Abstract: A valve assembly includes a housing and a float. The housing is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of the float between a resting position to a position where it is situated in its valve seat, unless a selected liquid volume within the valve housing is attained. In one embodiment, a series of projection members or rings creates a tortuous path, such that there is no clear path for the float to reach the valve seat. In another embodiment, vacuum pressure is created between the float and its cup support. Still other embodiments utilize magnets, springs, linkages, and bent wires. Methods for preventing liquid ingestion into an engine through an air intake are also provided.

Abstract: A method and assembly (kit) are provided for use by propane tank service personnel to detect escaping gas in propane tank systems. The standard connection between the regulator and tank service valve is replaced with a permanent valve assembly including a main connection between the regulator and valve and a valve unit disposed in a branch connection of the valve assembly. A separate pressure gauge is individually assigned to tank service personnel and adapted to be carried by such personnel in testing the pressure in the propane tank. The pressure gauge is affixed, e.g., through a hose, to a valve unit connector including an actuator, i.e., a valve stem operator, for actuating the valve unit. When the pressure gauge is connected to the valve unit, the latter is actuated to provide an immediate reading of the tank pressure.

Abstract: An emergency pressure relief valve has a housing fluidly connected to a pressurized system line carrying a system fluid. The housing carries a piston and a valve member which move within the housing between a closed position and an open position. The piston defines an upper chamber and a lower chamber within the housing. A control fluid is supplied to the upper chamber, and the pressure of the control fluid exerts a biasing force to a first side of the piston. The biasing force holds the valve member and piston in a closed position when the pressure of the system fluid is at an acceptable level. As the pressure of the system fluid rises above the acceptable level, the valve member moves to an open position. While the piston moves from the closed position to the open position, a delay fluid is injected into the lower chamber. As the delay fluid is expelled from the chamber, it delays a return of the piston and valve member to the closed position.

Abstract: A method and assembly (kit) are provided for use by propane tank service personnel to detect escaping gas in propane tank systems. In one embodiment, the standard connection between the regulator and tank service valve is replaced with a permanent valve arrangement including a main connection between the regulator and valve and a valve unit disposed in a branch connection of the valve assembly. In a second embodiment, a permanent valve assembly is screwed into a pressure port in the tank regulator system. A separate pressure gauge is individually assigned to tank service personnel and adapted to be carried by such personnel in testing the pressure in the propane tank. The pressure gauge is affixed, e.g., through a hose, to a valve unit connector including an actuator, e.g., a valve stem operator, for actuating the valve unit.

Abstract: An engine oil solenoid control valve includes a molded one-piece valve nozzle and coil bobbin member that defines a valve nozzle and a solenoid coil bobbin and also defines an integral check valve receiving receptacle at an exhaust port and first and second valve seats for controlling valve stroke. A ball valve is disposed between the valve seats. A simple cylindrical armature rod can be used together with molded integral recesses that balance hydraulic pressure on the armature to prevent a hydraulic lock condition.

Abstract: A pressure difference adjusting device is provided for a valve having a first inlet for a first fluid of a first pressure, a second inlet for a second fluid of a second pressure not equal to the first pressure, and an outlet. The pressure difference adjusting device includes two rotatable elements that are mounted in a meeting area of the incoming fluids. The elements mesh with each other to drive each other when the elements are subjected to impact from the incoming fluids.

Abstract: A pulse piloted cartridge valve that defaults to a closed position. A spring biases against a latching piston assembly within the valve to position the latching piston assembly to the closed position. In this position, a supply port is sealed off from a control port. Pressurized fluid may be provided in a pilot open chamber to move the pilot open piston downward on the upper stem of the latching piston assembly to push the latching piston assembly to an open position. When in the open position, the passageway from the control port to the supply port is opened as well as the passageway from the control port to the axial passageway. Pressure is then transferred from the supply port through the axial passageway to the latching chamber. The pilot open piston is raised by pressure from the axial passageway. The latching piston assembly is held in the open position with pressure within the latching chamber.

