Abstract: A piezoelectric cantilever with a non-piezoelectric, or piezoelectric tip useful as mass and viscosity sensors. The change in the cantilever mass can be accurately quantified by monitoring a resonance frequency shift of the cantilever. For bio-detection, antibodies or other specific receptors of target antigens may be immobilized on the cantilever surface, preferably on the non-piezoelectric tip. For chemical detection, high surface-area selective absorbent materials are coated on the cantilever tip. Binding of the target antigens or analytes to the cantilever surface increases the cantilever mass. Detection of target antigens or analytes is achieved by monitoring the cantilever's resonance frequency and determining the resonance frequency shift that is due to the mass of the adsorbed target antigens on the cantilever surface. The use of a piezoelectric unimorph cantilever allows both electrical actuation and electrical sensing.

Abstract: The present invention provides sensors based on micromachined ultrasonic transducer technology. The sensors preferably include a plurality of sensor elements, but may include only one sensor element. Arrays of sensors are also provided. Sensor elements include a functionalized membrane supported over a substrate by a support frame. The functionalized membrane, support frame and substrate together form a vacuum gap. The sensor element is connected to an electrical circuit, which is configured to operate the sensor element at or near an open circuit resonance condition. The mechanical resonance frequency of the functionalized membrane is responsive to binding of an agent to the membrane. Thus, the sensor element also includes a detector, where the detector provides a sensor output responsive to the mechanical resonance frequency of the sensor element.

Abstract: Methods and systems for inspecting a generator rotor is provided. The system includes a phased-array ultrasound transducer that includes an active face including a plurality of transducer elements formed in an array, the elements are configured to be excited in a predetermined sequence to generate a transmission beam of ultrasound energy at a plurality of angles with respect to the active face. The elements are configured to receive ultrasound echoes through the active face. The system also includes a transducer wedge including a coupling face configured to couple to the transducer and a transmission face configured to couple to the rotor. The wedge is configured to refract the ultrasound transmission beam at a predetermined angle at the transmission face such that the beam enters the component at an angle substantially normal to a load surface of the rotor.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for orthopedic implant assessment. A method includes characterizing wear of an orthopedic implant including measuring a dimension in a direction that defines a path that passes through an articulating surface of a wear element of the orthopedic implant using at least one thickness sensor. An apparatus includes an orthopedic implant including a wear element having an articulating surface; and at least one thickness sensor coupled to the wear element, the at least one thickness sensor measuring a dimension in a direction that defines a path that passes through the articulating surface of the wear element. A method includes characterizing forces within an orthopedic implant including using a plurality of individually addressable pressure sensors including measuring parasitic impedance between at least two of the plurality of individually addressable pressure sensors.

Abstract: Disclosed are sensing apparatus, such as mass sensors, comprising longitudinal block resonators having annexed platforms that offer the improved mass sensitivity at micron scale, high-Q in air, simplicity of fabrication, and improved reliability. Exemplary mass sensors comprise a central block separated from a substrate. Two annexed platforms are coupled to the central block by way of two separating beams that are separated from the substrate. One or more anchors are coupled to the central block by way of support beams that are separated from the substrate by insulating material. One or more transducers are provided for actuating and sensing vibration of the central block and the annexed platforms. The transducers may employ capacitive and piezoelectric drive and sense schemes.

Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a case with an air passageway having a first opening leading to an inside of the case and a second opening leading to an outside of the case, pressure sensing means that is placed inside the case and includes a pressure sensing surface for detecting pressure, and a breathable filter that is provided with the air passageway to cover at least one of the first and second openings. The pressure sensing means is fixed to the case through mounting means that allows the pressure sensing means to be spaced from the case to prevent stress that is applied to the pressure sensing means by the case.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting a high pressure condition within an interrupter includes introducing high intensity ultrasonic sound into the outer wall of a vacuum interrupter through a sonic wave guide, then listening for the reflected and retransmitted response signals. The characteristics of the response signals are utilized to determine the pressure within the interrupter, and to determine when an unwanted high pressure condition exists.

Abstract: A differential pressure measuring system includes a light source for emitting a light, a first transducer for attenuating the intensity of the emitted light in a first range, depending on a first pressure, and providing a first light, a second transducer for attenuating the intensity of the first light in a second range, depending on a second pressure, and providing a second light, a feedback circuit for adjusting the intensity of the emitted light to maintain the intensity of the second light in the second range constant, and a measuring module for measuring a differential pressure between the first and second pressures, based on the intensities of the second light in the first and second ranges.

