Abstract: A clutch cover 25 is disposed opposite to a pressure surface 26a of a pressure plate 26 and is fixed to a flywheel. The pressure plate 26 has the pressure surface 26a facing a friction surface 15 of a clutch disk. An annular lever plate 28 is supported at its outer circumferential edge to a clutch cover 25 and is contacted at a radially intermediate portion to the pressure plate 26. The pressure plate 26 is biased to be disengaged from the friction surface 15 of the clutch disk. A release bearing 31 is in contact with an inner circumferential edge of the lever plate 28 on the transmission side. A hydraulic cylinder 32 serves to move the release bearing 31 in the axial direction.

Abstract: A cathodic protection system for protecting buried conducting structures, subject to corrosion such as well casings, pipe lines and the like, utilizes a plurality of pulsed D.C. current sources with the negative output terminal of each source connected to a separate structure and the positive output terminal of the sources connected to a common anode located near the structures. A control circuit synchronizes the operation of the several D.C. sources and sets the frequency and width of the output pulses. The amplitude of the output pulses from each D.C. source may be separately adjusted.

Abstract: A multi-layer Auger suppressed diode having at least two exclusion interfaces and at least two extraction interfaces. A specific embodiment has two composite contacts, each consisting of a heavily doped layer (3, 4) and a buffer layer (8, 9) of lower doped, high bandgap material sandwiched between the heavily doped layer and the active region (2) of the device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the manufacture of cellulosic flat films and cellulosic membranes in the form of flat membranes whereby a solution of cellulose in an aqueous tertiary amine oxide is moulded in film form using an extrusion nozzle which has an oblong extrusion gap and is led into a precipitation bath via an air gap whereby the cellulosic flat film is formed in the precipitation bath, characterized in that the cellulosic flat film is stretched in the transverse direction after entering the precipitation bath.

Abstract: A meteorological information system useable by aircraft pilots and others. A receiver-calculator unit receives raw meteorological data and site-specific physical data from a ground-based weather station having a signal transmitter for broadcasting signals conveying data about weather conditions at the station. The transmitted raw data signals are received by the receiver-calculator unit in the aircraft. The receiver-calculator unit may feature an input with which the operator inputs information about the physical character, such as the heading, of the runway of interest. The receiver-calculator unit processes both received raw weather data and received site-specific physical data, and/or operator-input data, to derive additional meteorological information. The raw and derived weather conditions information is displayed by the unit to be available to the aircraft pilot during landing or take-off maneuvers.

Abstract: A thin film magnetic head which can suppress magnetic saturation at opposite ends of width of a narrow track width to reduce the amount of recording side-fringing onto a recording medium and which can assure a necessary recording magnetic field satisfactorily. Also a magnetic disk apparatus using the head. A second magnetic yoke has a magnetic gap depth over which the spacing of a magnetic gap keeps substantially equal toward a rear portion of the second magnetic yoke, starting at the tip of a second magnetic pole and the spacing between a first magnetic yoke and the second magnetic yoke is increased toward the rear portion, starting at a position corresponding to the magnetic gap depth. The second magnetic pole of the second magnetic yoke has in the track width direction a width for recording a signal on a track width of the recording medium.

Abstract: A fiber optic coupler comprising a plurality of single-mode optical fibers, each of which is tapered to form a small diameter section that extends in contiguous relationship with the small diameter sections of the other fibers to form a coupling region. Each of the fibers has a core surrounded by a cladding of refractive index lower than that of the core. At least one of the fibers has a refractive index pedestal of refractive index ni between said core and cladding, wherein n1>ni>n2, n1 and n2 being the refractive indices of the core and cladding, respectively.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic recording medium for use in an external memory device of an information processing apparatus etc., and an object thereof is to reduce noise, achieve high coercive force, and use the substance as a magnetic recording medium for detecting signals in a magnetoresistance head. In the magnetic recording medium comprising the magnetic recording layer 25 including ferromagnetic grains 22 and a nonmagnetic substance 23, the improvement in structure comprises that the ferromagnetic grains 22 are formed to have respectively an average grain diameter of 50 nm or less and not to be overlapped in the film thickness direction and to be isolated in the direction along a layer surface, and that a product of residual magnetization and a film thickness of the magnetic recording layer 25 is less than or equal to 150 Gauss•&mgr;m.

