Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus for measuring nasal air flow. The apparatus includes a head for interacting with at least one of the nasal cavities of a patient. The head has a measuring chamber through which air is inhaled into and exhaled from the nasal cavity. A resistance wire is positioned within the measuring chamber with the path of air flow. There is also a current generator electrically connected to the resistance wire for providing a constant current through the resistance wire such that the resistance wire is heated. The apparatus further includes means for analyzing change in voltage across the resistance wire over time such that air flow through the measuring chamber is determined. The analyzing means is electrically connected to the resistance wire. There are also means for displaying the determined air flow. The present invention is also a method for measuring nasal air flow.

Abstract: An improved EEG system (10) for telemetrically transmitting brain activity data from a portable transmitter to a processing console. The improved EEG system (10) includes a lightweight transmitter (12) which amplifies and digitizes the EEG signals from a set of electrodes (16) and transmits the digital signals along with a checksum to a receiver (14). The transmitter (12) may be carried by the subject under observation. The transmitter (12) of the preferred embodiment includes at least four circuit boards including a selectively interchangeable montage board (18), an amplifier board (24), a processor board (34), and a transmitter board (54). A signal is transmitted toward the receiver (14) and delivered to a conventional computer-controlled broadcast television tuner (80). The selected receiver (14) outputs data which is in an acceptable form for connection to standard microprocessor peripherals.

Abstract: Biopsy needle for bone marrow biopsies or the like including a cannula, a cannula housing supporting the cannula, and a stylet including a stylet cap supporting the stylet wherein the stylet engages into the cannula in a predetermined relationship and the stylet cap interlocks to the cannula housing. The cannula housing includes vertical wings extending outwardly from the housing for engagement with the palm of a physician's hand, a cannula having formed ends which engage and secure into the cannula housing, and an elongated button extending outwardly from the top of the cannula housing for detent locking with the stylet cap providing for alignment of the stylet to the cannula of the biopsy needle.

Abstract: A combination exo-endocervical sampler. The sampler includes an elongated handle portion having a free end and a non-linearly tapered row of flags disposed proximate the end opposite the free end. The flags are preferably configured to have a flat sampling surface and a convex opposed surface and are disposed at an acute angle with respect to the handle portion. A spatulate member is disposed on the handle portion proximate the row of flags at a point diametrically opposite thereto. A ledge extends along the handle member proximate its juncture with the spatulate member and serves to assist in the spreading of the separated exo- and endocervical samplers on to a two-tiered microscope slide. Optionally, a secondary row of flags is formed on an upper edge of the spatulate member to sweep the endocervix and transition zone when the device is rotated within the cervical canal.

Abstract: An intrauterine pressure catheter system for monitoring pressure in the uterus of a mother during labor and delivery. The system includes a reusable junction box with a needle communicating directly to a pressure transducer sensor. The sensor transmits changes in pressure to a conventional pressure monitor. A connector attached to the catheter is pushed into the junction box and is held in place by a plastic latch. Inside this connector are an elastomeric plug and an adjacent diaphragm. When the connector is installed in the junction box, the needle pierces the plug and the tip enters the air-filled volume between the plug and the diaphragm. Fluid pressure in the catheter is communicated to the diaphragm surface and, in turn, passed to the air in the volume between the diaphragm and the plug. Thus, the intrauterine pressure is transmitted directly to the sensor. The system may be zeroed to atmosphere by simply removing the connector from the junction box.

Abstract: The system and method includes a manipulator for manipulating a surgical instrument relative to a patient's body and, a position sensor for sensing the position of the surgical instrument relative to the patient's body. The manipulator can be manually or computer actuated and can have brakes to limit movement. In a preferred embodiment, orthogonal only motion between members of the manipulator is provided. The position sensor includes beacons connected to the patient and manipulator or surgical instrument and, a three dimensional beacon sensor adapted to sense the location and position of the beacons. Redundant joint sensors on the manipulator may also be provided. The system and method uses a computer to actively interact with the surgeon and can use various different input and output devices and modes.

