Abstract: A blade configured for use in a blending apparatus includes a body portion and a pair of wing portions extending from the body portion. At least a leading edge of the blade is forged to increase a hardness property. The leading edge may have a minimum thickness that provides a relatively blunt leading edge. The wing portions of the blade may be formed after forging the blade.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and apparatus for processing a strip of material including: measuring and feeding the strip of material to a predetermined length; and making broaching cuts on the strip of material using a plurality of cutting tools configured to make a plurality of angled cuts.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a machine tool for edge machining a workpiece. The machine tool includes a drive unit for a rotary tool, a guide device for guiding the workpiece in a horizontal infeed direction and a chip collecting hood. The guide device includes an upper pressure element and a lower pressure element and one of the pressure elements is settable in the vertical direction relative to the other pressure element and also the drive unit. The chip collecting hood includes a side wall having a cutout for receiving an edge region to be machined of the workpiece. The side wall includes a base wall part and a closure wall part. The base wall part is positioned fixedly relative to the drive unit and the closure wall part is positioned fixedly relative to the pressure element to be settable in the vertical direction. The closure wall part delimits the cutout in the vertical direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a measuring steady rest which has a device for supporting central workpiece regions, in particular, bearing points on shaft parts, in particular crankshafts, and a measurement device integrated therein for directly adjusting the measurement of the workpiece regions before and/or during machining of the shaft parts. The measuring steady rest is preferably designed in the form of a prism, the measurement device being arranged on the bottom of the prism between the lateral flanks of the prism. The present invention further relates to a grinding machine comprising such a measuring steady rest, and to a method for supporting and measuring central workpiece regions on such a grinding machine comprising such a measuring steady rest.

Abstract: A polishing method including rubbing a wafer held by holding means against a polishing pad attached to a turntable while cooling the turntable by supplying a refrigerant to a refrigerant flow path provided in the turntable which is driven to rotate by a motor, thereby performing polishing, the polishing method being characterized in that, during standby after end of the polishing of the wafer and before performing the polishing of a next wafer, a flow volume of the refrigerant is controlled to be less than a flow volume of the refrigerant during the polishing where the wafer is polished, the turntable is rotated by the motor, and a water retaining liquid having a temperature adjusted to a room temperature or more is supplied to the polishing pad.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a polishing pad using an additive manufacturing system includes receiving data indicative of a desired shape of the polishing pad to be fabricated by droplet ejection. The desired shape defines a profile including a polishing surface and one or more grooves on the polishing pad. Data indicative of a modified pattern of dispensing feed material is generated to at least partially compensate for distortions of the profile caused by the additive manufacturing system, and a plurality of layers of the feed material are dispensed by droplet ejection in accordance to the modified pattern.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure generally provide polishing pads includes a composite pad body and methods for forming the polishing pads. One embodiment provides a polishing pad including a composite pad body. The composite pad body includes one or more first features formed from a first material or a first composition of materials, and one or more second features formed from a second material or a second composition of materials, wherein the one or more first features and the one or more second features are formed by depositing a plurality of layers comprising the first material or first composition of materials and second material or second composition of materials.

Abstract: A method includes: vacuuming at least one area among a plurality of areas formed concentrically between a top face of the elastic film and the top ring body under a state where a bottom face of the substrate is supported by a support member and a top face of the substrate contacts a bottom face of the elastic film; measuring a flow volume of gas in an area located outside one or more areas to be vacuumed; determining whether the substrate is adsorbed to the top ring based on the flow volume of the gas; and after it is determined that the substrate is adsorbed to the top ring, separating the elastic film to which the substrate is adsorbed from the support member.

Abstract: Provided is a formed rotary dresser that has regions in which diamond abrasive grains are scattered and arranged on an outer circumferential surface thereof brought into contact with a grindstone, and slit regions in which the diamond abrasive grains are not arranged on the outer circumferential surface thereof. The plurality of slit regions are provided to be inclined with respect to a rotational axis. A plurality of octahedral diamond abrasive grains are arranged along downstream edges of the slit regions in a rotating direction such that any face of an octahedron is parallel with the outer circumferential surface.

