Abstract: A foot-operated, bass drum pedal assembly is provided with a series of interchangeable cam members selectively disposed on a sprocket hub mounted on the rotating axle disposed between the two upright posts. The interchangeable cam system permits a user to alter the performance characteristics or playing response of the drum pedal system by changing the cam profile for that pedal. The user need not disassemble the entire sprocket and hub assembly; rather, the cam profile is changed by selectively changing a detachable cam member with one of a series of cam members.

Abstract: A protective cover for use with a stringed musical instrument comprises a roof-like shaped shield body attachable to the stringed instrument to protect the most sensitive parts and areas at and around the vertically mounted bridge, the string combination and other parts attached to the body of the instrument. The shield body has a concave bottom side and an inner string channel open to the bottom side and designed to accomodate the bridge and the strings. The shield body is made of elastically deformable material and has on its sligtly arched bottom side within an intermediate zone thereof locking projections designed to engage instrument recesses and projections, the latter being formed e.g. by a fingerboard end portion an the space therebelow.

Abstract: A multi-piece piano cover which can include a lid cover, a rim cover, and a keyboard cover. The cover is adapted to protect a grand piano while the piano is in use and when the piano is not in use. The piano lid can be opened and the keys may be played while the protective cover is in place. The lid cover is adapted to cover the lid upper surface and can be fit to the lid be receiving the lid front in a lid cover pocket portion and by securing the cover to the lid edges using elastic. The rim cover is adapted to drape over the piano rim while the piano lid is either open or closed. The rim cover can be secured to the piano with straps extending across the piano.

Abstract: A thermoelectric semiconductor is formed of a sintered semiconductor layer and metal layers arranged on sides of opposite end faces of the sintered semiconductor layer. These metal layers are to inhibit a reaction between the sintered semiconductor layer and solder layers through which electrodes are joined to the sintered semiconductor layer. The sintered semiconductor layer and the metal layers have been obtained beforehand by integrally sintering a semiconductor powder layer and metal sheets arranged on sides of opposite end faces of the semiconductor powder layer.

Abstract: A high-quality solar battery module having an excellent adhesive property, weathering resistance, and reliability of battery function and a method of assembling the same are disclosed. The solar battery module is constituted of a solar cell panel provided with solar cell elements arranged on the back said of a transmitting panel opposite to the light-receiving surface of the light-transmitting panel; and a frame provided with plate or flange projecting therefrom and arranged over the entire periphery of the panel in order to support the back side of the light-transmitting panel and keeps the light-receiving surface in open. The solar cell panel is bonded to the projecting plate of the frame with a moisture curing hot-melt adhesive composed mainly of a polymer containing at least two hydrolytic silyl group in one molecule.

Abstract: A photovoltaic cell in accordance with the present invention includes at least a metal layer, a semiconductive layer and a transparent electrode formed on a substrate. The metal layer is composed of a metal mainly containing aluminum; and has an x-ray diffraction pattern in which a (111) peak intensity is enhanced to at least 2.1 times a (200) peak intensity, at least 4.4 times a (220) peak intensity and at least 4.1 times a (311) peak intensity. The metal layer essentially consists of an aluminum-titanium alloy or an aluminum-magnesium alloy. An interlayer may be provided between the metal layer and the substrate.

Abstract: A solar cell (1) is proposed, which is having at least at one side a semiconductor surface (2), on which edges (3) are formed having flank-like regions (4) running substantially parallel to the substrate normal and on which the electrical conductive contacts (5) are arranged. To be able to produce solar cells using simple technology with high cell efficiencies the electrical conductive material is deposited to the flank-like regions as well as to some none flank-like areas (6). The electrical conductive material is removed mask-free and selectively from the none flank-like areas resulting in electrical conducting contacts remaining on the flank-like regions only.