Abstract: This invention relates to a spinal column correction device and in particular to one including a head rest having a first raised support, a second raised support formed with a recess at the intermediate portion, a groove between the first raised support and the second raised support, a triangular region extending downwardly from the second raised support, and a Velcro strap at the lower edge of the head rest, a lumbar rest having a Velcro strap at the upper edge and the lower edge, a swollen region at the intermediate portion, a spine line at the center, a triangular region at the upper portion, and two recesses at the lower portion for receiving two hips of an user, and a bottom rest having two recesses for receiving two feet of an user and a swollen region between the two recesses for resting the feet, whereby the device may effectively correct the spinal column of an user.

Abstract: A flexible, elongated suture passing device or shuttle capable of advancing monofilament or multi-stranded suture material to a remote work site. The suture shuttle is formed of a plurality of woven or braided fiber strands which are coated, over all but a central portion of the strands, with a material having a flexible exterior surface. A part of the central portion of the strands is formed into an eyelet for receiving a suture therethrough. A method is disclosed wherein one end of the suture shuttle is advanced to a work site until the eyelet passes through the tissue at the work site. This enables suture to be passed through the eyelet so the shuttle may be withdrawn to pass the suture back through the tissue to be sutured. Repeating this process brings any desired number of suture leads through the tissue so a knot may be tied.

Abstract: A continuous method for processing dry whole cloves into particles suitable for inclusion in cigarettes comprising steps of: a) raising the moisture content of the whole dried cloves by (i) providing said cloves in a heat conducting receptacle, and (ii) simultaneously providing steam and water into said receptacle; b) continuously slicing said moisturized whole cloves into finely chopped particles; and c) drying said clove particles at a variety of different convective air drying rates and temperatures. Apparatuses includes means for conditioning whole dried cloves, including a trough, means for inputting a quantity of whole dried cloves into the trough, the trough having a top and a bottom, and a fully flighted screw conveyor for transporting a quantity of whole cloves therethrough. The trough further includes a plurality of steam inputs oriented at the bottom of the trough and a plurality of water inputs located at the top of the trough.

Abstract: A preparation for use in a hair bleaching composition consists of 30 to 65% by weight of a persulfate granulate having granule diameters from 0.1 to 0.6 cm and at least one other granulated substance including 15 to 45% by weight of granulated alkaline reacting alkali metal salts. The other granulated substance also has particle diameters from about 0.1 to 0.6 cm. It can also contain 0.1 to 3% by weight of a chelating agent, 0.1 to 15% by weight of an anionic, cationic or nonionic surfactant and a water-soluble thickener. The two component composition contains an aqueous solution which is 4 to 18% by weight hydrogen peroxide and the preparation containing the granulated persulfate. Prior to application on the hair the hydrogen peroxide solution is mixed with the preparation.

Abstract: A light electric dental flosser with a rechargeable battery compartment includes a motor casing, interchangeably individualized head units, and disposable plastic floss tips that snap mount within the hinged end of the head unit. The floss tips exhibit bidirectional flossing motion provided from a motion translation system including an eccentric cam, a yoke, and an output shaft with a cam follower mechanism that follows a generally Z-shaped tracking surface with a vertical track component and a horizontal track component enabled by the yoke to complete the resulting "Z" movement. The floss tips have a molded-in filament and are molded from a shock absorbing substance which absorbs the vertical component of the "Z" shaped motion upon the application of pressure to the filament thereby outputting horizontal motion until the filament passes through the contact area between two teeth.

Abstract: This invention relates to a dental floss assembly, which comprises a holder also for receiving the dental floss, a locating member mounted at the front portion of the holder, a holding member for dental floss which is mounted on the holding member and can be replaced. With a change in the angle of the holding member for dental floss by virtue of the locating member it is easy for the user to clean up dirts at the spaces between the teeth in deep cavity of the mouth so as to assure oral hygiene.

Abstract: A bath system for processing semiconductor wafers includes a container having walls with a sonic transducer mounted on the outside of one side wall which is oblique to the other side walls. The thickness of the one side wall permits sonic energy to pass therethrough to wafers held in a liquid bath. Liquid and gas are introduced into the housing from the bottom wall.

