Abstract: Methods of reducing the content of and preventing formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in harvested leafy plants such as tobacco and marijuana, are disclosed. The methods are directed to subjecting the plant to microwave and/or higher frequency radiation, at appropriate times in the cure cycle. With tobacco, products suitable for human consumption, such as cigarettes, cigars, etc., can be made in accordance with the present invention, having contents of tobacco-specific nitrosamines on a par with fresh-cut, green tobacco. In preferred embodiments, the resultant tobacco products are dried, golden-yellow leaves having almost negligible amounts of the known carcinogens NNN and NNK, in comparison to conventionally cured tobacco.

Abstract: The invention relates to low delivery cigarettes, usually having a mainstream particulate matter delivery of about 9 mg or less. An embodiment has a rod of tobacco material and a filter element. The filter element is an alkali filter material section having a loading level of less than 12% by weight of the section. The characteristics of the cigarettes are arranged so that, when smoked, the alkaline filter material is exposed to an amount of smoke acceptable to achieve an increased perception of smoke impact.

Abstract: A hair styling device including an elongated bamboo stick having a tapered first end and a second end. The second end has an aperture directed therethrough. An elastic band is secured to the second end of the elongated bamboo stick through the aperture thereof. The length of hair is positioned through the elastic band and the length of hair is twisted around itself and then the tapered first end of the elongated bamboo stick slides into the twisted length of hair.

Abstract: An anti-drip device for use in hair styling to prevent hair treatment chemicals from running down on the forehead, neck and side of the user after having been applied to the hair and scalp area. The device includes a center section separated from two end portions by two ear indentations that are equally spaced from the center member. The device is, constructed from a polyester and polyamide micro-fiber material for super absorbency.

Abstract: A ponytail holder includes a hinged pair of first and second arms with first and second opposed elastic slings bridging respective arms. The arms have inner surfaces. When the ponytail holder is closed on a bunch of hair, the arms form a substantially cylindrical shape, and opposed elastic slings extend to accommodate the thickness of the bunch of hair. Fastening device are provided for releasably fastening the arms in a closed position. First and second non-slip rubber-type formations define first and second elastic slings respectively. Each elastic sling has a non-slip gripping surface. First and second elastic slings are supported at each end to bridge first and second inner surfaces, respectively.

Abstract: A stage-by-stage tightness-adjustable hair clip structure includes a base plate, a leaf spring and a clip plate. Each end of the base plate is disposed with a pair of latch boards. Each end of the leaf spring is disposed with a pair of fork legs. Each end of the clip plate is disposed with a pair of latch lugs. One end of the hair clip can be a pivot end, while the other end thereof can be an openable end, whereby the hair clip is openable only at one end. Alternatively, both ends of the hair clip are openable ends, whereby the hair clip is openable at both ends. The tightness between the clip plate and the base plate is adjustable stage by stage according to the amount of a user's hair.

Abstract: A cosmetic case containing a replaceable inner case which can be easily removed or inserted, and which is specifically structured to maintain the cosmetic material contained therein in a fresh and useable condition. The invention is comprised of an outer case with a floor area and inner peripheral wall defining a space for an inner container, an outer cover attached by a hinge to the outer case, a main latch employed to hold the outer cover closed, a replaceable inner container providing a cosmetic holding space, an inner container cover capable of opening or closing over the cosmetic holding space, and a sub-latch employed to hold the inner cover closed against the inner container. The inner case is equipped with a hinge part to allow opening and closing of the inner cover, the hinge part fitting into a cutout section on the peripheral wall of the outer case so as to expose the hinge and thus allow wide angle opening of the inner case cover.

Abstract: A transducer is coupled either directly in a linear relationship, or remotely in an angular relationship, to a focusing element. The transducer and focusing element preferably extend a length at least equal to the diameter of a substrate to be cleaned thereby. The transducer and focusing assembly impart focused megasonic energy to a fluid in contact therewith. Three embodiments of a cleaning system which advantageously employ the transducer/focuser assembly are disclosed. The transducer/focuser assemblies preferably focus megasonic energy in a line across the substrate's surface, the substrate is then scanned past the lines of energy such that the substrate's entire surface is cleaned.

