Abstract: An automobile temperature control system has a motor chamber on which a secondary cell or a fuel cell is mounted for driving wheels by a motor and a cabin and controlling a temperature of portions of the automobile. The temperature control system includes at least one catalytic heater and a fuel tank. The catalyst heater generates heat when an oxidizing gas and fuel from the fuel tank are supplied to the catalyst. At least part of the gas supplied to the catalyst and heated by the generated heat is subjected to circulative supply to the catalyst. The temperature of the portion of the automobile is controlled by using heat generated by the catalytic heater. As a result, a system is provided that efficiently controls the temperature of a portion of the automobile so that performance deterioration is prevented and comfortable running is realized even in a cold region.

Abstract: A water heating system for a water heater includes a water tank and a heating element heating the water in the tank. A temperature controller has a temperature sensor and a temperature setting device that controls water temperature responsive to a user set temperature. A demand controller controls the temperature controller to override the set temperature responsive to demand for heated water. Demand is determined by water use measured by water flow. During non-demand periods the heating element can be turned off.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agricultural machine for spraying a phytosanitary liquid over cultivated land, said machine comprising means for moving the machine, a spray boom having at least one arm, a mechanism for inclining the boom and/or at least one of the arms in relation to a frame of the machine and vertically when the machine is on a flat and horizontal surface, and a mechanism for raising/lowering the boom along an axis fixed in relation to the frame of the machine. At least one of the arms is provided with at least one sensor, each sensor measuring a distance between the surface of the land and said sensor or, if necessary, between the crop and the sensor. The control unit is connected to each sensor, provided with a memory for storing information provided by each sensor, and able to control the raising/lowering mechanism according to information stored in the memory.

Abstract: A system includes a multi-tube fuel nozzle with a fuel nozzle body and a plurality of tubes. The fuel nozzle body includes a nozzle wall surrounding a chamber. The plurality of tubes extend through the chamber, wherein each tube of the plurality of tubes includes an air intake portion, a fuel intake portion, and an air-fuel mixture outlet portion. The multi-tube fuel nozzle also includes a differential configuration of the air intake portions among the plurality of tubes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fog removal system which can blow dry air onto roads, airport runways, harbors, or into coastal areas in which fog regularly occurs to reduce the relative humidity of atmospheric air down from about 100%, to thereby remove the fog. Particularly, in the fog removal system, a heating unit and a blowing unit may be connected to areas such as roads, airport runways, harbors, or coastal areas in which fog regularly occurs, to blow dry air generated in the heating unit over a long range using a strong blowing pressure from the blowing unit.

Abstract: An injector for injecting a reagent includes an axially translatable valve member positioned within a housing. An electromagnet is positioned within the housing and includes a coil of wire positioned proximate the valve member such that the valve member moves between a seated position and an unseated position relative to an orifice in response to energizing the electromagnet. A connector coupled to the housing includes an inlet tube concentrically aligned with and surrounding a return tube. The inlet tube is adapted to receive pressurized reagent from a source of reagent. The return tube is adapted to return reagent to the source.

Abstract: A compression member for use in a showerhead electrode assembly of a capacitively coupled plasma chamber. The member applies a compression force to a portion of a film heater adjacent a power supply boot on an upper surface of a thermal control plate and is located between the thermal control plate and a temperature-controlled top plate. The member is composed of an electrically insulating elastomeric material which can work over a large range of compressions and temperatures.

Abstract: A temporary protective device for a sprinkler head connected to an in-ground irrigation system comprising a cover with a generally flat bottom, the cover comprising one or more receiver holes, the receiver holes accepting a removable key, the key anchoring the cover over the sprinkler head and extending into the ground below the receiver hole. Alternatively, the keys may be attached to the bottom of the cover. The keys and or the cover may be made of a biodegradable material.

Abstract: An ejector device for ejecting droplets of fluid onto a surface includes an ejector mechanism attached to a fluid reservoir through a fluid loading plate that is configured to pierce the reservoir and channel the fluid to a rear surface of the ejector mechanism by capillary action. The ejector mechanism may have a centro-symmetric configuration with a lead free piezo actuator and may be covered by an auto-closing cover.

