Abstract: A portable traction device is disclosed. The device includes a frame which has an upper surface to support the individual to be subjected to traction. The frame has at least one mounting point at one end of the upper surface. At least one tension member emanates from beneath the frame and has a free end passing through the mounting point and back toward the upper surface of the frame. The free end of the tension member is secured to the individual who is to be subjected to traction. A takeup mechanism for applying tension to the tension member is located beneath the frame. The takeup mechanism is manually activated, usually by the patient. A system is provided for automatically decoupling the activation mechanism from the takeup mechanism when the applied tension reaches a preselected value, while maintaining the preselected tension on the tension member.

Abstract: An apparatus for safely and reliably inserting a generally hemispherically-shaped, cervix-covering vaginal product. The vaginal product is folded upon itself and fitted, while in the folded condition, into the inserter so that an indicating means on the inserter will reveal the position of the folded vaginal product in vivo. The vaginal product is discharged from the inserter by squeezing the bulb at the end of the handle, thereby inverting a diaphragm located at the opposite end of the inserter and discharging the vaginal product from the inserter while oriented so as to cover the cervix.

Abstract: In general, the preferred form of the present invention comprises an electrical moisture sensing disposable baby diaper, having a moisture or liquid impervious outer sheet and a superimposed liquid permeable inner lining encapsulating a moisture absorbent wadding, and one single continuous electrically conductive material or two thin electrically conductive materials affixed flatly to one opposing surface between the outer sheet and the inner lining in an arrangement wherein a cavity comprising the feature of the touching of opposite inside surfaces is adjoined with one or more discrete securing means located within the central area respective the exterior margin of the absorbent wadding layer to provide a first and a second length of conduit of circuitry in said cavity respective the electrically conductive material, therefore to communicate with the inner lining and in the presence of moisture electrically short circuiting the electrically conductive materials, immediately signal the wet condition of the in

Abstract: An article of manufacture with adhesive properties comprising a gelatinous adhesive composition dispersed in a plastics matrix. The gelatinous adhesive composition is the resulting product of heating together in the absence of solvent at least one polyhydric alcohol and at least one material selected from the group consisting of gelatin, naturally occurring high molecular weight polysaccharide gums, and resins which are a copolymer of a vinyl ether and a second component selected from organic acid anhydrides and their corresponding free acids. Heating promotes a chemical reaction between the components and also drives off water produced in the reaction which is carried substantially to completion.

Abstract: A demand regulator for use in breathing apparatus including a housing, a diaphragm in the housing separating the interior into a first chamber in communication with the ambient and a second chamber, a breathing passage for the user in communication with the second chamber, a valve controlling the supply of pressure to the second chamber and a valve actuator connected to the valve and operatively associated with the diaphragm for operating the valve in response to changes in the pressure differential between the first and second chambers. At least one heat conducting element is located in the second chamber and has a first portion located to receive heat from the user's breath and a second portion in heat transferring relation to the connection of the actuator to the valve whereby heat is transferred from the user's breath to the valve and connection to the valve actuator for preventing freeze-up of the valve and actuator under cold ambient conditions.

Abstract: An expandable airway for insertion into the throat of a patient having two elongated airway forming members each having a curved one-end portion adapted to fit the contours of the mouth and pharynx of a throat of a patient for effecting insertion and removal of the one-end portion of both into and out of the throat of a user. The two members are connected for pivotal movement in response to a force applied at the other end portions from a contracted state to at least one expanded state, wherein the one end portions are spaced apart relative to the contracted state. A holding member is disposed on the other end portion of one of said members for releasably holding the other of said members such that the members are maintained in said at least one expanded state and wherein said holding member is responsive to a force applied substantially in the direction of removal of the device from the throat to release the other of said members for free movement back to the contracted state.

Abstract: A syringe assembly having a hollow barrel and a needle in communication with the barrel for receipt or discharge of material therethrough. A plunger is received within the hollow barrel. A cap member receives at least a portion of the barrel and locking members are provided for securing the barrel and cap in a number of relative axial positions. A frangible end closure may be provided on the end of the cap closest to the needle. The locking members permit different locked positions for exposing different amounts of the needle. The locking members may be formed on the barrel and cap and may consist of a series of formations on the barrel adapted to engage a series of formations on the cap. Ready locking and unlocking is permitted.

