Abstract: To provide a layout structure of a clutch lever shaft capable of realizing compact layouts of a whole power unit in which a starter centrifugal clutch and a transmission manual multi-plate clutch are provided, and of a whole vehicle on which the power unit is mounted. A centrifugal clutch shaft and a manual multi-plate clutch shaft are disposed in parallel. The clutch lever shaft of the manual multi-plate clutch is disposed orthogonally and substantially vertically upward in relation to a pressing direction of a friction plate in a vicinity of an end portion of a lifter pin. The clutch lever shaft is disposed between the centrifugal clutch and the manual multi-plate clutch when viewed from a top of the power unit.

Abstract: A coolant distribution device for a wet-running clutch device and comprising several coolant distribution surfaces along which coolant is conveyed outwards in the radial direction. In order to increase the service lifetime of a wet-running clutch device the coolant distribution surfaces are implemented so that the coolant conveyed outwards in the radial direction has different axial coolant spray-off points and/or coolant spray-off devices.

Abstract: A two-way clutch has a rotational driving unit, a rotational driven unit, a roller interposed between the rotational driven unit and a collar, which is a fixed member and is not rotatable. A recess is formed in an inner peripheral surface of the collar, so that the roller is engaged with the recess. As a result, a locked condition between the rotational driven unit and the collar by means of the roller is not easily released. Therefore, the rotational driven unit is stably held at its locked position, even when a high vibration, a high load and/or a large pulsation is applied to the rotational driven unit.

Abstract: An apparatus according to the present invention is a transfer plate used in conveying manufactured product or raw materials onto or off from a conveyor belt. Generally, the transfer plate includes a support member and a transfer extension depending from the support member to interface to a predetermined conveyor belt. The support member may be coupled to a support structure to allow multidirectional flotation, or acceptable operational movement, of the plate due to incidental movement of the conveyor belt. The support member is preferably manually couplable to the support structure, thereby preventing the need for tools during repair or replacement. The transfer interface may include fingers or a modular interface plate.

Abstract: In a packaging system for packing cases with product, a product metering system is provided. The product metering system includes a first product lane along which a first product travels and a second product lane along which a second product travels. The second product is different from the first product. A first movable barrier has a first position that obstructs progress of the first product along the first product lane and a second position that allows progress of the first product along the first product lane past the first movable barrier. The first product lane and second product lane merge into a first common lane downstream of the first movable barrier, wherein when the first movable barrier is in the first position only the second product is metered to the first common lane.

Abstract: A positioning element for positioning advancing food products includes an engaging member with a contact side for engaging on the products for positioning, and a displacing assembly connecting to the engaging member for intermittently displacing the engaging member in a direction which encloses an angle with the contact side of the engaging member. The engaging member of the positioning element is also provided with at least two engaging sides remote from each other to exert a positioning effect in two directions. Also disclosed is a method for positioning food products.

Abstract: In a semiconductor fabrication facility, a conveyor transports substrate carriers. The substrate carriers are unloaded from the conveyor and loaded onto the conveyor without stopping the conveyor. A load and/or unload mechanism lifts the substrate carriers from the conveyor during unloading operations, while matching the horizontal speed of the conveyor. Similarly, during loading operations, the load/unload mechanism lowers a substrate carrier into engagement with the conveyor while matching the horizontal speed of the conveyor. Individual substrates, without carriers, may be similarly loaded and/or unloaded from a conveyor.

Abstract: A gate reader assembly for positioning and identifying articles carried by conveyor systems. The gate reader assembly including a main housing for attachment to said conveyor adjacent a conveyor line of the conveyor; a sprocket rotatably mounted on said housing and having a plurality of gullets formed thereon, each gullet configured for receiving one of said articles. In addition, said sprocket is configured to rotate about an axis normal to said conveyor line via a horizontal force from said articles such that said rotating sprocket is configured to receive and move said articles along said conveyor line. The gate reader assembly additionally includes a detent mechanism disposed on the housing and slidably coupled to the sprocket for releasably restraining said sprocket from rotation thereby inhibiting said article against further movement along said conveyor line.