Abstract: An electrical panel having an extendible lower portion. The panel has an overall size equivalent of an ordinary panel. However, approximately one third of the panel is cut off and removed. This separate bottom piece is then replaced and held in place with thumbscrews. Thus, when stored, the lower portion is pushed up against the bottom of the cut portion. This reduces the overall length of the panel. The wires can then be placed into the panel and the panel can be secured inside the wall without having to cut a larger hole. Once the upper portion of the panel is secured, the lower portion can be extended downward until the opening is fully filled. The thumbscrews can be locked in place and the fully extended panel is then ready for wiring. A bonding jumper is used to ensure a proper ground between the two portions. Other than the bonding jumper and locking the extended panel into place, the panel is then made up as usual.

Abstract: In a box-shaped electric part-mounting construction, a block (10) is fixedly mounted on a mounting portion such as a vehicle body, and a box-shaped electric part (30a) is mounted on the block through an attachment (20). An upwardly-open notch (14) is formed in a rib (13) formed in an upstanding manner on the block (10). The attachment (20) is reversibly fitted and held in the notch (14). Engagement portions (24) and (25) of different shapes for respectively holding two different box-shaped electric parts (30a) and (30b) are formed respectively on opposite sides of the attachment (20), and the different box-shaped electric parts (30a) and (30b) can be mounted on the block (10) through the attachment (20).

Abstract: A structure for securing electrical contact between connecting sections of a wire harness includes a wall with a hole therethrough and a projection having a hollow. The projection extends from a rim of the hole and the hollow is in communication therewith. There is a cover which closes the end of the projection remote from the rim. There is a plurality of connecting sections on one or more wire harnesses and an insulative cap is placed thereover. The hollow is adapted to receive the cap and connection sections and an opening is provided in the cover. This permits introduction of a resilient cap, which will secure the connecting sections within the hollow and allows otherwise trapped air to escape readily through the opening. This simplifies both production and assembly.

Abstract: A faceplate cover includes a window to view circuit indicia. The window is transparent, and allows a user to view indicia which may be present on a receptacle or other device contained in an electrical box. The window is attached to the main panel of the faceplate cover. The faceplate cover and window may be injection molded separately and assembled, or formed utilizing a two shot process.

Abstract: A harness cover is provided that covers end connectors of a group of wire harnesses installed on a body of an electrical connection box. When the harness cover is installed on the body, the wire harnesses are protected by the ceiling plate and prevented from curving upwardly. Further, the extension directions of the wire harnesses are restricted. After the electrical connection box and unconnected wire harnesses are delivered to a vehicle maker, an operation of connecting the unconnected wire harnesses with the body is performed. At this time, receiving portions for the end connectors of the unconnected wire harnesses are not covered by the harness cover so that they are easily found by an operator. Thus, it is possible to connect the unconnected wire harnesses with the electrical connection box easily and reliably.

Abstract: An electrical terminal such as that used in a multi-pin connector has a layer of positive temperature coefficient (PTC) material incorporated therein such that the terminal also serves as a circuit over-current protection device. In a first embodiment, a surface of the terminal is covered by a layer of PTC material such that when the terminal is engaged with a mating terminal, the PTC material is interposed between the surfaces of the mated terminals to create a PTC device. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a terminal includes a contact portion for making electrical connection with a mating terminal, a wire connection portion for connection to a wire, and a layer of PTC material interposed between adjacent surfaces of the contact portion and wire connection portion. The invention terminals provide over-current protection to a circuit without the need for soldering or otherwise connecting a separate PTC device into the circuit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a leakproof protection device for a high voltage cable splice. The device comprises two elements that are prefabricated in a factory. The element comprises a copper tube in the form of a first cylindrical segment which matches the diameter of a cable that is to be spliced, a second cylindrical segment of a diameter that matches a splice body, and an interconnecting conical segment. A preformed insulating covering covers the metal tube in part and is secured thereto. The second element also has a copper tube and a preformed insulating element of synthetic material. The two elements are assembled together in leakproof by welding together the ends of the two tubes and by coupling together their coverings.

Abstract: First to fourth power wiring conductors and first to fourth ground wiring conductors are arranged on first to fourth insulating layers, respectively, and a first signal wiring conductor is arranged on the first or second insulating layer and a second signal wiring conductor is arranged on the third or fourth insulating layer.

