Abstract: A new cultivar of Canna is provided. The dwarf height with overall compact growth characteristics, a multiplication rate of eight to twenty-five plants per growing season, an inflorescence with blooms of scarlet red accented by darker scarlet splashes, contrasting burgundy foliage and strong winter storage capability providing a cultivar well suited for garden or pot plant having no unusual susceptibility to the traditional Canna diseases and insects.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Osteospermum jucundum named Stardust, characterized by its compact and dense plant habit; broad and glossy foliage; intense purple flower color; strong peduncles and upright, erect flowers; and very long flowering period.

Abstract: A new and distinct Anthurium plant named `Franziska` particularly characterized by its round or elliptical red spathes, each with a twisted orange spadix, which are held straight above the foliage in the center of the plant. Its leaves are broad, moderately thick and somewhat glossy. The growth habit is very compact.

Abstract: A new and distinct Anthurium plant named `Dolly` particularly characterized by its large, round, thick, reflexed or cupped bright orange spathes with a contrasting yellow-orange spadix. The spathes are held straight above the foliage in the center of the plant. The leaves of Dolly are large, wide, stiff, leathery, moderately thick, with distinctive puckering along the midrib.

Abstract: A new and distinct Anthurium plant named `Molly` particularly characterized by its round or elliptical red spathes each with a red-orange spadix which are held straight above the foliage on sturdy red-orange peduncles. Its leaves are very stiff, leathery, distinctly smooth, and somewhat glossy. The leaf petioles are short, rigid, and straight thereby giving plants of `Molly` a very compact appearance.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Spathiphyllum is provided. The plant is small, compact, suitable for production in 10-15 cm pots from a single tissue cultured microcutting; displays good proportion between inflorescence and foliage; maintains symmetrical growth habit at close pot spacing; has vigorous growth; early and abundant branching; exceptionally early, abundant and year-round naural flowering and inflorescences of good quality, with very little green coloration of spathes, from the onset of flowering.

Abstract: A probe head (10) includes a support (12) by which the probe head is retained on the quill of a coordinate positioning machine, and a rotor (14) which is magnetically retained on the support (12). The rotor (14) is rotatable between a plurality of indexed angular positions provided by a ring or balls (26) and three adjacently positioned pairs of rollers (24). A drive dog shaft (20) is linearly movable to disengage the balls (26) from the rollers (24), and rotatable to rotate the rotor (14) to a new indexed position, whereupon the drive dog shaft (20) is retracted to re-engage a set of three balls (26) with the rollers (24). Exchange of a measuring probe (16) is performed by removing the entire rotor (14), and exchanging it for a further rotor carrying a different measuring probe. The engagement elements provided by rollers (24) and balls (26) thus serve the functions of (a) indexing and (b) repeatably .[.retaining.]. .Iadd.positioning .Iaddend.a rotor (14) on the support (12).

Abstract: An earring is provided, that is simple to wear and is designed to minimize potential loss of the earring by inadvertent falling off. The earring is also designed to minimize pain to the earlobe of the wearer, even when the accessory that forms a portion of the earring becomes quite large. The earring of the invention includes a body portion adapted to be inserted into the external opening of a human ear; a connector for affixing an ornamental accessory to the earring, which is attached at an upper end to the main body portion; a hook-like element attached to the lower end of the connector, adapted to be releasably clamped to the rear side of the ear; and an accessory mounted at an ornamental location on the connector.

Abstract: Lithographic printing plates suitable for imaging by means of laser devices that emit in the near-infrared region. Laser output either ablates one or more plate layers or physically transforms a surface layer, in either case resulting in an imagewise pattern of features on the plate. The image features exhibit an affinity for ink or an ink-abhesive fluid that differs from that of unexposed areas.