Abstract: A roller conveyor in an as such known manner includes a plurality of driven rollers disposed in two parallel tracks. With each driven roller a drive motor is associated. From a first voltage source a first set of the driven rollers is supplied, wherein a second voltage source is provided, from which a further set of the driven rollers is supplied. This arrangement offers a high degree of redundancy in the event of the failure of individual components of the roller drive, thereby guaranteeing an emergency operation in such a situation.

Abstract: A steerable, retractable power drive unit (SRPDU) is provided for installation into a transport vehicle for moving cargo in mutually perpendicular directions, such as a doorway area where containers need to move both laterally and longitudinally in a cargo vehicle. The SRPDU rotates upon application of an external command, to orient the drive unit in the required direction and to drive the cargo containers. Embodiments include an SRPDU comprising a stationary support for fixedly attaching to a vehicle structure, and a rotating support rotatably mounted to the stationary support. A drive assembly is movably mounted to the rotating support, the drive assembly comprising a roller and a first electronically controlled electric motor for rotating the roller.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for in-belt conveyor idler condition monitoring. A sensor is mechanically coupled to a conveyor belt and senses a characteristic of a support structure associated with the conveyor belt. The sensor wirelessly transmits a corresponding signal to a monitor system. The monitor system determines a condition of the support structure based upon the transmitted signal. The support structure may be one of a plurality of support structures and characteristics of each of the support structures may be sensed, associated with identifiers for the support structures, and transmitted to the monitor system. The support structure may include a plurality of elements and a characteristic of each element may be sensed and transmitted by one of a corresponding plurality of sensors.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for monitoring a conveying installation, comprising: a conveying belt (2) made of elastomeric material with a load-bearing side (3) for the conveying material and with a running side (4), the conveying belt having, in particular, an embedded reinforcing element (7); at least one detectable segment (8) which is embedded in the load-bearing side (3) and/or running side, in the vicinity of the surface; a detection system (6), in particular in the form of an optoelectronic system, which contactlessly senses and evaluates the detectable segment (8), in particular in conjunction with a process computer; and other installation parts, namely a drive drum, reversing drum, supporting rollers, supporting frameworks, and possibly other components; the detectable segment (8) being based on a thermochromic substance which results in a change in color if the temperature changes within the critical temperature range of a conveying belt, the detection system (6) sensing and evaluating the

Abstract: A conveyor apparatus and method for conveying materials in which the conveyor belt has chord members located along each belt side. The chord members are adapted to fit within a slotted track assembly whereby the chord members slide relative to the track assemblies when the conveyor is actuated.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an endless conveyor belt comprises providing a flexible web in the form of a PTFE cross film laminate which in its as laminated state has a first length and a first lengthwise yield strength. The web is prestressed by lengthwise stretching to a second length greater than its as laminated first length to thereby achieve a second lengthwise yield strength greater than its as laminated first lengthwise yield strength. The ends of the prestressed web are then interconnected.

Abstract: A conveyor conveys sheets and deposits the sheets at a location to be stacked. The conveyor includes a sensor for determining the presence of a sheet before the sheet arrives at the location. A controller is coupled to the sensor and responsive to sensor inputs for controlling a movable support for projecting into a projected orientation to receive the sheets as the sheets exit the conveyor. The movable support moves to a retracted orientation to assist a stack to be withdrawn therefrom.

Abstract: A jewelry travel case has two halves connected by a hinge and closure mechanism. A first half has an inner compartment with a first pair of straps positioned toward its top side for releaseably engaging and holding one or more necklaces, including Omega-style necklaces, and a second pair of straps positioned between the first pair of straps and a pocket for releaseably engaging and holding one or more bracelets so that necklaces and bracelets will hang in the inner compartment when the case is vertical. A second half has an inner compartment with an earring bar releaseably secured to its upper portion and a ring bar releaseably secured to its lower portion. The earring bar can be detached at both of its ends so that it can be removed and has openings for holding earrings. The ring bar's substantially circular cross section provides tension to the pocket.