Abstract: The present invention is embodied in a carbon dioxide compression and delivery device that uses a plurality of reversible thermoelectric devices and to a method to operate such carbon dioxide compression and delivery device.

Abstract: An apparatus for wheel maintenance includes a base configured to rotate about a vertical rotational axis and a frame mounted to the base that has a pair of opposing longitudinal members and a pair of opposing transverse members. First and second rollers are spaced apart from one another and coupled to the pair of opposing transverse members. Both the first and second rollers rotate about a longitudinal rotational axis orthogonal to the vertical rotational axis. In this way, when a wheel is positioned on the first and second rollers, the wheel may be rotated about the vertical rotational axis and a wheel rotational axis during a maintenance procedure.

Abstract: The invention is directed toward a mobile wet-abrasive blasting system used for cleaning, preparing surfaces, removing coatings, and other abrasive blasting applications. The wet abrasive basting system has a blast pot that includes pilot-controlled pneumatics to control the loading, pressurizing, de-pressurizing, and wash down functions. The wet-abrasive blasting system also uses a floating bung in conjunction with a vent mechanism to further automate the pressurizing steps in setting up the system. The wet-abrasive blasting system also uses pilot-controlled pneumatics to decide the blasting function options of just water, just air, or water/abrasive mix and air. Wet-abrasive blasting systems mix an abrasive media with water and convey the mix to meet compressed air and direct through a blast hose and nozzle.

Abstract: A method for dry production of a sliding layer on a flexible backing, in particular a backing that includes a textile or an abrasive backing, includes at least the following. A binder, or more particularly an adhesive such as a hot-applied adhesive or a hotmelt, is applied to a flexible backing. The binder is applied in dry form, such as via scattering, and is joined to the backing via exposure to heat to form a sliding layer on the backing and to hold the sliding layer at least one of on and in the backing. A lubricant, or more particularly a lubricant that includes graphite or PTFE, is applied to at least one of the backing and the binder.

Abstract: An apparatus for picking up and positioning an item includes a vacuum assembly capable of applying a suction force to the item. The apparatus further includes an item engaging plate positioned adjacent the vacuum assembly. The apparatus still further has a blocking member positioned adjacent the vacuum assembly. The blocking member is capable of interrupting the suction force. The blocking member is positionable in a first position allowing the item to be picked up and in a second position interrupting the suction force to assist disengagement of the item.

Abstract: A wedge anchor driver for driving an anchor having a bolt into a surface such that a portion of the bolt is exposed, the wedge anchor driver having a flute extending between a top end and a shaft, the flute housing a plurality of cavities having a first cavity configured to fit onto a first nut, the first cavity having a first socket size; a second cavity configured to fit onto a second nut, the second cavity having a second socket size smaller than the first socket size; and a third cavity configured to receive the portion of the bolt; wherein the anchor driver shaft is lockable into a hammer drill, such that a user can drive the anchor into a corresponding hole with the hammer drill in a hammer mode, and then tighten the first nut or the second nut by switching the hammer to a drill mode.

Abstract: According to examples, a modular power tool may include a motor housing including an electric motor, a drive member connected to the electric motor, the drive member being connected to a drive coupler, an extension pole including an input shaft having a first end connector and a second end connector, in which the first end connector is configured to mate with the drive coupler, and an attachment component having an attachment connector and a working implement, in which the attachment component is configured to mate with either of the drive coupler and the second end connector.

Abstract: A side handle for a hand-operated power tool includes a handle rod disposed along a handle axis and a fastening mechanism, where the side handle is releasably fastenable to the hand-operated power tool by the fastening mechanism. The fastening mechanism includes a tensioning band that engages around a fastening axis and a tensioning mechanism. The tensioning mechanism has a pull rod that is anchored to the tensioning band and is displaceable along the handle axis and a tensioning wheel that is rotatable about the handle axis and engages in an external thread of the pull rod. A damper connects the handle rod to the fastening mechanism and includes a leaf spring with a longitudinal side oriented in an inclined manner to the fastening axis where the leaf spring has a slot. A splint is fastened to the pull rod and engages in the slot.