Abstract: A solution for use in electroplating which comprises at least one monovalent metal such as copper, silver or gold which is complexed by a thiosulfate ion; and a stabilizer of an organic sulfinate compound such as, for example, one having the formula R-SO.sub.2 -X wherein R is an alkyl, heterocyclic or aryl moiety and X is a monovalent cation. The stabilizer is present in an amount sufficient to stabilize the thiosulfate ion when the solution is operated at an acidic pH of less than 7. Also, the solution is substantially free of cyanide.

Abstract: A scanning force microscope having a sensor head and a base wherein a moveable sample holder is housed in the base and is positioned relative to a probe housed in the sensor head, such sample being monitored by an optical deflection detection system. The detection system is configured to provide direct visual observation of the probe with respect to the sample. The mirror of the detection system is mounted in a cut away portion of a sphere and defines the axis of rotation of a kinematic mount, such providing ease of fine adjustment of the detection system. The sensor head is in communication with the base by a stage kinematic mount, such providing ease of position adjustment of the sensor head with respect to the base.

Abstract: A photo signal processing apparatus which comprises a light receiving unit of charge accumulation type for outputting a data corresponding to a condition of light received thereby, a data processor for applying a predetermined processing to the data outputted from the light receiving unit, an accumulation initiating device for causing the light receiving unit to initiate a charge accumulating operation, an accumulation interrupting device for interrupting the charge accumulating operation of the light receiving unit, a counter for counting a time passed during a period subsequent to the start of the charge accumulating operation of the light receiving unit and until the termination of the charge accumulating operation of the light receiving unit, and a control unit for activating the accumulation initiating device at a timing required to interrupt the charge accumulating operation of the light receiving unit at the time of termination of the data processing performed by the data processor.

Abstract: A wavelength selective structure is coupled to an adiabatic Y-coupler via a multimode section which supports both symmetric and antisymmetric modes. One single mode branch of the coupler converts guided light to a symmetric mode, whereas the other single mode branch converts guided light to an anti-symmetric mode. The structure, which includes a pair of single mode waveguide arms coupled to the common section and a reflection device (such as a grating or ROR) located in each arm, converts reflected light from a symmetric mode to an anti-symmetric mode and conversely. Applications described include a channel dropping fiber and channel balancing apparatus for WDM systems, and a dispersion compensator for fiber optic systems.

Abstract: Method, compositions, and compounds for modulating brain excitability to alleviate stress, anxiety, and seizure activity using certain steroid derivatives that act at a newly identified site on the gamma-ammobutyric acid/benzodiazepine receptor-chloride ionpore (GBR) complex.

Abstract: A zipperless wetsuit constructed of a plurality of panels of material, some of which are stretchier than others. A majority of an upper body region of the wetsuit is constructed of panels of highly stretchable wetsuit material which utilizes a central layer of foam rubber and one or two surrounding laminates of nylon having a higher denier value than previous wetsuits. Strategic panels of the wetsuit are constructed of single nylon laminate foam rubber material which has maximum pliability and stretchability. A double-collar upper entryway allows a wearer to enter the suit without the use of a zipper. An inner collar includes an aperture which may be stretched apart to allow entry of the wearer. An outer collar extends over the head of the wearer in a continuous circle to seal the inner collar against the wearer's neck.

Abstract: A cap element mainly composed of a three-layer fabric, the three-layer fabric member including: a mesh-like front surface fabric; a waterproof back surface fabric; and a non-woven fabric formed of water absorptive high molecular fibers, which is sealed between the front surface fabric and the back surface fabric. At least one of the front surface fabric and the back surface fabric may be subjected to ultraviolet ray shielding treatment, or composed of a knitted or woven fabric formed of fibers of a high molecular polymer containing an inorganic material capable of absorbing ultraviolet rays and reflecting the heat rays of the sun.

Abstract: A gathering clip for bridal and other gown trains, capes, and other trailing components of formal wear, is removably securable to the inside structure of the garment along a back central seam allowance therein, thus being completely hidden from view when installed. The clip generally comprises a first and a second link, each of which includes a pin which is used to penetrate the hidden hem or seam allowance which is formed within the back of the gown when the left and right rear panels of the gown and train are constructed. The two links may be removably secured respectively to the back hem of the gown beneath the waistband, and to the underside of the train at some point along the central portion thereof or as desired, and retained by buttons which are snapped over the ends of the pins.

