Abstract: An interface component for a positioning system. The interface component includes a positioning arm having a first end and a second end, the first end being positionable against an object to be positioned and the second end being attachable to an actuator arm of the positioning system, and a damping element operably connected in parallel with the positioning arm.

Abstract: A collapsible steering column assembly for a vehicle includes upper and lower steering column subassemblies that are slidable one within the other, the upper steering column subassembly being slidably mounted on a fixed mounting bracket mountable on a vehicle body part. The lower steering column subassembly includes, at its end remote from the upper subassembly, an intrusion bracket that is slidably mounted on the mounting bracket. Clamping means applies clamping force between the mounting bracket and the intrusion bracket to inhibit relative sliding movement of the mounting and intrusion brackets.

Abstract: A motion transmitting remote control assembly (10) for transmitting forces along a curved path by a motion transmitting core element (14) includes a guide means and a motion transmitting core element (14) moveably supported by the guide means. A support wall (16) for supporting the guide means has a predetermined thickness (18) between opposite surfaces and an inwardly extending periphery defining a pocket (20). The guide means includes a fitting (21) defining an annular groove (22). The groove (22) has a predetermined diameter (23) and a predetermined width (25) perpendicular to the diameter (23). The periphery of the pocket (20) is disposed in the groove (22) whereby the support wall (16) supports the fitting (21). First and second abutments (36),(38) are disposed on the support wall (16). A U-shaped retainer clip (24) has legs (26) extending from a base (28) and terminating in distal ends (30) with the base (28) and the legs (26) disposed in the groove (22).

Abstract: Four embodiments of an adjustable pedal assembly are disclosed wherein a pedal lever is adjustable along a rod. Each assembly is characterized by the rod (116, 216, 316 and 416) being arcuate or curved, e.g., in an arc, between its connection to a support (112, 212, 312 and 412) and its distal end for changing the angle of the longitudinal axis of the pedal lever (118, 218, 318 and 418) relative to the support (112, 212, 312 and 412) during the adjustment of the pedal lever (118, 218, 318 and 418) along the rod (116, 216, 316 and 416). Consequently, the angle of the pedal pad (120, 220, 320 and 420) is changed to accommodate different operators.

Abstract: The invention relates to a simplified, economical and rapid method for the production of a camshaft. In accordance with the invention, functional elements (2) consisting of a plurality of flat material layers (3) are deposited on a base shaft (1). The base shaft (1) is then deformed by hydraulic expansion in such a way that the functional elements (2) are fixed on the base shaft (1).

Abstract: A pedal connection arrangement and method are used to hold a bicycle rider's foot attached to a bicycle pedal that is in turn used to drive a bicycle crank arm having a crank arm longitudinal axis. The bicycle connection arrangement includes a pedal having a pedal longitudinal axis. The pedal is connected to the crank arm with the pedal longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the crank arm longitudinal axis. The pedal connection arrangement and method also include a bicycle shoe having a gripping arrangement. The gripping arrangement has a longitudinal axis that runs generally along the ball of the shoe in a plane parallel to the sole of the shoe and generally perpendicular to a line extending from the toe of the shoe through the heel of the shoe. The gripping arrangement is configured such that the gripping arrangement grips the pedal when the gripping arrangement is positioned such that the longitudinal axis of the gripping arrangement is generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the pedal.

Abstract: A system for fabricating a free form structure of a composite material including carbon nanotubes. The system includes a discharge assembly and a composite formation device operatively linked with the discharge assembly. The discharge assembly dispenses a fusing agent such as for example a high energy density emission, a laser emission or a particle beam emission. The composite formation device includes a composite generator and an arranger in operative engagement with a composite generator. The composite generator engages with the fusing agent so as to create a composite nodal element. The composite nodal element includes a matrix and a multiplicity of fibers formed of carbon nanotubes dispersed throughout the matrix. The arranger positions one node relative to another to define the free form structure.

Abstract: A cored wire consisting of an inner calcium wire surrounded by an aluminum sheath forming a composite core which in turn is encased in a steel jacket. The cored wire is formed continuously by covering an extruded calcium wire with aluminum then inserting the aluminum covered calcium wire into a steel jacket in a roll forming process. Also disclosed is a method of reducing splashing when introducing calcium metal into a molten ferrous metal bath.