Abstract: A showerhead assembly including a first fluid dispensing unit including a plurality of first fluidic devices, and a second fluid dispensing unit removably coupled to the first fluid dispensing unit and including a plurality of second fluidic devices. The first fluidic devices and the second fluidic devices each provide a multi-dimensional spray pattern.

Abstract: In a final machining method for adapting a first surface of a fuel injector component to a second surface of said fuel injector component or of a second fuel injector component, or to a reference surface, e.g., for a common rail diesel injector with a register nozzle needle, the first surface and/or the second surface is deformed at least partially plastically in order to reduce a dimensional accuracy deviation which is possibly mutual. Furthermore, in a fuel injector component, e.g., a nozzle needle, nozzle needle sleeve, register nozzle needle, nozzle body, nozzle assembly and/or fuel injector, e.g., for a common rail injection system of a motor vehicle, a first surface of the fuel injector component and/or a second surface of said fuel injector component or of a second fuel injector component is deformed at least partially plastically in order to reduce a dimensional accuracy deviation.

Abstract: A gas fuel injection valve is provided in which a circular recess is formed in a front end face of a valve plunger, the circular recess being surrounded by an annular land part, which is an outer peripheral part of the front end face, an inner peripheral face of the circular recess is formed in a tapered shape so as to increase in diameter in going from a base of the circular recess toward the annular land part, an annular lip is formed on a seating member, the annular lip being joined from the inner peripheral face through to the annular land part and being seated on a valve seat, and the annular lip is disposed so that an annular ridge line of an apex of the annular lip is positioned, in a projection in the axial direction of the valve plunger, above the inner peripheral face.

Abstract: A valve assembly for an injection valve may include a valve body having a central longitudinal axis and a cavity with a fluid inlet portion and a fluid outlet portion, the fluid inlet portion having a step, a valve needle axially movable in the cavity, the valve needle preventing a fluid flow through the fluid outlet portion in a closing position and releasing the fluid flow through the fluid outlet portion in an open position, and an electro-magnetic actuator unit configured to actuate the valve needle and comprising an axially movable armature, the armature including a first armature part fixedly coupled to the valve needle and a second armature part axially movable relative to the first armature part, the second armature part configured such that the second armature part is mechanically decoupled from the first armature part by hitting the step when the valve needle reaches its open position.

Abstract: A blow gun includes a body with a top path and a bottom path, and a volume adjustment device is installed between the top and bottom paths. The volume adjustment device is in contact with a press rod which has one end pivotably connected to the body. The opening of the press rod is controlled by operation of the volume adjustment device so as to change the volume of the pressurized air. The press rod can also be locked at a position so that it is not activated unintentionally.

Abstract: The invention discloses a coating apparatus for coating slurry on a substrate. The coating apparatus comprises: a container for storing the slurry; a slurry pushing means connecting with the container through a discharging pipe; a coating head connecting with the slurry pushing means through another discharging pipe and connecting with the container through a feed-back pipe, and a controlling valve provided within the feed-back pipe. The coating head comprises: a coating slit; a discharging concave; a feed-back concave; a separator provided between the feed-back concave and the discharging concave; and an extending concave for correspondingly covering and matching with the discharging concave and the feed-back concave. The discharging concave and the feed-back concave are respectively provided with a discharging aperture and a feed-back aperture for respectively connecting with the discharging pipe and the feed-back pipe.

Abstract: A lateral irrigation system comprising a plurality of towers and a plurality of lateral structures extending between and connected to the towers. The support structures may comprise a first support structure, a second support structure pivotable relative to the first support structure, and a third support structure pivotable relative to the second support structure. The irrigation system may also comprise a fluid delivery system having conduits attached to or extending through the support structures and configured to output water from orifices formed therein. The irrigation system may further comprise joints at which the second and third support structures may pivot. The second and third support structures may be configured to pivot into a substantially zig-zag or “Z”-shaped configuration relative to the first support structure.