Abstract: An endoscopic instrument cleaning apparatus includes a syringe coupled to a flushing chamber by a form-fitting stopper. A distal, or instrument receiving end of the flushing chamber is inserted into a supply of cleaning fluid and the plunger of the syringe is drawn out to its fully retracted length, thereby filling the syringe and the flushing chamber with cleaning fluid. Then the distal end of an endoscopic instrument is inserted about through an aperture in a stopper having the shape of a conical frustum and is inserted into the flushing chamber to a depth of about 4 inches (10 cm) and the plunger of the syringe is thrust forward to inject pressurized cleaning solution through the endoscopic instrument. In another embodiment, the syringe receiving stopper is recessed within a proximal end of the flush chamber by about 3/8 inches (0.95-1.

Abstract: A system for alleviating leakage or weepage from a pressure relief valve found on conventional hot water heater tanks due to water pressure build-up in residential water lines caused by the application of intense heat with fast recovery type hot water heaters wherein a water pressure relief valve is easily and quickly connected between a washing machine water supply outlet faucet and a flexible washing machine water inlet hose and water vented from this pressure relief valve is vented through a flexible hose to an appropriate drain.

Abstract: A gate valve comprises a valve body (1) and a gate displaceably arranged inside said valve body transverse to the flow direction, said gate being provided on each side with a guide groove (14) guided by means of a mating guide rail formed on each side of the valve body (1). The gate (13) comprises a gate core (16) coated with a polymeric material, preferably an elastomer, which in the sealing surface areas (17, 18) of the gate (13) sealingly abuts the corresponding seat surfaces (19, 20) of the valve body (1) in the closed position of the gate. At least the guide grooves (14, 44) are coated with a harder and more wear-resisting polymeric material than the remaining portion of the gate, and the two coatings are moulded such that a molecular interbinding exists between said coatings in the transition areas therebetween.

Abstract: A rupture disc of a thermoplastic material in which metal wires or carbon fibers are imbedded. According to a particular embodiment of the invention, at least one of the wires is designed as an electrical conductor through which current flows.

Abstract: Disclose herein is an exhaust valve capable of quickly discharging either a fluid in a cylinder or compressed air in a pneumatic tank therefrom. The exhaust valve is basically provided with a first port, a second port, a third port and a directional control valve. The first port is supplied with a fluid and the second port is used to supply the fluid to another device or receive it therefrom. The third port is used to discharge the fluid therefrom and comprises a rotatable L-shaped line or pipe. The directional control valve is switched to cause the first port to communicate with the second port or cause the second port to communicate with the third port in response to the pressure of the fluid supplied from each of the ports. The first and second ports have axial directions respectively which substantially coincide with each other or extend approximately in parallel. Therefore, the first and second ports can be incorporated in the course of a pipe without making a change in a piping direction.

Abstract: In a liquid storage tank 10 for use on a spacecraft, a transfer apparatus 15 (comprising gathering vanes 33, an elongate array of fins 32, and a sponge structure formed from panels 31) functions to transfer liquid from the inner surface of the tank 10 to the vicinity of an outlet line 40. A screen 23 is disposed between the panels 31 and the outlet line 40. When wetted with liquid, the screen 23 prevents gas and/or vapor in the tank 10 from passing to the outlet line 40. A perforated plate 22 disposed between the screen 23 and the outlet line 40 causes liquid to pass from the tank 10 to the outlet line 40 in a regular and generally unbroken flow.

Abstract: A plumbing system is provided with a coupling having a chamber, an inlet passageway through which a fluid may enter the chamber from a supply, an outlet passageway through which a fluid may exit the chamber and the coupling, and a vent passageway in fluid communication with the chamber and having a vent inlet in communication with ambient atmosphere and a vent outlet in communication with the chamber. The coupling is provided between a source of liquid (e.g. a control capsule for mixing hot and cold water supplies via a user operable valve) and an outlet nozzle (e.g., a hose-connected spray head). A vacuum breaker check valve is located in the vent passageway of the coupling and includes a valve member for closing the vent inlet when pressure in the chamber is greater than pressure at the vent inlet and for opening the vent inlet when pressure in the chamber is less than pressure at the vent inlet.