Abstract: A lead material for an electronic part having no adverse effect on the environment, having excellent solderability, desirable welding strength during welding and a low degree of nonuniform thickness of the plated layer during reflow processing. The lead material has a first plated layer and a second plated layer, both of which do not contain Pb, laminated on the surface of a conductive substrate in such order. The melting point of the second plated layer is lower than that of the first plated layer. The first and second plated layers are made of a Sn substance and a Sn alloy, respectively or vice versa.

Abstract: The present invention provides a three-piece solid golf ball having both excellent hit feeling and large flying distance. The three-piece solid golf ball comprises a core 1 and a cover 2 covering the core 1, and the core 1 has a two-layer structure comprising a center 1a and an outer shell 1b. The center 1a contains an &agr;,&bgr;-unsaturated carboxylic acid metallic salt in an amount of 13 to 28 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of a base rubber and the outer shell 1b contains an &agr;,&bgr;-unsaturated carboxylic acid metallic salt in an amount of 28 to 35 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of an base rubber. A surface hardness (measured by JIS-C type hardness tester) of the core 1 is 75 to 88 and a compression deformation amount of the core 1 is 2.7 to 5.0 mm.

Abstract: An operation apparatus for ablating the cornea by laser beam and correcting ametropia of the eye comprising a diaphragm with variable aperture, which is disposed on the optical path along which the laser beam is irradiated on the cornea, a shading member for shading the aperture of the diaphragm in the meridian diameter direction of the aperture, which is capable of varying the shading area to the aperture of the diaphragm by changing the turning angle to the optical path, in which aperture diameter of the diaphragm and variation in scope of the shading area by the shading member being controlled, and a beam rotator disposed in the eye side to the diaphragm rotates the laser beam passed through the aperture of the diaphragm about the optical path, whereby the cornea is ablated thicker at the periphery than at the center so as to correct hypermetropia.

Abstract: A protective body guard (10) providing a full range of motion that closely tracks the biomechanical movement of a joint. The device provides protection against sharp objects, impact and limb movement into positions that may cause injury. The device (10) comprises successive segments (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22) made of a hard, impact-resistant, light material and arranged in overlapping fashion and interconnected by means of a single pivot pin (28) or flexible strap in an arcuate slot (30) at each side of the segments. Cushioning pads (24, 26), detachably fixed to the segments (12, 22), provide protection from contact with the interior of the segments.

Abstract: A disposable bib for protecting individuals primarily postured in a semi-reclined position, such as those in medical care settings. The bib includes a plastic body having a gathered neck opening, opposing forcefully open side catch pockets and an integrally joined transverse open bottom pocket. The bib is fabricated to provide concave body portion with rippling conduits which direct spillage into the pockets.

Abstract: A main body portion has interior and exterior surfaces. A centerline runs between the front and the back. A first side and a symmetric second side are formed. The front includes two convex edges. Stitching coupes the convex edges. The first and second sides each have first and second arcuate portions extending outwardly away from the centerline. The back includes a tail extending rearwardly away from the front from between the arcuate portions. A primary coupler includes first fasteners at the edges of the first arcuate portion on the interior surface. The first fasteners are remote from and generally parallel with the centerline. Second fasteners are provided at the edges of the second arcuate portion on the exterior surface. The second fasteners are proximal to the centerline. The first fasteners are adapted to separably couple with the second fasteners at any position along their lengths.

Abstract: There is provided a hat comprising a crown portion, a brim removably and rotatably attached to the crown portion by a sliding assembly, a circumferential band attached along its lower edge to the lower periphery of the crown portion and having at least a first part of the sliding assembly attached thereto, a headband attached to the circumferential band and/or the crown portion, but preferably not to the sliding assembly, that is disposed between the sliding assembly and a wearer's head when the hat is worn. The sliding assembly comprises a first member at least partially secured to the inside of the crown portion and/or the circumferential band, and a second member at least partially secured to the brim. The sliding assembly is preferably vertically oriented so that, in particular, the sliding assembly may be recessed from the lower periphery of the crown portion for improved functioning and aesthetics.