Abstract: Drawers or briefs made from a knitted tube flattened to provide a front panel and a rear panel with a top waist opening and a pair of bottom leg openings. The front panel has a linear fly opening having a pair of fabric fly flaps coextensive in length with the fly opening. The flaps overlap each other and the front panel on the interior of the garment at one side of the fly opening, providing a triple layer of fabric along the full length of the fly opening. The layers are sewn together by two lines of stitching extending along the tops and bottoms of said flaps, leaving a free edge on each flap remote from said fly opening. The flaps form a transversely open tunnel extending from the fly opening to the free edges of said flaps, and a pocket closed at the fly opening.

Abstract: A tank ventilation exhaust fan having the unique ability to provided positive exhaust on a continuous basis while diluting the contaminated air and vapors, being emitted by the tank, with fresh air at a ratio in excess of five to one. A mixing chamber within the fan housing allows the fan to mix fresh air with vapors from the tank and expel the mixture over several hours. An alternate embodiment allows for continuous dilution of the tank's vapors.

Abstract: A bidet assembly for use with a toilet having a toilet seat is disclosed. The bidet assembly provides a bidet seat to be coupled rotatably to the toilet to be movable between a raised position and a lowered position over the toilet seat on the toilet bowl. The bidet seat defines a central opening. A nozzle for providing a fluid flow therethrough is connected to the bidet peat proximate the central opening. The nozzle is thus movable with the bidet seat when the bidet seat is coupled to the toilet. When coupled to a conventional toilet, the bidet seat is rotated into position atop the toilet seat only when the user wishes to use the bidet assembly. Thus, the bidet nozzle and any attached water supply are protected from contamination by the toilet. When the bidet assembly is not in use, the bidet seat is rotated to a raised position.

Abstract: A seal for covering cracks around a drain fitting of a bathtub. The inventive device includes a flexible planar circular member having a circular center aperture directed therethrough which can be adhesively secured about a drain conduit of a bathtub and over cracks extending through the tub. A cylindrical projection depends from the circular member for positioning into a drain conduit of the bathtub to sealingly engage with a drain fitting to preclude leaking of the tub.

Abstract: Lavatory assistance device for supporting and assisting persons having difficulty in sitting or standing. A stationary frame (5) is maintained in place by two jack-screws (29) pressing on the ceiling. Two moving connecting rods (25, 26) actuated by a cylinder (2), shift a cradle (20) supporting the user under the armpits. The user controls the lowering, stopping or raising manoeuvre by operating a control having handles (9) which are placed in front of the cradle. The force necessary for these manoeuvres is provided by pressure of water from the main supply acting on the cylinder piston (2) before falling again into the cistern for normal use. The hydraulic connection is made by fitting a special joint (17) in place of the existing tap. The arm-cradle assembly can be folded and blocked in a high position, for normal access to the lavatory. The device can be used in hospitals, homes for the elderly or the sick, rehabilitation centers, or it can be rented out.

Abstract: An inflatable mat has an upper fabric layer, a lower fabric layer, an airtight space formed between the upper fabric layer and the lower fabric layer, an inflation valve and an air duct located on the periphery of the airtight space such that the air duct is in communication with the inflation valve. The airtight space is provided with foam attached to the upper fabric layer and the lower fabric layer. The inflatable mat is inflated by injecting air via the inflation valve into the air duct through which the air is dispersed rapidly and uniformly into the airtight space. The inflated mat can be deflated so as to enable the mat to be folded for storage or shipment.

