Abstract: A method of pressurizing a closed-cycle engine includes performing a non-steady state operation in which a working fluid flows to or from a pressurized tank: i) to or from a plurality of sumps defined by respective ones of a plurality of cylinder-piston assemblies of the closed-cycle engine; or ii) to or from one or more air bearings associated with each one of the plurality of the cylinder-piston assemblies; or iii) both and performing, before and/or after performing the non-steady state operation, a steady-state operation in which the working fluid flows through the plurality of sumps and the one or more air bearings along a steady-state loop that is fluidly decoupled from the pressurized tank.

Abstract: Disclosed are a ground test system and a test method for a space-oriented multi-arm spacecraft system. A spacecraft system simulator floats on an air-floating platform through four porous air feet, a test truss is placed around the air-floating platform, a simulation auxiliary docking device, a simulation crawling truss and a satellite model are arranged in a middle of a ceiling of the test truss, and an assembly test area and a silent air compressor are arranged on sides of the test truss. The application is used to solve the problems that the prior art cannot simulate the movement and crawling of the multi-arm spacecraft system in space, assembly of large space structures, and the prior art cannot simulate the influence of assembling, catching and other actions on a base in a weightless environment.

Abstract: A system for supporting a patient on an inclined surface includes an inflatable device. The inflatable device includes a top sheet of material connected to a bottom sheet of material, the top sheet and the bottom sheet defining a cavity to be inflated, wherein the bottom sheet of material is configured to permit air to pass from the cavity to the exterior of the device and to flow between a bottom surface of the device and a support surface upon which the device is configured to rest, and an input configured for receiving air to inflate the device. The system further includes a high-friction pad configured to attach to the top sheet of material, and at least one attachment system configured to maintain the device on a support surface.

Abstract: A storage system as disclosed can maximize storage capacity whilst remaining scalable. A transporting device is arranged to form a cluster with a reconfigurable physical topology. A transporting device can cooperate with a portion of a surface, and with at least one other transporting device in a cluster with a reconfigurable physical topology. An item receiving space and a relocating unit permit relocation of the transporting device within the cluster by way of interaction with the portion of the surface.

Abstract: A unit for handling an aircraft turbojet engine includes a frame, a front cradle and a rear cradle designed for supporting the turbojet engine, and a plurality of electric actuators. The cradles include devices for securing the turbojet engine. The plurality of electric actuators includes three electric actuators, where a first one and second one are arranged opposite each other, on either side of a longitudinal axis of the frame, connected to the front cradle and arranged for moving same in vertical translation, and where a third actuator is connected to the rear cradle and arranged for moving the same in vertical translation. The handling unit further includes a device for rotary driving of the front cradle about a longitudinal axis of the turbojet engine.

Abstract: A method of reassembling a gas turbine engine including steps to support a core engine on a core stand and support a fan case on a fan stand that includes a base frame coupled a fan case frame by a hinge. The fan case frame is arranged to (i) rotate about an axis of the hinge between abutting the base frame and being perpendicular to the base frame, and (ii) tilt about a yaw axis perpendicular to the hinge, which is located in a plane of the fan case frame. The method includes rotating and tilting the fan case frame to align the fan case and core engine, translating at least one of the core engine and the fan case into axial abutment, coupling the fan case and the core engine to reassemble the gas turbine engine, and decoupling the fan case from the fan stand.

Abstract: A system for lifting and transporting an aircraft comprising a trailer, a lower and an upper inflatable airbag system and a plurality of ties. The trailer can comprise a rigid frame having an upper surface and a lower surface and a plurality of hook ups for attaching ties to the aircraft, at least one pair of wheels. The lower inflatable airbag system is configured for placement below the lower surface of the trailer and the upper inflatable airbag system is configured for placement above the upper surface of the trailer. A method of using the system comprises placing the system underneath the aircraft, inflating the airbag systems, attaching the wheels to the frame of the trailer, securing the aircraft to the trailer, deflating the lower inflatable airbag system, and transporting the aircraft.

Abstract: A fuselage cradle support assembly, which can be used as part of a jacking system during aircraft manufacture, is described. The fuselage cradle support assembly can include an array of fuselage cradles. The fuselage cradle support assembly can be configured to limit motion of each fuselage cradle in a cradle array to only vertical and horizontal movements. The vertical movements can be generated using actuators, such as hydraulic actuators, which are communicatively coupled to one another to distribute loads within the cradle array.

Abstract: A patient transfer device includes a patient support surface having a top surface adapted for positioning a patient thereon and a bottom surface defining one or more areas having a concave curvature for passage of air flow therethrough. Passage of the air flow along the one or more areas having a concave curvature provides an air bearing below at least a portion of the bottom surface. Exemplary patient transfer systems and methods of moving a patient are also provided.

Abstract: A half pallet includes a deck having opposite front and rear edges and opposite end edges. The end edges are shorter than the front and rear edges. End supports below the deck are adjacent end edges of the deck. The deck extends forward and rearward of the end supports. Each of the end supports includes a front edge recessed from the front edge of the deck and a rear edge recessed from the rear edge of the deck. Each end support prevents entry of a fork tine between the front edge of the end support and the rear edge of the end support.