Abstract: A cap and shade combination in which the shade may be folded inside an attached pouch when not in use. The shade comprises a central portion and two wing portions such that it may be unfurled both down away from the cap and laterally in both directions around the rim of the cap. Each wing portion has an upper edge comprising one or more shade attachment members configured and positioned to removably attach to mating attachment members on the inner surface of the cap near the front visor when in use for maximum coverage of the user's neck, ears, etc. The pouch may be removably attached to the inner surface of the crown of the cap or sewn into or as part of the band or sweatband of the cap.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a pair of pants, including: a seat portion, a waist portion, and two leg portions joined together in a conventional manner to form the pants; and at least one zipper disposed on a rear of the pants between a crotch area and a top of the pants, the at least one zipper being partially or completely unzippable to reveal a selected portion of a wearer of the pants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wet suit undergarment and surfing shorts combination. The combination comprises a wet suit underpants garment formed of insulating material, preferably Neoprene, capable of covering and conforming to the body of a wearer from the waist to the thighs. An interconnecting means is located around at least a portion of the waist and/or pelvic portion and/or thigh portion of both garments and is capable of securing the wet suit underpants garment to the pair of outerwear short pants so that they are capable of remaining interconnected during water sports activity.

Abstract: An eye protection apparatus is disclosed that includes detachable dome-shaped eye protection portions.

Abstract: The “Eye Glass Perspiration Guard” which is fixed by means of rubber “O” rings to the eye glass arms enables individuals the use of a “sweat band” type device without having to be secured around the head. With the close proximity of the “Eye Glass Perspiration Guard” to the eye glasses, dust and dirt can also be reduced and or eliminated from entrance from the top of the eye glasses. Hats and or hard hats will not be interfered with as with head constraint “sweat bands”.

Abstract: Multifunctional protective eyewear that includes two or more lens assemblies that are quickly interchangeable to suit various environmental and situational conditions. The eyewear has particular applicability for tactical and ballistic use as well as motor sports, active sports and uses involving helmets. The strap system of a preferred embodiment can be quickly changed for either over the helmet use or under the helmet use.

Abstract: An enhanced chest protector for usage in sporting events and hazardous activities. More particularly, the invention is a chest protector that utilizes a soft, pliable gel attached to the previously-existing chest protector to greatly enhance absorption and dissipation of impact forces. The gel is of a type commonly used for heat or freezer packs, and is configured in many separate panels to keep the gel from flowing across the entire device. Importantly, the gel is durable and lightweight, which allows the player to wear the product comfortably for extended periods of time. In addition, the gel may be frozen or refrigerated prior to use, so as to provide cooling for the player in hot water.

Abstract: A non-leaking flush toilet system that eliminates the need for using wax gaskets or rings on a toilet system. Such system having a substantially flat surface that is affixed to the base outlet opening of a flush toilet. The toilet system further includes an upper portion having inner and outer clearance surfaces, and an extension member that projects downwardly from the upper portion. Attached to the exterior surface of the extension member is a sealing boot. The sealing boot having a plurality of sealing lips that outwardly extend from the sealing boot's outer surface. In use, the outer clearance surface is received inside the floor flange, and the outer surface of the extension member having the sealing boot disposed thereon is sealingly received inside the soil pipe, thereby forming a seal between the base of the toilet and the floor flange.

Abstract: An air plunger is described. The air plunger comprises an upper barrel and a lower barrel slidably received by the upper barrel. An air seal is fixed to the lower barrel and slidably engages with the upper barrel. A nozzle is attached to the lower barrel opposite to the upper barrel. A stop mechanism prohibits the upper barrel from disassociating with the lower barrel.

Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for collecting, disposing, and measuring liquids including a vessel with an inner surface and an absorption mechanism disposed on the inner surface of the vessel for absorbing and collecting liquids within the vessel. The present invention additionally provides for an absorption mechanism disposed on an inner surface of a vessel for preventing the spillage of any liquids, particularly those associated with excretory waste. Finally, the present invention provides for a method of using the apparatus claimed herein to collect, dispose, and measure liquid output from a bedridden individual.

Abstract: A portable device is provided for generating a current in a vessel having a side-wall, the vessel containing a fluid. The device includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a motor attached to the housing. A propeller, driven by the motor, is positioned in the housing. A float is attached to the housing to create a buoyant force sufficient to keep the portable device afloat in the fluid. Fluid is drawn into the housing through the inlet side and forced out of the housing through the outlet side to generate the current in the vessel.

Abstract: A long rod that has a hanging hook at one end is attached to the leading vertical edge of the inner shower curtain or shower curtain liner and is hung on a hook located at shower curtain rod height inside the shower or bath/shower enclosure or attached to a wall mounted upper rod clip. Snugging the bottom of the device to a horizontally aligned hook or attached to a clip near the bottom of its length completes the splash water seal.