Abstract: A bed includes a base frame, a deck coupled to the base frame, an electrical communication network, an air handling unit mounted on the base frame, a plurality of air therapy devices located on the bed, and a plurality of control modules. Each control module includes a connector for coupling a corresponding air therapy device to the air handling unit and to the electrical communication network. Each control module also includes a controller for operating the corresponding air therapy device with the air handling unit based on command signals received from the electrical communication network.

Abstract: An orthopedic pillow for helping to correct and helping to prevent hyperkyphosis and rigidity of the thoracic spine and for returning the normal lordotic cervical curve comprises a base panel having a first end portion, a second end portion, a left top surface segment extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, and a right top surface segment extending between the first end portion and the second end portion, a first crown for supporting the thoracic spine, the first crown being formed on the first end portion of the base panel, extending toward the second end portion of the base panel, and dividing at least partially the left top surface segment from the right top surface segment, and a transition ramp formed in the first end portion of the first crown for supporting the spine just under and below the shoulder blades of a reclining person.

Abstract: In a cushion body structure of a car seat, which is made by fastening a skin material to a cushion material by using a planar fastening material, an impregnation layer made of a foamed body is not produced. In the cushion body structure, a planar fastening body (4) is integrally molded with a cushion material by shielding and clamping walls (22, 23) for preventing entry of a foaming solution in a molding die (20) of the cushion material (2,3), so that an opening is provided between the periphery of the planar fastening body and the side (3) of the cushion material, and a non-impregnation layer (7) is formed in the periphery.

Abstract: A combination pliers structure for cutting and skinning wires including a press handle mechanism having an elbow means for controlling an inner jaw means and an outer jaw means. The outer jaw means in located adjacent to the inner jaw means. In use, the press handle mechanism is suitably pressed so that a cutter at a front end of the inner jaw means cuts into the skin of the wire while the outer jaw means clamps the wire. When a greater force is exerted on the press handle mechanism, the outer jaw means is brought by the elbow portion pivotally joined to the press handles to advance forwardly along the wire, while the cutter strips the skin off the wire without damaging the wire filaments inside.

Abstract: A seat belt cutter comprising an upper surface member, a lower surface member which is longer than the upper surface member, a gripping handle member constituted of the upper surface member and the lower surface member, a hammer member having a sharply pointed tip portion and secured to the upper surface member side of a head portion of the gripping handle member, a blade member having a serrated edge portion formed at a lengthwise central portion of the lower surface member and extending from an inner side of the open distal end portion to an internal portion thereof, and a groove portion formed in a lengthwise central portion of the upper surface member in such a manner as to be opposite the blade, the groove portion having a depth deep enough to receive the edge portion of the blade therein.

Abstract: A plastic tool with a handle and trigger at one end and a pair of jaws (one of which is moveable) at the other end which are inserted into a biodegradable paper cleaning pad filled with cleaning/disinfectant and/or deodorant materials. The lower jaw of the tool is moveable by way of a trigger near the handle. When depressed the trigger compresses a lock spring and moves an actuator rod down the barrel which operates a hinge to open the jars far enough to be inserted into the cleaning pad. The open jaws surround a paper tab which forms the center of the double-walled cleaning envelope. On the release of the trigger the coil operating spring decompresses and moves the actuator rod back toward the handle locking the jaws over the center tab of the cleaning pad. Facilitated by a nominal 15-degree bend in the barrel of the cleaning tool and the flexible tip of the cleaning pad, the cleaning tool can reach all surfaces within the toilet to clean the unit.

Abstract: An elastic toothbrush comprises a head, a neck, a connector, and a handle. A slot and a groove are on the upper surface of the handle. An elongated recess is on the lower surface of the handle. An anti-skid rubber infills the slot. A rubber mark infills the groove. A non-slip rubber infills the elongated recess. A circular recess is formed between the head and the neck. A notch is formed on the distal end of the head. An upper and lower recesses are formed on the rim of the head. The end rubber infills the notch. The circular rubber infills the circular recess. The rim rubber infills the upper and lower recesses. The connector is enclosed by a connector rubber.