Abstract: A pill crusher includes a base and a handle. The base has a bottom resting surface that includes an at least partially molded friction-enhancing portion. The handle includes an upper region, a gripping region, and a column. The gripping region includes an at least partially molded friction-enhancing portion. A method of crushing a pill includes placing a pill within a pill chamber, inserting a column into the pill chamber, and then crushing the pill by exerting force on the pill by the column. The handle and the base include at least partially molded friction-enhancing portions.

Abstract: A garbage disposal with an offset is provided. The garbage disposal includes a grinder mounted within a housing. The grinder rotates within the housing to process waste within the garbage disposal. Waste entering the housing is directed away from an axis of rotation of the grinder due to the offset. By directing waste away from the axis of rotation of the grinder, the waste can be more fully processed by the grinder.

Abstract: A lifter bar is includes at least one attachment formation for use in lifting the lifter bar; wherein the at least one attachment formation is embedded in the lifter bar. A method of producing the lifter bar and tools for use in handling the lifter bar are also described.

Abstract: A crushing body includes a wear body, inserts positioned in channels of the wear body, a mounting body positioned adjacent to the inserts and fasteners inserted into the mounting body to connect the mounting body to the inserts, the wear body, or both the inserts and the wear body. Preferably, the inserts are positioned so that a portion of each of the inserts is within the wear body and a base portion is adjacent to or engages the mounting body. Crushing devices such as mills, and crushers may utilize embodiments of the crushing body.

Abstract: A pliers fencing tool includes a wedge having a through slot for engagement with the rotatably mounted ratcheted sprocket teeth of a fence wire strainer suspended between the fence wire looped ends. Through slot engaged caused the teeth to rotate from a first to a second ratcheted position and thereby strain the fence wire. A grip having a thumb receiving recess and thumb guard is provided between the wedge and the means for pivotably connecting the handles, and the handles are gripped at the grip portion with the wedge distally disposed.

Abstract: In a pretensioner main body, a cylindrical space and a gas introducing space are formed, and a blocking end portion including a first through hole portion is provided to block the gas introducing space. A piston is movable within the cylindrical space, and a coupling member coupled to the piston is guided to the outside from the gas introducing space through the first through hole portion. An elastic seal member is provided on the inner surface side of the blocking end portion and includes a second through hole portion allowing the coupling member to pass therethrough. A gas buffer member is provided at such a position as to sandwich the elastic seal member between the blocking end portion and itself, where a third through hole portion having a shape and a size corresponding to the shape and size of the cross-section of the coupling member is formed.

Abstract: A system for storing, rotating and feeding a high pressure hose. A first portion of the hose is disposable about the drum and a guide arm engages a second portion of the hose. An actuator assembly rotates a cage and the guide arm so that the guide arm rotates relative to the cage such that the hose is rotated. Relative rotation in one direction causes the first portion of the hose to uncoil from the drum and displace along the guide arm and causes a third portion of the high pressure hose in an output port to displace out of the output port away from the guide arm. Relative rotation in an opposite direction causes the second portion of the high pressure hose to coil about the drum and causes the third portion of the high pressure hose to displace into the housing.

Abstract: A method of converting a plurality of coreless roll products includes providing a first support structure and winding a paper product around the first support structure. The method also includes cutting through the paper product and the first support structure to form a plurality of cut portions of the paper product each wound around a cut portion of the first support structure. The method further includes removing the cut portion of the first support structure from each of the cut portions of the paper product to form a plurality of coreless roll products each comprising a center aperture. A method of preparing a coreless roll product for storage or shipment includes providing a coreless roll product comprising a center aperture and inserting a temporary support device into the center aperture of the coreless roll product.

Abstract: A controller for a motor is configured to rotate a roll of material. The controller includes a drive speed regulator configured to generate an initial torque command based on a difference between a speed setpoint and a measured drive speed of the motor. The controller also includes an observer module configured to estimate a density error of the roll of material. The initial torque command is adjusted based on the density error to obtain a total torque command. The controller also includes a torque regulator configured to control the motor based on the total torque command.

