Abstract: A compact manifold valve for use in gas flow systems includes a manifold body, first and second cartridge holders, first and second operating valves and an outlet port. The manifold body includes valve turrets for mounting the first and second operating valves. Different valves types such as externally pressurized, normally closed bellows or diaphragm valves, externally pressurized, normally open bellows or diaphragm valves, double acting bellows or diaphragm valves, manually operated valves and/or toggle operated valves may be readily interchanged in the manifold valve to accommodate different applications in the gas flow system. The manifold body also includes first and second valve chambers, first and second cartridge ports, and multiple fluid flow pathways fluidically interconnecting the valve chambers, cartridge ports and outlet port. The manifold valve further includes first and second cartridge holders which are configured to be readily mounted in and removed from the manifold body.

Abstract: An anti-fluttering valve construction includes a valve member with integral stem received in an oversize cylindrical bore in a guide which can give rise to fluttering of the valve member when it is unseated. To avoid fluttering, the guide at one or both ends of the bore is segmented and a spring surrounds the free ends of the segments to deform them inwardly to define a conically inwardly tapering portion of the bore which makes highly localized contact with the valve stem.

Abstract: The invention relates to a flow diverter adapted to convey engine cooling water toward an air heating system for the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The diverter is installed along the circuit conveying the cooling water and, more precisely, within a chamber defined between two flanges, the first accommodating the outlets of two first pipes connected to the engine and the second accommodating the outlets of two second pipes connected to the heating system. The diverter comprises two structures rotatably fixed with respect to each other and which rotate between a first position, in which each of the first pipes has a hydraulic connection with a respective second pipe, and a second position, in which the second pipes are blocked and the first pipes, through means of the chamber, are directly fluidically connected to each other.

Abstract: The functions of a diverter valve and a variable orifice valve are combined in a single valve including an elongated magnetic member that is pivoted at a first end with a portion of the second end being positioned between opposed restrictors, a coil assembly for producing a magnetic field for selectively pulling the magnetic member toward one of the restrictors, sealing the restrictor it is pulled against thereby enabling the diversion of fluid flow, for example, from one nozzle to another, and further including a ball screw and torque motor attached to the first end of the magnetic member for selective movement thereof fore and aft, with the second end of the magnetic member being tapered and positioned in cooperative relation with respect to an orifice in a fluid inlet member whereby the fore and aft movement of the magnetic member controls the size of the orifice and the amount of fluid flow.

Abstract: Method for restoring underground pipeline (11B) wherein short-pipes (17) are pressed one after the other intermittently into the pipeline end to end. An expansion piercer (18) or similar broaching tool is pushed through the pipeline at the leading end of the pipe string formed by the short-pipes and is brought to expand so as to split or, if splitting is not necessary, to widen the pipeline to substantially circular cross-sectional form.

Abstract: A flexible body member is constructed so as to be wrapped around a hose at connector portions thereof and has overlapping side portions. The body member has releasable securement on its overlapping areas and also has a widened portion intermediate the ends thereof for accommodating the interfitting coupling members and for holding the device on the coupling members. The releasable securement on the overlapping side areas is by continuous and full length fastening elements such as Velcro. The device also has padding to provide desired cushioning and insulation.

Abstract: A double-containment thermoplastic pipe assembly is provided to prevent against potentially hazardous spills or leaks of chemicals and the like. The double-containment pipe assembly comprises a containment pipe and at least one carrier pipe disposed therein. The carrier pipe is retained in spaced relationship to the containment pipe by support clips with outwardly extending radially aligned legs. Restraint couplings may be disposed at selected locations along the double-containment pipe assembly. The restraint couplings include a carrier portion, a containment portion and a connecting portion extending therebetween. Double-containment pipe fittings also are provided to ensure complete double-containment protection throughout an entire double-containment pipe assembly.

Abstract: Described is a tubular artificial sausage casing based on fiber-reinforced cellulose which shows, in the completely soaked state as compared to the state prior to soaking in water, an increase in length of from about 0.8 to 2.5% and a transverse shrinkage of from about 2.5 to 5.2%. Preferably, the change of diameter of the casing at the same change of pressure in the range above 20 kPa is approximately equal for the completely soaked state and for a moisture content of from about 22 to 27% by weight. In a preferred embodiment, the sausage casing can be filled with sausage meat without being previously soaked in water and, for this purpose, has a moisture content of from about 22 to 27% by weight and a glycerol content of from about 17 to 20% by weight, in each case based on its total weight, and is provided with a fungicide on its outside surface.