Abstract: A robust connection is made from contact pad metallization on a substrate of a modular circuit to a connection pin by solder bonding. The connection includes a flexible copper strap with an aperture at one end which is sized to fit over the connection pin. The opposite end of the strap is solder bonded to an end of the connection pin. The connection thus made avoids application of stress from pin flexure to the solder bonds to avoid cracking while providing a connection having a low profile and minimal protrusion above the modular circuit substrate.

Abstract: A method for constructing a feedthrough via connection and a corresponding apparatus includes a metallic plate (101), or rigidizer, preferably composed of an aluminum material. A solderable contact area (103), is located on the plate (101). This contact area (103) is preferable comprised of a copper material selectively disposed by a plasma spraying process. Next, an electrically insulating adhesive layer (105) is disposed onto the plate (101). This adhesive layer (105) has a feedthrough via (106) disposed therethrough aligned with the contact area (103). Then, a substrate (109), preferably composed of a flexible composite polyimide material, is disposed onto the adhesive layer (105). This flexible substrate (109) has a via (110) disposed therethrough with a solderable area (111) disposed thereon.

Abstract: A terminal attachment structure includes a circuit assembly and a terminal attached to the circuit assembly. The circuit assembly has an insulating substrate and a circuit printed on the insulating substrate. The terminal is composed of a circuit-contact part, a connecting part to be connected with a mating terminal and a cradle part arranged between the circuit-contact part and the connecting part. When a force directing the insulating substrate is applied on the connecting part, the cradle part operates to receive the force. Accordingly, the circuit-contact part does not rise from the insulating substrate, so that clattering of the terminal against the circuit assembly can be prevented.

Abstract: The cost of machining a shear beam load cell can be greatly reduced by cutting pockets for the central web with a side cutting tool, such as a Woodruff Cutter or a Key Cutter tool, in a vertical spindle milling machine, so all machining can be done with one single setup. The thickness of a web formed by side cutting tools will increase slowly and gradually with distance from the center of the web, which means that there will be no abrupt shear stress changes near the strain gages. The disclosed shear beam load cell is accordingly not only less expensive to make, but also inherently more accurate than prior art shear beam load cells.

Abstract: A switching device for an electrical connector comprises a cover and a base securely assembled with the cover. A plurality of contacts comprising first contacts, second contacts, and third contacts are secured in the base. A plurality of switching terminals each includes a positioning portion, a first tab, a second tab, and a third tab. Each switching terminal forms a pushing end opposite the positioning portion, the pushing end also connecting the first tab to the third tab. The tabs respectively form first, second, and third contacting portions thereon. In operation, the first and the second contacting portions are respectively engaged with the first and second contacts when the pushing end is not being pushed laterally. When the pushing end is pushed laterally, the first contacting portion disengages from the first contact, and the third contacting portion moves to engage with the third contact, thereby switching a signal transmission.

Abstract: In a lever switch assembly, a sliding portion is formed on a bracket at an area located inside a first unit case. The sliding portion is constructed so as to slide along a face inside the first unit case which is directed facing away from a second unit case. With this arrangement, a projection conventionally provided at a tip end of the bracket has become unnecessary, and an overall thickness of the assembly can be decreased. During assembly, the sliding portion is blocked by the face inside the first unit case which is directed facing away from the second unit case and therefore, the bracket will be prevented from being disengaged at a stage before the second unit case is assembled.

Abstract: A combined transmission gear shift selector and vehicle operating device switch lever includes an actuator movably mounted on a transmission shift lever for movement between distinct positions, each defining a separate circuit for activating a vehicle operating device or circuit. The actuator is movably mounted between spaced first and second end portions of the transmission shift lever which are rigidly joined for unitary movement. A printed circuit board carrying conductive traces and a contactor carrying leaf contacts are movably arranged with respect to each other on the actuator and the lever for defining circuits upon at least one of rotation and/or coaxial translation of the actuator relative to the lever. A detent and detent follower are formed on the actuator and one of the first and second end portions for defining distinct rotary positions of the actuator relative to the lever, each distinct position defining a separate vehicle operating device state.