Abstract: A device for ascertaining the orientation of a drill relative to a plane, the device being capable of being connected to the drill, the device having a laser distance measuring unit by which, from a prespecified position relative to the plane, a first distance to a first point in the plane and a second distance to a second point in the plane can be measured, and having an evaluation unit that is configured such that on the basis of the first distance and the second distance the orientation of the device relative to the plane can be ascertained.

Abstract: A tracking-enabled extended-reach tool system acting upon a workpiece. The tool system includes a gimbal positioned adjacent an opening in a surface, a sensor system, a computer control, and a display. The extended-reach arm has a first end, a second end, an end effector including a tool adjacent the first end. The extended-reach arm engages the gimbal for relative rotational movement and relative slidable movement through the opening positioning the end effector and the tool on a side of the surface opposite the second end. The sensor system is configured to measure a linear position of the extended-reach arm relative to the gimbal. The computer control receives signals from the sensor system indicative of the linear position of the extended-reach arm relative to the gimbal. The display is connected to the computer control and displays a representation of the workpiece and the tool relative to each other in real time.

Abstract: A control system for controlling an exoskeleton worn by a user and having one or more actuators associated with various body members of the exoskeleton each corresponding to a body part of the user. The control system comprises a user interface for receiving input data indicative of a desired movement sequence, a memory component for storing pre-programmed movement data indicative of one or more sequential instructions required to effect the movement sequence, each instruction being associated with relative actuator movements for performing the instruction, and an actuator controller for moving the one or more actuators according to the relative actuator movements for each instruction. The control system also comprises a terrain sub-system for adjusting the actuator movements upon detection of a change in terrain slope and a balance control sub-system for periodically adjusting the balance of the exoskeleton during relative movement of the one or more actuators.

Abstract: A controller includes a processor that is configured to execute computer-executable instruction so as to control a robot including a movable section and a force detecting section provided in the movable section, wherein the processor is configured to sense that a first portion of a first target object has come into contact with a second target object and then sense that a second portion of the first target object has come into contact with the second target object based on an output from the force detecting section, cause the movable section to move in a first direction, sense that a third portion of the first target object has come into contact with the second target object, store first information in a storage section, and generate data on teaching to the movable section based on the first information.

Abstract: Disclosed is an accumulation device, for accumulating products conveyed within an industrial treatment line, including a set of horizontal trays, arranged in a tray zone as a vertical stack, further including a manipulator, such as a robot, for transferring products between a substantially horizontal closed belt type conveyor and the uppermost tray of the bottom portion of the stack. The trays are movable in the vertical direction, at least in order to bring at a predetermined height the tray to be loaded or unloaded. Also disclosed is a corresponding conveying installation and method.

Abstract: A method and system for picking articles from a collection of articles and arranging articles into placement locations, includes capturing an image with a first vision system from a collection of articles at a first pick location and determining coordinate data for at least some of the articles in the collection of articles. The coordinate data for an article in the collection of articles is provided to a first robotic manipulator. That article is picked from the collection of articles with the first robotic manipulator according to the coordinate data for that article and that article placed at a first place location. The position and orientation data of that article are obtained at a second pick location and provided along with a desired position and orientation of that article at a second place location to a second robotic manipulator.

Abstract: A robotic system includes a robotic arm and a movable hardstop disposed proximate to the robotic arm. The movable hardstop is separated from the robotic arm by at least one clearance in a first operating condition. The movable hardstop physically contacts the robotic arm in a second operating condition. The robotic system also includes one or more controllers configured to control movement of the robotic arm and movement of the movable hardstop such that the first operating condition is maintained or such that, if the second operating condition occurs, the hardtop blocks movement of the robotic arm.

Abstract: The present invention is characterized by comprising: a pair of worm shafts, which are arranged in parallel with each other so as to have gear directions that are opposite to each other, and which are configured to be rotated in the same direction by a driving means; a following shaft that crosses the middle of the pair of worm shafts in the perpendicular direction; a pair of ring gears fixedly installed on the following shaft so as to face each other from both sides of the worm shafts; a worm wheel, which engages with the outer side of each worm shaft, and which has shaft gears formed on both sides thereof, respectively, such that the shaft gears engage with the ring gears; and a rotating member connected to the following shaft such that a rotating force, which is in a speed-reduced sate, is output.