Abstract: A metal-ceramic heat-insulating structure having a metallic tubular member fitted with a hollow cylindrical sintered ceramic, the inner surface of which is to be exposed to elevated temperatures. The sintered ceramic is bound to the metallic tubular member by means of a ceramic powder compacted in a gap located between the two members.

Abstract: A powder-filled welded steel tube has a tube wall with a welded longitudinal seam and is wound into a coil for despatch. To reduce the risk that the seam opens when the tube is twisted, e.g. on uncoiling, the tube wall is provided with a continuous longitudinal groove. Preferably the groove is symmetrical and directed radially inwards. In the continuous manufacture of such tube, a metal strip is formed into an open channel, powder is introduced into the channel, the channel is closed and the edges welded to form a closed tube. The diameter is then reduced and the finished product is coiled. The longitudinal groove is rolled in continuously during the diameter reduction of the powder-filled welded tube.

Abstract: A ball-lock tie application tool includes a blade projecting from the front face of the tool disposed to engage a ball-containing finger on the head of the tie. During tensioning of the tie around an object by the tool the blade deforms the finger inwardly against the locking ball which results in a greater retention of the initial tension applied by the tool to the tie.

Abstract: An attachment for an appliance such as a washing machine that is connected to a water or other fluid inlet source that surrounds the hose connections from the fluid source to the appliance in a manner that prevents any leakage from the connector hoses from escaping into the vicinity around the appliance and flooding that area. Any excess fluid is instead directed via a drainage hose into an appropriate drainage site. The hose protector device has sleeves that cover and surround each individual hose connected to the appliance. The sleeves are interconnected to each other by a bridging conduit positioned between the sleeves. A drainage hose is attached to one of the interconnecting means and the sleeves so that any fluid accumulating in the sleeves is transported out of the sleeves through the drainage hose and into the appropriate drainage site, such as a floor drain or standpipe.

Abstract: The disclosed gaseous fuel torch apparatus is adapted for use in cutting, welding, heating or other such operations involving the heating, cutting, or fusing of either metallic or non-metallic materials. The apparatus includes a fueling module for supplying gaseous fuel to a torch at an elevated pressure from a relatively low pressure gaseous fuel source, such as a natural gas supply system for example. The fueling module also preferably includes a selectively-operable alternate system for supplying such compressed gaseous fuel for other applications, including the recharging of one or more storage vessels for example. The fueling module includes features by which its gaseous fuel discharge pressure can be infinitely varied and preselectively adjusted within the capabilities of the fueling module's compressor device.

Abstract: Automatic hot water recovery apparatus is provided for conserving the energy in a pressurized plumbing system and water heater apparatus by recovering hot water from hot water lines extending to plumbing fixtures remotely disposed from the water heater. A flow regulator is provided for automatically adjusting the flow of water from the cold water line into the hot water line as a function of operating pressure within the plumbing system.

Abstract: A washing machine standpipe that has a drainage outlet in Lifting on an inner tube inside the standpipe uncovers a lower opening on the standpipe, allowing trapped water to escape. When the lower opening is in a closed position by having the inner tube cover it, water exits into the standpipe from the top portion as is conventional. The inner tube can be automatically lifted and the lower opening uncovered upon the completion of a machine cycle.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve comprises a poppet member that is biased toward and sealingly engages a slidable tubular valve seat having unrestrained axial rotation and a central relief flow passage. When the system pressure reaches a threshold pressure the valve seat and poppet are both axially displaced such that at the moment that the poppet is unseated from the valve seat, the valve seat is in motion. The motion of the valve seat when the poppet is unseating or reseating allows the valve seat to comply with any eccentricities of the poppet to achieve uniform seat stresses and low leakage rates as well as acceptable flow rates and low hysteresis.