Abstract: A hydraulic actuator for a vehicle roll control system includes a fluid pressure transducer 28, housed in a valve block 16, the output characteristic of which is temperature dependent. In order to correct for this the temperature of the fluid is monitored. This is done by monitoring the duty ratio of the pulse width modulated driving signal to a control valve 22 in the block, which varies with temperature to produce a constant total current.

Abstract: A foam trap or FOB for a gas propelled or mechanically pumped liquid dispensing system, having an upper ball stopper valve seat and gas vent port at the top and a lower ball stopper valve seat and liquid outlet port at the bottom, with two floating ball stoppers that are raised and lowered by the level of liquid unless locked into a seated position on a valve seat by pressure. Ball stoppers can be independently mechanically dislodged and constrained from reseating on either valve seat by externally accessible means. The interior geometry inhibits the ball stoppers from competing or blocking access to respective valve seats when liquid is falling or rising. The trap automatically shuts off outflow when liquid is depleted, permitting a container change, opening of the vent port, and purging of gas or air in the trap by refilling the trap with liquid before closing the vent port and reopening the outflow. The trap may be integrated into an automated container switching system for liquid dispensing systems.

Abstract: A system for providing gas to a container includes a source of gas under pressure, a container, and a pressure regulating device. The pressure-regulating device includes an inlet intended to be connected to a source of the gas under pressure, an outlet, connected by a duct to the inlet and intended to be placed in communication with the container, a first valve for limiting the pressure at the outlet to a predetermined maximum value Ps, which valve is a delivery valve placed in a first passage which connects the duct to an orifice for discharging inert gas. The device also includes a second valve for keeping the pressure at the outlet above a predetermined minimum value Pi, which valve is an intake valve placed in a second passage which connects the duct to an orifice that lets fluid into this duct.

Abstract: A safety shut-off valve assembly is especially for use with a dispenser unit used at retail gasoline service stations. The shut-off valve assembly comprises an open-top fuel flow chamber for permanent mounting at a base of the fuel dispenser, a removable cover plate with a break-away tube member extending therefrom, and a bonnet valve mounted in the open-top fuel flow chamber. An ingress opening in the fuel flow chamber receives a terminus of a primary supply pipeline. The terminus of the break-away tube member serves as an egress for the fuel. The bonnet valve has a plate disc to close off the break-away tube member terminus when needed. When the dispenser unit is disturbed such as by an accidental bumping, the bonnet valve is activated to prevent further flow of fuel into the dispenser unit. The assembly prevents an accumulation of fuel vapors and allows ready access to the primary pipeline for periodic inspection or replacement.

Abstract: An automatic flush water distribution system for use in an evaporative cooling system includes a water distribution pipe adapted to be connected to a source of pressurized water. The pipe has a plurality of water distribution ports formed therein and a vertical flush pipe is connected at a first end to the water distribution pipe in liquid communication therewith. The flush pipe includes a second lower end and contains at least one valve seat and at least one buoyant float valve located therein between the valve seat and the water distribution pipe.

Abstract: A process gas supply unit has a supply valve for supplying process gas to a semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, a purge valve for supplying inert gas, a check valve provided in a passage between an inert gas source and the purge valve and a common manifold provided with the supply valve, the purge valve and the check valve. Therefore, these parts are mounted on a mass flow controller as a unit and the process gas unit can be made compact and integrated as a whole.

Abstract: A coupling system that can be placed into the existing drain and over the existing drain pipe to effect a repair without removal of an existing tub, shower or similar receptacle. The drain coupling system is self-sealing and can be locked into place from above. After ensuring that the proper seal is obtained between the invention and the drain pipe, the body of the invention is pushed downward until the upper collar lip engages the floor surrounding the drain opening. The system is then secured in position from above by the plurality of hex head set screws provided. The hex head set screws extend downward from the upper most surface of the invention. The coupling system is supplied with locking tabs. When the present invention is in the proper position within the drain opening, the rotation of the screws forces the wings of the locking tabs to rotate in a lateral fashion. The rotation of the locking tab continues until the wings contact the walls of the drain opening.