Abstract: An apparatus for surface finishing includes a robot and an end effector. The end effector includes a compliance wrist having an axis of movement and coupled to the robot and a grinder tool coupled to the compliance wrist. The robot is configured to controllably position the end effector in three-dimensional space. The compliance wrist is configured to bias the grinder tool to a biased position relative to the robot and enable the grinder tool to move relative to the robot in response to an external force acting upon the grinder tool.

Abstract: A medical robotic system includes an entry guide with articulated instruments extending out of its distal end. A controller is configured to command manipulation of one of the articulated instruments towards a state commanded by operator manipulation of an input device while commanding sensory feedback to the operator indicating a difference between the commanded state and a preferred pose of the articulated instrument, so that the sensory feedback serves to encourage the operator to return the articulated instrument back to its preferred pose.

Abstract: When teaching a robot, at least one processor brings a first object and a second object into contact with each other with a first force by using the robot, and generates teaching data based on the contact. When causing the robot to perform an operation according to the teaching data, the at least one processor causes the first object and the second object to be fitted to each other with a second force greater than the first force, by using the robot.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a swarm of mobile robots are disclosed. In one aspect, the robots cover a domain of interest. Each robot receives a density function indicative of at least one area of importance in the domain of interest, and calculates a velocity vector based on the density function and a displace vector relative to an adjacent robot. Each robot moves to the area of importance according to its velocity vector. In some aspects, the robots together perform a sequence of formations. Each robot mimics a trajectory as part of its performance by switching among a plurality of motion modes. Each robot determines its next motion mode based on a displacement vector relative to an adjacent robot.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein generally relate to an apparatus and method of performing a robot calibration process within a substrate processing system. In one embodiment, a calibration device is used to calibrate a robot having an end effector. The calibration device includes a body, a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The calibration device further includes a sensor disposed on the second side of the body. In some embodiments, the sensor covers the entire second side of the body. In this configuration, because the sensor covers the entire second side of the body of the calibration device, the calibration device can be utilized to sense the contact between the sensor and various differently configured chamber components found in different types of processing chambers or stations disposed within a processing system during a calibration process performed in each of the different processing chambers or stations.

Abstract: A compact lightweight robotic end-effector has a large range of possible applied force. The end-effector includes one or more underactuated appendages, where each appendage is driven by a single motor connected to a driving cable wound throughout the appendage. The driving cable may be a flat cable or a cable with another non-circular cross section. The driving cable may be wrapped through a series of pulleys and/or bearings within the appendage to reduce frictional losses. The design of the pulley path may allow a desired mechanical response by the appendage, and the mechanical response may be optimized for a grasping process.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-degree of freedom torque-free linkage unit comprising: a root link; a base link; and a first link spaced from a first joint, and comprises a counterbalancer including a first counterbalancer which enables gravity compensation of the first link, and a curved parallelogram unit comprising: a base part location-fixed and arranged at the root link; a first base part rotatably provided to the base link and the first joint formed by the first link, and connected to the first counterbalancer; and a parallelogram transfer part for connecting the base part and the first base part and forming a reference position for gravity compensation of another link connected to the base link by rotating the first base part on the first joint when the base link moves relatively with respect to the root link.

Abstract: An apparatus including a frame, a first position sensor, a drive and a chamber. The frame has at least three members including at least two links forming a movable arm and an end effector. The end effector and the links are connected by movable joints. The end effector is configured to support a substrate thereon. The first position sensor is on the frame proximate a first one of the joints. The first position sensor is configured to sense a position of two of the members relative to each other. The drive is connected to the frame. The drive is configured to move the movable arm. The frame is located in the chamber, and the drive extends through a wall in the chamber.