Abstract: An adapter (2) disposed between joint (1) and diaphragm (3) includes an axis portion (21) and a flange (22) projecting radially from the axis portion (21). The axis portion (21) is arranged so that one end thereof does not interfere with the joint (1) and the other end is welded to the diaphragm (3), and the joint (1) is caulked to a peripheral edge of the flange (22). Since the diaphragm (3) is not directly joined to the joint (1), welding is not performed near the joint (1), but can be performed in a wide space where equipment is suitably arranged. In addition, caulking operation of the joint (1) to the adapter (2) can be performed by pressing a caulking portion (12C) formed in advance in the joint (1) against the outer peripheral edge of the flange (22), so that a wide space is unnecessary for caulking.

Abstract: A capacitive vacuum measuring cell has a first housing body and a membrane, both of Al2O3 ceramic or sapphire. The membrane is planar with a peripheral edge joined by a first seal to the first housing body to form a reference vacuum chamber. A second housing body of Al2O3 ceramic or sapphire opposite the membrane, is joined to the peripheral edge of the membrane by a second seal to form a measurement vacuum chamber. A port connects the vacuum measuring cell to a medium to be measured. At least in the central area of the first housing body, an optical transparent window is formed and at least the central region of the membrane has an optically reflective surface. Outside the reference vacuum chamber, in opposition to and at a distance from the window, an optical fibre is arranged for feeding in and out light onto the surface of the membrane.

Abstract: A sensor substrate 1 having on its lower surface a surface acoustic wave element 2 for detecting pressure is mounted on a supporting substrate 6 through a sealing member 4 surrounding a sensor section 2. A sealing space S is formed by the sensor substrate 1, the supporting substrate 6, and the sealing member 4, and the surface acoustic wave element 2 for detecting pressure is sealed hermetically in the sealing space S. Reliability can be enhanced by protecting the surface acoustic wave element 2 from the external environment.

Abstract: A semiconductor chip for use in fabricating pressure transducers, including: a semiconductor wafer having a top and a bottom surface, a layer of an insulating material formed on the top surface, the bottom surface having at least two recesses of substantially equal dimensions and spaced apart, the recesses providing first and second substantially equal thin active areas, which areas deflect upon application to a force applied to the top surface, a first plurality of piezoresistive devices arranged in a given pattern and positioned on the insulating material and located within the first area, a second equal plurality of piezoresistive devices arranged in the identical pattern and located on the insulating material within the second active area, first connecting means for connecting the first plurality of piezoresistive devices in a first array, second connecting means for connecting the second plurality of piezoresistive devices in a second array corresponding to the first array.

Abstract: An anti-entrapment system for preventing objects from being entrapped by a translating device includes a capacitance sensor positioned adjacent to the translating device and a controller. The sensor has first and second conductors separated by a separation distance and a compressible dielectric element interposed between the conductors. The conductors have a capacitance dependent upon the separation distance. The capacitance of the conductors changes in response to a geometry of the sensor changing as a result of either conductor or the dielectric element deforming in response to a first object touching the sensor. The capacitance of the conductors changes in response to a second conductive object coming into proximity with either conductor. The controller receives a signal from the sensor indicative of the capacitance of the conductors, and controls the translating device as a function of the capacitance of the conductors to prevent the translating device from entrapping either object.

Abstract: We disclose a strain detector for in-situ lift-out, comprising a nano-manipulator probe shaft; a strain gauge mounted on the probe shaft; and a first cut-out on the probe shaft. The first cut-out has a rectangular cross-section. There is a second cut-out on the probe shaft; the second cut-out having a semicircular cross-section. The second cut-out is positioned on the shaft opposite from the first cut-out; the first and second cut-outs, thus defining a thinned region in the probe. The strain gauge is mounted on the probe shaft at the location of the thinned region. There is detecting circuitry for detecting, amplifying and conditioning the output of the strain gauge; and, wires electrically connecting the strain gauge to the detection circuitry. The wires are preferably located in a trench in the probe shaft. Other embodiments are disclosed with multiple strain gauges and detectors, as well as methods of use.

Abstract: A method of measuring a mailpiece includes deflecting a laser beam through an arc, determining an angle at which the laser beam is currently directed, and calculating a dimension of the mailpiece based at least in part on the determined angle.