Abstract: Cases for portable electronic devices, including cases that provide support as well as protection. Cases may be configured to contain a video-capable electronic device (601) and may both protect the device and allow it to maintain a hands-free viewing position. Embodiments include a first panel (110) having an upper portion (111) and a lower portion (112) separated from each other by a hinge line (113), a second panel (120) spaced apart from and coupled to the upper portion of the first panel by a first sidewall (160) and a second sidewall (170), and a third panel (130) spaced apart from and coupled to the lower portion of the first panel by a third sidewall (180) and a fourth sidewall (190). The first panel is capable of being folded along the hinge line into a flexed position.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a container for the collection and temporary storage of amalgams and other mercury wastes. The container can include a hollow body with air-tight lid, and one or more mercury sorbents contained in a filter bag. The filter bag covers the inside surface of the hollow body and has holes that allow air exchange between the air in the hollow body and the sorbents. As air exchange occurs, mercury vapors released from dental wastes binds to the mercury binding materials. A self-closing door was made on the lid, which automatically closes after each waste disposal.

Abstract: The invention provides a container which can store a product which is constituted of a plurality of devices therein integrally and in a compact manner, and can also facilitate the packing of the product. A molded pulp container includes a storing recessed portion which has an opening at an upper surface thereof and is molded in conformity with a shape of a first material to be stored, a partition portion which is connected to the brim portion of the opening of the storing recessed portion and is foldable toward the storing recessed portion side to be placed on at least a portion of the brim portion of the storing recessed portion and, at the same time, forms a base on which a second material to be stored is placed, and a lid portion which is molded in conformity with a shape of the second material to be stored and is connected to the brim portion formed on the storing recessed portion and is folded to the storing recessed portion side to cover the partition portion from above.

Abstract: A package for containing and displaying elongate articles includes an elongate receptacle with an open end and a closed end. The receptacle has a sleeve disposed and sized for slidable movement over a portion of the elongate receptacle. The sleeve has an open end portion and a closed end portion that are connected by a hinge.

Abstract: A folding photo case includes a pair of exterior case members coupled to each other by a first hinge and a pair of interior frame members coupled to respective exterior case members by respective second and third hinges. The first, second and third hinges are preferably torsion bar hinges with the first hinge biasing the exterior case members to an open position and the second and third springs biasing the interior frame members toward interior surfaces of the exterior case members. One or both of the exterior case members are preferably provided with a latch structure which allows the folding case to be latched in a closed position. The dimensions of the folding case are preferably such that the case can be carried in a pocket or purse when it is folded into the closed position.

Abstract: An educational food dish system includes a food supporting member that includes a housing defining a base wall of the food supporting member. The housing includes a top wall, a bottom wall and a perimeter wall extending between the top and bottom walls. The perimeter wall has a slot therein. The top wall is comprised of a transparent material. A plate has an upper surface, a lower surface and an outer edge. The plate is removably positioned between the top and bottom walls. Educational indicia are positioned on the upper surface.

Abstract: A retention packaging includes a support member having first and second sections each defining a support surface for receiving an object thereon for shipping; and a film disposed in covering relation to the support surface of the support member and retained to the support member at the first and second sections. The first and second sections are pivotably connected to one another along a fold line that substantially transects the support member. The film includes opposite ends each enclosing a respective opposite end of the support member and defining overlapping areas of the film that are permanently joined together. The first section of the support member extends between the overlapping areas of one of the opposite ends of the film, and the second section of the support member extends between the overlapping areas of the other of the opposite ends of the film.

Abstract: A drug card having a tamper proof serrated pull tab on the back. The pull tab is partially removed from the back of the drug card to provide access to a plurality of individually sealed doses of medicine. A single dose of medicine is removed from the plurality of individually sealed doses of medicine, after which the remaining individually sealed doses of medicine are placed back in the card and the card resealed. The integrity of the drug card is thereby maintained while presenting a brand name of the product to the consumer at all times.