Abstract: A glove box for handling harmful material is formed to be lightweight and modular in design, allowing for use in the field and various remote locations where a full laboratory is not available. The tank portion of the glove box is formed of a rigid, lightweight plastic and includes a number of standard-sized passageways for connecting other components (intake filter, exhaust filter, input/output containers, gasketed gloves, etc), allowing for modularity in its configuration. The top portion of the glove box may include a transparent window for viewing the material within the glove box. Filter components utilize HEPA filter elements and a separate, portable power supply is used to control a vacuum fan included in an exhaust filter. The power supply can also be used to perform diagnostic tests on the glove and may include a battery back-up.

Abstract: A replaceable-blade folding knife configured for ease of use and ease of transportation in a pocket, bag, purse or otherwise. Embodiments of the present invention allow a user to alternatively open and close the folding knife of the present invention using a single hand. Embodiments of the present invention allow a user to replace a blade with commonly available blades without the need for specialized tools.

Abstract: An oscillatory linear actuator includes: an output movable element which is reciprocated by a periodically varying magnetic field and performs work on an object; and a vibration absorbing movable element which is reciprocated at a phase opposite to a phase of the output movable element and reduces vibration of the oscillatory linear actuator. The output movable element includes: a first driver which generates a thrust force which is reciprocated by a magnetic field; a work part which performs work on the object at a predetermined distance away from the first driver; a shaft which connects the work part and the first driver; a first weight opposite to the work part relative to the first driver; and a weight support which connects the work part and the first weight.

Abstract: An attachment of an electric hair trimmer according to the present disclosure is mountable on an electric hair trimmer, and a cutting length which is a length of hair introduced between a fixed blade and a movable blade is adjustable. The attachment of the electric hair trimmer according to the present disclosure includes: a mounting portion which is mounted on a head portion so as to cover a head portion; a slide portion which is mounted on the mounting portion in a slidable manner with respect to the mounting portion such that the cutting length is changed; and a comb which is provided on the slide portion so as to guide hair between the fixed blade and the movable blade.

Abstract: A single-blade razor apparatus and methods for manufacturing the same. A razor apparatus may include a handle and a head pivotably mounted on the handle. The head may include a rear side including an aperture for receiving a single blade, as well as a front side through which a cutting edge of the blade is exposed during use. An upper portion and a lower portion of the head may form the aperture. The lower portion may physically interface with the upper portion so that a front region of the upper portion is physically supported by the lower portion. In a particular implementation, the lower portion may include several protruding latches proximate the front side of the head, which may respectively mate with recesses formed in the upper portion. Alternatively, the latches may be formed in the upper portion and may respectively mate with recesses formed in the lower portion.

Abstract: A shaving razor with a handle and a housing, the housing dimensioned to receive at least one blade. The housing has a pair of spaced apart opposing parallel walls each defining a fully enclosed opening that extends completely through the respective walls. The handle includes a pair of semi-circular pin members that are disposed in the openings to mount the housing to the handle while allowing rinse water to travel through the openings to access the at least one blade.

Abstract: Disclosed here are shaving razor systems and methods including razor handles that dock with razor cartridges. In some embodiments, a handle is configured to dock with a razor cartridge using a single hook configured to mate with a cartridge tab. In some embodiments, a central pushrod is mounted with a spring into the handle, and is configured to exert a pushing force on the mounted cartridge. In some embodiments, to eject the cartridge, the single hook may be pushed to pivot to the side of the cartridge tab, and thereby release the cartridge by ejecting it with a spring loaded pushrod.

Abstract: A razor includes an elongated body extending in a longitudinal direction. The elongated body has an outer surface and is provided with a first hole opening on the outer surface. The razor handle further includes an element provided within the first hole. The element has a size which is inferior to an interior space of the first hole and is at least partially surrounded by the elongated body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for slicing food products, in particular a high-performance slicer, comprising a rotor shaft which rotates about a rotational axis during operation and which can be adjusted in an axial manner, in particular in order to carry out blank cuts and/or to adjust cutting gaps; a rotor which is driven by the rotor shaft; a cutting blade which is supported by the rotor, in particular a circular blade which rotates about the rotational axis in a planetary manner and additionally rotates relative to the rotor about a blade axis that runs parallel to the rotational axis in an offset manner; and a rotary drive for the rotor shaft.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide a cutting die system. The cutting die system includes a substrate, at least one blade, and an ejector coupled to the substrate. The ejector includes a compressible portion having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The bottom surface is coupled to the substrate and a protective layer is cured to the top surface. A method of die cutting a blank according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes directing a blank between a cutting die and an anvil, the cutting die comprising a substrate. An ejector coupled to the substrate is compressed between the cutting die and the blank. A scrap piece is cut from the blank as it passes between the cutting die and the anvil, and the scrap piece is ejected by releasing the compressed ejector.