Abstract: An ultrasound machine processes ultrasonic data according to acoustoelastic properties of the materials to obtain strain information without specific assumptions with respect to the material properties of the measured material or a variety of different material properties normally not obtained by ultrasound machines.

Abstract: An improved method and device for the reduction of aerodynamic drag and for improved performance of bluff base vehicles by increasing the pressure on the bluff base of the vehicle by controlling the wake flow and the interaction of the wake flow with the vehicle bluff base region. An improved method and device for generating a reduction in drag force on the bluff base of a body moving through a fluid. The apparatus consists of two opposing panels attached to the bluff base and aligned approximately parallel to the side edge of the bluff base and lying in a plane that is parallel to the vehicle centerline. The drag force reduction results from controlling the flow entering the bluff base trailing wake from the left side surface, right side surface, bottom surface, and top surfaces of the vehicle. The objects and advantages also extend to other applications in which an object, body, or vehicle is moving through either a gas or a fluid.

Abstract: Angular movement detectors may be disposed within or proximate to joints in one or more members of articulated arms and linked via one or more communications networks to a controller to provide angular movement data to the controller for use in controlling movement of the articulated arm. The communications networks may be redundant. In an embodiment, the angular movement detector comprises a hydraulic motor drive sensor adapter which uses an eccentrically rotating main shaft to rotate a drive shaft to which the main shaft is loosely connected to further rotate a socket housing about a constant central axis. A trigger mounted in the socket housing generates a detectable field.

Abstract: A force compliant mechanism (750) for a force control system (600) includes a housing (752). A force compliant volute spring member (754) that has an input end (790) and an output end (792) is disposed within the housing (752). A force actuator input shaft (798) operates in response to a force induced thereon. An output shaft (800) is coupled to the output end (792) and to a test object (802). A force transducer (780) is in operative coupling with the force actuator input shaft (798) and generates a force signal in response to the induced force. A method of reducing force transients and increasing stability within a force control system (660) includes applying a force on a test object (666). A force actuator (669) is decoupled from the test object (666). The overall stiffness of the force control system is reduced and dynamic energy is absorbed via a force compliant member (662) coupled to the test object (666) and the force actuator (669).

Abstract: A testing instrument includes a work table, a hydraulic pipe, a positioning device, a power steering wheel shaft mounted on the positioning device and provided with a pull lever and a torque lever, a torque device provided with a universal joint connected to the torque lever of the power steering wheel shaft, and a connecting mechanism connected to the hydraulic pipe and the pull lever of the power steering wheel shaft. Thus, the testing instrument that is operated to test the torque values and tension values of the power steering wheel shaft simultaneously so as to calibrate the normal torque values and tension values of the power steering wheel shaft, thereby enhancing the manipulation performance of a power steering wheel which is connected to the power steering wheel shaft.

Abstract: The present invention provides a digital torque control display that has external screw lines formed at the front end of the gun body and a torque adjuster is placed on it, and in the internal diameter of the torque adjuster has internal screw lines that can be used on the front end of the gun body; in addition, a through hole is placed in the center of the torque adjuster, and a rod is formed on both sides of the through hole, and the rod is connected to the first press, and one side of the first press is connected to a sensory displacement component, and the sensory displacement component is connected to a display, and the first press is connected to a spring, and the spring is different than one end of the first press that is connected to the second press, and the second press is driven by numbers of balls and an output axle, and one end of the output axle goes through the through hole, and a connecting hole is placed axially with a tool head; on the other end, it has clutch blade, and an input axle is pla

Abstract: A strain gauge type sensor and a strain gauge type sensor unit using the sensor are improved in sensitivity. In a strain gauge type sensor 1 for measuring at least one of multiaxial force, moment, acceleration, and angular acceleration, externally applied, diaphragms 15 and 16 different in thickness are formed at inner and outer edges of a substantially disk-shaped interconnecting portion 13 interconnecting a vicinity of an upper end of a force receiving portion 11 and a fixed portion 12 disposed around the force receiving portion 11. The thicknesses of the diaphragms 15 and 16 are determined such that strains at intersections of a straight line extending through an origin O with the diaphragms 15 and 16 are equal to each other. Strain gauges are disposed at the intersections of the straight line extending through the origin O with the diaphragms 15 and 16.

