Abstract: A printing unit of a copying apparatus forms an image on a printing paper by way of an electrophotographing system in response to an operation executed with respect to a UI apparatus. A postprocessing unit of the copying apparatus staples a staple needle holding an IC chip to the printing paper on which the image is formed. Then, the postprocessing unit writes data input from the UI apparatus into the IC chip held by the staple needle.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a staple cartridge that can offset any discrepancies when mounting a staple cartridge, even if staples are slightly offset to check the occurrence of stapling defects. The staple cartridge 100 of the holding means 200 which is equivalent to the cartridge holder disposed as either a body separate to the stapler unit 300 or unitized thereto, actuates the staple feeds means 202. Even if the position of the staple pulled out from the staple cartridge is offset, this action corrects the offset to correctly set the staple at the driving position thereby enabling it to check stapling defects that occur because of mis-positioning of the staple set position.

Abstract: Methods for producing toughness-optimized weld joints are provided. A welding procedure that will provide adequate toughness for the center-weld of the weld-joint is developed and used, and a welding procedure that will provide adequate toughness for the surface-weld of the weld-joint is developed and used.

Abstract: A method of laminating a plurality of metal plates one to another, comprising steps of (a) arranging at least first and second generally planar metal plates having exposed surfaces into a spaced apart parallel relationship with one another, (b) anchoring the spaced apart plates to a fixed location, and (c) propelling a projectile against the exposed surface of the first plate with sufficient velocity to create a spot impact between the first and second plates of sufficient energy to create a metallurgical weld between the plates at the point of projectile impact.

Abstract: This invention provides a configuration of a joint that allows a satisfactory welded joint to be formed with reduced deformation of the joint region when two-face structures (panels) are friction-welded end to end. The panels 31, 32 each have two substantially parallel plates 33, 34 and a third member 35 connecting the two plates 33, 34. The end portions of the plates 33, 34 of one panel 32 are friction-welded to the end portions of the plates 33, 34 of the other panel 32. At least one of the panels has a plate 36 at its end for connecting the plates 33 and 34 and has a rigidity to support a pressing force produced during the friction welding.

Abstract: This invention provides a configuration of a joint that allows a satisfactory welded joint to be formed with reduced deformation of the joint region when two-face structures (panels) are friction-welded end to end. The panels 31, 32. each have two substantially parallel plates 33, 34 and a third member 35 connecting the two plates 33, 34. The end portions of the plates 33, 34 of one panel 32 are friction-welded to the end portions of the plates 33, 34 of the other panel 32. At least one of the panels has a plate 36 at its end for connecting the plates 33 and 34 and has a rigidity to support a pressing force produced during the friction welding.

Abstract: This invention provides a configuration of a joint that allows a satisfactory welded joint to be formed with reduced deformation of the joint region when two-face structures (panels) are friction-welded end to end. The panels 31, 32 each have two substantially parallel plates 33, 34 and a third member 35 connecting the two plates 33, 34. The end portions of the plates 33, 34 of one panel 32 are friction-welded to the end portions of the plates 33, 34 of the other panel 32. At least one of the panels has a plate 36 at its end for connecting the plates 33 and 34 and has a rigidity to support a pressing force produced during the friction welding.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing heat-insulating structural and/or light elements composed of at least two wall elements of glass, a glass alloy or metal, wherein the wall elements are separated from each other by support elements and are provided on at least one of surfaces thereof facing each other with a layer reflecting heat radiation, and wherein the structural and/or light elements further are composed of a deformable sealing element for connecting the wall elements to obtain a hollow space between the wall elements which can be evacuated or supplied with gas.

Abstract: In a method of manufacturing a plate type titanium heat exchanger in which a plurality of titanium herringbone plates are laminated and flow paths are formed between the respective herringbone plates, after brazing materials are charged or coated to the joints between the herringbone plates, respectively, the herringbone plates are placed in a vacuum heating furnace, subjected to vacuum degas processing while being gradually heated, and joined to each other by brazing by being more heated after a prescribed vacuum pressure has been obtained.