Abstract: Systems for patient support, imaging, or transport include a modality with a support surface configured to support a patient thereon, a converter associated with the modality, the converter being configured to receive relatively low-volume high-pressure air from a source of the relatively low-volume high-pressure air and to convert the relatively low-volume high-pressure air into relatively high-volume low-pressure air, and an air flow device configured to receive the relatively high-volume low-pressure air from the converter and provide an air flow function to the modality using the relatively high-volume low-pressure air.

Abstract: A machine tool includes: a movably configured saddle; and a bed having a sliding surface supplied with a lubricant and allowing the saddle to slide thereon, and receiving the weight of the saddle. The sliding surface has a recess continuously extending in a direction in which the saddle moves. By this configuration, a machine tool which easily holds a lubricant on a sliding surface and a method for producing a structure for the machine tool having the sliding surface are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fender, bogie, train, track and methods. The fender according to the invention comprises: a support surface provided on the underside during use; an inner pressure chamber provided in or on the support surface; a feed arranged in the pressure chamber for feeding a fluid; a first rim present round the inner pressure chamber, wherein at least a part of the rim is flexible; and a second rim arranged round the first rim such that a pressure chamber is created between two adjacent rims.

Abstract: A ground effect transport system comprising a plenum roof platform for location beneath a load carrying means, a skirt depending from the platform to form a plenum chamber with the platform, fan means on or in the platform for supplying air to the plenum chamber, wherein the skirt extends downwardly towards the ground surface and has a ground engaging support member for supporting the bottom of the skirt above the ground surface and a separate detachable sealing member for providing a seal between the bottom of the skirt and the ground surface.

Abstract: Transfer pads for horizontal and/or vertical translocation are provided. The transfer pads include the fewest possible number of components required to provide a plenum chamber, the operative features of which are controlled at least by the provision of one or more interior sheets having specific characteristics with respect to position, perforation and attachment.

Abstract: A modular system that provides multiple support surfaces for a large heavy object and enables movement of that object with no friction (e.g., on a cushion of air). Each module has an object support surface and a bearing that enables the modules and the heavy object being supported thereby to be moved across a floor with no friction. Each module restrains a portion of the object on top within a frame that opens to allow the supported portion of the object to move off the support surface of the module and onto a stationary object support structure (e.g., a milling machine bed), using a cushion of air at an elevated height from the floor equal to that of the top surface of each module. The modules can be used independently or locked together to move a very large and heavy object or can be used to build a type of bridge which the air bearings underneath the object can cross.

Abstract: A hoverbarrow apparatus is provided to mechanically lift objects to be transported using a cushion of air as the main means of lift. The air cushion method of lift drastically reduces the physical exertion necessary for motion, forward or reverse, required to perform the task of transporting objects. The air cushion further improves the performance and use of the barrow by allowing the barrow to float over objects in its path significantly reducing or eliminating impressions and divots in the surface currently associated with the present wheelbarrow technology.

Abstract: A float sled comprising a body with a substantially flat upper surface, a lift plate operationally associated with the body and adapted to move from a first position in proximity to the upper surface of the body to a second position above the first position and above the body, a set of pneumatic air bag lifts associated with the lift plate to raise and lower the lift plate to various horizontal orientations with differing degrees of tilt, and an air bearing adapted to raise the body above the ground.

Abstract: An air cushion platform for carrying a manipulator arm, having a base, on the bottom side of which an air cushion system is attached for lifting the base from a standing position into a moving position above a bottom. At least one actuator device is mounted on the base, which actuator device is optionally in constant contact with the bottom in order to move the base at the bottom. A controller is connected to the air cushion system and the at least one actuator device in order to actuate the actuator device only if the air cushion platform is located in a moving position. A moveable robot is provided, particularly for the controlled guiding of a tool. The moveable robot has an air cushion platform, a foundation mounted on the air cushion platform and moveably supported thereby, and a manipulator arm having one end section that is attached to the foundation and another end that carries a tool.

Abstract: A transferring system using aero-levitation style and a transferring device using aero-levitation style are provided. The transferring device using aero-levitation style includes one or more pairs of caterpillars each of which moves while drawing a track; a plurality of air bearings disposed inside of the caterpillars and levitated from an inner bottom surfaces of the caterpillars by repulsive force of air; and a loading unit coupled to the air bearings onto which a portage is loaded, wherein the loading unit is levitated and moved together with the caterpillars by the movement of the caterpillars.

Abstract: A movable support apparatus (10), supported on a floor and movable between at least two target stations, for receiving, moving and handing over rolls, winding shafts (1) and/or machine reels (4) intended for the handling of a fiber web. The movable support apparatus (10) has support members (12) for holding up the load being handled (1, 4) at both its support ends (2) and is adapted to be supported on a floor with at least one pressure medium cushion element (40). A handling system includes the movable support apparatus (10). Rolls, winding shafts (1) and/or machine reels (4) may be handled with the movable support apparatus (10). The movable support apparatus may be used as a movable winding stand for the winding of a fiber web (W).