Abstract: The invention provides processes and materials for phytoremediating materials which has been contaminated with arsenic, phosphorous, or other metals. In a preferred embodiment, the subject invention provides fern plants, which accumulate arsenic from contaminated materials. The fern plants efficiently remove arsenic from the materials. The fern plants can be harvested and readily disposed of, or can be treated to recover arsenic.

Abstract: A process for the extraction of metals from an aqueous solution of metals in the form of their metal ions. The preparation and use of an efficient organic extractant and also the recovery from the organic extractant of the metal ions. A process for preparing an extractant solution where the extractant solution is a solution of a calcium ion or magnesium ion loaded extractant in a water-immiscible organic solvent, and where the extractant solution is suitable for extracting metal ions from an aqueous solution containing the metal ions, including mixing an aqueous solution of calcium ions or magnesium ions with a basic calcium salt or a basic magnesium salt and with a solution of an organic extractant in a water-immiscible organic solvent to form the extractant solution, and then separating the extractant solution from the aqueous solution.

Abstract: A lifting tool has a handle, a lifting tool head, and a means for slidably mounting the lifting tool head on the handle such that the lifting tool head slides with respect to the handle between an extended position and a compressed position. The lifting tool further includes a means for biasing the lifting tool head towards the extended position. Since the lifting tool head can slide against the bias of the means for biasing, the lifting tool can absorb some of the shock if the lifting tool head strikes a hard obstruction, thereby sparing a user from the strain and potentially avoiding an injury that could result from the strain.

Abstract: An improved structure pliers for inner and outer diameter C-shaped snap rings comprised of a two-part symmetrically paired left and right-handled pliers body that is situated together at a predetermined point between its two inner sides and, furthermore, in an upper and lower overlaid and pivotably linked assembly positioning; two implement ends capable of being articulated apart and together by pivoting at the front portion and two hand grips for manual operation disposed at the rear portion; and an elastic component mounted between the two hand grips near their pivotable linkage area to provide a rebound force when the two hand grips are pivoted by squeezing. The two implement ends have a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole respectively formed in them and the two hand grips have a third mounting hole and a fourth mounting hole respectively formed in them near their pivotable linkage area.

Abstract: A self-adjusting pliers is operable to grasp a workpiece between an upper jaw and a lower jaw. The pliers includes an upper arm having the upper jaw and a lower arm, with the lower jaw linked to the lower arm but not integral with the lower arm. A control arm has a first end and a second end. The first end of the control arm has a first pivotable connection to the upper arm adjacent to an end of the upper arm remote from the upper jaw, and the second end of the control arm has a second pivotable connection to the lower arm at an intermediate location along the length of the lower arm. An upper control arm pivot pin provides the pivotable connection between the first end of the control arm and the upper arm, and a spring biases the control arm so as to resist rotation of the control arm about the upper control arm pivot pin. A support extends downwardly from the upper arm toward the lower arm and has a guide thereon.

Abstract: A numerically controlled machine tool comprises a work holding unit for holding a workpiece, and a tool capable of being moved along the Z-axis into a central bore formed in the workpiece. The tool has a shank and a cutting chip attached to the shank so as to project laterally from the shank. A driving mechanism controlled by a control unit moves the tool along a substantially circular path in an X-Y plane so that the cutting chip moves in a direction substantially coinciding with a tangent to the internal surface of the central bore of the workpiece at the point of contact of the cutting chip with the internal surface of the central bore.

Abstract: A machining assembly and a method of cutting a tubular member (19) are described which includes a cutting tool (8) and a tubular member holder (4, 5), wherein the linear and rotational displacement of the cutting tool (8) and the tubular member (19) are controlled with respect to each other by two independent mechanisms. The assembly further includes a third mechanism for controlling the radial displacement of the cutting tool (8) with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tubular member (19).

Abstract: A positional adjusting mechanism for a cutting insert in a tool for chip removing machining, preferably a milling cutter. The positional adjusting mechanism includes a hole formed in the tool body adjacent to the cutting seat which receives the cutting insert. A slotted bushing is mounted in that hole. An adjusting screw is received in the bushing to expand an upper end of the bushing. In the mounted state of the bushing in its hole, contact occurs between an upper part of the bushing and a support surface of the tool body which urges the bushing laterally in its hole to eliminate lateral play and thus stabilizes the bushing.