Abstract: A sanitary cover for a liquid dispenser, such as a typical soft drink dispenser is provided. A typical soft drink dispenser includes a nozzle assembly and an adjacent actuator where a diluent such as carbonated water is mixed with a beverage concentrate or syrup to produce a soft drink. The present invention provides a cover for the dispensing area of a conventional beverage dispenser which allows a user or consumer to manipulate, through a hand slot, a cup behind the cover in order to fill the cup at the beverage dispenser. The sanitary cover includes a cup inlet which discourages the insertion of a full or partially full cup. The outlet of the cover allows a full cup to be removed from the casing but discourages insertion of a full or partially full cup. The cover, thus, prevents a soiled cup from contacting the beverage dispensing nozzle or actuator assembly. The cover also provides shielding of the actuator and dispensing nozzle area of a beverage dispenser for sanitary reasons.

Abstract: A microgravity dispenser system including a carbonator, metering device and cup filler for dispensing a still or carbonated beverage in the microgravity conditions of outer space.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process of preparing a novel form of laminated-veneer-lumber. More particularly, this invention pertains to a process of producing a laminated-veneer-lumber which is composed of compactly arranged veneer sheets which have sinusoidal edges. A method of joining sheets of veneer in a layup, useful for continuous production of laminated veneer-lumber, comprising dispensing the stress concentration of the joints over an extended area of the joint by using veneer sheets that have opposite edges cut in a sinusoidal pattern.

Abstract: A tube made of flexible tarpaulins or sheeting as a covering for relatively large objects for the purpose of long-term storage. The tube is provided on the outer circumference with attachments for the application of force to enable the tube to be raised to its proper shape, thus allowing entry of the object. The tube then only requires to be closed at its ends by means of removable clamps.

Abstract: A resilient wheel has a rim (4) with an airtight annular channel (18) separated from the tire air space (19) by an annular elastomeric member (16). The sealed annular channel (18) is in pressure communication with the tire air space (19) and acts as a buffer absorbing abrupt transient pressure changes produced in the tire air chamber (19).The elastomeric member (16) is seated in depressions (5) in the rim surface stabilizing the beads (6) of the tire mounted on the rim (4). Valve (30) in the rim (4) allows inflation of the annular air chamber (18), providing selective control for the resiliency of the wheel. Continuous radially extending portions (34) of the elastomeric member (16) serve to hold the tire beads (6) in place, the tire beads (6) residing between the extending portions (34) and radially extending portions of the rim structure.

Abstract: A pneumatic tire comprising: a pair of bead cores; a carcass turned over at its both ends around the bead cores; a tread on the carcass; a belt comprising at least two plies of steel cords and dispsoed radially outside the carcass; a pair of inner bands disposed between the carcass and the belt and each having strecthable cords made of organic fibers, the inner band cords laid substantially parallel to the tire equator; and the axially outer edge of the inner bands and the edges of a widest ply of the belt being substantially trued up, whereby both steering stability and high speed durability are improved.

Abstract: A radial tire (20) for motor vehicles, on which a body ply (6) presents two lateral portions (8) turned substantially 360.degree. about respective beads (4) and joined, by an end portion (9), to the outer surface of a center portion (7) of the body ply (6) immediately over the beads (4); each lateral portion (8) of the body ply (6) turned about the bead (4) being gripped between an innerliner (10) and an outer abrasion strip (12) integral with each other; and each abrasion strip (12) presenting a section of varying thickness, to compensate for the absence of a bead filler.

Abstract: An improved joint construction (10) for a roll-up door includes specially-configured upper and lower panel sections (12, 11), a specially-configured hinge member (13) adapted to be longitudinally inserted into operative engagement wiht lower panel section, and a seal member (14) protectively concealed within a recess (73) in the upper panel section. The hinge member is coated with a low friction material to facilitate its longitudinal insertion into operative engagement with the lower panel section, and to facilitate relative movement of the adjacent panel sections. The lower panel section has an upwardly-extending lug (42) which is arranged to enter the recess in the upper panel section and compress the seal member when the adjacent panels are in vertically-aligned relation to one another.

Abstract: A decorative member is disclosed for attachment to a valance or a vertical slat of a blind structure. The decorative member includes a substrate which fits into the valance or blind slat and a cover member which is attached to the substrate and covers the exposed edges of the valance or blind slat to which the member is attached.