Abstract: A water management system for a motor vehicle in which water is collected from the condenser (1) of the air-conditioning unit, stored in a master water tank (5) and distributed therefrom to the battery (15), screen wash jet (27) and radiator (37). The vehicle owner is thus spared the inconvenience of regularly checking and topping up the water supply for these items. The risk of breakdown is also reduced. In another aspect of the invention, a wet battery (15) incorporates a plurality of float valves (75) for regulating the fluid level in respective cells (61, 63) of the battery. Water is passed through a common channel (23) into which the float valves (75) open when the fluid level is below a preset limit. The battery fluid is thereby automatically kept at the required level for optimum performance and lifetime of the battery.

Abstract: A lockable box which may be opened, positioned around the gauge ports on the refrigerant lines in an air conditioning system, then closed and locked, thereby preventing unauthorized access to the gauge ports and bleed off of refrigerant from the ports.

Abstract: A device for preventing unauthorized access to a rotating shaft. More particularly, an apparatus is provided to prevent unintended and unauthorized operation of a rotating shaft by encasing a vulnerable portion of the shaft in a standard pin type lock which renders the shaft impervious to unauthorized operation. It is intended that the rotating shaft cannot be operated unless it is unlocked and a tool is applied to a portion thereof.

Abstract: An automatic fluid shut-off device for interrupting fluid flow through a fluid supply path in a fluid delivery system. The automatic fluid shut-off device includes: a fluid flow sensor structured and disposed for monitoring fluid flow in a fluid supply path; a control panel housing, a central processing unit, and including a visual display panel, programming buttons, and indicator lights; and either a solenoid actuated fluid shut-off valve or relay that interrupts power to a fluid pump. The fluid flow sensor monitors fluid flow in the fluid supply path and outputs the fluid flow data to the central processing unit. The central processing unit compares the measured fluid flow value with the value preprogrammed for the particular operating conditions or for the particular active zone in a multi-zone fluid delivery system.

Abstract: A pilot valve includes a body having a channel formed therein, an inlet chamber formed along the channel, an inlet port in communication with the inlet chamber, a control port in communication with the channel, and a vent port in communication with the channel. A piston is movable within the channel in response to fluid pressure within the inlet chamber. A first spool is movable within the channel and is rigidly secured to the piston to move therewith. A second spool is movable within the channel and carries a vent-valve disc. The second spool also carries an inlet-valve seat which cooperates with an inlet-valve disc carried by the first spool to regulate fluid flow between the inlet chamber and the control port. A vent-valve seat is rigidly secured to the body and cooperates with the vent-disc carried by the second spool to regulate flow between the control port and the vent port. A first spring urges the first spool in a direction opposite pressure in the inlet chamber.

Abstract: A regulating valve is disclosed for controlling the flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply. The valve includes a diaphragm which is resiliently biased into a normally closed position, and which shifts to an open position when exposed to a fluid pressure above a predetermined minimum level.

Abstract: The invention provides an in-line low supply pressure alarm device preferably housed together with a gas pressure regulator and a gas flow controller, thereby eliminating the need for the operator to monitor gas availability. The alarm device is designed to be inserted in-line and includes a hollow housing with a gas inlet, a gas outlet, and an elongate internal chamber. A piston is disposed within the chamber for axial sliding between an alarm-on and an alarm-off position. The piston includes a piston head sealed in sliding engagement with an actuating compartment of the chamber. The actuating compartment of the chamber is filled with pressurized gas in flow communication with the gas inlet in operation. The piston includes an axially extending valve stem with a lateral alarm port in flow communication with the gas inlet. The valve stem is in sliding engagement with axially spaced apart seals defining an alarm plenum within the chamber.