Abstract: A twin-head beveling machine for high-precision machining on heads of pipes, comprising two mutually opposite pressers and machining heads with a rotating disk; the pressers are rigidly connected to each other by a central fixed shaft and the heads are mounted so that they can rotate and move axially individually on the central fixed shaft. The machining heads are subjected to the action of hydraulic or pneumatic motors and of axial movement elements, which are activated by a respective hydraulic or pneumatic actuator and produce the axial working advancement of the respective head.

Abstract: A machine tool which can avoid interference between a tool post body and a second headstock without increasing the size of a fixed bed or decreasing the structural support rigidity is disclosed. Specifically, a combined-machining lathe comprises a first headstock fixed on a fixed bed; at least one of a tailstock and a second headstock is movably disposed on the fixed bed so as to be movable along the fixed bed; and a tool post body for rotationally supporting a turret having a plurality of tools set thereon. The tool post body is movably disposed between the first headstock and the at least one of a tailstock and a second headstock. The turret is placed on one side of the tool post body that is closer to the at least one of a tailstock and a second headstock, and the first headstock has a recessed portion that is dimensioned to accommodate the tool post body therein.

Abstract: A bar notch (3) in the side of a side member (1) and a shaping cut (4) at the end of a cross member (2) for the bar jointing of a side member (1) with a member (2) in workpieces of wood, plastics or MDF—medium density fibreboard—produced by a punching or shearing operation consisting of a first step—a preliminary cut—and a second step—a final cut. A machine for implementation of the cutting operation comprises a knife head (9) for two side knives (10) and a nose knife (11), a table (14) and a rest (13), a first set of adjustable guide members (17) that can set the position of the knife head (9) in relation to the workpiece (1) or (2) which is to be processed, a second set of adjustable guide members (23) for setting of the mutual distance between the cross member notches (3), and a third guide members (29), which can serve as an end stop for the end of the cross member (2) during the shearing process of a cross member shaping (4).

Abstract: Disclosed is a chain saw which includes a chain saw chain braking system. The chain saw has a continuous chain channel guide which includes provision to impede the slideability of a chain saw chain in the continuous chain channel guide.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting sheet metal pieces from a sheet metal coil comprises a coil support adapted to support the sheet metal coil such that same may rotate about the coil axis to unroll an end portion of the sheet metal coil and a sheet support adapted to support the end portion for cutting. A cutting head is mounted above the end portion and is operative to cut through the end portion. A cutting head drive is operative to move the cutting head back and forth along a first path parallel to the coil axis and a sheet metal drive is operative to move the end portion forward and rearward along a second path perpendicular to the coil axis. A computer is operative to control and coordinate the sheet metal drive and the cutting head drive such that the pieces are cut from the end portion.

Abstract: Cast metal parts are created for use in making machinery. When these parts are formed, unwanted material remains in the openings of the parts. This material, called flash, must be removed. In the method of the present invention, the cast parts are placed on a platen of a trim press that has multi-part punches attached thereto that are configured to self-align with the openings in the cast part and operative to evenly remove the flash. The invention also relates to a punch that initially breaks through the flash with a stationary punch that removes a majority of the flash inside the opening of the cast part. Next, a moving or self-centering punch self-aligns to the opening in the cast part and operates to remove the remaining flash. The inventive punch may also include a mounting base for attachment of the multi-part punches to the plate or platen of the press.

Abstract: A method of generating musical tones and a storage medium storing a program for executing the method are provided. Musical piece data is decomposed into phrases, the musical piece data being formed of pieces of performance data arranged in the order of performance. The pieces of performance data of the musical piece data are analyzed for each of the phrases obtained by the decomposing step. Tone color control data is prepared for each of the phrases according to results of the analyzing. The pieces of performance data of the musical piece data are reproduced by sequentially reading the pieces of performance data at timing at which the pieces of performance data are to be performed to the order of performance.