Abstract: A roll-up or curtain type door is disclosed which has modular components which are interchangeable for use on either side of the door, thereby reducing significantly the number of parts which must be manufactured for the door. The number of hardware items is also reduced significantly by designing components which slide together in a secure locking fashion, resulting in better ease of assembly and installation. In one embodiment, the roll-up door of the present invention is used to secure a storage unit with shelves.

Abstract: An airvessel for molding articles comprises a tank, a highly elastic membrane formed as a valve element and fixed in the tank by flanges to a support plate to form an annular chamber which may be pressurized via an air supply conduit to deform the membrane towards a closure position in which the membrane falls upon a valve seat. An opening is established in the center of the membrane-support plate assembly to which is axially coupled an outlet conduit for release of residual air which is present in a diffuser positioned below the membrane and coupled to a mold box.

Abstract: A heat extracting substrate is moved along a melt front formed at the edge of the surface of a molten material so that a layer of molten material is deposited on the substrate, cooled and removed from the substrate to form ribbon, filaments, fiber or film directly from the molten material. The edge may be formed by providing an upper edge upon a portion of the wall of a receptacle lower than the top of the receptacle. The molten material may be overflowed over this relatively horizontal edge and against the moving substrate surface.

Abstract: In a method for continuous casting of an aluminum-lithium alloy through an open-ended mold for forming an ingot, wherein gas under pressure is brought into contact with a molten surface part of said ingot directly before solidification, the gas used consists of from 1 to 15 volume % of oxygen and balance of inert gas. The casting is stabilized and cast skin is improved by the use of said gas.

Abstract: An automotive air conditioning control system comprises a first control circuit for automatically controlling an angle of an air mix damper in accordance with a plurality of variable conditions, for example, an outside air temperature and an inside air temperature. A switching mechanism predetermines either a maximum heating or cooling when closed. A second control circuit moves the air mix damper to a position for either maximum heating or cooling independently of the variable conditions responsive to operation of the switching mechanism. The second control circuit includes a signaling circuit which outputs a drive signal to control the movement of the air mix damper to the position for maximum heating or cooling for only a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A heat exchanger is described wherein each heat transfer tube is individually removable along its longitudinal axis such that a dense tube configuration within the heat transfer chamber can be maintained.

Abstract: A heat transfer element assembly (30) is comprised of a plurality of first and second profiled heat transfer plates (32,34) which incorporate a series of first and second single-lobed outwardly protruding notches (40,50) which extend obliquely relative to the general direction of fluid flow through the assembled plates. The first and second profiled heat transfer plates (32,34) are assembled alternately in juxtaposed relationship in a stacked array with the obliquely extending spacing notches (40,50) of neighboring plates crossing each other. The first and second profiled head transfer plates are provided with a plurality of first single-lobed notches (40) protruding outwardly from one side of the plate and a plurality of second single-lobed notches (50) protruding outwardly from the other side of the plate. The first and second single-lobed notches are arranged in staggered relationship with one or more second single-lobed notches (50) disposed between each pair of first single-lobed notches (40).

Abstract: An electronic equipment cooling device having: a first cyclic flow passage which includes the equipments to be cooled, a radiator or a cooling exchanger, and two stopper valves for making the direction of flow one way, and a second cyclic flow passage which includes a heat drive pump driven by heat from heating devices in the equipments and a radiator or a cooling exchanger for cooling the heat drive pump, wherein the two cyclic flow passages are connected to each other with a pressure conducting device.

Abstract: A heat recovery system for at least partially cooling and at least partially cleaning an exhaust stream of hot air from a heating operation which is contaminated with vaporized, condensable liquids and with finely divided particulate solids comprising (a) a first indirect heat exchange means for partially cooling the hot exhaust stream with a fresh stream of cold air to a temperature not significantly above the dew point of vaporized liquids entrained in the hot air stream and for partially heating the fresh stream of air, (b) solids collecting means for centrifugally separating a substantial portion of the finely divided solids from the partially cooled exhaust stream and (c) second indirect heat exchange means for further cooling the exhaust stream to a temperature below the dew point of vaporized liquids initially contained therein to thereby liquefy a significant portion of the vaporized liquids and to further heat the stream of fresh air.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided an animal watering device comprising an insulated reservoir and a heat tube capable of extending from a point in the earth below the frost line upwardly into the container and thereby transferring the heat of the earth into the water in the reservoir as a result of a suitable working fluid contained in the heat tube. Also there is provided a heat tube having a twisted wall and a wound section in the reservoir.