Abstract: A scarf flushing apparatus for cleaning the inside of tubes. The apparatus comprises a continuous and uninterrupted fluid flow system. The system comprises a transfer mechanism communicating with a flow control mechanism to direct flow through a nozzle to clean each tube being indexed therethrough and to redirect flow through a bypass line and into a reservoir during the indexing sequence. A pressure gauge and regulating valve communicate with the continuous fluid flow system so as to maintain substantially constant pressure throughout the fluid flow system during the cycling process.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for injecting cleaning materials into the steam chest of a turbine and to methods for cleaning high pressure turbine using that apparatus. The apparatus enables chemical foam to be input to the turbine through an existing port by temporarily replacing a valve attached to the steam chest. The apparatus, once attached to the steam chest, is free of moving parts, yet permits injection of chemical foam through any one or more of the steam chest apertures. The apparatus includes a housing, together with a plurality of inlets, one of which is in fluid communication with a telescoping injector for sealing engagement with a steam chest aperture. In the methods of the present invention, chemical foam may be directed through any one or more of the steam chest apertures into the turbine blade sections by operation of the remaining governor/control valves.

Abstract: A tilt control device is incorporated in a parasol for controlling tilting angle of a canopy of the parasol with respect to a central post of the parasol. The central post includes an upper segment to which the canopy is attached and a lower segment pivoted to the upper segment fir supporting the canopy. The tilt control device includes an operating ring rotatably mounted on the lower segment and forming an inner ring gear. A transmission shaft has a lower end forming an input gear mating the inner ring gear and an upper end forming a worm. A gear system is mounted to the second segment, including an output gear mounted to the pivotal pin of the upper segment and fixed to the upper segment and a worm gear mating the worm whereby rotation of the operating ring is transferred to the output gear via the transmission shaft and the gear system for moving the upper segment with respect to the lower segment.

Abstract: In an umbrella runner (2) in which a plurality of stretcher holder grooves (5) that hold stretcher ends having axial holes are formed around an end rim in a radial pattern, plate springs (12a, 12) for pivot support of the stretchers and having free ends that are deformed by insertion of said stretcher ends in said grooves (5) and engage the axial holes in said ends after insertion, thereby pivotally supporting said ends.

Abstract: An umbrella includes a shaft having a plurality of ribs radially and pivotally connected to a finishing cap on the top of the shaft and a sleeve is slidably mounted to the shaft. A stop, a first flange and a second flange respectively extend radially outward from the sleeve, wherein the first flange is located between the stop and the second flange. A collar is movably mounted to the sleeve and located between the stop and the first flange. A plurality of first stretchers pivotally connected between the collar and the ribs. A runner is movably mounted to the sleeve and located between the first flange and the second flange. A plurality of second stretchers are pivotally connected between the runner and the ribs. The sleeve is pushed toward the collar to move the collar and to let the panel be expanded by the first stretchers and the movement of the ribs expand the second stretchers.

Abstract: A walker having a frame which provides two front legs. Two rear legs are attached to the frame. A cross member provides support for the device which is supplemented by a link. Each of these structural members is in a pivotal relationship with the remaining members so the walker may be folded for storage. The cross member and link provide bracing for structural integrity, but are also incorporated into the folding structure. The optional seat is also in a pivotal relationship with the device. The seat prevents the walker from being folded while it is being used as a walker.

Abstract: A self-erecting, collapsible and foldable dome structure comprises an armature formed by two unconnected loops of resiliently flexible wire concentrically and orthogonally intersecting at the center of the structure, and being bent into a dome shaped configuration. The fabric cover comprises two commensurate cruciform sheets joined around their peripheries to form an envelope containing the armature, and a series of gore panels filing the gaps between the arms of the cruciform envelope.