Abstract: An on/off valve (O/OV) and directional valves (DV1, DV2) are packaged with a switching valve system (10) in a housing assembly (156, 157, 158, 160). The on/off valve (O/OV) is operated by a control handle (154) that is located at one end of the housing assembly (156, 157, 158, 160). The direction control valves (DV1, DV2) are operated by a handle (141) located at the opposite end of the housing assembly (156, 157, 158, 160). The control handles (154, 141) operate to position cams (152, 136, 138) which function to help position valve plugs. In a second embodiment, the handle (141) and cams (136, 138) for controlling the directional valves (DV1, DV2) are replaced by a solenoid valve system (SV2). A second solenoid valve (SV1) is added to the control system for the off/on valve (O/OV). The solenoid valve (SV1, SV2) allow for a remote positioning of the controls for the off/on and directional valves (O/OV, DV1, DV2).

Abstract: The mixing valve battery cartridge shown in the figures annexed is used for mixing liquids, primarily cold and warm water, having said cartridge one inlet disc (2) and one control disc (3) arranged one above the other and forming a plane sealing together, thus serving for controlling the mixing ratio and flow of liquids passing through; the inlet disc (2) arranged first in respect of flow direction is stationary and the control disc (3) arranged above the former is able to displace in its plane in any direction.

Abstract: First and second collars cooperate with first and second seal members separated by a retaining ring assembled onto a valve piston. The collars selectively engage the valve housing at one end and the retaining ring at the other end to limit the travel of the piston between first and second positions. Moreover, the assembly offers a cost effective alternative to the bonded rubber seals provided on known piston arrangements.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure accumulator which may be used in an electronically controllable vehicle braking system for a motor vehicle. In an electronically controllable vehicle braking system with a cylinder/piston arrangement (i.e., a master cylinder) providing a brake fluid , a brake pedal actuates the cylinder/piston arrangement to provide brake fluid acting on the brake of the motor vehicle. The cylinder/piston arrangement is connectable with a pump arrangement and the pressure accumulator.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for dislodging a test baffle in a fluid conduit following pressure testing without permitting fluid to escape. The invention provides a device for dislodging or unseating a test baffle, for releasing a pressure within the conduit contained by the baffle, and for removing the baffle without leakage or other fluid escape. A preferred apparatus according to the invention comprises a rigid plug adapted for sealing engagement of an end of a fluid conduit such as a pipe, and a removal device adapted to pass through an aperture in said plug and to engage and dislodge a test baffle disposed within an interior of the conduit. Preferred removal devices comprises flexible lines attached to the test baffle and tools adapted to pass through the aperture and engage the test baffle.

Abstract: A cover assembly that is equipped with a pivotable handle for sealing a vacuum conduit opening is provided. The cover assembly is constructed generally by a cover body and a pivotable handle resting in a recess in a top surface of the cover body. The cover body is constructed by an upper annular portion and a lower annular portion integrally formed or joined together. The upper annular portion has an outside diameter that is larger than an outside diameter of the conduit opening, while the lower annular portion has an outside diameter that is smaller than an inside diameter of the conduit opening for sealing the conduit opening when the lower annular portion of the cover body is inserted into the conduit opening, a bottom surface of the upper annular portion sealingly engages the end surface of the conduit opening. The upper annular portion may further include a recess in a top surface for concealing the pivotable handle therein.

Abstract: An apparatus for and a method of forming a surface finish on a top surface of a drain cover for swimming pools or spas so that the surface finish of the drain cover matches the surface finish of the pool or spa. The apparatus comprises a ring shaped structure that is adapted to be positioned on the top surface of the drain cover wherein the ring is mounted along the general outer perimeter of the top surface of the drain cover. An exposed aggregate or plaster finish is then formed on the top surface of the cover enclosed by the ring so that the ring retains and shapes the surface finish.