Abstract: A personal cleansing implement comprises a tubular piece of hydrophobic diamond-mesh scrim, which is stretched to expand the diamond mesh, gathered along a longitudinal axis of the tubular piece of scrim to form circumferential pleats, and heat set in an expanded and pleated condition to form a substantially rectangular resilient batt. Top and bottom surfaces of the batt are bonded together adjacent the perimeter of the batt by a bonding means. Thread stitching or intermittent thermobonding are the preferred bonding means. Ultrasonic bonding is most preferred. A tether loop is connected to the implement for hanging it from a support during drying.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for cleaning floors. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes four wheels, two of which are steerable wheels, and a steering mechanism that permits the two steerable wheels to turn to a degree that allows very tight turns to be made by the sweeper. In another embodiment, the apparatus is a sweeper with a cylindrical side broom. Yet a further embodiment of the sweeper includes flaps or seals that form a skirt about the broom and a mounting mechanism for slidably receiving the flap or seal. In a further embodiment, the apparatus is a sweeper that employs flaps with wear indicators that tell an operator when to adjust or replace the flap. In another embodiment, the apparatus is a sweeper that utilizes a pre-filter to remove debris that remains in the vacuum airstream after having passed through the hopper and that is of a size that can require frequent cleaning of a subsequent filtering device.

Abstract: A leaf collection apparatus includes a vacuum generating apparatus for collecting leaves. An enclosure for holding leaves is connected to the vacuum generating apparatus. The enclosure includes a screened opening. A dust shroud is connected to the enclosure and covers the screened opening. A recirculating means connects the dust shroud to the vacuum generating apparatus. Leaf dust is removed from the dust shroud and recirculated to the vacuum generating apparatus. The preferred enclosure is a leaf collection box including a screened opening in the top wall and a screened opening in the rear wall. Preferably the vacuum generating apparatus including a fan inside a housing.

Abstract: A door closer employing a cylinder having an end attachable to a door or door frame and slidably retaining a piston biased by a spring to a maximum retracted position in the cylinder. One end of a rod is attached to the piston and the other end extends from the cylinder and is attachable to a door frame or door. Confined to a short longitudinal space in the cylinder and riding on the rod, is a cantable washer. Structural members at the ends of the washer space in the cylinder maintain the washer in an essentially perpendicular orientation on the rod so that it may slide through the washer freely as the door is opened or closed. A positionable support, longitudinally buttressed from the cylinder, is introducible into the washer space so that the support may contact the washer on initiation of retraction of the rod into the cylinder causing the washer to cant, arrest the piston rod, and hold the door open. To unlatch the door, the positionable support is withdrawn to avoid canting contact with the washer.

Abstract: A device for closing a sliding screen door is disclosed. The inventive device includes a housing mountable proximal to a sliding screen door. A retractable cable resiliently extends from the housing and couples with the sliding screen door to effect closing of the door subsequent to opening thereof.

Abstract: A drawbar device comprises a first sectional handle, a second sectional handle coupling with the first sectional handle, an upper seat disposed under the sectional handles, a push button disposed in the first and second sectional handles, a first and second control plates connecting two ends of the push button respectively, the upper ends of the first and second control rods connecting the first and second control plates respectively, the lower ends of the first and second control rods connecting a first and second positioning blocks respectively, the first and second positioning blocks inserted in a first and second drawbars respectively to engage with a first and second pinions therein, a first and second outer pipes encasing the first and second drawbars respectively, and a lower seat having two recess holes to receive the lower ends of the corresponding first and second outer pipes respectively.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring sliver thickness in a drawing frame includes a sliver guiding device having converging inner wall faces for bringing a plurality of simultaneously introduced slivers together to form a sliver assembly constituted by side-by-side positioned running slivers arranged in a plane. The apparatus further includes a sensor element laterally contacting the sliver assembly; and a counterelement laterally contacting the sliver assembly. The counterelement is so supported that it may pivot parallel to the plane of the sliver assembly for purposes of adjustment and immobilization. The sensor element is urged into a resilient contact with the sliver assembly whereby the sensor element undergoes excursions upon variation of thickness of the sliver assembly. The sensor element and the counterelement together define a constriction through which the sliver assembly passes. A transducer converts excursions of the sensor element into electric pulses.