Abstract: An articulated medical bed for supporting a person in articulated movement is disclosed. The bed comprises a main frame defining a base and an articulated support frame including an upper body section pivotally connected to the base, a seat section pivotally connected to the upper body section and a detachably mounted lower leg section pivotally connected to the seat section. An elongated link member pivotally connects the lower leg section to the base. A glide member is mounted on the seat section and supported for linear movement along the base whereby the seat section is supported for rocking movement about the glide member. A linear actuator is connected to the upper body section for simultaneously actuating the upper body section, seat section and lower leg section in articulated movement. A side rail is supported on the base and includes telescoping inner and outer horizontal rail members extending between vertical rail members.

Abstract: A system for restoring the natural lordosis of the cervical spine is provided. The system comprises at least a base pillow having areas of varying thickness, and including a protuberance. A central portion of the base pillow preferably includes a depression for receiving a patient's head. A thicker edge portion provides support for the patient's neck, while the protuberance provides support for the patients thoracic vertebrae. A second pillow is positionable adjacent the base pillow to provide further elevation for the patient's head. The system may include yet another pillow having a size greater than the second pillow to provide still further elevation for the patient's head. The system may also include additional pillows having shapes smaller than, larger than, or in between the size of the other pillows. A method of using the pillows to treat a cervical spinal disorder is also provided.

Abstract: A leg pillow having two opposing arcuate-shaped bolsters that defines a thigh channel. The bolsters are connected by a bridge having airflow channels on its upper surface and flex channels on its lower planar surface. The bolsters have terminal ends curving inward that form a friction fitting single leg clasp capable of clasping securely an inner thigh of an individual. The clasping of the thigh causes a deformation of the leg pillow which, when the alternate inner thigh rests on the lower planar surface of the bridge opposite the thigh channel, the flex channels therein allow for substantial conformity to the unique contours of the individual's lower body region, thus alleviating stress on the spine and maintaining the spine's natural alignment. The unique features of the present invention resist movement into the unhealthy prone or supine sleeping position and prevent shifting of the pillow while asleep.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid filled support comprising a plurality of chambers in fluid communication with each other at least one fluid conduit interconnecting at least two of the plurality of chambers together. There is also at least one connection head coupled to the at least one fluid conduit. There is also at least one portable pump which is connectable to the connection head. This portable pump is for inserting additional fluid into the fluid conduit wherein the fluid then flows into the plurality of chambers. There is also a portable pressure relief device which is connectable to the connection head. This device comprises a pressure gauge for determining a pressure of fluid inside the fluid filled support. The pressure gauge also includes an adjustable pressure relief valve which is adjustable to relieve fluid from the support wherein the at least one portable pump and the at least one portable pressure relief device are used to adjust pressure in the system.

Abstract: A support surface 10 includes a series of inflatable cells 30, 40 inflated alternately by a compressor 11. The cells 30, 40 are exhausted via an exhaust port 50 having a restrictor 60 of known diameter. A pressure transducer 70 measures the cell 30, 40 pressure. Some of the cells 30, 40 during their deflating/inflating cycle are exhausted through the exhaust port 50 and the cell pressure decay over a time is monitored. A microprocessor calculates the mathematical function related to the cell pressure decay with time, compares the value with compiled data and adjusts the output of the compressor accordingly. The sequence of exhausting via a port 50 is repeated at every inflation/deflation cycle and the pressure decay monitored and compared with the known data and the compressor output adjusted automatically to provide a new operating pressure. Therefore, any change in the person's position, e.g.

Abstract: A method of improving the efficiency of the multistage washing of pulp, wherein the initial washing of a given batch of pulp is carried out using a gradually diluted, recovered filtrate fraction originating from the washing of the preceding batch of pulp as the washing liquid, prior to the final washing of the pulp batch. In the method, the recovered fraction filtrate is kept stored in such a way that the concentration gradient of dissolved substances is maintained until the fraction is used for washing the following batch of pulp. A further object of the invention is a pulp washing plant, wherein the method according to the invention is carried out in a laboratory-scale test washer and applied to industrial pulp washing plant solutions.

Abstract: An apparatus for moving passengers between an airport terminal building and a doorway of an aircraft located rearward of a wing of the aircraft, including a passageway member pivotally anchored to one of the terminal building and a passenger loading bridge for servicing a front doorway of a same aircraft. The apparatus a telescopic passageway member is pivotally mounted to the passageway member via a flexible connection. In use, the apparatus is cantilevered over the wing of an aircraft with the flexible connection substantially above a highest point along an upper surface of the aircraft wing. The flexible connection allows a cabin carried at an outboard end of the telescopic passageway member to mate to the rear doorway of the aircraft, providing an open passageway between the rear doorway and the terminal building through which passengers deplane. Positioning the flexible connection above the high point of the wing approximately minimizes the inclination of each passageway member floor surface.