Abstract: A multi-layer assembly for fluid and vapor handling and containment systems. The multi-layer assembly comprises an extrudable inner layer of a polymeric material, a first layer of multiphase polymer surrounding the inner layer, a permeation resistance layer of polymeric material surrounding the first layer of multiphase polymer and a second layer of multiphase polymer surrounding the permeation resistance layer.

Abstract: A weaving machine with pneumatic weft insertion is provided which includes a fixed reed filler at an output end of a reed when it is in a weft insertion position. A catch salvage forming device is disposed at an output end of the fixed reed filler when the reed is in the weft insertion position and serves to keep the inserted weft stretched during movements of the reed between a weft insertion and a beating up position. In order to shorten the overall length of the assembly, a weft stop motion for detecting the insertion of the weft is located on the fixed reed filler.

Abstract: Substrate beads for combinatorial synthesis are selected individually from a mixture by suspending the mixture in an electrically conductive liquid, in a bead selection vessel, causing the liquid to flow at a controlled rate through an aperture in the side wall of a pipette extending through the vessel, and detecting the passage of a bead through the aperture by monitoring an electrical resistance across the aperture. In an alternative embodiment, beads are passed through a tube into a collection passage in which a continuous laminar flow takes place. Detection takes place at the tip of the tube, and, in response to the detection of a bead, the flow through the collection passage is diverted to cause the bead to be deposited. In both cases, the selected bead is deposited into a well of a plate having rows and columns of wells in a rectangular array, while a vacuum is drawn through a filter in the bottom of the well.

Abstract: In connection with the production and the portioning-out of ice cream to packaging cups, changes can arise in the character and specific gravity of the ice cream. This occurs particularly during the start-up phase, whereby it is customary that a large number of the cups with incorrect filling have to be discarded. To ensured that all the cups are totally filled, use is made of a controllable step- or servomotor for the raising and lowering of the cups in relation to a continuously-operating filling nozzle, and the cups are then conveyed through a weighing station for a control weighing of the total filling. The weighing signals are fed back to the processing plant for the regulation of the specific gravity and character of the ice cream. In most cases, the “incorrect” cups will still be marketable, in that they will at least be correctly filled with a product which, despite all other things, will be acceptable.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing container product filling in an aseptic processing apparatus. An apparatus including a valve mechanism for controlling the opening or closing of a valve including extending a portion of the valve from a second sterile region into a first sterile region, thereby, preventing contaminants from being carried into the first sterile region.

Abstract: A self-closing cap for the filling neck of a container, the self-closing cap having integral therewith a smart card having a container coil antenna for communicating with a supply station coil antenna fixed to a supply nozzle when the supply nozzle is inserted into the container through the self-closing cap.

Abstract: A pump system for a helicopter tanker includes an axial flow electric pump coupled to a lower end of a snorkel having a generally tubular pump housing extending along a central axis between an open upper end and an opposite open lower end serving as an inlet of the pump. An in-line electric motor is supported within the housing along the axis and has an output drive shaft mounting an impeller. A filter screen basket is mounted on the lower end of the housing to filter water for filtering the incoming water. An electric power cable extends from the motor through a the housing and is shrouded externally by a protective metal cable guard.

Abstract: In the case of a filling pipe for a fuel tank a branching element is arranged in a section of the filling pipe. The flow of the inflowing fuel preferably runs along an outer wall of the filling pipe, so that a subflow is in each case conducted directly to the antisurge tower through a lower cross-sectional area. Larger volume flows, which completely fill the cross section, pass for the most part directly into the fuel tank. By this means, a sufficient basic supply of the antisurge tower is ensured irrespective of the volume flow produced during filling.

Abstract: A refillable dispensing apparatus is disclosed in which a removable cap is utilized to protectively overlie the container during its storage condition and the cap may be readily converted into a funnel for refilling the depleted container. The conversion of the cap into a funnel is achieved by removing and reversing the cap, with the cap being configured and dimensioned to define a trough like container having a funnel extension which communicates with the container opening.