Abstract: An automated dispenser includes a rotatable carousel including a mounting station for a primary roll of sheet product and a mounting station for a reserve roll of sheet product; mounting brackets configured for mounting the carousel such that it is movable between a locked, rearward position for dispensing and a forward position where the carousel is rotatable for reloading; a drive system including a motor coupled to a drive roller and control circuitry; a transfer mechanism adapted so as to be operable to urge a tail of the reserve roll toward a dispensing nip of the drive system upon depletion of the primary roll; a housing; and an auxiliary access aperture fitted with an access door, the auxiliary aperture and access door being configured and adapted to be manually operable to expose the reserve roll for manual dispensing.

Abstract: A suture system spool is configured to retain suture having a suture diameter and tension the suture between a distal and proximal end portions of a suturing tool. The spool includes a monolithically formed disc defining a central opening that provides the disc with an inside diameter. The disc includes a base and a flap joined with the base at the inside diameter, and the flap extends from the inside diameter to an outer periphery of the disc to define a cavity between the flap and the base. The flap is spaced away from the base at a location between the inside diameter and the outer periphery of the disc by a factor of at least two times the suture diameter, and the flap is spaced away from the base at the outer periphery of the disc by a distance that is approximately equal to the suture diameter.

Abstract: A vehicle comprises a first stage supersonic aircraft, and a second stage hypersonic aircraft. The second stage aircraft is in tandem with the first stage aircraft.

Abstract: Sail deflection, from large resultant moments, creates excess aerodynamic twist and limits hang glider performance. Incorporating a rear spar and sail attachment system, as a design feature, allows control and definition of this critical performance component. Hang gliders with this design feature will produce more total lift which in turn will produce lower stall speeds and less drag.

Abstract: Lighter-than-air systems, methods, and kits for obtaining aerial images are described. For example, various methods for determining planned ascent, drift, and/or descent of a lighter-than-air system are described. In addition, various structural arrangements of lighter-than-air systems for accomplishing planned ascent, drift, and/or descent and obtaining aerial images are described.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.

Abstract: An insulation arrangement with two or more insulation packages that overlap such that at least one overlapping region is formed and are arrangeable on a fuselage wall is provided. The insulation packages comprise an insulating material and welded cover films. The cover films are realized in an airtight and waterproof fashion and comprise ventilation openings on a side that is directed toward the fuselage wall in an overlapping region. In this way, pressure variations in the insulation packages can be compensated with relatively dry air that originates from a gap between the insulation packages and the fuselage wall in order to thusly reduce the accumulation of condensation water in the insulation packages.

Abstract: A landing gear assembly includes a leg that may be rotated between retracted and extended positions, a link assembly, and a drive screw assembly. The drive screw assembly includes a casing, a piston slidably coupled to the casing for reciprocation relative to the casing and a portion mounted to the link assembly and where the drive screw assembly is capable of locking and unlocking.

Abstract: An aeroplane includes a fuselage having a pair of hydrofoils providing hydrodynamic lift and stabilization arranged downwards in the form of an inverted V. The junction between each hydrofoil and the fuselage is situated forward from the centre of gravity of the aeroplane. The distance separating the junction between each hydrofoil and the fuselage, with respect to the centre of gravity of the aeroplane is comprised between 0 and 170% of the mean aerodynamic chord of the main wing of the aeroplane, preferably between 20% and 135%. Each hydrofoil is inclined downwards, from its leading edge in the direction of its trailing edge. The straight line connecting these two edges form, a nominal pitch angle comprised between 2 and 12°, preferably between 6 and 8°. The part of the hydrofoil located beneath the tangential plane is situated forward from the centre of gravity.

Abstract: A landing gear assembly for an aircraft includes a leg having a first rotational mount for rotatably mounting the leg to the aircraft for rotating the leg between retracted and extended positions, a wheel mount provided on the leg, a drag stay having an upper link rotatably mounted to a lower link, and an actuator to move the leg between the retracted and extended positions. The landing gear may be included on a variety of aircraft.