Abstract: The cable tie includes an elongate strap and a head having an aperture therethrough for insertably accommodating the strap. A locking barb is movably supported in the head and is engagable with the strap in a manner which permits insertion of the strap thereinto and prevents withdrawal of the strap therefrom. The strap includes a strap body and plural protrusions extending from the strap body. The barb is engagable with the protrusions of the strap upon insertion. Upon an attempt to withdraw the strap, the barb digs into the strap body to prevent withdrawal of the strap from the head.

Abstract: A boot and a boot closure device adapted to bring two flaps of the boot close together including a control lever borne by a plate affixedly connected to one of the flaps, a rack connected to the other flap including a complementary arrangement for adjusting its position with respect to the lever. The arrangement for adjusting the rack are constituted by an adjustment zone that includes a buttonhole-shaped oblong slot obtained on the flap of the boot and demarcated by two circular end zones connected by a straight portion and whose diameter is equal to that of a locking pin affixed to the rack, and provided with a flat portion that is oriented perpendicular to the rack longitudinal displacement axis. The rack can be displaced, in view of its adjustment, from one end to the other of the buttonhole, after a rotation at 90.degree. with respect to its longitudinal axis, to allow for its free sliding in the straight portion of the buttonhole, and locked in either one of the circular end zones by a 90.degree.

Abstract: A carrying strap having a suspension lug which is attached at one end in a loop of the strap, is in the shape of a U and includes in the part of the lug lying in the loop, two open legs bent symmetrically at right angles to each other. The legs lie opposite each other in different parallel planes and overlap at a predetermined distance (14). The end of the legs are bent off toward the loop. The carrying strap also includes a locking element which can be pushed over the loop and the leg ends of the suspension lug.The locking element (12) includes in its upper part, two rectangular slot openings (16, 16'), with a separating web (17) there between and lying in the loop (15). The locking element also includes in its lower part, a rectangular opening (18) for receiving the legs (13, 13') of the suspension lug (10) which are enclosed by the carrying strap (11).

Abstract: The invention concerns an improved hose clamp consisting of an outer annular tightening band (1) which is provided with a tightening device (3, 4), and of a resilient band (2) which extends along the inner face of the tightening band (1). The resilient band is provided with two axially spaced, inwardly directed peripheral beads (6) which extend around the resilient band (2). Intermediate the beads (6) the resilient band (2) is formed with an outwardly directed ridge (7) in abutment against the inner face of the tightening band (1). By means of a number of openings (8), the ridge (7) is divided into a number of bridges (9) which interconnect the beads (6) with one another around the resilient band (2). These bridges (9) are arranged to allow bead movability in the radial as well as axial directions.

Abstract: A buffer clip for preventing the generation of an uncomfortable sound and wherein an impact force absorbing member does not separate from the clip due to vibration or the like. The buffer clip is inserted and fitted into a mounting hole formed in a concave portion vehicle roof trim near the free end of a sun visor and a clearance for allowing insertion of a user's hand is formed between the sun visor and an outer covering material of the roof trim of the vehicle interior. The force due to impact when the sun visor is raised is absorbed by a soft layer of the buffer clip. For this reason, the roof trim does not resonate and no uncomfortable sound is produced. Further, the soft layer is formed so as to cover a flange of the clip and a catch member of the soft layer engages a catch portion of the flange. Accordingly, there is no possibility that the soft layer can separate from the clip due to vibration or the like.