Abstract: An acceleration detecting device includes a hollow housing having a side wall, a bottom wall and an opening and a cover closing the opening of the hollow housing. A weight is pivotally mounted in the hollow housing to be rotated about a locus in response to an applied acceleration. Also positioned within the housing is a contact assembly to be electrically-closed by the rotated weight. A plastic main body is held in the hollow housing along the side wall to support the contact assembly and keep the contact assembly spaced from the locus of the weight during the rotation of the weight. The plastic main body which supports the contact assembly may have a wider support along the side wall of the hollow housing, which is independent from fixture of the cover. Therefore, the contact assembly may be supported by the hollow housing through the main body in a more reliable manner.

Abstract: An automotive combination switch having a simple relay connector structure between switch units, comprising a reduced number of components and excelling in assemblability and reliability. The combination switch comprises a light control switch unit (1) containing a plurality of function switches housed in a case having a rib to be fitting to a groove (5a) of a main body (5), an elastic mounting knob (7a) and a stopper peg (8a) provided thereon, also provided in the lower part of the case is a fixed connector (10a) for delivering signals from the switches outside; and a wiper control switch unit (2) containing a plurality of function switches housed in a case having likewise a rib, a mounting knob (7b), a stopper peg (8b) provided thereon and a fixed connector (10b). An interconnection lead wire (17) having movable connectors (19a, 19b) at both ends is attached to the main body (5) with a mobility to be engaged with respective fixed connectors (10a, 10b) of the switch units when mounted to the main body (5).

Abstract: A linear switch having 360 degree circumferential activation is provided. The switch includes first and second resilient strips separated by an actuator that defines two separate longitudinal channels. A pair of conductive strips, separated by perforated foam, extend the entire length of each channel. An external force applied anywhere along the exterior length or perimeter of the switch will activate it.

Abstract: The invention relates to an antenna-switching device between the output of a transmitting stage and the input of a receiving stage, which includes a piezoelectric actuator formed by two fixed plates (21, 22) which form a capacitor and a movable contact (23) of a piezoelectric material. The inside surfaces of the plates are locally metallized for forming electrical contacts. Electrodes are provided for applying to the movable contact a control voltage capable of deforming the contact. The deformation occurs between a rest position corresponding to a given part of the plates and a working position corresponding to another given part of the plates.

Abstract: A high voltage electric switch includes an insulated housing with an opening therethrough and an interior surface. The housing has an upper open end and a lower open end. A conductive upper terminal pad has a downwardly extending bar, wherein the upper terminal pad encloses the upper open end. A vacuum interrupter has a stationary stem that is electrically connected to the bar, and a moving stem extending in a direction opposite the stationary stem. A dielectric material is permanently bonded to at least a portion of the vacuum interrupter and substantially fills any voids between the vacuum interrupter and the interior surface. The dielectric material and the vacuum interrupter are selectively removable from the housing when the upper terminal pad is removed. A moving end assembly is connected to the moving stem and includes a highly conductive outer sleeve which receives a high strength inner sleeve having a cross-hole therethrough.

Abstract: A base mainly includes a heating plate and a probe. The probe is attached to the surface of a heating plate which serves to place a substrate having an ball pad on a lower surface facing the probe of the heating plate. The probe contacts the ball pad of the lower surface of the substrate to form a closed loop for wire bond checking while the substrate is placed on the heating plate. When processing the wire bond, the wire connecting the chip and the ball pad of the substrate and the probe connecting to the wire bond checking system form a loop. Then a current is sent to the substrate from the wire bond checking system to check for wire lift bond or missed wire. When the wire bond checking system finds an occurrence of lift bond or missing wire, the wire bonding process stops immediately to avoid unnecessary wire bonding.

Abstract: A mount for interposition between an electrode holder and an electrode for electrical discharge machining (EDM). The mount is cast from material such as aluminum or zinc. The mount has a shank portion that is connectable to the electrode holder and a connector portion or tip portion that is connectable to the electrode. The tip portion has a gluing surface that is dimensioned to be glued with a corresponding surface on the electrode. A plurality of deformable ears cast onto the gluing surface of the mount project outward and deform in contact with the electrode when the electrode and the mount are connected and bonded by glue, to thereby provide good electrical contact therebetween. The tip portion may also include grooves cast therein for receiving glue thereby improving the glue bond strength between the electrode and the mount. The mount includes an axial passage to provide for dielectric fluid flow therethrough.