Abstract: An educational dish assembly includes a base that includes a bottom wall and a peripheral wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. A dish includes a lower wall and a perimeter wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the lower wall. The lower wall is translucent to allow viewing through the lower wall. The dish has a same size and shape as the base to allow the dish to be positioned in the base and the perimeter wall abut and be aligned with the peripheral wall. At least one plate has an upper surface. The upper surface has indicia thereon to educate a child viewing the indicia. The at least one plate is positioned between the base and the dish.

Abstract: A sterile, compact packaging is provided to present components in order of preferred or required use in a medical procedure. Pockets are arranged along one or more end sections of the packaging, and an absorbent material is at least partially adhered to the moisture proof sheet at a workspace thereon. Components are placed in the pockets in order of use, and the packaging is folded up. The folded packaging is sealed in a gas-permeable pouch, which maintains the components in a sterile condition until use. In use, the packaging is unfolded to expose the medical components.

Abstract: A mechanical separator having a primary frame, a tray frame linked to the primary frame, and an oscillator linked to the tray frame for imparting relatively short period reciprocating and/or orbital motion thereto. The tray frame includes a plurality of tines preferably rigidly linked at their proximal ends to one end of the tray frame, and a supporting cross member that permits restricted motion of the tines when subject to kinetic impetus. The supporting cross member preferably defines holes through which the tines pass, and the distal ends of the tines are preferably free to move, being only restricted in motion by the supporting cross member. The tray frame is preferably suspended from the primary frame by extension members, which also provide for tilt, elevation and vibration isolation features.

Abstract: This invention relates to a modular purification system having a disposable sump assembly and an improved flow distribution plate. The system is readily adaptable to a variety of configurations without the need for repiping or replumbing of the installation, and lends itself to the use of multiple purification techniques.

Abstract: Adsorbent filter media particularly suited for removal of biological contaminants in process liquids. A porous fixed bed of adsorbent material is formed, using only a granular adsorbent and a water-insoluble thermoplastic binder. The resulting composite filter allows for a higher amount of adsorbent with smaller adsorbent particles than conventional depth filters. Elimination of cellulose fiber, as well as the elimination of the thermoset binder, results in reduced contamination of the process liquid.

Abstract: Methods of producing collection tubes are presented. The methods include providing a separator substance that can rapidly polymerize in a short time to a desired hardness and disposing the separator substance within the lumen of the tube. The separator substance is formulated to have a density between an average density of a serum fraction of whole blood and a cell-containing fraction of whole blood, and to be flowable with whole blood. Upon centrifugation of a tube having blood, the separator substance forms a barrier between the whole blood fractions. The barrier rapidly hardens forming a solid barrier when triggered by a suitable energy source.

Abstract: A dinnerware display includes a piece of dinnerware, a base, a track and a dinnerware mount. The track is securely coupled to the base behind the piece of dinnerware. The dinnerware mount is at least partially received by and is slidably coupled to the track such that the dinnerware mount can be slid along the track. The dinnerware mount includes two arms circumferentially spaced from one another and each defining a clasp for receiving a portion of the piece of dinnerware. When the dinnerware mount is in a first position with respect to the track, the piece of dinnerware is securely maintained between the base and the dinnerware mount. When the dinnerware mount is in a second position with respect to the track, the piece of dinnerware is removable from between the base and the dinnerware mount. Other dinnerware displays, fixtures and associated methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A cradle unit for supporting metal coils, and other cylindrical objects, consists of two, parallel and separate saddles preferably made of polyurethane having an approximate hardness range of between 50 Shore A and 90 Shore D, which saddles are connected together via a pair of parallel steel angle-brackets that provide inherent structural integrity to the cradle unit itself, while still allowing the unit to conform to the shape or level of the underlying support structure. The single cradle unit may be as a mobile support-device, or may be bolted or otherwise attached to a surface for a specific location of the stored product. The cradle unit of the invention may, also, be attached to the bed of a transportation vehicle, such as a truck trailer or rail car, in order to provide secure, protective storage and location of the items. In this case, the nature of the resilient or soft material from which the cradle unit is made provides shock-absorption qualities for the transported coil.