Abstract: A medical suction control unit of the type operated by occlusion of a control port to prevent entry of atmospheric pressure into a control chamber, in which the valving element is free to move bodily between open and closed positions in response to the closing and opening of the control port, with the vacuum bleed passage, which enables air to be withdrawn from the control chamber, establishing flow around the side of the valving element. The vacuum bleed passage is shown formed by a channel in one or the other of the contacting surfaces, at the point where the valve element rests upon a surface of the housing. The valve element is shown in the form of an elastomeric disk which has sufficient structural strength to resist detrimental deformation under vacuum, and which has sufficient thickness to guide itself in its bodily movement. In one form the unit employs a plug-form member attached to the valve element and entering the intake chamber to reduce objectionable noise.

Abstract: An improved surgical appliance suitable for temporary gastrostomy for humans is provided in the form of an elongated, multiple lumen gastrostomy tube, which is adapted to provide both (1) gastrointestinal decompression by means of suction, thereby significantly removing both undesired swallowed air from the stomach and excess collections of gastric fluids from pools formed in the stomach, while simultaneously, substantially equalizing pressure in the stomach by use of venting means, and (2) intraduodenal or jejunal feeding by intubation and infusion.

Abstract: A method system for measuring the rate of occurrence of physiological parameters, such as temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate. A method, implemented by a digital processor associated with an electronic measuring system, provides accurate measurements in a short period of time, which measurements are then displayed to the system operator. Automatic indicator signals or alarm signals are produced whenever data is determined to be invalid. The system is entirely self-contained and, upon completion of a measuring cycle, actuation of the appropriate function key, will visually display the valid data to the operator.

Abstract: A stabbing apparatus for penetration of a living body wall, having a stabbing apparatus body provided with a sharp edge, a pressure sensor disposed on the peripheral surface thereof to sense the pressure to which the sensor is subjected when stabbing a living body wall, and an indicator responsive to the sensed pressure above a predetermined level, whereby the depth of penetration of the stabbing apparatus body with respect to the living body wall is indicated.

Abstract: A method of using a sphygmomanometer having a built-in arrhythmia detecting mechanism, wherein the blood pressure measuring portion contains a pulsation detector, which receives pulse sounds including Korotkoff sounds for electrically converting the pulse sounds into wave form signals of the vascular pulse wave and output the same, and a mechanism indicating the blood pressure value by means of detecting the Korotkoff sounds recognized and separated from the wave form signals of the vascular pulse wave output in the above-mentioned way; the incorporated arrhythmia detecting mechanism receives the wave form signals of the vascular pulse wave for comparing the cycle of the wave form signals with a predetermined criterion in order to electrically detect irregularities, if any, in the signals for detecting the existence of arrhythmias. This sphygmomanometer is capable of measuring the blood pressure simultaneously with the detecting of arrhythmia.

Abstract: A biopsy sampling device, particularly adapted for bone marrow sampling, which includes a needle having a lumen formed therein, along with a removably disposed stylet. The needle is provided with a sharpened cutting edge, when desired, particularly when designed for bone marrow sampling. A gripping means is disposed about the proximal end of the needle, with the gripping means including a generally solid finger-gripping member with portions extending laterally of the needle, and with the finger-gripping member having a needle-receiving bore extending generally centrally through the member. The solid finger-gripping member has a pair of opposed channels formed along the outer surfaces thereof, with the axes of the channels being arranged at right angles, one to another, with one axis being generally parallel to the needle axis, and with the other axis being generally transverse to the needle axis.

Abstract: A coin counting machine is described having an anti-jamming device for removing jammed coins from a passageway. A jam detection circuit is provided for indicating the jamming of a passageway. A stop control circuit is provided whereby the coin counting machine operation is halted at which time the jam is removed. Jam removal is accomplished by reversing direction of operation of the counting machine. The apparatus described thereby prevents damage to the machine which would normally result from coin jamming.