Abstract: In monitoring the machine space of a processing machine during the throughput of workpieces in order to detect workpieces that got stuck, the rear end of a workpiece with reference to the transport direction generates a start signal in the inlet region of the machine space, as well as an end signal in the outlet region thereof by sensors that are connected to a control unit. Beginning with the start signal, the control unit detects a feature that characterizes a theoretical feed travel and generates a release signal if the value of the detected characteristic feature has reached at the time, at which the end signal is generated, a predefined limiting value and not yet exceeded a predefined upper limiting value or if the end signal is generated at a time, at which the value of the detected characteristic feature has reached the predefined limiting value and not yet exceeded the upper limiting value.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for treating a lignocellulosic material, preferably wood, comprising the following steps: (1) soaking of the material with organic fluid in order to dissolve at least 40% and at most 85%, in weight %, of the lignin of the material; (2) washing with organic fluid so as to discharge the dissolved lignin; (3) filling with a filling compound; and (4) finishing, so as to obtain a composite formed of a three-dimensional network of transformed filling compound incorporated into a cellulose and lignin network. The invention also relates to a composite structure able to be obtained in this way, and to any part comprising at least one such structure.

Abstract: A method of forming an integral fastener for a ceramic matrix composite component comprises the steps of forming a fiber preform with an opening, forming a fiber fastener, inserting the fiber fastener into the opening, and infiltrating a matrix material into the fiber preform and fiber fastener to form a ceramic matrix composite component with an integral fastener. A gas turbine engine is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present application relates to process for producing a glass fibre-reinforced thermoplastic polymer composition, which comprises the sequential steps of: a) unwinding from a package of at least one continuous glass multifilament strand, b) applying a sheath of thermoplastic polymer around the at least one continuous glass multifilament strand to form a sheathed continuous multifilament strand; The unwound, the at least one continuous glass multifilament strand is transported through the inside of at least one protective tube over a certain distance between the location of unwinding from a package of said at least one continuous glass multifilament strand, i.e. step a), and the location of applying said sheath of thermoplastic polymer around said at least one continuous glass multifilament strand, i.e. step b).

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and facility for manufacturing a tape of reinforcement filaments impregnated by a polymer matrix, said tape having a constant width across the entire length thereof, wherein the filaments extend in a direction parallel to the length of the tape, from a strand of filaments coming from a feeding reel, the method including steps and units that make it possible to manage the unwinding tension of the strand, to guide the strand on the axis of the machine, to manage the width of the strand, to deposit the polymer on the strand by electrostatic powdering, with a polymer weight ratio of around 20% to around 75% to melt the polymer, to calibrate the width and thickness of the tape and to collect the tape on the storage reel.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing bulked continuous carpet filament from recycled polymer. In various embodiments, the method includes: (1) reducing recycled polymer material into polymer flakes; (2) cleansing the polymer flakes; (3) melting the flakes into a polymer melt; (4) removing water and contaminants from the polymer melt by dividing the polymer melt into a plurality of polymer streams and exposing those streams to pressures below 5 millibars; (5) recombining the streams; and (6) using the resulting purified polymer to produce bulked continuous carpet filament.

Abstract: A method of transferring a flexible layer to a substrate makes use of a partial bulge in the flexible layer, which does not make contact with the substrate. The partial bulge advances to the location of an alignment marker on the substrate. When alignment adjustments are needed, they are made with the partial bulge in place so that more reproducible positioning is possible when fully advancing the flexible layer against the substrate.