Abstract: A grapple assembly suspended as an external load from an associated flying vehicle includes a frame member secured to an associated load line suspended from the associated vehicle. The frame member includes a first section, a second section, and a hinge joint connecting the first section to the second section. A grapple mechanism is mounted to the frame member second section. If desired, an aerodynamic body can be mounted to the frame member so as to encase at least a portion of the frame member. A release mechanism can be provided for jettisoning at least a portion of the aerodynamic body. The release mechanism can be triggered by an operator who can be stationed in the flying vehicle.

Abstract: Airship handling devices and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. An airship handling device in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, for example, can include a first support member mountable to a ground vehicle. The device can also include a second support member operably coupled to the first support member and configured to rotatably move relative to the first support member about a support member axis. The second support member is out of contact with the ground vehicle. The device can further include a line attachment portion carried by the second support member and positioned to releasably couple a flexible handling line from an airship to the second support member. The handling line is not coupled to a winch.

Abstract: A keel beam connected to a central wing box of an aircraft and ensuring the connection between a front structure and a rear structure of an aircraft is characterized in that it includes, on the one hand, a U-shaped body with a horizontal base and two solid lateral walls, and on the other hand, a cover which has a U shape oriented in the same manner as the body, with a base in the lower portion and curved edges, the ends of which are oriented upward so that each curved edge includes an outer surface flattened against and fixed to the inner surface of the lateral walls in order to define, with the body, a closed section, the cover including openings for accessing the inside of the keel beam.

Abstract: An electro-active polymer (EAP) surface having a plurality of actuators adapted to prevent the formation of ice on an external surface, such as a leading edge of an aircraft. The EAP surface may also be adapted to remove ice formed on the external surface. The actuators of the EAP surface may be oscillated to prevent and/or remove ice from the surface of an aircraft. A signal generator may be used to individually oscillate the actuators in a first mode to prevent the formation of ice and a second mode to break up ice formed on the EAP surface. The signal generator may oscillate all of the actuators at the same frequency, may individually oscillate the actuators to form a pattern on the EAP surface, or may individually oscillate the actuators to form a wave along the EAP surface. The actuators may be dimple actuators, wrinkle actuators, and/or bump actuators.

Abstract: An aircraft deicing system including at least one motor operative to drive at least one eccentric mass in rotational motion and at least one displacer coupled to at least one location on at least one aircraft surface and coupled to the at least one eccentric mass such that forces produced by the rotational motion of the eccentric mass are applied to the at least one displacer, causing the at least one displacer to displace the at least one aircraft surface in a plurality of directions at each of the at least one location, thereby causing disengagement of ice from the at least one aircraft surface.

Abstract: A communications system between a receiving aircraft and a tanker aircraft. The system includes a retractable tube with a nozzle which connects to a receiving aircraft receptacle, wherein the system comprises a primary device for sending/receiving data on the nozzle and a secondary device for sending/receiving data on the receptacle. The tanker and receiving aircraft transmit data by means of the devices only when the devices are both active and positioned opposite each other. In this way an indication is enabled to at least one of the two aircraft that the nozzle is correctly connected in the receptacle.

Abstract: A method of releasing cargo suspended from at least one cargo hook release pendant in a suspension system coupled to a cargo hook release system includes receiving a voltage release signal at a cargo hook control interface and a cargo release harness assembly; receiving an energizing voltage signal at the cargo release harness assembly; energizing a relay in response to receiving the energizing voltage signal, the relay being electrically coupled to the cargo release harness assembly; automatically transmitting the voltage release signal from the cargo release harness assembly to at least one cargo hook release pendant in response to energizing the relay; and automatically releasing the cargo from at least one cargo hook release pendant in response to automatically transmitting the voltage release signal. Also, the cargo hook release system includes the cargo hook control interface, the cargo release harness assembly, and at least one cargo hook release pendant.