Abstract: A pneumatic control drive 1, 51, 71 for control devices, in particular control valves, comprises a drive housing 5 and a drive member 11 displaceable therein and to which is affixed a drive element 18 displaceable together with said drive member 11 to actuate the control device and exiting the drive housing 5, said drive member dividing the drive housing 5 into a pressure chamber 12 and a reset chamber 13 with a reset member 15, 16 loading the drive member 11. A position controller 3 is adjacent to one of the chambers (13) and communicates through an inner air-supply duct 30, 28, 55, 74 with the pressure chamber 12, a vent duct 35, 58, 76 issuing from the reset chamber 13 toward a vent aperture. In the invention, the drive element 18 comprises an air-supply duct 24, 25 issuing at the side of the drive member 11 away from the position controller 3 into the pressure chamber 12 there.

Abstract: A safety valve includes a tube and a valve device. The valve device is substantially a cylindrical member with an end thereof coupled to an outlet of a gas container by a mounting device. The other end of the valve device has a threading portion for engaging with a first end of the tube whose second end communicates with a burner. The valve device has an inner gas passage which tapers to form a neck adjacent to the threading portion thereof. A stem hole is formed in the threading portion and communicates with the neck. Also formed in the threading portion are two slits which also communicate with the neck. A valve stem has a stem portion received in the stem hole and a valve head in the inner gas passage. When leakage occurs downstream of the valve device, the valve stem is moved toward the neck, and thus blocks the slits, thereby preventing from escapement of subsequent gas remained in the inner gas passage and in the gas container.

Abstract: A fluid pressure regulator of compact construction including an improved diaphragm-valve assembly interposed between a flow body and a second body cap element. The flow body has an inlet and outlet passage and a valve cavity with a centrally disposed ported valve insert to allow the regulated passage of fluid. Mounted to the flow body, the cap element confines a diaphragm of the diaphragm-valve assembly and houses an adjustable coil-spring biased against the assembly. The diaphragm-valve assembly includes a ring-shaped diaphragm element interlocated between a circular element central to the diaphragm and a diaphragm compression limiting clamp plate ring. The circular element has a central recess over the valve insert which houses a spring-backed self-aligning ball valve element having a flat chordal surface adjacent the insert.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is a weir valve with an adjustable bypass incorporated into the weir portion of the valve housing. The valve housing has an interior chamber with an inlet portion, a middle portion and outlet portion. An elongate weir traverses the middle portion of the interior chamber and separates the inlet portion and outlet portion. The top surface of the weir defines a valve seat. A diaphragm traverses the interior chamber and is moveable by a compressor onto the weir effecting a closure of the valve. The adjustable bypass consists of a bypass chamber which extends longitudinally of the elongate weir with inlet and outlet openings centrally located on the sides of the weir between the bypass chamber and the inlet portion and outlet portion respectively. A bypass valve member is adjustably moveable in the bypass chamber to variably restrict the communication between the inlet and outlet openings.

Abstract: A faucet diverter valve is disclosed having three positions for delivering a stream or spray of untreated water, or a flow of treated water. The position of the faucet diverter valve is selected by means of a single rotating handle. Rotation of the handle causes a valve spool to move axially within a manifold to bring fluid flow openings in the valve spool in and out of alignment with openings in the manifold. The valve spool carries seals which direct the flow of untreated water through a straight stream outlet, a spray outlet, or to a treatment loop in which untreated water passes through a treatment device, returns to the faucet diverter valve, and exits through a treated water outlet. The treatment loop return is sealed against dripping and the introduction of air by the valve spool.

Abstract: A one-way valve for dispensing fluid assures, after the fluid has been dispensed, that any flow of contaminants into the source of the fluid is prevented. The one-way valve has a disc shaped valve body enclosed about the circumferential edge by an elastomeric membrane. Separate passageways conduct the fluid through the valve body with the fluid flowing from one passageway to the other between the circumferential edge and the elastomeric membrane. The valve body has a greater diameter than axial length.

Abstract: A hydraulic remote control distributor valve device comprises a flat body (1) having two main assembly faces (3) to enable a multiple hydraulic remote control block to be built up, and two side faces and a bottom face (5) that are narrow and on which orifices are located for receiving link couplings for hydraulic connection with a source of hydraulic fluid under pressure and with a component to be controlled. Two outlet orifices (A, B) are situated on the bottom face of the body (5) and the width e of the bottom face (5) is less than the diameter d of the link couplings suitable for fixing on the outlet orifices. The two outlet orifices (A, B) are disposed asymmetrically relative to the median plane (M) of the body (1) that extends perpendicularly to the main faces and to the bottom face (5), said orifices being offset relative to the plane (M) by an offset 1 that is equal to or greater than 1/2.sqroot.(d.sup.2 -e.sup.2).