Abstract: A cleansing apparatus for test-vessels such as cuvettes or the like comprising a support shaft and three spaced paralleled disks, two of said disks being secured to the shaft and the third disk being rotatably positioned on the shaft, a nozzle secured to the first disk, the second and third disks having apertures thereon for receiving cuvettes, so that a cuvette may be positioned over the nozzle through the apertures in one of the disks, and retained by the rotatable disk so that immersion of the apparatus into a cleansing solution forces a jet of solution through the nozzle for cleansing the cuvette.

Abstract: A protective cover for bicycles, and other wheeled vehicles is described. The cover is of a collapsible, weatherproof materials such as a heavy gauge plastic which may be stored in a compact roll. The cover consists of a generally U-shaped, in vertical cross-section, envelope intended to fit over the bicycle with an upper drawstring surrounding the seat and handlebars and a lower drawstring surrounding the lower portions of the wheels. Two pairs of reinforced holes are provided in either side of the cover adjacent inner portions of the wheels so that a conventional bicycle lock may be used to secure the bicycle and to secure the cover thereto.

Abstract: A method of removing from a valve, a backseat and packing means, without the necessity of first removing the packing means from the body of the valve so as to provide access for removal of the backseat, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a member and with the same cooperatively engaging the backseat for purpose of removing the same from the valve; (b) manipulating the member so as to release the backseat from its secured position within the body of the valve; and (c) further manipulating the member to withdraw the backseat and the packing means from the valve body. There is provided an apparatus for carrying out the aforementioned method.

Abstract: The temperature controlled valve mechanism herein comprises a valve housing, a valve inlet in the housing for connection with a fluid source, a valve outlet in the housing for draining fluid from the housing and a valve closure member supported for movement toward and away from the valve outlet between closed and opened positions. The valve closure member blocks and closes the valve outlet when it is in the closed position. A biasing spring is provided for urging the valve closure member away from the closed position. An expansion chamber is formed within the housing. Apparatus for introducing a pressure into the expansion chamber is provided for moving the closure member to a closed position against the force of the biasing spring upon entry of a pressurized medium into the expansion chamber. A temperature-activated venting mechanism for venting and depressurizing the expansion chamber upon occurrence of a predetermined temperature drop is provided.

Abstract: The invention is a system for controlling the mass flow rates of vapor and carrier gas in a flowing fluid mixture. A regulated flow of carrier gas is divided so that a fraction of the flow passes through a vaporizer to pick up the vapor while the balance bypasses the vaporizer. The streams are then recombined and the resulting mixture is passed through a dew point detector which gives an output signal which varies according to variations in the mass ratio of the vapor to the carrier gas. A controller responds to the detector signal to generate a control signal which modulates a valve to vary the fraction of the carrier gas passing through the vaporizer, thereby influencing the mass rate at which the vapor is introduced. The feedback control from the dew point detector to the valve is adapted to regulate the dew point, and thereby the mass ratio of vapor to carrier.

Abstract: A hydraulic control valve provides controlled fluid supply for two hydraulic services having different flow and pressure requirements, as for example a lift service of a lift truck for lifting loads vertically and a tilting service for tilting loads forwardly and rearwardly. Two landed spools operate in parallel adjacent bores each joining a plurality of chambers and connected to fluid pressure supply and tank service ports. The supply to port communicating with one of the bores through two of the chambers, so that flow area is increased and the pressure drop of fluid flowing through them is reduced, and is connected through the bore and chambers to the tank port when the respective spool is in a neutral position and selectively to the service ports by movement of the spool.

Abstract: A rigid valve stem cover for flexible tubeless tire type valve stems. The cover has a frustro conical shape which threadably engages the valve stem at its upper end while the bottom edge of the cover comes in contact with the stem and wheel rim area surrounding the stem and provides substantial rigidity to the stem.

Abstract: A self-cleaning orifice assembly, for draining unacceptable accumulations of water from pipes and vessels associated with a turbine, is herein presented and claimed. The invention includes a two-position, movable stem having therein a plurality of ducts and the orifice. Their relative diameters and the flow itself are utilized to prevent blockage of the flow path.