Abstract: A portable billiard ball polishing device configured for use with a buffing pad comprising a generally hollow body having a closed bottom surface, arcuate sidewalls and an open upper surface. The hollow body sidewalls are segmented to provide lower and upper cavities of varying diameter, to receive a first resilient pad in the lower cavity, and a second resilient pad in the upper cavity of the device, and a sleeve-shaped inner liner configured to the sidewalls of the hollow body.

Abstract: A process and corresponding apparatus for dehydrating gas, especially natural gas. The process includes an absorption step and a membrane pervaporation step to regenerate the liquid sorbent.

Abstract: The invention starts with a windshield wiper with a wiper arm (10) on whose free end a pin (22) is fastened laterally, transverse to the longitudinal direction (64) and pointing to a wiper blade (24) for the articulated connection of the wiper blade (24), which pin is inserted into a passage opening of the wiper blade (24) and in an assembled position is locked axially via a bridge (12) that is arranged parallel to the pin (22) on the wiper arm (10) and grips over the wiper blade (24) with a bent end (14).

Abstract: A dual mode carpet cleaning machine capable of being used in both a traditional deep cleaning mode and a fast drying surface cleaning mode. A selection mechanism provides selective communication with different sets of application jets. One set of application jets delivers a first cleaning solution that penetrates deeply into a carpet. After agitation with a scrub brush the device removes the cleaning solution and unwanted soil through a vacuum nozzle. The other set of jets delivers a lower flow rate of a second cleaning solution that does not penetrate deeply into the carpet. In addition, a novel cleaning solution is disclosed for use with the machine in differing concentrations, depending on the desired application. The carpet cleaning solutions dry more quickly when applied to carpet than previous solutions; the combined performance of the system displays similar cleaning efficiencies to previous carpet cleaning machines but obtains significantly reduced drying times.

Abstract: A telerobotic nozzle positioning system for a mobile debris vacuum vehicle or for fixed particulate vacuuming applications. The apparatus has a vacuum source coupled to an adjustable boom and nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly is mounted to the boom with a compliant upper joint that will allow the nozzle assembly to withstand impacts with obstructions without shearing the nozzle assembly from the boom. A base with an extensible fly is pivotally coupled to the upper joint and can swing with respect to the joint upon actuation of a short stroke hydraulic cylinder. The distal end of the extendable fly has a nozzle bracket assembly with a nozzle bracket, flexible hose and nozzle tip. The nozzle bracket and nozzle tip can pivot with respect to the fly. A pair of long hydraulic cylinders allows the extension of the fly from the base as well as rotation of the nozzle bracket and tip.

Abstract: A hinge assembly for switching a closed position and an open position of two articles by engagement between a first hinge member which is disposed at one of the two articles such that the first hinge member is non-turnable and non-movable in the axial direction and a second hinge member which is disposed at the other article such that the second hinge member is non-turnable but movable in the axial direction, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a plurality of engagement members disposed between the first hinge member and the second hinge member in such a manner as to be away from each other in the circumferential direction, biasing means for pressing the engagement member against the first hinge member, a guide portion for connecting the engagement members, which are disposed at the first hinge member, such that the engagement members are movable only in the radial direction, and a locking portion, which is disposed at the second hinge member, being raised towards the first hinge member and varied in heig

Abstract: A dampened hinge and hinge system for appliances is provided. The system includes first and second hinge portions, at least one of which includes a dampener. The dampener can be a push-dampener, a pull-dampener or a push/pull-dampener. The hinge system allows for movement of the door between a closed position, a fully opened position and a secondary opened position such as a broil-stop position, and the door is self-supporting in the secondary opened position. The first and second hinge portions each include a guide channel, a claw pivotably connected to the guide channel and a link having a first end connected to the claw. The first hinge portion includes a spring having a first end connected to a second end of the link and a second end connected to the guide channel. The second hinge portion includes a dampener that is operably connected between the guide channel and the second end of the link. Both the first and second hinge portions can include a dampener.