Abstract: An improved method for welding and passivation forms a chromium oxide passivated film over the welded portion during the welding process. In a shielding step, a backshield gas, preferably argon, is flowed around the welding site. In a welding step, an arc gas, preferably argon with approximately 10% hydrogen and less than 1 ppm moisture content, is flowed through the welding head and a welded joint is formed, for example by high speed tungsten-inert gas (TIG) orbital welding. In the passivation step, a process gas, preferably argon with approximately 30-100 ppm of oxygen and less than 1 ppm moisture content, and preferably less than 1 ppb moisture content, is flowed over the welded portion to form a chromium oxide passivated film on the welded portion. The process gas is passed through a gas purifier prior to being flowed over the welded portion to maintain its moisture level at less than 1 ppb.

Abstract: A plasma processing apparatus and method of processing a specimen by a plasma. The method and apparatus includes independently controlling a density distribution of the plasma.

Abstract: A system and method for annealing a film on a substrate in a processing chamber, including a microwave generator disposed to provide microwaves to an area within the interior of the chamber. The microwaves have a frequency such that the film is substantially absorptive at the frequency but the substrate is not substantially absorptive at the frequency. A waveguide distributes the microwaves over the surface of the film to provide a substantially uniform dosage of microwaves over the surface of the film. The method includes depositing a film on a substrate in the processing chamber. During at least a portion of the time of the depositing step, microwaves are generated having a frequency such that the film has an absorption peak at the frequency but the substrate lacks a substantial absorption peak at the frequency. The microwaves are directed towards the film.

Abstract: Focused laser light and plasma arc are coaxially disposed to provide a laser machining head which performs a high precision and efficient machining, by reinforcing laser light with plasma arc to form a versatile heat source. For this purpose, in a tip part 6 of a laser machining head 10 having optical systems 4 and 5 for focusing a laser light 11 oscillated by a laser oscillator 1, a plasma machining head 20 is mounted coaxially with the optical systems 4 and 5. The plasma machining head 20 is provided with electrode nozzles 24 and 25 connected to a plasma apparatus 15 and a working gas supply passage 19 connected to the electrode nozzles 24 and 25 so that the laser light 11 and a plasma arc 28 are irradiated towards a same machining position 14 of a machined part 13.

Abstract: This invention relates to a plasma focus source for generating radiation at a selected wavelength, the invention involving producing a high energy plasma sheathe which moves down an electrode column at high speed and is pinched at the end of the column to form a very high temperature spot. An ionizable gas introduced at the pinch can produce radiation at the desired wavelength. In order to prevent separation of the plasma sheathe from the pinch, and therefore to prolong the pinch and prevent potentially damaging restrike, a shield of a high temperature nonconducting material is positioned a selected distance from the center electrode and shaped to redirect the plasma sheathe to the center electrode, preventing separation thereof. An opening is provided in the shield to permit the desired radiation to pass substantially unimpeded.

Abstract: A Q-switched solid state laser system (24) operates in a pulse processing control system (10) that employs an autopulse mode and a pulse-on-position mode to stabilize the pulse-to-pulse laser energy delivered to a workpiece (20) that is moved by an X-Y positioner (18). In the autopulse mode, laser pulses are emitted at a near maximum PRF, but the pulses are blocked from reaching the workpiece by an external modulator (28, 32), such as an acousto-optic modulator (“AOM”) or electro-optic modulator (also referred to as a Pockels cell). In the pulse-on-position mode, the laser emits a pulse in response to the positioner moving to a location on the workpiece that coincides with a commanded coordinate location. The processing control system delivers a stream of coordinate locations, some requiring processing, at a rate that moves the positioner and triggers the laser at about the near maximum PRF.

Abstract: A process and a device for the joining of fastening elements on a mask frame of picture tubes by welding using laser beams is applicable to the production of color picture tubes for television sets and computer monitors. After positioning the fastening elements, the elements are welded by laser beams from at least one laser source. The laser source is located outside the mask frame, and the laser beam is guided through a glass wall of a screen to weld the fastening elements.