Abstract: A versatile adjustable fastener system for securing loads of widely varying geometries, sizes and weights to a variety of objects is disclosed. The system essentially includes an elastic rope of a given diameter and length and four accessories, preferably injection formed of a hard plastic. The first accessory features a double hook configuration. The other three accessories feature a tubular member provided with a specially-shaped flared opening and a second member integrally formed therewith selected from one of the group including another tubular member, a hook member and an anchoring member. In the double-tubular configuration, the use of the rope allows for three different ways to employ the same to fit specific attachments.

Abstract: The present invention features a magnetic assembly which has one half formed by one male magnetized part and the other half formed by one female magnetized part, both of which mate together, using very close tolerances so that there is no space noticeable between the two magnetically-closed parts. This close proximity between the two parts prevents either from being accidentally dislodged. The male post extends beyond the reverse side of the female magnet into which it has been placed, so that the user can push against the end of the male post to force it back out of the female hole. This action forces the two halves of the magnetic fastener assembly apart, allowing them to be disengaged from one another and to be able to open the fastener with the use of just one hand on the part of the user.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retaining neckerchiefs scarves, handkerchiefs, bandannas, and/or other deformable items is disclosed. One embodiment of the invention is a neckerchief slide comprising a body having a cavity through it. A first post and a second post connect to the body on opposite sides of the cavity. The first and second posts are capable of securing an elastic band such that the elastic band extends across the cavity.

Abstract: A running carriage (33) delivers, spreads, and piles a sheet material to be spread to form a piled sheet material (24), while running on a spreading table (22) of a cloth spreading machine (21). The piled sheet material (24) is placed on an underlay sheet (25) which has a larger area than that of the piled sheet material (24). At the bottom of the running carriage (33), a foot presser (27) is provided. The foot presser (27) is designed to be vertically displaced by a cylinder (28). A blower motor (29) drives a fan (30) to blow air through nozzles (31) towards the surface of the spreading table (22), thereby reducing the load of the piled sheet material (24). The underlay sheet (25) is pressed by the foot presser (27) and the running carriage (33) starts running, whereby the piled sheet material (24) is delivered.

Abstract: An air bag of the type utilized in a vehicle occupant restraint system is constructed of a plurality of panels of uncoated fabric. Respective of the panels have been processed to achieve a selected air permeability with greater accuracy on a lot-to-lot basis than had generally been achieved with uncoated fabrics of the prior art. In one presently preferred methodology, a plurality of fluid jets, preferably water jets, are utilized to impact panels of the uncoated fabric under selected operating conditions. Pores created by the fluid jets may be heat set to achieve a selected permeability. Fluid jet processing may also be utilized to produce a fabric having a selected thread count.

Abstract: An electronically controlled sample warper capable of warping yarns on a warper drum, with windings of the yarns neatly layered one above another in regular order, thus enabling the yarns to be readily rewound on beams on a weaving machine even when the warping length, i.e., the number of multi-windings is relatively large such as four or more windings. The sample warper includes a guide operable to ensure that the yarn for the "n"th winding is wound on the warper drum such that at the beginning of the "n"th winding, the yarn is placed ahead of an end of a winding of yarn formed on warper drum by the "n-1"th winding.

Abstract: In an expanded mesh of this invention, a latitude skeletal element composing a mesh has a length which is substantially not elongated from a state of a sheet-shaped material. For this reason, the expanded mesh is not bulged like a barrel. Namely, it is flat. Since a longitudinal skeletal element is inclined acutely relative to straight portions as compared with a conventional expanded mesh, the expanded mesh will become a grid with good current collecting efficiency when a lug of current collector plate is formed on an inclining direction side.

Abstract: An apparatus for inserting one or more insert members comprises the steps of holding sleeve-like insert members onto insert holders, transferring the insert holders between metal molds which are apart, pivotably moving the insert holders so that the axes thereof are aligned with the axes of parts, onto which the insert members are to be fitted, in one of the metal molds, pressing out the insert members from the insert holders and fitting them onto the parts, onto which the insert members are to be fitted. This method allows the number of the insert holders to be reduced to half, thereby achieving a reduction in weight and a saving in space.