Abstract: An attaching structure of a rotation-detecting sensor comprises (a) a rotation-transferring medium, (b) a rotation-detecting sensor having (b1) a detection portion that detects a variation in magnetic field due to the rotation of the rotation-transferring medium to convert the variation into an electric signal and (b2) a main body having a plurality of side faces, (c) a flange that is provided at at least one side face of the main body of the rotation-detecting sensor, (d) an attaching member for the rotation-detecting sensor, the attaching member having an attaching hole into which the main body is inserted, concurrently with the flange being applied to the attaching member, and (e) a resin-molded body that (e1) covers by resin molding at least one part of the flange and a part of the attaching member to embed them in it and (e2) fixes the main body of the rotation-detecting sensor to the attaching member through the flange.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a magnetostrictive torque sensor compriseis the steps of forming magnetostrictive films on a rotating shaft of a magneto-strictive torque sensor, creating magnetic anisotropy in the magnetostrictive films formed in the magnetostrictive film formation step, and demagnetizing the rotating shaft. The demagnetization step is provided in any of the stages after the magnetostrictive film formation step, and comprises initializing the remanent magnetism created in the rotating shaft.

Abstract: A sensor includes a shaft and a magnetic sensor. The shaft may have at least one magnetized active region. The magnetic sensor may be configured to sense a magnetic field about the shaft, and may provide an output representative of torque applied to the shaft, shaft rotational speed and shaft rotational position.

Abstract: A printing platform receives (102) (preferably in-line with a semiconductor device printing process (101)) a substrate having at least one semiconductor device printed thereon and further having a test structure printed thereon, which test structure comprises at least one printed semiconductor layer. These teachings then provide for the automatic testing (103) of the test structure with respect to at least one static (i.e., relatively unchanging) electrical characteristic metric. The static electrical characteristic metric (or metrics) of choice will likely vary with the application setting but can include, for example, a measure of electrical resistance, a measure of electrical reactance, and/or a measure of electrical continuity. Optionally (though preferably) the semiconductor device printing process itself is then adjusted (105) as a function, at least in part, of this metric.

Abstract: An aseptic sampling arrangement that provides selective access to an interior of a fluid enclosure. The sampling arrangement includes a septum cartridge and a securing element for use with the fluid enclosure. A locking arrangement is provided to allow selective access to the septum cartridge and the securing element. The locking arrangement includes a base, a cover, and a locking device that secures the cover in relation to the base.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the detection of substances (particularly particulate substances) within mail pieces, specifically letters and other “flats” of mail. In particular, the systems and methods are for the detection of residues of Chemical or Biological Warfare Agents (CBWAs) which may be present within the mail pieces. The system is principally designed to be included as part of Dual Pass Rough Cull System (DPRCS) for the collection and detection of the residue when the contaminated mail piece first enters a mail facility and before it is intermingled with other mail pieces.

Abstract: The present invention has been made to simplify assembly and maintenance of a sample analyzer including: a flow passageway 3 that flows fluid, such as a sample, air, or the like; one or more fluid control units 5 that control the flow of the fluid on the flow passageway 3; a measurement cell 41 that is provided on the flow passageway 3; a sample analysis part 6 that analyzes the sample inside the measurement cell 41; and a casing 7 that holds these parts mentioned above. At least one of the fluid control units 5 is formed by unitizing functions related to fluid control; integrally has a manifold 502 that forms an internal flow path 501, one or more control valves 503 that control flow of the fluid in the internal flow path 501 and connection ports 504 for connecting together the internal flow path 501 and the flow passageway 3; and is so configured as to be removable from the casing 7.

Abstract: A miniature air gap inspection crawler. The miniature air gap inspection crawler may include a base, a linear drive mechanism and a circumferential drive mechanism such that either the linear drive mechanism or the circumferential drive mechanism may be employed, and an inspection module connected to the base.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems for machinery testing and inspection using a manipulator are provided. The apparatus includes a tubular shaft, an operator end coupled to the tubular shaft and including a first spool rotatably coupled to the operator end, an effector including an attachment end that includes a second spool rotatably coupled to the attachment end, and a control cable channeled through the shaft from the first spool to the second spool. The control cable is wound at least partially around the first spool and is wound at least partially around the second spool such that rotation of the first spool rotates the second spool using the control cable.