Abstract: A dual string packer for releasable, hydraulic setting within a wall casing is disclosed. The packing seal elements and hydraulic actuator assembly are mounted for sliding movement along primary and secondary packer mandrels. Setting forces are applied to the packing seal elements by a setting cylinder which is mounted for slideable, sealing engagement against the primary and secondary packer mandrels, and setting forces are applied to the anchor slips by a piston which is sealed against the primary and secondary packer mandrels. The set condition is maintained by a pair of locking rods and segmented ratchet slips. The locking rods are carried by the setting cylinder head and are retracted axially out of piston pockets as a variable volume pressure chamber is pressurized. Upon achieving set engagement of the anchor slips and seal elements, the locking rods are trapped in compression between the head of the setting cylinder and the segmented ratchet slips.

Abstract: The process is of special interest to refinieries in the neighborhood of existing oilfields. The crude oil additionally released in the known manner by the introduction of hot water or steam contains also a so-called petroleum gas consisting largely of methane as well as other combustible gases. According to the invention, this gas is converted in hydrogen using a cracking oven heated by a high-temperature reactor, with steam being produced by the heat released by the cracking oven.

Abstract: A method of protecting a permeable formation penetrated by a well bore against damage by subsequent treatment operations. In protecting the formation against damage by cement used in installing a casing, a well bore is drilled through the formation and liquid composition capable of gelling is introduced into the area of the formation. After the gel is formed it is drilled out, leaving a sufficient amount still plugging the voids in the formation wall. Subsequently, after installing the casing, the gel reverts to liquid form, leaving the permeable formation in condition for production of the well. Preferably, the gel contains a breaker to cause the gel to revert to liquid form after a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus is provided for mixing slurries, particularly high density, high viscosity fracturing fluid slurries containing a large proportion of proppant material. A mixing tub has a generally round horizontal cross-sectional shape. A relatively large, low-speed rotating agitator is utilized to mix the slurry. The design of the agitator is such that a radially inwardly rolling toroidal shaped slurry flow zone is created adjacent the upper surface of the slurry within the tub. A stream of clean fracturing fluid is introduced into the tub near the center of the toroidal shaped flow zone. Dry proppant material is introduced into the tub and carried by the radially inwardly rolling flow into contact with the clean fracturing fluid. Foraminous baffles, preferably constructed from expanded metal sheets, are radially oriented within the tub to reduce rotational motion of the slurry within the tub without causing dropout of proppant from the slurry.

Abstract: A well sealing apparatus, and method of use, which seals between tubular goods and a well casing without the use of a sealing tool run separately. The apparatus has a resilient skirt which is sealed against the well casing by split rings which are released from containment by the assembly as the assembly is released from the drill pipe.

Abstract: An automatic sprinkler having a force transmitting mechanism for releasably maintaining a water outlet closed includes a frangible glass bulb having a very quick response characteristic to thermal input. Substantially less than one-half the force transmitted through the force transmitting mechanism is carried by the glass bulb.

Abstract: An automatic fire sprinkler of commercial grade is installed in a domestic dwelling independent of existing plumbing and without alteration of the plumbing in the dwelling. The automatic sprinkler head is connected to one end of a flexible hose. The opposite end of the hose is connected to an existing spigot to the water supply of a central heating unit, hot water heater or the like. The spigot may be a drain outlet or other outlet. The opposite end of the hose may also be connected to a water faucet which provides water to the domestic clothes washing machine. The fire sprinkler head is hung above the heat system or clothes washer/dryer. In response to a fire the sprinkler automatically sprays water from the existing water supply to the immediate area.

Abstract: An edge cutter comprising a cutter member and support means therefore adapted to be moved to cut along a guide such as the edge of a path, comprising:means to support the cutter member on transport means,means to allow the cutter member to move laterally with respect to the direction of movement of the transport means,means to urge the cutter member to move toward the guide, and,means to allow the cutter member to caster to align with the guide.