Abstract: A registration apparatus for a musical instrument having a memory that has stored information representing set states of various parameters that specify respective types of rhythms to be accompanied automatically and respective types of musical sound generation. The set parameters are called and updated in a lump. By changing a type of calling, all the parameters can be called out immediately or only a parameter that specifies a type of accompaniment generation can be called out in synchronism with a predetermined timing of an accompaniment.

Abstract: The characteristic value detection section 311 detects a characteristic value concerning input musical data. The detected characteristic value is converted by a genre information determination section 312 to genre information representing a genre of the contents of the input musical data. Based on the genre information, the parameter determination section 313 determines an acoustic processing parameter which is used for adjusting the tone of the output from the acoustic processing section 314. In accordance with the acoustic processing parameter as determined, the acoustic processing section 314 applies predetermined acoustic processing to the input musical data. The musical data having been subjected to the predetermined acoustic processing is reproduced by a reproduction section 315. Thus, the musical signal processing device makes it possible to obtain a tone which is adapted to the contents of the input musical data.

Abstract: An electronic guitar comprising a case (1), a keyboard (2), a sound synthesis electronic assembly (3), and an output line (4), characterized in that the keyboard (2) is divided into an upper keyboard (2-1) disposed on the neck (1-1) and a lower keyboard (2-2) disposed on the body (1-2); the upper and lower keyboards constitute a complex array; when a key on the upper keyboard and a key on the lower keyboard are pressed, a predetermined note is generated by the sound synthesis electronic assembly (3) and can be output to a karaoke CD player. It is possible to play this guitar while singing the karaoke, which is more pleasant. This guitar has novel and simple structure and is sure to be welcome.

Abstract: The extensible segment in an anchor rode comprises a rubber core enclosed in a base rope along the central axis of the base rope. A braided cover further encloses an intermediate portion of the rubber core inside the base rope. The braided cover is made of braided cover strands embedded in the rubber core, and un-braided cover strands extending over the two ends of the rubber core. The un-braided cover strands are weaved into the base rope to retain the rubber core longitudinally inside the base rope.

Abstract: A generalized, rationally-scaled design is disclosed for a line laying system for use in stringing communications cable across inaccessible spaces. The system includes a tethered projectile which is accurately aimed and launched to a defined target zone by means of a energy-store coupled with a pivoting release lever. The geometric details of placement of the pivot axis of the release lever are disclosed in detail. Specific configurations of the projectile guides and spring support ribs are also disclosed. Implications of design and materials upon accuracy and range are considered and optimal component finishes and tolerances are indicated.

Abstract: A bulletproof equipment for protecting personnel against a projectile fired from a gun or the like. The equipment includes a inflatable bulletproof air bag for protecting a targeted individual from fire of a weapon; an air tank for ejecting compressed gas or air into the air bag; a high speed fan for feeding air into the air bag when the air bag is punctured; a controller for controlling the associated components; and a power supply for applying electric current.

Abstract: Improvement to firearms suitable for utilization with different types of ammunition, in conditions of absolute safety, said firearm comprising an expansion chamber (10) that communicates with barrel (1) of the firearm through at least one connecting hole (14), a front and back calibration screw (13, 12), for increasing the volume available to the expansion of combustion gases. Said hollow expansion chamber (10) is located in the lower back part (9) of the barrel (1), (or possibly in its upper part, in parallel to it); said expansion chamber (10) being equipped with an internal threading (11) which is capable of engaging itself to back calibration screw (12) in the distal back part, and a further calibration screw (13), which can be manually operated by a threaded knob (13a), located in the front part.

Abstract: A swash plate-type, variable displacement compressor according to the present invention has a structure wherein the shoe holding portion of the piston sandwiches the swash plate from inside. The swash plate is connected to the rotor by a pin which extends in a direction tangential to a surface of a virtual cylinder around an axis of the drive shaft so as to be capable of swinging with respect to the pin. Especially, the position of the pin in the axial direction of the drive shaft is selected, so that a piston top clearance of a piston which is in a top dead center position becomes zero. By this configuration, the piston top clearance of all the pistons may be maintained at zero for all oblique angles of the swash plate. As a result, for any oblique angle, the volumetric efficiency of the compressor may be improved.