Abstract: A shelf of a wine refrigerator includes a frame disposed in a horizontal direction inside a chill room. A plurality of support wires extend in the forward and backward directions of the frame at predetermined intervals in the right and left directions of the frame. A plurality of elastic support members inserted onto each support wire elastically support items, such as wine bottles.

Abstract: Modular system for closet inside part or dressing room complement of combinable and adjustable design, mass manufactured with adjustable sizes, with combinable module systems to optimize the available space, standardized according to modern standards for popular or residential housing developments, characterized because it is easy to assemble, shows a strong resistance to impacts or overloads, with or without lateral edge reinforcements in the following combinable standard sizes 1.22, 1.83, 1.43, 2.44 and 3.05 m.

Abstract: A locking cap and container is provided for a container having an opening surrounded by a neck with container threads thereon that are sized and located to threadingly engage cap threads formed on a skirt of the cap. A shaped distal end is formed on a distal end of the container threads and a barb is formed on the distal end of the cap threads. A resilient locking tab extends from the container, and is located below the shaped distal end and spaced apart from the shaped distal end a distance sufficient to allow passage of the barb beyond the shaped distal end but sufficiently close to resiliently urge the barb into overlapping rotational alignment with the shaped end. The shaped end is configured to lockingly engage the barb when the tab holds them in alignment. Pushing down on the cap pushes the thread against the locking tab and allows disengagement of the barb from the shaped distal end and movement of the barb past the shaped distal end to unlock the cap.

Abstract: A substantially smooth container sidewall containing a narrow vertical rib, the rib having a width that is less than about 35% of the diameter of the sidewall, a container including the substantially smooth sidewall, and method of making both the sidewall and the container are the subject of the present invention.

Abstract: A hot fill container of the type that is used package fruit juices and other beverages includes a vacuum panel configuration that provides optimal volumetric efficiency, material usage and container strength and is particularly suited for use with smaller containers. The vacuum panel configuration includes a plurality of cageless vacuum panels that are separated by longitudinally extending outwardly projecting creases that are defined in a sidewall of the container. This arrangement maximizes the effective surface area of the vacuum panels relative to the external surface area of the container. Each of the longitudinally extending outwardly projecting creases has a curved outer surface that is convex when viewed in longitudinal cross-section. The cageless vacuum panels are constructed and arranged to be convexly curved when a pressure within the container is equal to an external pressure, but become concavely curved when a predetermined partial vacuum condition exists within said container.

Abstract: A receptacle for containing fluids constructed of a single wall wherein the foci of the well is offset from the foci of the perimeter, such that the resulting wall is of purposely differential thickness, to a point of maximal width. This may be of unitary construction from commonly used materials, utilizing the inherent insulating properties of the material selected, lowering manufacturing complexity and cost. In an application as a thermal container for beverages, the thickest aspect of the receptacle provides thermal insulation without interior or exterior insulating materials or internal air or vacuum chambers, and shifts the balance or center of gravity toward the holder, allowing more ease of lift. The specially shaped handle of the preferred embodiment, the present invention further enhances comfort and safety by reducing the potential for hand-burning, providing an ergonomic lifting grip which is beneficial to individuals with hand or wrist impairments.

Abstract: The claimed invention is a novel container system that adds utility and convenience for the consumer “on-the-go”. The container system claimed includes a main tray member that holds food product (e.g. carrots), and lid member that is configured so that, when it is inverted, it acts as a secondary tray member that holds food product (e.g. condiment) and is further attachable to the rim of the tray member via an interference fit or snap-fit grip fit. The resulting utility is that the consumer is able to hold the main tray member with one hand or have held the main tray member (e.g. in a recess in an automobile consol) and access the contents of both trays with a free hand.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the disclosed can lid has a center panel having a central axis that is perpendicular to a diameter of the outer rim, or peripheral curl portion, of the can lid, an annular countersink surrounding the center panel, an arcuate portion extending radially outward from the annular countersink, a step portion extending radially upward and outward from the arcuate portion, a first transitional portion extending radially outward from the step portion, a second transitional portion extending radially outward and upward from the first transitional portion, and a peripheral curl portion extending outwardly from the second transitional portion.