Abstract: A guidance system for an agricultural implement pulled by a tractor is disclosed. The implement, such as a cultivator or planter, has ground-engaging discs mounted to a frame or toolbar and includes a control hitch mounted to the conventional three-point tractor hitch. The toolbar of the implement is mounted to the control hitch for rotation about a vertical axis. A first sensing device senses the position of the implement relative to a desired lateral position, such as the distance from a crop row, and generates a signal representative of the displacement of the implement from that desired lateral position. The sensing device actuates a hydraulic circuit to turn the implement toolbar toward the desired position; and the discs steer the implement toward the desired lateral position. A second sensing device senses the angular position of the implement relative to the control hitch.

Abstract: A grader attachment is a forward extending triangular truss structure, which extends from a point of pivotal attachment to a tractor to a tandem front wheel support. A blade frame pivotally hangs from the peak of the truss, supporting a cutter blade immediately beneath the truss. The blade frame is capable of both lateral rotation an tilt. Blade positioning provides lateral forces for sliding the blade from side to side, and a rotational force for turning the blade so as to provide for a left or right leading edge cut. The blade describes, as it is moved, a cutting line tangent to a circle of large radius. The blade is supported through a long lever arm, increasing the stability of the blade position. The tractor raises and lowers the blade by tilting the entire truss. The apparatus is steered by the steering wheels of the tractor.

Abstract: A portable, cordless battery-powered tool with a relatively small overall length is provided. A handle section forms the rearmost part of the tool. An electric motor is located below a spindle and forwardly of the handle section. The motor has a rotatable shaft located in parallel with the spindle. The handle section is provided with a switch trigger which is substantially aligned with the central axis of the spindle at its top.

Abstract: A cracking device for use in a dredger includes a housing body having an elongated cavity receiving an elongated piston and a hammer rod to be struck by the piston. The cavity forms a gas chamber around a top end of the piston for receiving an operating gas, an annular hydraulic chamber around the piston adjacent to the annular flange, and an impact chamber around a bottom end of the piston and around a top end of the hammer rod. The hydraulic chamber is divided into two variable volume upper and lower chambers by an annular flange of the piston. A passage is provided in the body to permit a hydraulic fluid to operate in the hydraulic chamber through the passage. A hydraulically operated control valve is connected to the passage and the hydraulic chamber for controlling the operation of the hydraulic fluid.

Abstract: A device for drilling an undercut (1b) in a borehole (1a) in a target material 1, includes an axially extending guide sleeve (13) containing an axially extending eccentric bore, an eccentric bushing (14) is supported rotatably in the guide sleeve and a drive shaft (15) is supported rotatably in the eccentric bushing. A housing (10, 12) laterally encloses the guide sleeve and bears against the surface of the target material. A blocking member (25) is positioned between the housing (10, 12) and the guide sleeve (13) for permitting rotation of the guide sleeve in only one rotational direction relative to the housing (10, 12). Due to the blocking member (25) entrainment of the guide sleeve (13) is prevented when the eccentric bushing is rotated in the direction opposite to the one rotational direction.

Abstract: Hydraulic drilling method and apparatus in which the drilling fluid itself is utilized to control the direction in which a hole is bored in the earth. The orientation of the drill head is monitored by tilt and roll sensors, and the discharge of drilling fluid through radially or obliquely directed nozzles is controlled by poppet valves in accordance with the orientation to control the direction in which the hole is cut.

Abstract: A coring tool comprises a core cutting section and an actuating section disposed thereabove. The core cutting section includes axially telescoping outer and inner barrels. The inner barrel includes a jaw carrier which carries pivotable core-catching jaws normally covered along their radially inner sides by a driver sleeve. When the driver sleeve is raised by the actuator section the jaws are uncovered. Thereafter, the driver sleeve raises the jaw carrier to bring the jaws into contact with a stationary inclined jaw-deflecting surface to force the jaws laterally inwardly through the core. The actuator section relies upon fluid pressure to release for movement a vertically risible member which is mechanically lifted by a drill string to transmit vertical forces to the driver sleeve from a drill string.