Abstract: Heat transfer between a body and its surrounding fluidous environment is reduced by placing at least one baffle-insulator adjacent to the body, such that the baffle-insulator which has a thermal conductivity of less than about 5 watts/meter-° K., disturbs, modifies, and/or weakens fluidous environment flow about the body, thus reducing heat transfer between the body and its environment.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of regulating the level in a buffer tank (4). By means of conduits (2, 6), the tank (4) is connected to different parts in or peripheral to a process (1). There is an inflow F1 in the incoming conduit (2) and an outflow F2 in the outgoing conduit (6). The method comprises periodic measurements of the inflow F1 and also of the level L of the product which is held in the tank (4). The method also encompasses calculated and indicated level norm values which are indicated such that the level norm value is high when the outflow F2 out of the tank (4) is slight and the level norm value is low when the outflow F2 out of the tank (4) is great.

Abstract: A method and system for producing constant-flow valves having a plurality of different flow rates includes a plurality of orifices each having a seat defining contoured flow control surfaces, the orifices having at least K different configurations of flow control surfaces, where K≧2, and a plurality of diaphragms of identical shape each formed of an elastomeric material having a defined Shore A durometer hardness, the diaphragms having at least M different Shore A durometer hardnesses, where M≧2, each diaphragm being configured to engage the flow control surfaces of the seat of each orifice so as to create flow control passages between the diaphragm and the flow control surfaces, the diaphragm being deflected by pressure differential across the diaphragm so as to constrict the flow control passages as the pressure differential increases.

Abstract: The invention concerns a freeze vale (2) for controlling the flow of small quantities of liquid in a conduit (1). Further objects of the invention are a network of conduits, a method of opening a freeze valve and a process for the separation of liquid fractions, which all involve the freeze valves (2) of the invention. The freeze valve (2) s defined by a tubular wall (3) integral with the conduit (1) and includes a thermal bridge (4) connecting the wall to a heat sink (5), to close the valve by freezing the liquid inside the wall, as well as a heating element (11) including a source of laser beam targeted at a wall, to open the valve by melting the frozen liquid (7). According to the invention the laser beam (13) is produced in the form of a transversally extended shroud and targeted at the wall (3) at a length extending to both sides of the point of connection (6) to the thermal bridge (4), so as to melt the block of frozen liquid (7) simultaneously along its entire length.

Abstract: A fluid path opening/closing valve comprises a plate-like valve plug and a rack which is fixed to a piston of an emergency shut-down air cylinder. The rack meshes with a pinion which rotates by a reversible motor with a clutch. If a seismic detecting valve detects earthquake which has over predetermined seismic intensity and opens, compressed air is sent from an air tank via the opened seismic detecting valve to a switching cylinder which disconnects the clutch. At the same time, compressed air is sent from the air tank to the emergency shut-down air cylinder via a delay valve to lower the piston with the fluid-path opening/closing valve which closes the fluid path.

Abstract: A stacked rupture disk assembly of the present invention is adapted to be positioned between flanges in a vent pipe or pressure relief port of a pressure vessel. The stacked rupture disk assembly includes a first rupture disk assembly and a second rupture disk assembly mechanically affixed to the first rupture disk assembly. Each rupture disk assembly includes a graphite rupture disk defining an annular support portion surrounding an thinner rupture membrane adjacent and flush with a first end of the annular support portion. The annular support portion and the rupture membrane define a substantially planar outer surface of the rupture disk. The annular support includes a recessed region extending from an opening in a second end of the annular support to the rupture membrane. Optionally, the second rupture disk assembly includes a support member having spaced apart first and second ends and adapted to be inserted into the recessed region such that the first end abuts and supports the rupture membrane.

Abstract: A flow divider, particularly for use in uniformly dividing a single incoming stream of liquid fertilizer into multiple outlet streams. The flow divider features a housing having a bore therein; a distribution sleeve which fits within the bore; and a distribution needle which slides within the distribution sleeve to evenly divide the incoming flow. Flow enters a distribution chamber formed between a tip portion of the distribution needle and the distribution sleeve, preferably flowing over a series of circumferential ribs located on the tip portion, and accelerates through a narrowing, flow-accelerating region between the distribution needle and the distribution sleeve. The flow is then discharged through a series of orifices in the distribution sleeve and out through a series of flow passageways radially arranged around the flow divider.