Abstract: This device is for maintaining a flexible bag in an open manner. It has an inner hoop having an outer side wall sloping inwardly and downwardly, and an outer binder which is provided with a through opening having a complementary shape and size adapted to embrace the outer side wall of the inner hoop. The flexible bag is mounted between the inner hoop and the outer binder by first inserting the bag through the inner hoop with the bag's lip portion folded backwards to cover over the outer side wall of the inner loop. The outer binder is then fitted over the inner hoop with the folded back lip portion of the bag sandwiched between the engaging inner hoop and the outer binder. When the bag is being filled, the weight in the bag will inherently pull the inner hoop and the outer binder to engage with each other with increasing force as the weight of the load increases, and thus, in turn, securing the bag even more tightly to the device.

Abstract: A positionable top for operatively positioning a power tool by adjusting the position of the top in relation to a frame. By utilizing multiple engaging slots on the frame and a matching projection on the square top, the top may be rotated, inverted, horizontally adjusted, and vertically positioned within a frame to support various portable power tools in a variety of positions. The power tools are locked to the top by clamps which utilize “T” shaped grooves as both clamp rails and miter guide grooves.

Abstract: The sign covering of the present invention is an all weather covering for concealing the insignia side of a sign, and more particularly a roadway sign. The covering is made of a weather resistant fabric, such as polypropylene, and is light enough for a single person to install. The sign covering does not damage the sign nor is it susceptible to the elements. Typically, straps affixed to a sheet covering the insignia side of the sign hold the cover in place. The straps are tied at the back of the sign using a cord fitted through the eyelets of grommets positioned at the free end of each strap and into the corresponding grommets that are positioned at the opposite edge of the sheet. Once securely attached, the sign cover effectively hides the insignia side of the sign from view.

Abstract: A motorcycle cover used for receipt on top of and around a motorcycle when the motorcycle is transported on an open trailer. The cover provides protection against outdoor elements and from cover material flapping, fluttering or wearing against a surface on the motorcycle. The cover includes a body cover member and a front wheel cover member. The body cover member is adapted for receipt on top of and around a rear portion of the motorcycle which include the gas tank, seat, engine, body frame and rear wheel. The front wheel cover member is adapted for receipt on top of and around a front portion of the motorcycle that includes the front wheel, front wheel frame and light. The body cover member includes a heavy nylon exterior protective wrap having a top portion, first and second side portions, a front portion and a bottom portion. The front portion is releasably attached to one side of the first side portion. Also, the front portion is releasably attached to one end of the bottom portion.

Abstract: An inner tube for a vehicle tire, which includes a base having air chambers in two opposite side walls thereof and zigzag insertion slots around the periphery of each of the side walls, a multi-cell rubber tube mounted on the base between its side walls and defining a plurality of zigzag insertion slots arranged one over another around a center opening thereof and an annular insertion slot surrounding the zigzag insertion slots for mounting patching glue, and a plurality of breaker assembles respectively mounted in the zigzag insertion slots in the base and the multi-cell rubber tube.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel wheel which serves for equipping with a pneumatic tire and essentially realizes two apparently incompatible properties of solid rubber tires and pneumatic tires, namely strength and good shock absorption, in a single wheel. This wheel is distinguished by the fact that it has a toroidal hollow foam member enclosed by the pneumatic tire and comprising reversibly deformable material having a large number of enclosed cavities serving for the absorption of gas. The substantial advantage of the tire according to the invention is obvious. Damage to the tire skin by a stone or nail does not in fact inevitably lead to an immediate and complete loss of air, as is often the case with known tires. Thus, the toroidal hollow foam member can itself store air in its cells, which not only permits continued riding for a certain time but also reduces the risk of accidents in the event of damage to the tire.