Abstract: A multiple space vehicle launch system that may be adapted to be disposed within a payload region of a launch vehicle fairing. The launch system may include a first space vehicle, a second space vehicle releasably attached to the first space vehicle and oriented relative to the first space vehicle such that, when placed within the fairing, a launch load of the first space vehicle is transmitted to and borne by the second space vehicle. In certain embodiments, the first and second space vehicles each may include one of an electrical propulsion unit and a hybrid chemical and electrical propulsion unit. Use of electrical or hybrid chemical and electrical propulsion units enables the second space vehicle to bear all or a significant portion of the launch load of the first space vehicle, thereby eliminating the need for additional support structure.

Abstract: A multifunctional controller includes an onboard computer (OBC) and a power supply unit (PCDU) of a satellite. The controller includes reconfiguration functions for monitoring the correct functioning of components of an onboard computer of the satellite and for switching over between redundant components and/or turning off electrical loads of the satellite in the event of a malfunction. The controller also includes control functions for controlling and distributing energy to satellite components, which is designed for turning on and off the power supply to satellite components together with the reconfiguration unit.

Abstract: A vortex generation apparatus including a vortex generator that deploys in response to deployment of a wing leading edge lift augmentation device. The vortex generator deploys into a position to generate vortices over a main wing body upper surface region trailing the vortex generator.

Abstract: An aircraft control input apparatus is configured to accept and provide to the aircraft control inputs from a user regarding the magnitude and direction of the aircraft's thrust vector. The present invention enables a user to continually provide control inputs to an aircraft in which both the magnitude and the direction of thrust vary. A rotational throttle interface is configured to alter its orientation within the aircraft based on the directional component of the aircraft's thrust vector. The rotational throttle interface enables the user to provide continual control inputs to command both the directional component of the thrust as well as the magnitude component. Accordingly the user can provide inputs regarding direction and magnitude throughout the operating envelope of the aircraft's thrust vector while maintaining continuous physical contact with the throttle.

Abstract: A rail vehicle includes of one or more locomotives and may further include one or more rail cars, and the rail vehicle further includes a locator element, a communications device and a control module located on the rail vehicle. The locator elements provide a location information of the rail vehicle to a control module. The control module is coupled to the communications device and the locator element. The control module determines control settings for controlling the operations of the communications device based on the location of the rail vehicle. The communications device sends and/or receives data, including communications data, off-board the rail vehicle.

Abstract: An anchor arrangement for a safety line system is for use with a bracket to secure to a structure for mounting the safety line. The anchor arrangement either includes an alignment collar arranged to seat in a seat provided on the bracket, the alignment collar being able to seat in a plurality of different orientations with respect to the bracket; a resilient biasing means acting between the bracket and a reaction member provided as part of the anchor arrangement or a tension indicator for the safety line, which has a part of the bracket aligned adjacent and indicia zone on the anchor arrangement.

Abstract: A horizontal type display device includes a base unit, a first support unit, a display unit, a second support unit and a hinge unit. The base unit includes a base body. The first support unit includes a vertical support structure vertically disposed on the base body. The display unit includes a display screen disposed above the base body and beside the vertical support structure. The second support unit includes a horizontal support structure horizontally connected between the vertical support structure and the display screen. The horizontal support structure has a first end portion inserted and fixed in the vertical support structure. The hinge unit includes a hinge structure disposed inside the display screen and connected to a second end portion of the horizontal support structure. The view angle of the display screen can be adjustable through the hinge structure that is connected to the display screen.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a stand 10 to be mounted to an article for example, the foldable-leg table. The stand 10 comprising a base portion 15, and a body portion 20 connected thereto, wherein the base portion 15 comprises a shaft having each end coaxially bent downward defining a leg 30, 30? forming a semi-rectangle like frame. The body portion 20 perpendicularly connected to the base portion 15 in an off- center manner toward one of the two legs of the base portion. The body portion 20 comprising an outer body 40 telescopically encasing an inner body 45. The inner body 45 being longer and smaller in diameter than the outer body 40 and includes two spaced- apart stopper holes, a first stopper hole 50 and a second stopper hole 55 along its length and having an end connected to the base portion 15. The inner body 45 is able to slide in and out along the length of the outer body 40.