Abstract: Methods and systems for an in-situ inspection system includes at least one source of an inspection fluid, a source of an atomizing fluid, a control panel configured to control a flow of at least one of the inspection fluid and the atomizing fluid, and a mixing box configured to mix the inspection fluid with the atomizing fluid.

Abstract: A method for detecting integrity degradation of a turbine engine component includes the steps of detecting oxygen in a cavity of a turbine engine component; receiving a signal confirming the detection of oxygen; and detecting an integrity degradation of the turbine engine component by the detection of oxygen.

Abstract: A test facility is provided for testing materials under high temperature, pressure, and mechanical loads. The facility provides a physically scaled system that simulates conditions in hot sections of gas turbine engines. A test article is coated with a test material and exposed to a hot combusting flow in a test section housing. The article may be a pipe or conduit member oriented at any direction to the flow. A second cooler flow of fluid is channeled through the test article to create a sharp temperature gradient in the test article and through the test material. A liquid-cooled sleeve is disposed about the test article to create an annular channel of combusting flow over the test article. The downstream end of the second cooler flow is connected to the upstream end of the main hot flow at the combustion chamber.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for adjustably supporting probes are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sensor support assembly includes a base member adapted to be positioned proximate to and move along a surface of a material, the base member including a first outwardly projecting engagement member and a second outwardly projecting engagement member spaced apart from the first engagement member, and a support member coupled to the base member and including a boss adapted to engage a probe, wherein the first and second engagement members are adapted to engage the surface and to maintain a stand-off distance between the probe and the surface.

Abstract: A windowed pre-filter holder for a detector includes a proximate coupling for engaging with a detector and including a seal for sealingly the engaging one end of a pre-filter with a detector; a distal coupling for engaging the other end of the pre-filter; and a windowed protective housing extending between the couplings for viewing the pre-filter in situ.

Abstract: A probe for a probe card assembly includes a beam and a fulcrum element. The fulcrum element is positioned between a base end portion of the beam and a tip end portion of the beam and is adapted for contact with the beam such that the beam is cantilevered by the fulcrum.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for locking a vehicle transmission where at least one directional clutch gear is located on one end of a shaft and a second directional clutch gear and a park flange are located at the other end of the shaft. A single clutch is selectively moved between the at least one directional clutch gear, the second directional clutch gear, the park flange and a neutral position between the two ends of the shaft. The transmission is locked when the single clutch is engaged with the park flange as the flange is secured to the transmission housing.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method of using the apparatus having a rotatable clutch shaft, a clutch collar mounted for rotation with the shaft and a clutch yoke engaged with the clutch collar to move the collar along the shaft. A gear selection system and a clutch position system are also provided.

Abstract: A spindle assembly drive system that includes a rack unit, a drive gear, a motor, and a plurality of bearings, such that said rack unit laterally moves in a first axis with little or no movement in or rotation about any other axis.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein novel gear wheels comprising a core and teeth, where the core comprises a first material and the teeth comprisse this material together with a second material molded thereon as a skin. A variety of materials suitable for use with the invention are disclosed, together with methods for manufacture of these wheels and methods for transmitting torque between gear wheels.

Abstract: An apparatus for shift control of a transmission includes a transmission control unit (TCU) and an actuator for actuating an input by a shift signal from the TCU. A movable control shaft moving by way of the actuator and a plurality of shift forks are able to move a shift position for realizing odd-numbered shift-speeds, even-numbered shift-speeds, or a neutral position. A plurality of shift lugs are secured to and move integrally with a plurality of shift forks. A control finger unit is secured to the control shaft and moves at least one of the plurality of shift lugs corresponding to movement from the control shaft. The control finger unit moves the shift lugs such that shift lugs for realizing an odd-numbered shift-speed are not located together at a shift position and that shift lugs for realizing an even-numbered shift-speed are not located together at a shift position.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a robotic arm is provided including a linkage assembly and a strap drive train. The linkage assembly includes first, second, third, and fourth links pivotally coupled in series together at first, second, and third joints to define a parallelogram with an insertion axis. The strap drive train includes first and second sets of straps coupled to the linkage assembly. As the linkage assembly is moved about a pitch axis, the first set of straps ensures the third link maintains the same angle relative to the first link, and the first and second set of straps ensures the fourth link maintains the same angle relative to the second link.