Abstract: The invention relates to a roll-bonded titanium sheet (6), a shaped component manufactured therefrom (10) and a method for manufacturing the titanium sheet (6) and the shaped component (10). In order to achieve a high-temperature-resistant shaped component (10), a titanium sheet (2) is roll-bonded at least on one side with aluminium foil (4) whose thickness (d) is small compared with the thickness (D) of the titanium sheet (2). As a result of heat treatment of the roll-bonded titanium sheet (6), the aluminium and titanium from the adjoining region are converted to an aluminium-titanium alloy. The outer titanium-aluminium-alloy layer of the titanium sheet (6) thus formed is converted by contact with oxygen into a titanium-aluminium-mixed oxide layer which gives the titanium sheet (6) good corrosion protection. The forming of the shaped component (10) preferably takes place before the heat treatment for alloy formation because the roll-bonded titanium sheet (6) is then still slightly deformable.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming a plurality of uniformly sized solder balls utilize a stencil having a plurality of holes of uniform volume disposed on a substrate. Solder is disposed in the holes of the stencil on the substrate. Typically, the solder is in the form of solder paste which is distributed into the holes using a squeegee. While within the holes of the stencil on the substrate, the solder is melted to form solder balls. The stencil may then be removed to leave the solder balls on the substrate, or the solder balls may be removed while the stencil remains on the substrate.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for filling (printing) cells of a mask with solder paste. A first (flood) blade is disposed a distance above a front surface of the mask, moves a glob of solder paste across the surface of the mask. The first blade is followed by a second (cleaning) blade which is in contact with the surface of the mask and which advances across the surface of the mask to remove residual solder paste from the surface of the mask. The distance between the first blade and the mask is on the order of a few (2-5) times the average particle size in the solder paste. The first blade may be plastic. The second blade is preferably non-compliant, such as metal. Profiles for the two blades are disclosed. A method printing multiple masks with multiple sets of blades is disclosed.

Abstract: A sleeve for holding papers or other material may be provided with an outer corner tab. The sleeve may be formed of a single die-cut sheet of plastic or other material, or from two or more sheets that are attached together. A first sheet may include score lines along two adjacent edges that enable an extended portion of the first sheet to be folded over a second sheet. The second sheet may include score lines that enable an outer corner tab to be formed thereon. The corner tab enables a portion of the papers or other material stored in the sleeve to be inserted into an insert space of the tab. The tab may then be used to retain papers in a secure manner, such that they will not fall out of the sleeve should the sleeve or folder be inverted.

Abstract: A carton, and a blank for forming the carton, are provided having interlocking flanges that may be folded down into a locked configuration in a variety of sequences and that may retain the locked configuration when folds are misaligned. The carton includes a plurality of walls having locking flanges foldably attached thereto. Each one of the locking flanges is adapted to engage adjacent locking flanges in a folded configuration. Each one of the locking flanges includes a first side portion and an opposing second side portion. Each of the side portions includes a first tab, a second tab spaced apart from the first tab, and an engagement edge disposed between the first tab and the second tab. In a folded configuration, each one of the tabs and the engagement edge of a side portion engages corresponding tabs and the engagement edge of an adjacent flange side portion.

Abstract: A reclosable locking container and method for packaging dry materials, comprising a box formed from a foldable substrate and a molded reclosable, locking fitment, said fitment being lockable in the open or closed position. The container of the invention may be adapted to provide barrier packaging of materials to extend the shelf life thereof by incorporating a barrier material, fin seal closure elements and optionally a skived side seam, and a tearable perforated opening.

Abstract: A carton is disclosed which comprises four wall panels (12, 14, 16, 18) which are bounded by crease lines (20, 22, 24, 26). A tab (28) secures the four panels into tubular form. The bottom overlapping flaps (30, 32, 34, 36). The top of the carton is closed by further flaps (46, 48, 50, 52). The flap (52) has a removable panel (72) within the area thereof, the removable panel (72) being bounded by a weakened line (74) along which it can be detached from the flap (52). The flap (48) has an area (70) coated with pressure sensitive adhesive and an area (68) coated with glue which secures the area (68) permanently to the underlying top closure structure. The areas (68, 70) are separated from one another by a crease line (66). Once the removable panel (72) has been detached for dispensing purposes, the resultant opening can be closed by pressing the area (70) down onto the remainder of the top closure structure.