Abstract: A method for repair welding a titanium compressor blisk using laser twist welding. A blisk assembly has damaged portions removed. The surface to be repaired is provided with a predetermined geometry. The portions to be repaired are surrounded by a fixture which contains a laser nozzle. The fixture can provide a protective atmosphere to the area under repair while also shielding adjacent areas from damage resulting form welding. The welding is accomplished using preprogrammed patterns. The welding within the fixture is monitored remotely and is adjusted when stand-off between the weld nozzle and the molten metal are not within a predetermined range.

Abstract: Methods are provided for etching, cutting and/or altering, the surface of a flower, plant, cut foliage, or foliage incorporated into consumable products such as cigars (hereinafter referred to as foliage, leaf, or product) with computer controlled laser energy to affect a desired artistic or utility design or marking on the foliage. The laser energy source is operative to provide an optical beam having power and optical wave length characteristics effective to thermally disrupt plant tissue to produce a permanent mark on the foliage surface or, alternatively, cut through the foliage. Additionally, methods are provided for the automatic transfer of leaves stacked in a container into the laser marking/cutting field and for depositing said leaves in a separate container after processing by laser. A method is described that provides for rapid, safe, and accurate manual placement of a leaf into a laser marking/cutting system.

Abstract: This invention concerns a process useful for increasing the accuracy of the shape of a laser ablated feature formed on a substrate, especially where the substrate is a polymeric article. The process includes irradiating the polymeric article with laser light that has passed through a retardation plate selected from stationary adjustable plates, rotating plates or spinning plates, preferable in multiples of quarter-waves or half-waves. This invention also concerns a laser apparatus useful for making ablated features in a substrate having a radiation source; a mask positioned between the radiation source and a substrate to be irradiated, and a retardation plate which is stationary and adjustable, rotating or spinning plates.

Abstract: A mask is mounted on one surface of a ceramic green sheet which is supported on an X-Y table. The mask is provided with a plurality of through hole transmissive portions. A pulsed laser beam is applied to the mask. The size of the laser beam is sufficiently large to encompass at least several of said through hole transmissive portions. The laser beam passes through the through hole transmissive portions and simultaneously forms a plurality of through holes in the ceramic green sheet. Because the mask is located on (or at least substantially adjacent) the surface of the ceramic green sheet, the size and shape of the through holes will be approximately identical to the size and shape of the through hole transmissive portions, thereby precisely controlling the size and shape of the through holes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for laser drilling an article having a nonmetallic layer. One embodiment of the method includes the steps of generating a pulsed laser beam, a pulse of the pulse laser beam having an energy of less than or equal to 0.1 joule and a pulse width of less than or equal to 500 nanoseconds, directing the pulsed laser beam at the article to vaporize the nonmetallic layer, and directing the pulsed laser beam at the article to vaporize the substrate. The method may be carried out with an apparatus which includes a Nd:YAG laser which produces the pulsed laser beam, the pulsed laser beam having a first frequency component, and a harmonic generator which generates a second frequency component, the second frequency being greater than the first frequency, where the laser beam, after passing through the harmonic generator, is incident on the article to vaporize the nonmetallic layer.

Abstract: An engine driven welder has a fuel tank with a filler tube that extends upwardly from a reservoir in the machine base. The filler tube upper end and a cap thereon are below the machine top cover. The machine top cover has a cutout into which is installed a grommet that closes the cutout and that fully protects the filler tube upper end and the cap. The grommet has a hole that seals over a top portion of the filler tube such that any spilled fuel does not leak inside the machine. The filler tube has an expansion space that prevents splashback and spillover during fueling. An angled tail pipe directs engine exhaust away from the welding machine in any desired direction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for welding the gap between two ends of adjacent first and second pipe sections comprising: moving a first consumable electrode along the end of the first pipe section; moving a second consumable electrode along the end of the second pipe section; moving the electrodes in unison in side by side relationship on opposite sides of the gap; applying a first welding current to the first electrode; and, applying a second welding current to the second electrode, separate from the first welding current and, optionally, a mechanism for adjusting the spacing of the electrodes.