Abstract: A flexible hose construction and method of making the same are provided, the flexible hose construction comprising an inner tube made of polymeric material, an outer sleeve of reinforcing material disposed in telescoping relation on the inner tube from one end thereof to the other end thereof, rib structure disposed between the sleeve of reinforcing material and the inner tube, the rib structure being disposed on the inner tube so as to define alternating coil structure of rib structure and coil structure of non-rib structure serially along the longitudinal axis of the inner tube in a like repeating pattern thereof, the coil structure of non-rib structure comprise coil structure of void space, and an outer tube of polymeric material disposed between the rib structure and the sleeve of reinforcing material so as to extend in a generally straight-line manner from coil structure of the rib structure to coil structure of the rib structure so as to tend to prevent the sleeve of reinforcing material from entering i

Abstract: A flexible hose construction and method of making the same are provided, the flexible hose construction comprising an inner corrugated hose made of polymeric material and having a plurality of outwardly convex projections with recesses therebetween and extending from one end thereof to the other end thereof, an outer sleeve of reinforcing material disposed in telescoping relation on the inner hose, and stiff polymeric material disposed between the sleeve of reinforcing material and the inner corrugated hose and having an outer peripheral surface arrangement that is substantially straight-line smooth and continuous between each pair of adjacent projections and substantially coplanar with the apexes of the projections and having an inner peripheral surface arrangement that substantially mates with and is disposed in engagement with the projections and the recesses from the one end to the other end of the inner corrugated hose.

Abstract: In a shuttleless loom, a warp sheet is moved from a space that is necessary for maintenance and inspection of a reed. An arranging bar is provided over the warp sheet between a shedding frame and a cloth fell so as to be vertically movable. When the arranging bar is lowered at the time of maintenance and inspection of the reed, the warp sheet can be moved to the lower side of the reed.

Abstract: A device for assembling a plurality of cords which includes a bushing having a bore which cooperatively receives a clamp. The bushing includes an opening through which adhesive may be introduced after the clamp is inserted within the bore of the bushing to thereby bind the cords which are initially carried by the clamp. The clamp includes two branch elements joined by a crosspiece. Each branch element includes a first outwardly directing hooked end, a second inwardly directed jaw portion and an intermediate outwardly projecting portion. The intermediate portions are yieldably compressible with respect to one another to permit the insertion of the clamp in the bore of the bushing.

Abstract: The controlling apparatus includes a wire supplying sensor 18 for detecting a number of rotations of a wire supplying motor 8, a wire twisting sensor 49 for detecting actuation of a loaded torque detecting mechanism c, and a return position detecting sensor 38 for detecting that a wire twisting mechanism b is located at a predetermined waiting position. In response to an output signal from the wire supplying sensor 18, the controlling apparatus stops rotation of a wire supplying motor 7a and rotationally drives a wire twisting motor 7b. In addition, in response to an output signal from the wire twisting sensor 49, the controlling apparatus shifts rotation of the wire twisting motor 7b in the normal direction to rotation of the same in the reverse direction. Additionally, in response to an output signal from the return position detecting sensor 38, the controlling apparatus stops rotation of the twist driving motor 7b.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for the transfer out of a tight enclosure of a fluid solution contained in a polluted container (R1). The transfer is accomplished without removing the polluted container from the enclosure and without breaking the seal of the polluted container. After a clean container (R2) is placed in a receptacle (30) normally isolated from the remainder of the enclosure, the solution is transferred into the clean container (R2) vacuum by a needle. Transfer of the clean container out of the enclosure takes place pneumatically following rotation of a casing containing the receptacle.

Abstract: A modular automatic refill system using a plurality of individual microprocessor controlled modules to control a plurality of liquid chemical temperature controllers is provided wherein replenishing liquid chemical is automatically supplied from a chemical bulk supply unit to a plurality of bubbler ampules in the corresponding liquid chemical temperature controllers based on sensed level depths in a manner that avoids contamination of the replenishing chemical and permits separate and independent operation of the individual microprocessor controlled modules.