Abstract: A storage bin comprises a cover panel and a scoop. The cover panel may be slidably or rotatably moved to expose the interior of the storage bin. The scoop is stored internally in the storage bin and is exposed when the cover panel is open. The design of the cover panel provides advantages to consumers by providing a durable and versatile method of access to the contents of the storage bin. The storage of the scoop within the storage bin limits contamination of the scoop during storage and provides easy access to the scoop when the cover panel is open. A reusable labeling surface allows the consumer to conveniently identify a variety of stored items over the storage bin's lifetime.

Abstract: A sleeve for enhancing a user's grasp of the handles and handholds of various tools and implements comprising: an elongated flexible hollow cylindrical sleeve having a first end, second end, interior wall surface, and exterior wall surface; and a lengthwise, non-radial slit from said first end to said second end, penetrating through said exterior wall surface to said interior wall surface.

Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring unit-based doses of certain medications to be administered to a patient. The dispenser includes a frame and one or more cartridges that may be mounted onto the frame. A set of slots sized for holding unit-based doses of medication extend through a body portion of the cartridge. A movement device is also positioned relative to the frame and is configured to induce movement of selected unit-based medication doses out of associated slots in the cartridge, so that the dispensed doses may be retrieved.

Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring unit-based doses of certain medications to be administered to a patient. The dispenser includes a frame and one or more cartridges that may be mounted onto the frame. A set of slots sized for holding unit-based doses of medication extend through a body portion of the cartridge. A movement device is also positioned relative to the frame and is configured to induce movement of selected unit-based medication doses out of associated slots in the cartridge, so that the dispensed doses may be retrieved.

Abstract: The current invention is a lid dispensing device and method of use comprising a base unit, a lid holder operatively connected to the base unit, a blade operatively mounted to the base unit which moves between a first position and a second position, a docking ring secured to the base unit to accept a cartridge of stacked lids, the blade supporting a stack of lids by engaging a first lid in the stack of lids while the blade is in the first position, and the blade allowing the first lid to fall through an aperture in the blade away from the stack of lids, and still support the remaining stack of lids as the blade moves to the second position. The lid cartridge may be capped.

Abstract: A transition for dispensing a composition from a container comprises a collar; a spout comprises an opening, said spout being capable of directing the flow of the composition out of the container; a drip concentrating member having at least one drain hole functionally connecting the collar and the spout; wherein the drip concentrating member is at least partially non-planar.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing and mixing fluids from multiple cartridges into a removable container, based on the user input through the provided interface. The user interface allows viewing and adjusting of the mix to be dispensed prior to the actual dispensing. The apparatus is capable of dispensing fluids that have a wide range of viscosities, and that are sticky or that solidify quickly due to the evaporation of the volatile substances they contain.

Abstract: Drum hardware and drum secured thereon are preferably supported on a vest type carrier or a T-bar carrier having a plurality of separate parts removable from each other and formed of a rigid plastic, light metal such as magnesium, aluminum or titanium. The removable hardware includes a removable back support member. The instrument carrier includes an articulating hinge that allows for positive, negative or neutral horizontal positioning of the instruments. The articulating hinge assembly further allows the carrier to be folded for easier transportation and storage in a smaller area.

Abstract: The present invention involves the provision of a backpack frame assembly and associated load carrying devices. The backpack frame includes a plurality of stays having flexible joints therebetween. A membrane is secured to certain of the stays and helps resist flexing of joints between adjacent stay end portions. Load carrying devices may be provided and are releasably mounted to the frame assembly.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a pill cutter that has a protected cutting edge. The pill cutter includes a guard, a base, and a cover. The components are arranged such that the guard slides over the cutting edge when the pill cutter is in an open position and the guard exposes the cutting edge when the pill cutter is in a closed position. The invention is also directed at a method for assembling the pill cutter and a method of using the pill cutter to cut a pill or tablet.