Abstract: A system and method for producing transaction cards, such as gift cards and identification cards, ensures that duplicate and missing cards are eliminated from a group of cards. Cards may also be provided in an ordered sequence. Each transaction card may include one or more unique identifiers so that each card is uniquely identified from all other cards in the group. Cards in the group may be packaged according to a hierarchy, and the location of each card in the hierarchy may be retained and later used for identifying the location of cards and/or batch activation.

Abstract: A computer peripheral device for providing a computer system with user input data and user biometric data includes an event sensing portion for detecting a user action and for converting the user input into a data first stream, the user action of a type appropriate for the computer peripheral device, a biometric acquisition portion for acquiring biometric data from the user at substantially a same time the event sensing portion detects the user action, and for converting the biometric data into a second data stream, and a processor coupled to the event sensing portion and the biometric acquisition portion for reversibly encoding the first data stream and the second data stream to form a third data stream, and for providing the third data stream to a computer system or a network.

Abstract: An electronic article surveillance assembly comprises an elongate sheet member having a hinge section, a first panel section pivotally supported at one end of the hinge section and a second panel pivotally supported at a second end of the hinge section, an adhesive layer being disposed between and mutually securing the first and second panel sections and defining an interior compartment between the first and second panel sections, and an EAS member being secured to one of the first and second panel sections and disposed in the interior compartment, an aperture extending from the interior compartment through one of the first and second panel sections. Prior to securing the first and second panel sections, a stem of an article of manufacture is inserted through the aperture and an end of the stem is secured in place.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods and system for conducting transactions for a self-checkout system. The self-checkout system may include at least two self-checkout stations and a single self-payment module for effecting payments and/or completing transactions conducted on each of the at least two self-checkout systems. Accordingly, a first signal may be received at a first time, where the first signal indicates that a first self-checkout station is ready to tender payment and complete a transaction conducted on the first self-checkout station. A second signal may be received at a second time, where the second signal indicates that a second self-checkout station is ready to tender payment and complete a transaction conducted on the second self-checkout station. The system may then determine a priority of completing a respective transaction of the first self-checkout system and the second self-checkout system based upon the earlier of the first time and the second time.

Abstract: A system for handling packages includes an electronic module associated with at least one package, the electronic module including a memory device for storing handling data for the at least one package, a first transceiver, and a signaling device operatively coupled to the first transceiver. The system further includes at least one control station including a second transceiver for wirelessly communicating with the first transceiver to direct the handling of the at least one package.

Abstract: Correct removal of cargo units 14 from the cargo space 10 of a cargo delivery vehicle uses RFID tags 15 on the cargo units. A RFID transceiver 18 is in the cargo space. A sensor 16 responds to closure of a door to the cargo space to initiate operation of the transceiver to interrogate the RFID tags and to create an inventory of the cargo units then in the space.

Abstract: The present invention includes a variety of improvements in RFID readers, one of which is the use of a removable, and preferably non-volatile, date storage medium with the RFID reader to facilitate the transfer of data to the RFID reader, from the RFID reader, or both. This enables a user to receive real-time information related to items being interrogated by the RFID reader, which is a considerable advantage when compared to conventional RFID readers.

Abstract: A transceiver is provided that can adapt itself to operate as an RF tag reader or as a bluetooth transceiver by changing its reception and transmission capabilities. The cost and area of an additional transceiver where both a bluetooth transceiver and an RF tag reader are required is avoided. The same radio part is used for both bluetooth and for RF tag reader operation. Since the operation band is the same, there is no need to change the center frequency of the resonance needed by the radio front-end. Software controlled adaptivity is included due to the different nature of these systems so that the mode of the radio hardware can be programmed easily and on the fly. This provides a software defined architecture tailored for bluetooth/RF tag operation. This invention integrates two different systems to one transceiver chip giving cost and space savings by reusing existing analog parts.