Abstract: A full sack compressor for deaerating flowable material includes a hollow, rectangular chamber connected to a vacuum pump for establishing a vacuum when filled with flowable material, causing the flowable material to deaerate and subsequently compact when atmospheric pressure is restored.

Abstract: The manually-operated balloon stuffing device has a minimum number of parts and is inexpensive to manufacture. The device includes a manual pump consisting of inner and outer cylindrical tubes, and a check valve in each tube that permits the passage of air in only a single direction within its respective tube. In a first embodiment, a balloon stuffing item is placed in an end of the inner tube, and the open balloon end is stretched over that tube end. The outer tube is then reciprocated along the longitudinal axis of the inner tube to pump up the balloon. The outer tube is then removed and a push rod pushes the sliding check valve, which in turn pushes the stuffing item into the inflated balloon. In an alternate embodiment, a large hollow adapter tube is placed on the end of the inner tube, and the open end of the balloon is stretched over the open end of the adapter tube.

Abstract: A filling device for transportable containers and other suitable receptacles for the receipt of liquids, which facilitate a reliable and particularly feasible indication of faulty conditions encountered during operation in consideration of the handling thereof. A valve which closes off a filling tube of the container is actuated in dependence upon the connecting conditions of the filling device to the container; such as a tank container. When the filling device is not adequately coupled with an inlet pipe or any other device of the tank container, flow of liquid filling material cannot be initiated inasmuch as this flow is positively inhibited by the valve. Pursuant to another aspect, a vent or relief valve is automatically actuated in dependence upon the connected condition. The vent valve is also only first opened then when there has taken place a satisfactory or proper coupling with the respective tank container.

Abstract: An apparatus for precisely forming curved surfaces on a wooden workpiece in which the workpiece is automatically centered on a work table which is controllably movable inwardly and outwardly relative to a rotating cutter. The rotating cutter is slidably mounted within a supporting frame so that the cutter can be controllably moved past the workpiece as the workpiece is moved inwardly and outwardly relative to the cutter. A template and a template follower precisely controls the movement of the table and the workpiece relative to the cutter to produce precisely formed curved surfaces on the workpiece.

Abstract: A router template for use in conjunction with a milling tool to create mortises of predetermined size and spacing in an underlying work surface, such as a door edge and door jamb, for butt hinges, a strike plate, and a latch plate. A plurality of router template bodies having template inserts will accommodate strike plates, latch plates, a variety of hinge sizes, and the typical thickness of these hardware work pieces. The router template bodies may be used in conjunction with a guide bar to provide typical positioning for the hinges along the door edge and jamb. This tool may be used with minimal adjustment.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a circular saw blade assembly for a saw mill or similar apparatus used for sawing boards from logs, said circular saw blade assembly comprising at least two circular saw blades attachable to and axially transferrable on a saw blade spindle as well as one or several edge milling cutters for shaping the board to a correct width.

Abstract: An improved bracket clamps a cutting tool to the wheel of a stump cutting apparatus and includes a channel defined between a leading bracket half and a trailing bracket half. The trailing bracket half includes an extension extending outwardly beyond an outermost edge of the leading bracket half. The channel encloses at least two-thirds of the cutting tool, and the extension has a planar surface in engagement with the surface of the cutting tool proximate to the cutting tip when the other end of the cutting tool is aligned with the opposing end of the channel. The extension provides rearward support for the cutting tip.

Abstract: A stackable, non-skid snow chain ramp is disclosed for use in the installation of tire chains on both snowy and icy surfaces. The tire ramp is designed with a grooved top and bottom surface and is operated by laying a pair of the ramps in parallel, spaced the distance equal to the separation of the automobile wheels. Tire chains are then laid over the spaced ramps with the cross links of the chains inserted into spaced chain grooves. The tire is then driven up onto the ramp and brought to rest against a tire block and positioned within a wheel well constructed in the ramp. The chains are then wrapped around the tires and connected in a traditional manner. The bottom surface of the ramps contain a combination of grooves and replaceable spikes for use in both snow and icy surface conditions. The disclosed ramps are designed to permit symmetrical stacking for easy storage and conveyance.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a tire and wheel rim assembly for a vehicle. The tire comprises a pair of bead regions each reinforced by a bead core characterized by at least one bead portion of the tire having an additional hardened retention zone positioned axially inwards of and integral with the main bead portion, the retention zone having an axially inner tip or toe substantially inwards of the main bead portion and the construction of the bead between the bead core and tip providing substantial resistance to compressive forces therebetween.