Abstract: The technical field of the invention is that of valves of the guillotine type for powdered, granulated or pasty products.The object is to provide such valves which are self-cleaning and therefore avoid a wedging of the guillotine plate which opposes the sealing effect of the closure of the valve by the plate.The gist of the solution of this problem resides in the fact that there are interposed, between the slideways of the body of the valve and the slidable plate straight elongated section members which are rigid with the slidable plate and are distinctly longer than this plate. These section members fill the whole of the space of the slideways and prevent the product passing through the valve from penetrating and accumulating in the slideways.The main use of the invention resides in the equipment of installations conveying powdered, granulated or particulate products.

Abstract: A tamper resistant valve actuator for a fire hydrant has a bullet shaped nose presenting a nongrippable conical surface. Three equally spaced shallow recesses are provided in the conical surface at a common elevation. A special wrench includes radially projecting set screws adapted for complementary fit within the recesses and adjustable tightening thereto for operating the valve stem. The actuator is designed for installation on conventional hydrant assemblies and in substitution of the existing pentagon head operating nut. In a modified embodiment, the valve operating nut is provided with a valve stem socket for compatibility with another form of hydrant assembly. In addition, the wrench receiving recesses are placed in a variant pattern.

Abstract: In a digital fluid flow control system having a source of fluid at a first pressure and a fluid receiver at a second pressure lower than the first pressure, individually actuatable, digital valve elements interconnect the source to the receiver. In the flow passage of each valve element, there is an isolating orifice at which the pressure is independent of variations in the second pressure, by virtue of the difference between the first and second pressures. The isolating orifice of each valve element is preferably the throat of a converging-diverging nozzle that feeds into the receiver. In one implementation, spaced axially aligned upstream and downstream conduits are formed in a valve body; radial passages in which digital valve elements are located interconnect the conduits.

Abstract: A multiple-section, multiple-position switching valve and a hydraulic powered valve actuator for controlling subsea well equipment, such as valve operators, connectors and other hydraulically actuated devices, with only two hydraulic pressure source lines from the surface to the subsea location of such well equipment. The switching valve includes a plurality of readily removable and replaceable valve sections, each having a unique combination of valve portings, which sections can be connected end to end to obtain a switching system having a predetermined matrix of switching control. The valve actuator moves the switching valve in a first direction through a sequence of distinct positions, and then reverses and moves the switching valve in the opposite direction through the same distinct positions.

Abstract: A pneumatic control valve for a fully pneumatic system for controlling both the low pressure and working pressure sides of a pneumatic installation. The valve mechanism is designed to increase the switching frequency of the mechanism.

Abstract: A lamellate type low noise fluid resistance device comprising a stack of identical segmented ring-shaped plates having alternate sectional openings which, when circularly displaced with one another, form narrow horizontal fluid passages between the inner and outer diameters of said plates; said stack being bolted together with upper means to close the interior stack passage and lower flange means having a central opening and extending radially outward from the stack outer diameter.

Abstract: An improved papermaker's fabric comprising warp and filling yarns woven in a preselected conventional unbalanced weave pattern modified such that every other warp yarn occupies a position with respect to the filling yarns opposite to that which it would normally occupy according to the above mentioned preselected conventional unbalanced weave pattern.

Abstract: A tool for holding and notching a banding strap being applied to an article includes angularly disposed pivotable arm. A fluid actuating device simultaneously pivots the arms in opposite directions. Each of the arms has jaws to hold the end of the strap by the edges before tension is applied to the strap and cutting edges to notch the strap to prevent strap motion while tensioning is being applied. Each of the arms also includes a fluid actuating device for rotating the notching edges with respect to the holding jaws.

Abstract: An apparatus for stranding an outer layer of wires on an inner layer cable core is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a tubular stranding machine comprising a rotating tube within which are stationary mounted on the same axis a series of cradles each supporting a spool of wire from which are paid-off the outer wires, means for guiding said outer wires along the outside wall of said tube towards a stranding die located at the front of the stranding machine, means for guiding a cable core originating from the back of the stranding machine along the outside wall of the tube, and a wire straightener stationary mounted at the front of the stranding machine ahead of the stranding die and through which is passed the cable core to eliminate the waviness of the cable core due to rotation during traveling along the outside wall of the tube.

Abstract: A removable seal for interconnecting passageways (10, 12) that move relative to each other. A liquid containing trough (28) is secured to one of the passageways, preferably the lower, and it has floated in it a curtain member (40) which moves in accordance with the level of liquid in the trough. This member (40) extends from the trough (28) and sealingly engages the other passageway when in an upper position but is spaced therefrom when in a lower position. This construction is especially suitable for sealing an ash hopper (12) to the lower end of a furnace (10).