Abstract: Welding device to enable a welder to maintain an upright position when welding at floor level. The device is a rigid handle having a pistol-type handgrip and telescoping tubes. The telescoping tubes can be easily adjusted and interlocked, thus providing a handle that is adjustable to a plurality of lengths. The handgrip is angled approximately 90° to the longitudinal axis of the handle and provides for a comfortable and secure grip. The electrode holder used in the welding process can be releasably attached to the distal end of the device. In the Preferred Embodiment, the telescoping tubes and handgrip are hollow, so that a power cable can be fed through the device and connected to the electrode holder. Mounted on the device is a welding shield made of welder's glass, that shields the welder's eyes from the welding flame and protects the welder from sparks arising from the welding site, thus eliminating the need on the part of the welder to wear a welding hood with mask.

Abstract: A carpet seaming iron having an internal electronic temperature control circuit including a solid state temperature sensor, a power controller, and a solid state switching device is disclosed. The iron does not use a thermostat for temperature control. The iron includes a baseplate, an electrically powered heating element, a heat shield, a handle and the internally mounted control circuit. The control circuit includes a means for providing a signal to the power controller corresponding to a desired temperature of the iron. A solid state temperature sensor sends a signal to the power controller corresponding to the baseplate temperature. The power controller controls the switching device so that the amount of power supplied to the heating element is proportional to the difference between the baseplate temperature and the desired temperature. Thus as the baseplate becomes hotter, less power is supplied to the heating element, and the seaming iron maintains a stable and precise temperature.

Abstract: A method and an equipment for heating glass in a tempering furnace provided with rollers. In a tempering furnace glass (3) is heated from above with upper resistors (4) and from below with lower resistors (5). The heating resistors (4, 5) are dimensioned such that their combined power is greater than the maximum heating power needed by the furnace, and that the resistors are controlled such that the maximum amount of resistor power being used simultaneously corresponds to the maximum heating power needed by the furnace. This allows heat to be directed at a desired place in the furnace also at the initial stage of heating, and a single resistor is efficient and fast, allowing heat to be directed quickly at places where it is needed.

Abstract: A semiconductor substrate processing system and method using a stable heating source with a large thermal mass relative to conventional lamp heated systems. The system dimensions and processing parameters are selected to provide a substantial heat flux to the wafer while minimizing heat loss to the surrounding environment (particularly from the edges of the heat source and wafer). The heat source provides a wafer temperature uniformity profile that has a low variance across temperature ranges at low pressures. A resistively heated block is substantially enclosed within an insulated vacuum cavity used to heat the wafer. A vacuum region is preferably provided between the heated block and the insulating material as well as between the insulating material and the chamber wall. Heat transfer across the vacuum regions is primarily achieved by radiation, while heat transfer through the insulating material is achieved by conduction.

Abstract: A cooking appliance includes a cabinet, defined by at least front, side, bottom and rear panel portions, and at least one oven cavity positioned therein. When placed in an in-use position, the bottom panel portion is spaced from a supporting surface, preferably by multiple, vertically adjustable leg members, such that an air passageway is defined below the bottom panel. At least one opening is formed at a lower rear section of the appliance to allow air to flow into a passageway defined in the cabinet between the oven cavity and the rear panel portion of the cabinet. At least one outlet opening is formed in an upper portion of the cabinet to allow the cooling air to exit the cabinet. With this arrangement, operation of the cooking appliance causes air to be drawn along the bottom of the appliance, into the cabinet, upward within the passageway and then out of the cabinet.

Abstract: An electric cooking appliance having a housing receiving a removable bowl, a heating element in thermal contact with the bowl when the bowl is seated in the housing, a heat adjuster, an ultimate safety switch to act in case of failure of the heat adjuster, and a thermal limit switch mounted in the housing. The thermal limit switch is set to be triggered before the ultimate safety switch if the bowl in not seated in the housing.

Abstract: A hot water bottle includes a bottle bottom, a bottle body, and a bottle cover. The bottle body is made of transparent glass which allows the level of water to be seen clearly from the outside of the bottle. A plurality of protective strips, with proper distribution, are formed on the outer surface of the bottle body to protect the user's hand by acting as a heat isolation barrier.