Abstract: A system for carrying out a secure transaction between a data transaction device and a client machine, wherein the data transaction device includes at least one optical sensor for receiving from an application a light beam modulated with data that informs a user of the data transaction device of a return code for sending to the client machine in order to complete the transaction. The client machine includes a modulator for modulating a signal representative of a light beam with data associated with a transaction code so as to form a modulated light beam signal, and a display driver coupled to the modulator and responsive to the modulated light beam signal for illuminating a display device so that at least some pixels thereof emit a light beam that is modulated with the data.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system, in whic an omni-directional holographic scanning tunnel is used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathamatical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol thereon. The mathamatical models are analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogeneous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: The operating environment of a moving laser beam in a flying spot, electro-optical reader is simulated in a solid-state, sensor-based imaging reader by turning a visible line produced by a light emitting diode on and off prior to capturing a two-dimensional image of a target.

Abstract: A transponder unit which can be integrated in a transport unit or a card or the like comprises, in addition to an encapsulated transponder (1) consisting of an integrated circuit (2), an aerial winding (3) having a resistance RA and a capacitor (4) parallel thereto and having a capacitance CA, a closed coupling circuit (5) consisting of secondary winding (7) coupled with the aerial winding (3) via a mutual inductance MSA and a substantially larger primary winding (6) in series with said secondary winding and having fewer turns, for example only one turn.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the manipulation for an identification purpose of a microcarrier comprising the steps of: (a) an identification purpose step of the microcarrier, and (b) a positioning and orientation step prior to or during the identification purpose step, wherein the identification purpose step is a detection step for the detection of a identifiable or encoded microcarrier and a labeling step resulting in a identifiable or encoded microcarrier. The invention further relates to an apparatus for the manipulation for identification purposes of a microcarrier comprising means for identification purposes such as a microscope or labeling means such as a high spatial resolution light source, and means for the positioning and orientation of the microcarriers and to a microcarrier suitable for use in a method according to the invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rail clip, an important fitting part, for the railway made of a new steel XY30 which is one of a high-manganese steel without nickel and which has high strength and high toughness even if it is used in the low-temperature circumstance.

Abstract: A method of servicing an electro-dynamic apparatus (10) such as a traction motor of a locomotive wherein a degraded surface (52) of electrical insulation (50) in the interior of the apparatus is spray coated with a layer of a sealing material (56). The service is provide without the necessity for removing or disassembling the apparatus by inserting a nozzle (64) of a spraying device (60) through an access opening (42) in the frame head (20) of the apparatus. The sealing material is delivered to the nozzle through a flexible delivery tube (66) having an inner tube (80) defining a passageway (82) for the sealing material and a concentric outer tube (84) defining an annular passageway (86) for compressed air for propelling the sealing material from the nozzle.

Abstract: A swimming pool fountain including a bracket that is easily connected to the water supply of the swimming pool and is secured in a stable position relative to the wall of the pool has been provided. Means are provided for changing the vertical elevation of the fountainhead to the desired level relative to the water level of the pool. Also, the arrangement is such that it minimizes the problem of injury to swimmers and pool circulation plumbing by providing for separation upon a load being imposed on the structure. The same connection facilitates removal of the fountain structure from the pool if it should be desired and use can easily be made to the fountainhead to change the artistic aspects of the fountain.

Abstract: A straw (3) capable of being detachably inserted into the straw insert hole (2) of a press-deformable container (1) having the straw insert hole (2), characterized by comprising a locking part (4) for stopping the insertion of the straw (3) into the straw insert hole (2) and a through hole (5) positioned apart from the locking part (4) by a distance (W) almost the same as the thickness of a container forming material having the straw insert hole (2).

Abstract: A drinking straw (1) has a spherical transparent housing (2) formed part way up it in which there is a ball (3) which can be marked or decorated and when a drink is sucked up the straw (2) the ball (3) rotates.