Abstract: A dispenser assembly has been devised for the transfer of flowable materials from one container to another and is characterized in particular by the construction of a dispenser spout which is adapted to be releasably secured to a tubular extension projecting from the access opening of the supply container. The spout is comprised of an end closure having an open support adapted to be releasably inserted into the tubular extension such that the closure is spaced from the end of the tubular extension and the open support permits the passage of materials from the supply container. A movable sleeve in telescoping relation to the tubular extension is normally urged in a direction closing the passage formed by the open support outwardly of the tubular extension.

Abstract: A molding curvature template fixture is disclosed. The fixture (10) holds a strip of molding (16) and provides a template for a portable router to follow to shape an end of the strip of molding substantially similar to the cross-sectional shape of the shaped side of the molding (16). The molding (16) can then fit over the shaped side of an adjacent, perpendicularly-disposed strip to form a right angle joint. The fixture (10) is comprised of a box-section frame (12) having a series of lateral slots (26, 28, 30, 32, 34) and a clamping mechanism (14). Each slot (26, 28, 30, 32, 34) includes a guiding surface having a shape substantially similar to the cross-sectional shape of the shaped side of a strip of molding (16). An insert (50) may be attached to frame (12) to provide a guiding surface for cutting molding having a non-standard shape.

Abstract: A pair of sonic transducers are mounted above a peeler block on a veneer lathe, adjacent opposite ends of the block. Bursts of sonic energy are directed downward to strike the surface of the block such that sonic energy is reflected from the block surface to the transducers. The distance from the transducers to the axis of rotation of the lathe spindle upon which the block is mounted is known and, as a consequence, the radius of the peeler block may be determined in response to the ultrasonically measured distance from the transducers to the block surface. A series of radius measurements may be made as the block is rotated on the lathe spindle. Additionally, measurements may be made when a log is first loaded onto the lathe, after the log is rounded up, and after peeling of the block is completed.

Abstract: A jointer-planer is fabricated of a single generally U-shaped die-casting of integral one-piece construction extending generally the full length and breadth of the machine and to which each of the other major components are directly attached having a base section defining the out-feed table and two parallel, spaced apart side edge leg portions extending past the cutter assembly and on opposite sides of the in-feed table so that the in-feed table is disposed between the elongated side edge leg portions. One of the elongated side edge leg portions is provided with a pair of longitudinally spaced apart fence mounting bracket portions of integral, one-piece construction therewith having generally arcuate outer surfaces providing a virtual pivot axis about which a molded longitudinally extensive elongated fence of integral, one-piece construction is positioned.

Abstract: An improved hand tool includes a well at the top of the handle into which the upper end of the shank extends. The well is adapted to receive a torque producing socket wrench drive which engages the shank in order to transmit the torque producing drive directly to the tip of the hand drive tool. In the preferred embodiment the shank which extends into a well has a hexagonal cross-section and is adapted to cooperate with a standard socket wrench. Tips of various configuration may be employed.

Abstract: A bag for free flowing powders or granules has a cylindrical body portion of a bag proper, top and bottom end portion which close top and bottom openings of the bag proper, and a cylindrical filling portion formed on the top end portion. Top edges of the cylindrical bag proper are sewn along a line passing through a point of a central axis of the cylindrical filling portion. The above-mentioned bag is made from a sheet-like cloth or a tube fabric.

Abstract: A work pouch has a central compartment configured to fit the top of a pedestal such as a stepladder and a depending skirt which hangs over the top portion of the pedestal and has a plurality of side compartments. The work pouch provides storage of tools, equipment and supplies convenient to a person on a stepladder or scaffold.

Abstract: A vane holding assembly for suspending a vertical vane formed of a pliable material from a hook of a venetian blind mechanism includes an elongated housing defining a downwardly opening cavity bounded in part by opposite side walls formed with a plurality of ribs projecting inwardly of the cavity, and an elongated vane holding bar for insertion into the cavity between the ribs; the holding bar having an elongated mounting slot for receiving an upper end of a vane in folded relation, whereby as the holding bar is inserted into the housing the opposed ribs engage and frictionally secure the folded vane relative to the holding bar. The housing is additionally provided with an upper opening permitting insertion of the hook within the cavity for connection to the holding bar.