Abstract: A buffer box for use in a vacuum drainage system. The buffer box defines a reservoir of known effective size which provides substantially consistently sized slugs of liquid which may be efficiently pulled up a vertical lift. The buffer box includes an outlet and an air intake orifice which may be sized relative to one another so that only liquid from the reservoir is evacuated. The outlet has an upper edge which may be spaced from a base portion of the buffer box at a height which optimizes liquid velocity out of the box and defines a level above which only water is evacuated from the reservoir.

Abstract: An activator valve for providing a time temporary vacuum at an output port which is normally at atmospheric pressure. The timed vacuum is provided in response to an increase in air pressure in an interruptible vacuum chamber, such as that by briefly opening the valve between the outside of the valve and the interruptible vacuum chamber. When this pressure increases, a diaphragm holding a magnet moves downwardly attracting a ferro-magnetic disk upwardly. The ferro-magnetic disk opens a valve between the output port and a main vacuum source port. This causes a vacuum to be drawn at the output port, which in turn operates a remote device which the activator valve is controlling. When the source of outside air to the interruptible vacuum chamber is closed the outside air is then drawn from the interruptible vacuum chamber, causing the magnet to once again rise and release the ferro-magnetic member, closing the valve between the main source of vacuum and the output port.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rotary valve assembly for a pressure swing adsorption system. The rotary valve assembly includes a first valve member and a second valve member relatively rotatable about a common center of rotation to provide valving action for selectively transferring fluids therethrough. The second valve member has a first fluid section with at least one aperture adapted for transferring a first fluid of a first pressure and composition therethrough and a second fluid section with at least one aperture adapted for transferring a second fluid of a second pressure and composition therethrough. The first valve member has a first fluid section with at least one passage for transferring the first fluid in the valve assembly and a second fluid section with at least one passage for transferring the second fluid in the valve assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting fluid conveying devices and for maintaining the temperature of material contained therein. The apparatus includes a cover that encloses a fluid conveying device and a drain channel that may be removable and is supportable upon a surface, fabricated support, or the cover itself. A rod may be adapted to releasably maintain the cover in place. Heating elements may be included within the drain channel or enclosure to maintain the temperature of the material and the fluid conveying devices surrounding the material above a predetermined setpoint. The drain channel may employ a suitable valve or valves to facilitate the removal of discharged material from the enclosure. Adjustable forms are included that support the drain channel and provide the perimeter for a concrete slab.

Abstract: A resilient, deformable sewage back flow stop plug is disclosed that may be comformably compressed within a junction between a structure sewage effluent line and a sewer main. The plug is sized such that, when compressed, it deforms and conformably seals all access conduits to the structure sewage effluent line/sewer main junction. The plug may be deformed around any debris and/or sewage deposits located within the junction, conforming to fill and seal all access conduits and preventing the back flow of sewage into the structure.

Abstract: The invention relates to an open-type protective cowling for a fluid container, particularly for a gas cylinder, made up of a cowling body (1) made of polymer comprising an insert (2) made of metal or metal alloy with a tapping (10). As a preference, the insert (2) is essentially in the shape of a ring with a tapped internal wall and the cowling body (1) is overmolded around the tapped insert (2). In addition, the insert (2) may have one or more recesses (7) and/or one or more strengtheners (6) on its external peripheral wall. Furthermore, the invention also relates to a gas cylinder equipped with such a protective cowling, and to the method for manufacturing such a protective cowling.

Abstract: A fluid flow control valve (10) has a piston (43) in a first chamber (45), urged by a spring (46) to close fluid passages (36) interconnecting the first chamber (45) to a second chamber (51). A fluid level sensor (20) in a container (100) allows fluid to be bled from a downstream side of the first chamber (45), via a bleed passage (45), to enable the piston (43) to move to open the fluid passages (36). When the fluid sensor (20) detects that the fluid level (101) in the container (100) has reached a preset level, the fluid level sensor (20) shuts off flow through the bleed passage (45) and the equalization of the fluid pressure on both sides of the piston (43) in the first chamber (45) enables the spring (46) to move the piston (43) to close the fluid passages (36), shutting off fluid flow through the valve (40).