Abstract: In a fuel injection valve for internal combustion engines, having a valve housing, having an axially movable valve member for opening and closing an injection opening of the injection valve, and having a part, which acts in the closing direction of the valve member, which is guided with its end remote from the injection opening in a bore of a first valve piece inserted into the valve housing and with this end, encloses a control pressure chamber in the first valve piece, which control pressure chamber can be connected to a high-pressure fuel connection via an inlet conduit, which is provided with at least one inlet throttle, and can be connected to a low-pressure fuel connection via an outlet conduit, which has an outlet throttle and can be closed by a movable control valve member, where the injection process can be controlled by means of the fuel pressure in the control pressure chamber, the proposal is made that at least the section of the inlet conduit provided with the inlet throttle be disposed in a seco

Abstract: A bi-direction pumping droplet mist ejection apparatus includes a casing which has two sides each has an inlet and a plurality of nozzle orifices, and a piezoelectric plate located in the casing and clamped and anchored by a clamping pad on one end thereof. The casing has a reservoir and an ejection chamber located on each of two sides of the piezoelectric plate. The reservoir and the ejection chamber are interposed by flow guiding slant surfaces and buffer edges to enable the piezoelectric plate and the nozzle orifices to form a gap therebetween to cerate nozzle and dispersion effects so that after the piezoelectric plate is activated fluid may be ejected evenly through the nozzle orifices on two sides to generate even fuel ejection and a desired atomization effect in a bi-direction fashion.

Abstract: A fire fighting vehicle includes a turret and a turret controller. The turret includes a base which is coupled to the vehicle, and the turret is configured to rotate relative to the vehicle at the base. The turret controller is configured to use feedback control to control the movement of the turret from a first position where the turret is positioned at a first angle of rotation at the base to a second position where the turret is positioned at a second angle of rotation at the base, where the first and second angles are different.

Abstract: Aerial spraying is accomplished with a system including a storage tank for holding a substance to be sprayed, a compressed gas cylinder for pressurizing the storage tank, a spray nozzle assembly, and a feed line for delivering pressurized substance from the storage tank to the spray nozzle assembly. The spray nozzle assembly includes a spray nozzle that will discharge a pressurized shot of the substance onto the ground when the spray nozzle assembly is activated. A controller is provided for automatically activating the spray nozzle assembly in accordance with user selected settings. The storage tank, cylinder and spray nozzle assembly are all mounted on a frame, which can be supported from an aircraft. In operation, the system is suspended or otherwise mounted below an aircraft and flown over the target site. At which point, the spray nozzle assembly is selectively activated to spray a pressurized and directed solid stream of substance onto the ground surfaces with precision.

Abstract: The adjustable arc spray nozzle allows adjustment of the spray arc, the radius, and flow of the water spray provided by the nozzle. The nozzle includes a top member, a base member, and a discharge orifice defined therebetween. A rotatable external upper collar controls the radius of the pattern, an internal helix member controls the arc of the spray pattern, and an internal flow adjustment screw and an optional rotatable external lower collar control the flow of the nozzle.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing module and nozzle or die tip for discharging at least one liquid filament. The nozzle includes a wedge-shaped member having a pair of side surfaces converging to an apex. A liquid discharge passage extends along an axis through the wedge-shaped member and through the apex. The wedge-shaped member extends in a radially asymmetrical manner around the liquid discharge passage. Four air discharge passages are positioned at the base of the wedge-shaped member. At least one air discharge passage is positioned adjacent each of said side surfaces and each of the air discharge passages is angled in a compound manner generally toward the liquid discharge passage and offset from the axis of the liquid discharge passage.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an airbrush including an elongate body having an internal cavity and an external grip surface to be held in the hand of a user. A DC electric motor and an air pump driven by the motor are oriented within the body cavity. A switch is oriented on the elongate body external surface proximate to a finger of a user's hand. A removable pen having an internal liquid reservoir and a nib cooperates with the elongate body and extends within an air chamber having an outlet nozzle and an inlet coupled to the air pump. The user selectively actuates a switch to cause the motor to drive the pump providing an air stream of pressurized air to the air chamber which flows above the nib drawing liquid particles therefrom, into the air stream forming a mist which is sprayed from an outlet orifice of the outlet nozzle.