Abstract: A pneumatic agricultural tire 20,200 for an industrial type tractor or like vehicle has a plurality of central lugs 50 and a plurality of shoulder lugs 40. The plurality of central lugs 50 are arranged in a circumferentially continuous row 60 and extend across the equatorial plane (EP). Each central lug 50 is similar in shape and orientation relative to each circumferentially adjacent central lug 50. Each central lug 50 has a leading end 51 and a trailing end 53. The leading ends 51 of each lug 50 is located on an opposite of the equatorial plane relative to the trailing end 53 of the same central lug 50. The plurality of shoulder lugs 40 are divided into first and second rows 44,46 and project radially outwardly from the inner tread 34 and extend from the lateral tread edges 33A,33B toward the equatorial plane of the tire 20,200. The shoulder lugs 40 have an axially inner end 41 being axially spaced from a leading end 51 and a trailing end 53 of the axially adjacent central lugs 53.

Abstract: A pneumatic tire comprising a rubber member containing a short fiber (A′) formed by the fibrillation of a short fiber (A) whose cross section takes a sea-island structure essentially composed of at least two polymers.

Abstract: A pneumatic tire for passenger cars comprises bead cores, a carcass layer, a tread portion, and side wall portions, wherein a rubber reinforcing layer having a crescent-shaped cross-section and at least one sheet of a rubber-filament fiber composite having a thickness measured under a pressure of 20 g/cm2 of 0.05 to 2.0 mm which is formed from a rubber component and filaments having a diameter or a maximum cross-sectional dimension of 0.0001 to 0.1 mm and a length of 8 mm or more are disposed in said side wall portions. Reinforcing cords of carcass plies are made of an aliphatic polyamide fiber having a melting point of 250° C. or higher.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying an image to a spherical surface utilizing a heat transfer device having a heating die with a convex surface. The concave surface allows for the transfer of an image onto an object having a spherical surface, such as a baseball or softball, without deforming said object.

Abstract: A teartape for packaging materials, and particularly such materials based on polyolefin films, includes a base film coated with a pressure sensitive adhesive composition. The teartape is affixed to the packaging material by the adhesive composition. This avoids the problem of distortion which can occur when affixing conventional teartapes to such packaging materials by means of hot melt wax compositions. The teartape is applied to moving packaging material by controlling the speed of the teartape in accordance with the speed of the packaging material so as to reduce tension imbalance. The speed of the teartape may be controlled in dependence upon the tension in the teartape. This can be achieved by supplying the teartape from a dispenser having a brake means (4,5) and a drive means (10,11,12) for regulating the speed oft he teartape in dependence on the tension in the teartape.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for making a conduit or pipe. An extruder is provided for producing a strip of continuous thermoplastic. A winding drum receives the strip and helically winds the strip around the drum's perimeter to form a conduit having an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the drum. The drum includes a core tube surrounded by a plurality of rollers which define the outer diameter of the drum. The rollers rotate to advance the strip around the drum. A pair of detachable plates are provided for supporting said rollers. Each plate has a plurality of support structures for receiving and removably supporting each of said rollers at either end, at a desired radial distance from the drum axis, in order to define the drum diameter. The pair of plates is part of a plurality of pairs of plates, with each pair being of a different diameter to manufacture pipe or conduit of a variety of different diameters.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the high volume manufacture of fluid infusion devices which embody a self-contained, stored-energy source for expelling fluids from the reservoir of the device into an ambulatory patient at precisely controlled rates over extended periods of time. In accordance with the method of the invention, the base and cover infusion components of the devices of the invention are manufactured in injection molded arrays which comprise a cover array which is superimposed over and connected to a base array with the elastomeric membrane being captured therebetween. The elastomeric membrane material, which forms the stored-energy source of the infusion devices, is continuously unrolled from a large roll of film-backed membrane material which is rotatably mounted on a turret assembly upon which a second back-up roll of elastomeric membrane material is also mounted.