Abstract: The invention relates to doors of the kind, which are movable in guides mounted in opposing vertical edges of a doorway, the gasket being intended in the closed condition of the door to bridge the distance between the upper edge portion of the shutter blade and the wall side, along which the shutter blade is displaceable. The door head gasket comprises a stiff ledge (10) extending freely between the edges of the shutter blade, a band (16) of flexible material extending between the fastening points, one longitudinal edge of said band being connected with the ledge, whereas its other longitudinal edge is connected with the door head portion, whereby a seal between the shutter blade and the wall side is maintained independently of the extension of the shutter blade between its guides.

Abstract: A louvered panel assembly comprises a plurality of tape-supported louvers. Each tape comprises a plurality of inter-connected links. Each link supports a louver and comprises a substantially vertical link segment and an outwardly and downwardly angled louver-support segment. The angle of inclination of the louver-support segment relative to the link segment determines the angle of inclination of the louver supported by the link.

Abstract: A die casting system comprises a machine of the balanced, dual movement type wherein the part is cast and trimmed without any lateral movement. Both halves of the molds or dies are moved equal distances to and from the part plane. The machine incorporates a system of metal injection on the mold parting line with a runner-drain provision; provision for supporting the part at a plurality of points after the die opening; hydraulic fluid volumetric flow reduction; various nozzle configuration options and a heat transfer system for the dies. In addition, a part trimming machine is disclosed together with a cable transfer for moving the part from the casting machine to the trimming machine.

Abstract: A wax pattern and runner assembly includes resilient means whereby upon expansion of the wax upon removal from a ceramic mould the resilient means are compressed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for accurately and quickly adjusting the distance and tilt angle or taper between movable side wall mold plates in adjustable width continuous casting mold sections. A pair of spaced primary mold members with movable side wall mold plates therebetween, form an open ended mold cavity. Each side wall mold plate is connected to upper and lower fixed mold supports by separate upper and lower adjustable length connectors which have their inner ends hinged to the side wall mold plates. Each connector has an axial bore receiving a transducer core for reciprocating movement along a linear path. A cylindrical transducer coil housing in the bore, fixed relative to the mold cavity center, surrounds the movable core. The transducer core has one end anchored to a side wall mold plate.

Abstract: A process for recrystallization of thin strip material includes a device for electromagnetically melting the thin strip material to provide a molten surface layer and a substantially solid core. Apparatus provides relative movement between the thin strip and the device for electromagnetically melting. Also, an apparatus resolidifies the molten surface layer to provide a preferred crystal structure in the thin strip material.

Abstract: To obtain a short adjustment time with small risk of metal break-out, it is intended during the changing of the dimensions of a continuously cast strand to alter during the casting operation i.e. while the pour or teeming operation is in progress, at least during a time interval of the pivotal movement of the mold wall, the mutual relationship of the displacement speeds of two devices for moving the mold wall and the position of the pivot axis of the mold wall is shifted parallel to its starting position.

Abstract: In a process in which a feedstock is provided through a desalting unit prior to introduction into a fractional distillation column, the feed stream flowing to the desalting unit is split and passed through multiple heat exchangers. Method and apparatus is provided for maintaining a desired effluent flow rate out of the desalting unit and for maintaining the temperatures of the split feed streams substantially equal. After passing through the desalting unit the feed stream may again be split and passed through multiple heat exchangers prior to introduction of the feed stream into the fractional distillation column. Method and apparatus is also provided for maintaining the temperature of the split feed streams provided from the desalting unit substantially equal.

Abstract: A radiating device for a power amplifier etc. comprising a plurality of fin members fitted to an escutcheon body so as to project therefrom and openings formed on the escutcheon body at positions around the base portions of the fin members, respectively.

Abstract: A pump plug for use in through-the-flowline well operations, including a sleeve provided with annular sealing fins, which fins are flexible in both directions of the central axis of the sleeve. Support means are mounted on the sleeve for supporting the sealing fins in each of the flexed positions thereof.