Abstract: A reservoir is provided having an upper reservoir body connected to a lower reservoir body. The reservoir includes and inlet port and an outlet port that are separated by a filter, which filters fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet. In addition, a re-circulating cover is provided to separate fluid returning through the inlet port from the fluid in the main reservoir chamber. A re-circulating cover is provided that defines a re-circulating chamber. Fluid communication between the main reservoir chamber and the re-circulating chamber is restricted by the re-circulating cover until the main reservoir fluid reaches a predetermined temperature threshold. Accordingly, a given quantity of fluid is re-circulated from the inlet port to the outlet port and is continuously warmed before mixing with main reservoir fluid. Such a reservoir design helps to eliminate cold start up noises.

Abstract: A fuel supply apparatus for engines of a multi-point injection system using fuel tanks of many sizes and shapes is disclosed. In the fuel supply apparatus, a pump device 10 is constructed of an electric motor-driven fuel pump 10, a fuel filter 49, and a pressure regulator 21, which are contained in a housing integrally constructed of a first and second cases 11 and 12. A suction port 15 of the pump device 10 communicates with a suction opening 24 of the fuel pump 19, while a discharge outlet portion 26 of the pump device 10 communicates with a discharge port 17 through the fuel filter 49. The discharge port 17 communicates with an inlet of the pressure regulator 21. An outlet of the pressure regulator 21 communicates with a return port 16 of the pump device 10.

Abstract: An apparatus to control the flow rate of water between two pressurized areas, particularly for metered delivery of water to the packing of a pump's stuffing box. The object of the invention is to increase the useful life of the shaft of a process pump or centrifugal pump or any pump that maintains a stuffing box with standard packing material. The shaft is maintained by providing a steady drip-flow of water to the packing of a stuffing box, which helps to keep the packing moist and elastic, rather than brittle. Optimal moisture content of the packing lubricates the pump shaft, keeps the shaft at the proper temperature, and maintains the packing for a proper shaft seal, so as to prevent moisture from entering the gear box, or other locations that will cause permanent damage to the pump machinery. The water flow is controlled principally by a pressure-sensitive adjustment screw, having a soft-touch adjustment rubber gasket at its end.

Abstract: A valve having a port defining a first internal passageway and a body portion defining a second internal passageway. Also provided is a first aperture and an opposingly located second aperture which are in communication with the second passageway. The first aperture is adapted to permit water to flow into the livewell for recirculation and the second aperture is adapted to permit water to pump out of the livewell. A diverter is position in the location where the internal passageways merge. The diverter is moveable between first and second positions. In the first position, the diverter directs water flow through the first aperture and prevents water from flowing through the second aperture to effectuate recirculation. In the second position, the diverter directs the flow of water through the second aperture and prevents water from flowing through the first aperture to effectuate pump out of the livewell.

Abstract: A multiple outlet valve includes a valve actuating mechanism driven by a turbine. Fluid entering the valve passes through a flow control member which determines the velocity of the fluid entering the turbine and thereby controls the frequency with which the valve operates. The valve further includes a gasket associated with a valve shut-off plate for preventing leakage of fluid between outlet chambers in the base.

Abstract: A faucet spout assembly includes a centerbody, a spout hub with an outwardly extending spout and a retainer located therebetween to limit rotational movement of the spout hub on the centerbody and more specifically to limit the rotational movement of the spout to a range defined by the open area of the sink. The centerbody includes a recess which receives an inward projection of the retainer and limits rotational movement thereof relative to the centerbody. The spout hub includes a cavity with an arcuate recess which receives a retainer outward projection. The length of the arcuate recess is preferably sized to limit the rotational movement of the spout to the open area of the sink. The centerbody includes an annular groove which receives a ledge of the retainer to assist in retainer positioning around the centerbody.

Abstract: Flexible liners for relining fluid transport pipelines contain at least one integral conduit which has no fluid communication with either the interior of the lining of the relined pipeline, or with the inside wall of the pipeline itself. The integral but substantially fluid-isolated conduit may serve to carry telecommunications or other cables, thus providing an economical means of introducing telecommunications through existing pipeline infrastructure without necessitating abandonment of the fluid transport capabilities of the pipeline.