Abstract: The self-fastening handle assembly includes a carrier panel with an aperture. A base member has a central bore and a bottom surface. Fingers, which extend from the bottom surface of the base member, are in a first arrangement which has a diameter which is smaller than the diameter of the aperture and thereby capable of being routed therethrough. The fingers are expandable from the first arrangement to a second arrangement having a diameter greater than the diameter of the aperture. A spreader pin resides within the bore and within the fingers. The spreader pin is movable from a first position with the fingers at the first arrangement to a second position within the fingers to a second arrangement with the finger engaging surface in communication with the fingers. A handle, pivotally connected to the base member by a pivot; has an impact end which drives the spreader pin into the fingers upon rotation of the handle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a clamp apparatus for application to an object, for example a plate, a sheet, a fabric or a thin film, by gripping two opposite sides of the object. For this purpose, the apparatus comprises a tubular element with an inner passage with a cross section which tapers in the direction of one end of the element and a clamp surface projecting from the opposite end of the element. A wedge shaped element with a tapering section is insertable into the passage via its wide opening. Thereby, a nip is formed in the co-operation between the wedge shaped element and the clamp surface.

Abstract: A buckle assembly includes a fixing seat adapted to securely connected an object and having a hoop, a controlling bracket having a roller rotatably mounted therein, a fixing rod securely sandwiched between two side walls and adjacent to the baffle to correspond to the hoop and a pressing plate pivotally received in the controlling bracket. A spring is provided to provide a recovery force to the pressing plate. The second end of a secondary strap is extended through the adjusting ring to enclose the second roller such that when the adjusting ring is pulled, the pressing plate is detached from engagement with the roller to allow the secondary strap to slide on the roller to adjust a distance of the controlling bracket to the second end of the secondary strap.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a surface acoustic wave element includes the steps of providing a piezoelectric body having an interdigital transducer, where the interdigital transducer is made of a metal having a higher density than the piezoelectric body, and performing ion bombardment of the interdigital transducer and the piezoelectric body simultaneously so as to reduce the thickness of the interdigital transducer and the piezoelectric body.

Abstract: Provided are thin-laminate panels (i.e., thin-laminate panels having dielectric layers of about 0.006 inches or less and conductive layers on either side of the dielectric layer), wherein the edges of the dielectric layers of the panels are free of conductive material, such as copper. The thin-laminate panel is designed to provide necessary capacitance for all or a substantial number of the integrated circuits to be formed thereon. Finishing methods for treating unfinished thin-laminate panels into finished thin-laminate panels assure that the edges of the dielectric layer of the panel are substantially free of conductive material.

Abstract: A versatile quick change tooling system for internally and externally mounted machine tools which provides components adaptable to a system which is easy to maintain since it has no moving parts. The system would allow for universal adaptation of both internal and external tools on a machine turret and would include a turret having a face portion for mounting tools thereon; a plurality of receivers adjustable to centerline engaged either to the face portion or the perimeter portion of the turret; a tapered bore formed into each of the receivers; a tool holder, with a tool secured to a first end, and having a second end being a tapered shank to be positioned within the tapered bore of each of the receivers; a retainer secured to the tapered shank to secure each tool holder to each receiver; and allowing each of the tool holders mounted to the receivers to be easily removed by unsecuring the retainer from the tapered shank, and replacing the tool holder with a new tool holder and tool secured thereupon.

Abstract: The tool, which can be adapted to a bracket for fitting hands on a dial by driving them in, including a lower rod (11) which slides in a tubular part (13a) of an intermediate cylindrical element (13) compressing a spring (33) abutting against first tension adjustment means (43) and with an overlap that can be checked by a movement indicator (34) for a first force F1, said intermediate cylindrical element (13) itself sliding in the upper tube (15) compressing a second spring (35) abutting against second tension adjustment means (45) and with an overlap that can be checked by a movement indicator (36) for a second force F2.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for allowing the spotting of one or more movable cores to mating portions of a mold. The present invention provides for the placement of a mold on a support structure and the releasable connection of each movable core to a force exerting device. The force exerting device allows for controlled and repeatable movement of the movable core or cores to which the force exerting device is attached. The present invention preferably also allows each movable core being spotted to be set to, and retracted from the mold, to a position where adjustments may be made to the movable core and/or the mating portion of the mold without removing the movable core therefrom. The present invention, therefore, provides for a higher quality and more efficient spotting of movable mold cores than is currently possible.

Abstract: Method of fastening a first article having an opening to a second article using a fastener which includes a connecting member and a rotatably mounted member which includes at least one of an external thread, a spline and a row of teeth, wherein the method includes securing the fastener to the second article, moving the first article towards the fastener, allowing the fastener to penetrate the opening of the first article, and causing the rotatably mounted member to cut into or self-thread into the opening of the first article upon movement of the first article towards the fastener, wherein the fastener is adapted for use in a medical or surgical area.