport as it carried them past a sensing station located to sense successive meat slices following the leading meat slices on the transport whereby to procure closing of the trap before said leading meat slices are respectively delivered to and seated on the trap.

Abstract: Disclosed is a casting machine in which first and second die halves define a die cavity in the shape of the article to be cast and a narrow runner opening into the cavity. A shot sleeve, having an upwardly oriented injection chamber, is connected to one of said die halves such that the top end of the injection chamber is in communication with the runner. A plunger, disposed for reciprocating motion in the chamber, has an upper face including a concavity for receiving sufficient casting material, such as molten metal, to form the article and for carrying the casting material out of contact of the shot sleeve when the plunger is advanced upwardly in the chamber. At least one of said die halves further defines a convexity projecting into the chamber, the convexity being adapted to cooperatively mate with the concavity and displace the casting material therefrom, through the runner and into the die cavity when the plunger is advanced to the top of the chamber.

Abstract: This invention is a motion system for use with simulators, primarily vehicle simulators, which provides random oscillatory motion to simulate the vibration encountered on such vehicles as trains, subway systems, trolley cars, etc. The motion system comprises a fixed base and a movable platform supported on that base at three primary points. Two points laterally spaced from each other support the motion platform on springs and a third support at the other end of the platform comprises a single ball support. Intermediate the pair of spring supports and the single ball support is a motion producing member such as a hydraulic cylinder.

Abstract: A bubble forming device is disclosed, wherein said device includes a bowl having an annular open topped chamber, and an air supply tube or pipe in open communication with the chamber to introduce air tangentially to the chamber axis. A disc is mounted on the bowl to cover the open top of the chamber, and to define a central opening which is in communication with the chamber. The disc and opening are concentric with the chamber and the bowl, and the outer face of the disc is provided with a series of slots which extend radially from the central opening.The device may be used to form bubbles for amusement purposes, in an improved manner over the prior art bubble forming device.

Abstract: An electromechanical door holder-closer includes a conventional door closer which has a shaft rotatable in response to movement of a door between its open and closed positions and resilient means for yieldably resisting rotation of the shaft in one direction. A latching mechanism cooperates in a latching position with a uni-directional clutch mounted on the shaft to permit free movement of the door from its closed position toward its open position and to releasably retain the door in a selected hold-open position therebetween when the latching mechanism is held in cooperative engagement with the clutch. The latching mechanism is releasably retained in its latching position by a normally energized electrically operated holding mechanism.