Abstract: The method eliminates the play of a pipe in a securing element. At least one hole is formed in the securing element from the outside, and a clearance between the pipe and the securing element is filled with a curing compound, which is filled through the hole. The compound, which preferably contains epoxy with metal shavings, cures in the clearance.

Abstract: A cable-guide trough has a set of like U-shaped cross wires aligned with one another and lying in respective generally parallel and longitudinally spaced planes so as to form a trough with a horizontal floor and two upright sides. A set of generally parallel longitudinal wires is joined to the cross wires at the floor and sides. One of the sets is formed at the floor in upper and lower layers vertically flanking the other of the sets at the floor. The wires are all of identical cross-sectional size and shape. Both sets of wires are formed as two layers in the trough floor to produce a four-layer floor. Each wire of the lower layer lies directly underneath a respective one of the wires of the upper layer. The one set can be the longitudinal wires or the cross wires in a three-layer system. Furthermore the one set can be formed in the trough sides as inner and outer layers horizontally flanking the other of the sets at the trough sides.

Abstract: A junction device (1) for hoses (2) comprises an insert (3) having a portion (3a) inserted internally to an end of a hose (2) and a bushing (9) inserted externally to said end of the hose and locked to maintain the end of the hose securely inserted between the portion (3a) of said insert and the bushing. The insert comprises an annular groove (6) interposed between the portion (3a) inserted internally to the end of the hose and a portion (3b) external to said hose, whilst the bushing (9) comprises a concave annular area (10) which, when the junction device is assembled, is positioned internally to said annular groove of the insert. The insert further comprises an annular rib (7) to provide an area of interference with the concave annular area (10) of the bushing.

Abstract: The showerhead security cover prevents unauthorized access to a connector of a shower assembly. The connector secures the showerhead to the shower arm, the connector, showerhead, and shower arm being standard without any modification required. The showerhead security cover comprises a housing and a lock. The lock is integral with the housing. Once the lock is engaged, the housing encases the connector and prevents access to the connector. Once the lock is engaged, there is no substantial rotational movement of the connector relative to the shower arm. One end wall of the housing seats against an end of the connector during engagement preventing any substantial axial movement of the connector relative to the connector. The housing is strong enough to prevent engagement with the connector even when the housing is grasped with pliers. Disengagement is enabled by the use of a special tool to allow authorized access to the connector.

Abstract: A collapsible, pop-up plenum for central heating and air conditioning equipment folds substantially flat for shipping and storage. The plenum's planar sidewalls form a rectangular box having an open input end. An endwall opposite the input end is attached by one edge to one sidewall and adapted to swing open and lay against said sidewall, allowing the plenum to fold flat for storage and transportation. A metallic, flanged collar adapted to attach the input end to the equipment cabinet is hinged to collapse with the plenum. Tightness of the plenum's metallized, elastic skin causes the plenum to spring open when released from its wrapping, facilitating assembly and installation.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a flexible metal hose including a continuous metal strip having rounded lateral edges. The continuous strip is wound in a helical pattern to form a cylindrical hose body. The strip has a generally S-shaped cross section including an inner hook portion and an outer hook portion. The strip is helically wrapped such that the inner and outer hook portions of adjacent wraps interlock to form flexible joints of the hose.

Abstract: A leno ground fabric is produced over the entire weaving width of a loom by using two heald frames each having a length corresponding to the weaving width. The heald frames are equipped with a multitude of lifting healds or heddles and with a multitude of half healds or heddles that move the leno warp thread and the ground warp threads for the shed formation over the entire loom width.

Abstract: A method and system for the storage and dispensing of medical grade liquid oxygen are provided. Medical grade liquid oxygen is stored in a storage tank located within a medical facility which is capable of dispensing liquid oxygen to portable liquid oxygen reservoirs and to portable liquid oxygen tanks, as well as delivering oxygen gas through a gas pipeline network. The storage tank is filled through a fill station exterior to the facility. A fixed price billing method is provided for the cost of the liquid oxygen delivered for use in the system. Economical storage, delivery and billing services are thereby provided to medium sized facilities such as nursing homes or extended care facilities which utilize both liquid and gaseous oxygen but cannot afford to install the very large exterior liquid oxygen tanks used by major hospitals and research facilities. Increased safety in the storage and dispensing of the liquid oxygen is provided in accordance with the present invention.