Abstract: The invention concerns a triboelectric sprayer (1) for spraying electrostatic powder paint, comprising a powder intake (13), an air intake (11), a conduit (5) transporting air and powder while providing the electrical charge of the powder and, in front of said charging conduit (5), means (18, 19, 20) for emitting at least an air-powder mixture jet. The air intake (11) is located in the axis (3) of the charging conduit (5), while the powder intake (13, 15) is arranged laterally and converges in an acute angle (A) with the air intake (11), in a point (P) located upstream of the charging conduit (5). The air intake can consist of an injector (11) made of electrically conductive material which also constitutes an earthing member of the wall (5) of the charging conduit (5).

Abstract: A stationary rinse nozzle made of durable, non-corrosive material includes a simple deflector directing a uniform water jet in all directions so the need for a rotating nozzle or a multi-apertured rinse tube is eliminated. A large rinse orifice provides the necessary volume of water for effective low pressure rinsing of residual products from the tank walls. The deflector support is located in the middle of a tube so that blank spots in the spray pattern are avoided.

Abstract: A check valve (8) and a booster (9) are inserted in parallel in a supplied fuel line (6) connecting a common rail (5) and an injection valve (7), a piston (10E) of a hydraulic circuit (10) is driven for positioning by a piezoelectric actuator (PA-1), the pressures in a chamber (9Db) of the booster (9) and the pressure in a fuel chamber (7G) of the injection valve (7) are selectively lowered by controlling the alignment state between ports (10Eb), (10Ec) provided in the piston (10E) to communicate with a low-pressure portion and an opening 10Aa of a first chamber 10A and an opening (10Ba) of a second chamber (10B) of cylinder (10C), whereby the pressure of the fuel supplied to the fuel reservoir (7B) of the injection valve (7) is rapidly switched to one or the other of high-pressure fuel from the common rail (5) and pressure-boosted high-pressure fuel from the booster (9).

Abstract: A nozzle holder includes a support portion, which supports a downstream end surface of a planar wall of an injection hole plate. The injection hole plate provided with injection holes is welded to one of the valve body and the nozzle holder. The planar wall may be curved and may be thus convex in an upstream direction toward a downstream end opening such that the planar wall is urged against a peripheral edge of the downstream end opening of the valve body. The planar wall may include a reinforcing rib located radially outward of the injection hole.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of compensating for thermal expansion and tolerance variations (wear, brinelling, mounting distortion) in a fuel injector is provided. The apparatus includes a magneto-hydraulic thermal expansion compensator containing magnetically-active fluid positioned in operative contact with the fuel injector actuation element. A electromagnetic coil is provided proximate the magneto-hydraulic compensator. Magnetic flux generated by the electromagnetic coil causes the viscosity of the magnetically-active fluid within the magneto-hydraulic compensator to increase, causing the magneto-hydraulic compensator to become substantially rigid during actuation of the fuel injector.

Abstract: A flexible, self-adjusting flow nozzle is provided, optimally configured for agricultural uses. The nozzle flexes automatically in response to changes in fluid pressure, thereby maintaining an optimal droplet size and spray area for a variety of flow rates. The self-adjusting characteristic of the nozzle allows for the creation of a fully or semi-automatic spray system. The fully automatic system uses a GPS receiver to compare actual geographic data against a predetermined flow plan for automatically making adjustments to flow rate in order to accommodate both speed changes and varying crop needs. The semiautomatic system uses a manually controlled flow rate but utilizes the self-adjusting capabilities of the spray nozzle.

Abstract: Problems are posed by slip prevention particle injection devices by wheels of railway rolling stock. Namely, if the injected quantity of slippage-preventing particles is adjusted so as not to be excessive and to be a suitable quantity, it is not possible to obtain a predetermined injection pressure and it is not possible to inject the particles at the target location.

Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing a material. The dispensing device includes a somewhat cup-shaped interior opening in a first direction in which the material is to be dispensed from the dispensing device. The interior terminates at a discharge edge. The dispensing device further includes a skirt extending from the discharge edge in a second direction generally opposite the first direction. The skirt includes multiple passageways substantially equally spaced around a perimeter of the skirt.

Abstract: An apparatus and method recycles the abrasive fluid or slurry effluent used in the polishing step in the manufacture of semiconductors. Agglomerations of abrasive grains built up in the slurry effluent are crushed using a mill, ultrasonic oscillation, or pressurized circulation. The slurry effluent is then regenerated and reused.