Abstract: A force multiplying structure includes a central cam 132 associated with an output shaft 28. A first link structure 114 has one end pivotally coupled to a first member 112 of a tool and another end is pivotally coupled to the central cam 132. A first roller 30? is associated with the first link structure 114 and rotates on the cam surface 130 of the first member 112 and on a surface of the central cam 132. A second link structure 118 has one end pivotally coupled to a second member 122 of a tool and another end is pivotally coupled to the central cam 132. A second roller 30? is associated with the second link structure and rotates on the cam surface 138 of the second member and on a surface of the central cam 132. Movement of the output shaft causes the first and second link structures to move, causing the first member 112 to move and engage the object with a force increased from a force exerted by the output shaft. The rollers carry loads exerted on the first and second link structures.

Abstract: A bicycle bar grip, particularly for touring bikes, mountain bikes and the like, comprising a sleeve for being slipped onto a bike handlebar. A grip element is joined to the sleeve and extends over a portion of the length of the sleeve. The sleeve also comprises a clamping area and a sleeve slot. A holding bar end extensions is arranged in the clamping area via a clamp. The grip element has a supporting portion, which is provided for supporting a palm of the hand and which preferably transitions into a holding portion. The supporting portion ensures that a cyclist, when changing his/her grip from the grip element to the holding bar end extension or vice versa, can be supported on the supporting portion for turning the palm of the hand. This ensures that the cyclist, also when changing his/her grip, does not lose contact with the inventive bicycle handlebar grip and a sure hold by the cyclist is ensured.

Abstract: A crank axle drive structure for a bicycle includes a bottom bracket having inner teeth, a crank axle rotatably mounted in the bottom bracket, at least one drive gear rotatably mounted on the crank axle and meshing with the inner teeth, and a chainwheel fixing seat rotatably mounted on the crank axle and provided with outer teeth meshing with the drive gear. Thus, the inner teeth of the bottom bracket have a tooth number greater than that of the outer teeth of the chainwheel fixing seat, so that the rotation speed of the chainwheel fixing seat is increased, thereby shortening the diameter of the chainwheel so as to perform a pedaling action at the higher rotation speed in an energy saving manner.

Abstract: In a method for recycling a double component developer that contains a carrier and a toner used for an image forming device such as office automation equipment, an economic value of recycling is increased, thereby allowing a company to carry out an active and sustainable environmental activity. Material components of a carrier are completely utilized, so that a process of removing and disposing part of components of the carrier, which is present in the conventional technology of a carrier recycling, is omitted from a recycling system, and in consequence, a cost of recycling is minimized. Furthermore, as well as a subject of the recycling, i.e. a carrier itself, a more valuable material, i.e. a platinum group metal, is utilized for the recycling.

Abstract: Mo of 0.05 to 1.0% by mass is adhered to the surfaces of an iron-based powder containing Mn of 0.5% by mass or less and Mo of 0.2 to 1.5% by mass as prealloyed elements by diffusion bonding, whereby an alloy steel powder is formed. Furthermore, a Ni powder of 0.2 to 5% by mass and/or a Cu powder of 0.2 to 3% by mass are added to the alloy steel powder, whereby a mixed powder for powder metallurgy is formed. The mixed powder for powder metallurgy according to the present invention enables production of sintered bodies having high density as well as superior tensile strength and rotating bending fatigue strength.

Abstract: A minimum joint thickness can be assured by incorporating beads or particles having a diameter corresponding to the joint thickness desired and which are infusible at the brazing temperature. Preferably such particles are formed of high-melting metals, metal oxides, ceramics, or cermets and are mixed into the alloy paste prior to fusing. In a preferred embodiment, the particle-containing paste is mixed with a non-flux carrier to facilitate application to the elements to be brazed. Exemplary application methods may include painting, rolling, screening, or extrusion dispensing. Brazing alloys in accordance with the invention are useful in bonding ceramics to ceramics, ceramics to metals, and metals to metals.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a metal nanowire array (30) includes the following steps: providing a carbon nanotube array (10) which includes a number of carbon nanotubes (14), immersing the carbon nanotube array in a colloidal solution (20) which contains a solvent (22) and a number of metal nanocrystals (24) dispersed in the solvent so as to self-assemble the metal nanocrystals on exterior surfaces of the carbon nanotubes; taking the carbon nanotube array out of the colloidal solution; and heating the metal nanocrystals on the surfaces of the carbon nanotubes in a manner such that the metal nanocrystals are fused into a metal nanowire array.