Abstract: In a method of straightening a rim of a spoke wheel by tensioning and/or releasing the various spokes and measuring a radial and/or axial misalignment of the rim around the circumference thereof, all spokes are tensioned in a first run such that the tension therein is brought between a predetermined minimum and maximum value. If required, several runs take place and in each following run, based on the measured radial and/or axial misalignment of the rim, the tension in certain spokes is altered between said minimum and maximum value to correct the misalignment, such that the maximum value is increased at the start of each following run. An apparatus for carrying out this method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for casting an amorphous alloy member comprising the steps of preparing a molten metal from an amorphous alloy composition having a relationship of Tg<Tx between the crystallization temperature Tx and the glass transition temperature Tg, pouring the molten metal into a casting mold, and maintaining the molten metal under a pressed condition until the temperature of the molten metal is brought from a temperature in a molten state to a temperature between the crystallization temperature Tx and approximately the glass transition temperature Tg.

Abstract: A magnetic confining apparatus prevents the escape of molten metal through the open side of a vertically extending gap between two horizontally separated members and in which the molten metal is located. The apparatus includes a current conducting coil for generating a horizontal magnetic field and non-magnetic fins for concentrating the current in the surface of the coil which is closest to the open side of the gap. The magnetic field generated by the apparatus extends through the open side of the gap and exerts a confining pressure against the molten metal in the gap.

Abstract: An electromagnetic stirring process for continuous casting is presented. According to the present invention, coils of inductors are supplied with a multiphase current so as to create in a molten metal at least one primary rotational movement zone which is offset with respect to a central casting axis. This primary rotational movement zone is also revolved in a secondary gyratory movement around the central casting axis by a cyclic commutation of each phase of the current.

Abstract: Electrostatic application of a dusting of dry, self-adhering, thermally and electrically insulative powder particles over a work face of an endless, thin, flexible, water-cooled, metallic casting belt advantageous for use in a continuous metal-casting machine. A dry dusting of protective powdery refractory substance is applied to the belt after being rendered airborne and electrostatically charged by various embodiments of suitable electrostatic apparatus. The casting belt to be dusted is electrically grounded for attracting the charged powder particles for adhering them to the casting belt. The dusting so deposited is remarkably uniform over a substantial area, a phenomenon explainable by mutual electrostatic repulsion of the dry powder particles being deposited. Continuously re-applied dusting over the work face of an endless casting belt during a cast provides an immediately useful repair of lost dusting powder. The dusting may be removed at will by means of an air knife.

Abstract: Method and apparatus used for continuous casting of copper alloy rods and tubes for obtaining a fine grain size therein. Liquidus copper alloy material flows from a reservoir area or crucible into a continuous casting die through spaced apart feed slots disposed in the casting die cap, thereby effecting agitation of the liquidus material, which prevents the formation of thermal gradients large enough to produce gross directional solidification of the alloy at the liquid-solid state transition zone. The desired agitation is effected by altering the number, location, size and angle of the feed slots in accordance with formulas provided for that purpose.

Abstract: A continuous casting mold for casting relatively thin slab comprises a pair of broad walls and a pair of narrow walls. The narrow walls are movable inwardly and outwardly with respect to the mold cavity to adjust the width of the slab being cast. The broad walls in an upper portion of the mold are spaced farther apart to permit introduction of molten metal into the mold. The broad walls in the lower portion of the mold are substantially parallel to each other. The narrow mold walls are adapted to sealingly engage the broad mold walls and are wider in the upper portion of the mold than in the lower portion. In one embodiment, a tilt angle of the lower portion of the narrow walls is independently adjustable from that of the upper portion of the narrow walls while in a second embodiment, each of the walls comprises independently angled top and bottom portions and provides a flat and smooth surface to the contained molten metal. Solidification in the upper portion of the mold is substantially prevented.