Abstract: An electronically calibrated fuel dispenser includes a processor located on a processor board, a fuel pump, a pulser circuit and a memory located on a memory board. The processor board includes a calibration factor connector. The fuel pump is coupled to a fuel source and includes a fuel meter. The fuel pump provides fuel to a fuel recipient. The pulser circuit is coupled to the fuel meter. The pulser circuit provides an indication to the processor of the fuel delivered to the fuel recipient. The memory board includes a connector for coupling the memory board to the calibration factor connector of the processor board and thereby coupling the memory to the processor. The memory stores calibration factors independent of the processor board. The memory board further includes a calibration mode entry device, a blocking device and a sealing device. The blocking device prevents the calibration mode entry device from being actuated when the blocking device is in a blocking position.

Abstract: A mixing chamber assembly which has a reciprocating rod (270) received within a mixing chamber of a mixing chamber member (28). The reciprocating rod (270) is in a non-interference position with the mixing chamber over its entire length within the mixing chamber. The non-interference fit provides for continuous solvent flow about the exterior of the rod and interior of the wall defining the mixing chamber such that solvent drips out the discharge end of the mixing chamber and the rod is free to float or ride on a film of solvent. The ability for the rod to ride on a film of solvent over the entire portion received within the mixing chamber, allows for a much reduced reciprocating motive force requirement and a corresponding freedom to increase the mixing chamber volume.

Abstract: A fuel tank filler pipe neck assembly, a fuel tank system and a method for refueling a fuel tank each employ a chamber having formed therein a liquid fuel dispensing nozzle entry port and a liquid fuel exit port. There is also disposed within the chamber a liquid fuel dispensing nozzle seat, where the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle seat is sized to accept and seal a rim of a liquid fuel dispensing nozzle introduced into the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle entry port while allowing flow of a liquid fuel from the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle through the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle seat. Finally, there is also disposed within the chamber a means for resiliently and flexibly biasing the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle seat against the rim of the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle while resiliently and flexibly sealing the liquid fuel dispensing nozzle seat to the liquid fuel exit port.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing nozzle which is connectable to a fluid reservoir for filling a tank with fuel. The nozzle is provided with a through-flow channel in fluid communication with a spout and with a trigger for operating at least one valve in the through-flow channel for opening and/or closing the through-flow channel. The spout is provided with an output end for delivering fuel and the fuel dispensing nozzle further comprises: an end valve which is movable between an open situation, wherein the end valve opens a through-flow opening for the fuel in the spout, and a closed situation wherein the end valve closes the spout; and a venturi for co-action with level detection means for detecting the fluid level in the tank. The end valve and the venturi are substantially arranged in the downstream end of the spout.

Abstract: A device for feeding tablets in a blister packaging machine includes a vibrating container containing a mass of tablets. The vibrating container features a bottom wall, one portion of which includes tablet feeding channels, communicating with related slots made in the bottom wall. The slots communicate with the conveying means, which feed the tablets along a predetermined feeding path and release the tablets into respective blisters of a blister band. The blister band moves in a determined direction inside the packaging machine. The conveying means include a plate with a plurality of grooves, arranged one beside another and a covering element. The covering element is coupled with said plate, so as to move with respect thereto and includes transversal wings, each of which is situated inside a respective groove of the plate, so as to define a respective channel for conveying said tablets.

Abstract: A hose fitting for filling tank cars comprising a t-shaped pipe defining a bore therethrough, the t-shaped pipe comprising a body member with one or more pairs of opposingly directed tubular legs, and an intermediate leg extending substantially perpendicular from the body member, the intermediate leg comprising an intermediate leg end adapted to couple with a hose; and one or more tube extensions for coupling with the tubular legs, each of the one or more tube extensions connected to one of the tubular legs by a connecting wire so that the tube extensions remain connected to the tubular legs when the tube extensions are uncoupled from the tubular legs. A method for filling tank cars with pellet-shaped particles is also provided, the method comprising transporting the t-shaped pipe to the roof of a tank car, the tank car roof having one or more openings for receiving materials.