Abstract: A hydraulically actuated servo piston and hydraulic advance piston are integrated into the cam follower of a unit pump or injector to provide variable advance for an injection event produced by the pump or injector. The servo piston is nested in the advance piston with fluid passageways in the advance piston selectively opened or closed by movement of the servo piston. The full pressure of a hydraulic pump is available to the advance piston for powering the advance function, while stepwise reduced levels of hydraulic pressure from the same hydraulic pump are applied to control movement of the servo piston. A damping orifice restricts flow of hydraulic fluid to and from the servo piston.

Abstract: A filter for removing pollutants from gases, particularly exhaust gases, includes a plurality of paths for the gases to flow through and a source of magnetic field arranged to apply the magnetic field to the gases. Optionally, one or more heaters are also provide to raise the temperature of the gases to a predetermined temperature. As the hot gases through the passageway and the magnetic field, pollutants contained therein are effectively burned or otherwise removed from the gases.

Abstract: Mixed matrix membranes capable of separating carbon dioxide from mixtures including carbon dioxide and methane, and processes for purifying methane using the membranes, are disclosed. The membranes are preferably polymer membranes with a selective layer thickness of between about 1000 Angstroms to about 0.005 inch, that include discrete carbon-based molecular sieve particles with sizes of between about 0.5 microns to about 5.0 microns. The particles are formed by pyrolyzing a precursor polymer in the form of a powder or film. The pyrolyzed polymer is then ideally milled to desired small size particles. The preferred ratio of particles to polymer is about 0.25 to about 1.0 by volume.

Abstract: Potassium or other alkali metal formate solution is used to absorb moisture from gas through a membrane. The membrane may be supported on permeable tubes, and the potassium or other alkali metal formate may be regenerated for reuse, preferably by a cavitation regenerator. The potassium or other alkali metal formate should be present as a 40-80% solution, most preferably 70-76%. The process is especially useful for the dehydration of natural gas.

Abstract: A total delivery oxygen concentration system is provided to supply concentrated oxygen to end users having a variety of oxygen capacity requirements. The system includes a first oxygen concentrating device that may be operated either singularly to produce a first flow of concentrated oxygen or in conjunction with a supplemental oxygen concentrating device. When operating in conjunction with the supplemental oxygen concentrating device, the first oxygen concentrating device serves as a source of compressed air for the supplemental oxygen concentrating device and receives a second flow of concentrated oxygen from the supplemental oxygen concentrating device to provide a combined concentrated oxygen flow to the end user.

Abstract: A method for entraining and mixing gas with liquids within a conduit or drop structure, comprising the channeling of one or more liquid flows into spiral flows of predetermined radius (radii), reducing the predetermined radius (radii) to increase the centrifugal forces acting upon the spiral flow(s) as the spiral flow(s) enter the conduit, and allowing gas access to the conduit to mix with and entrain within the spiral flow within the conduit or drop structure. The method can facilitate the mixing of gas with one or more fluid flows and/or reduce the release of gas emissions from the fluid(s) into the surrounding environment.

Abstract: A reversely subliming substance is efficiently collected on a commercial scale from a gas containing the substance. This is achieved by introducing the gas containing the substance into a shell-and-tube collecting apparatus by controlling the resistance offered to the gas during the passage thereof through the cooled tubes retained inside the collecting apparatus or by utilizing gas-introducing tubes excelling in dispersibility.

Abstract: Device for heating a liquid in a holder, comprising a heater element (31) designed to be placed in said holder and to be immersed in liquid in said holder, a temperature sensor (65) for measuring the temperature of the liquid in the holder and coupled to a control unit (41) for the thermostatic control of power supply to the heater element (31), a thermal safety cut-out (60) for interrupting the power supply to the heater element in response to heating-up of the heater element to above a given temperature, which safety cut-out (60) is in thermally conductive contact with the heater element (31), and a carrier (50) which is thermally coupled by means of a thermal coupling to a portion of said heater element which is immersed in the liquid in said holder in the operational state, the temperature sensor (65) of the thermostat being situated on said carrier (50) at a distance from said thermal coupling.

Abstract: A system for attaching a food processing adapter to a food processing unit includes an upper processing adapter attached to a pressure assembly of the unit, and a lower processing adapter attached to a holder at a base of the unit. The holder includes a first slot extending horizontally into a top portion of the holder, and a second slot opposite the first slot and extending vertically into the holder. A first tab extends horizontally from the lower processing adapter and is configured to be inserted into the first slot. A second tab extends vertically from the lower processing adapter so as to be inserted into the second slot. A locking mechanism is configured to releaseably lock the second tab in place to prevent movement of the lower processing adapter during operation of the food processing unit.

Abstract: A stencil printer of the present invention perforates, or cuts, a thermosensitive stencil with a thermal head to thereby make a master. The stencil printer includes a stencil distinguishing device for automatically identifying the kind of the stencil or a master setting device for allowing the operator of the printer to set the kind of the stencil. An adjusting device selects, among master making conditions experimentally determined beforehand, a master making condition matching with information output from the stencil distinguishing device or the stencil setting device. The operator can easily change the master making condition in accordance with the kind of a stencil to use.

Abstract: A squeegee head having a volume-variable container and a printing space is used. The volume-variable container is variable in capacity with pressures applied thereto. The volume-variable container includes a projecting portion having a plurality of projections, a push-plate with a plurality of through-holes formed therein, and a side wall. A paste is stored in the volume-variable container. The projecting portion is pressurized to move and the paste is pushed out into the printing space from the through-holes, and then, the projections are fitted into the through-holes. In this way, the paste being stable in viscosity is completely pushed out into the printing space without wasting at all.

Abstract: A multistage printing machine is disclosed with a vacuum conveyor between stages, and in which supplemental air is provided adjacent at least one printing cylinder.

Abstract: A web offset printing press for dual webs includes several printing units, each printing a color image on outer sides of a pair of webs. The webs travel through these printing units in a back-to-back arrangement. Additional printing units print another color image on the outer side. The webs may be separated during this process, with a pair of printing couples used for each web, so that one couple may print the additional image while the plate of the other is changed. The additional printing units also print a single-color image on the opposite side of each web.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for image formation on cylindrical surfaces of printing machines.

Abstract: A method for removing ink-accepting areas of a lithographic printing master is disclosed which enables to recycle the lithographic substrate of the printing master.

Abstract: A method for operating a printing machine having a positioning device with a cylinder that is adjustable into different positions along an adjustment path and cooperating with a cylinder for guiding printing material, which includes performing at least two of the following method steps of adjusting the rotational angle of the cylinder guiding the printing material into a given position; adjusting the rotational angle of the cylinder that is adjustable along the adjustment path into a given position; adjusting the circumferential register of the cylinder that is adjustable along the adjustment path; and adjusting the cylinder that is adjustable along the adjustment path, from a first cylinder position into a second cylinder position along the adjustment path.

Abstract: An electromagnetically lossy liquid- or gas-tight fusion seal for use as a low pass radio frequency signal filter constructed as a matrix of glass binder and ferrimagnetic and/or ferroelectric filler. Metal cased electrical filters are made by reflowing the material to form fused glass-to-metal seals and incorporating electrical thru-conductors therein which may be formed as inductive windings.

Abstract: A method is provided for forming a film of ruthenium or ruthenium oxide to the surface of a substrate by employing the techniques of chemical vapor deposition to decompose ruthenium precursor formulations. The ruthenium precursor formulations of the present invention include a ruthenium precursor compound and a solvent capable of solubilizing the ruthenium precursor compound. A method is further provided for making a vaporized ruthenium precursor for use in the chemical vapor deposition of ruthenium and ruthenium-containing materials onto substrates, wherein a ruthenium precursor formulation having a ruthenium-containing precursor compound and a solvent capable of solubilizing the ruthenium-containing precursor compound is vaporized.

Abstract: Methods and compositions useful for increasing water resistance of a surface associated with a concrete, masonry or wood building material as disclosed herein. The method comprises the steps of applying a selected amount of an aqueous treating solution to the surface, wherein the aqueous treating solution includes a hydrophobic anion salt dissolved in water; allowing a portion of the aqueous treating solution to absorb into the surface; and evaporating the water to yield a treated surface having increased water resistance. The composition comprises a major amount of cement and a minor amount of a hydrophobic anion salt. The major amount of cement may be Portland cement, and the minor amount of hydrophobic anion salt may be potassium stearate, sodium stearate, as well as combinations thereof.