Abstract: A float sled comprising a body with a substantially flat upper surface, a lift plate operationally associated with the body and adapted to move from a first position in proximity to the upper surface of the body to a second position above the first position and above the body, a set of pneumatic air bag lifts associated with the lift plate to raise and lower the lift plate to various horizontal orientations with differing degrees of tilt, and an air bearing adapted to raise the body above the ground.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile robotic arm workcell. A robotic arm is mounted on a superstructure that carries all the equipment associated with the workcell's task. Thus, the workcell is self-contained needing only power. The workcell may be moved by activating air bearings that are pressurized by an air compressor that is also mounted on the superstructure. Power is received via power contacts that engage a power rail. Guidance is provided a guide system. The guide system may include guide rails engaged by guide carriages. Propulsion is provided by a drive system that may engage the guide system or the factory floor.

Abstract: A fluid-cushion supporting arrangement for horizontal conveyance comprises a supporting platform having a center and a distal portion; a flexible angular sealing element arranged under the platform in the region of the distal portion and forming a sealing piston. The sealing piston has a substantially horizontal leg which extends toward the center and forms together with the supporting platform a fluid chamber, and a substantially vertical leg which forms together with the supporting platform a control pressure chamber. The vertical leg is vertically and adjustably inserted in the control pressure chamber. An inlet valve is provided for supplying fluid into the fluid chamber. A pressure-regulating arrangement in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and the control pressure chamber regulates the fluid pressure. The vertical leg comprises a plurality of reinforcement elements including at least one metallic strip.

Abstract: A group of objects arranged in fixed relative positions on a floor is moved while conserving the positions of the objects relative to each other by: providing a rigid framework surrounding the group of objects and having supporting means for supporting each object as well as air cushion units; establishing supportive contact between each object and corresponding supporting means; lifting the framework as one rigid unit by activating the air cushion units; and displacing the framework.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a workstation or other heavy object which is easily moved, yet steady and stable when parked. Underneath this object is attached a multiple air-bearing device having a backplate, a membrane which is selectively bonded to the backplate, and a stencil and dimple which further prevent separation of the membrane from the backplate and which also provide a bearing surface for the workstation to rest with stability against the floor. Pressurized air is introduced through the base and behind the unbonded portions of the membrane, inflating the membrane and creating lift, and additionally forming a pneumatic seal against the floor. Air passages through the membrane and within the sealed footprint allow air to flow into and through the region between the membrane and the floor, creating an air-lubricated bearing that allows nearly frictionless motion of the heavy object.

Abstract: An economical running control apparatus is operable to control an economical running in which an engine is automatically stopped when a predetermined engine stopping condition is established and the engine is automatically started when a predetermined engine starting condition is established. The economical running control apparatus is adapted to be mounted on a vehicle including the engine, a first battery operable to supply power to an vehicle mounted electric unit, and a second battery operable to suppress a voltage reduction in the first battery when the engine is started. A judge is operable to judge whether the economical running is permitted or prohibited based on a first quantity of electricity which the first battery is capable of discharging when the engine is started, a second quantity of electricity which the second battery is capable of discharging, and a third quantity of electricity required to completely explode the engine.

Abstract: A multi-modal forced vortex device is described having a top plate and a side wall creating a partially enclosed volume. The top plate includes one or more adjustable fluid openings to permit, or restrict, fluid flow into and out of the partially enclosed volume. Rotating blades housed within the partially enclosed volume are manipulated (through control of their pitch and, possibly, their speed) in conjunction with the adjustable fluid openings to generate a variable magnitude attractive force in a first mode, a variable magnitude down or pushing force in a second mode, a variable magnitude up or lifting force in a third mode or variable magnitude yaw, pitch and roll forces in a fourth mode.

Abstract: A displaceable support stand (1) includes a support stand base (5) with a support surface (6) which is adapted to rest on the ground, a lifting device for lifting the support stand base (5) and therewith the support stand (1) above the ground and a displacement device which permits displacement of the support stand (1). The lifting and the displacement devices can be embodied by a device for producing an air cushion. A device of that kind can include for example a compressor (18), an accumulator (20) for the power supply for the compressor (18) and air nozzles (16).

Abstract: An assembly “(42)” including a fluid levitated caster and a debris scraper “(31)” device positioned external to a levitation membrane “(11)”. Assembly “(42)” levitates heavy loads upon a near frictionless pressurized fluid, and also sweeps aside potentially membrane destructive debris “(25)” from a floor “(27)” in the path of movement. The external debris scraper “(31)” function does not noticeably increase movement friction, and does not require increased power air flow or consumption.

Abstract: An engine uplift loader includes a frame assembly having generally parallel first and second frame members spaced apart by a distance enabling the shipping cradle and engine to be positioned between the first and second frame members. A plurality of lifting devices are supported on the frame assembly extending upwardly therefrom, each lifting device being operable to raise and lower an upper end of the lifting device relative to the frame assembly along a generally vertical lifting axis. An attachment assembly is mounted to the upper end of each lifting device, each attachment assembly being structured and arranged to attach to the shipping cradle such that raising the upper ends of the lifting devices causes the shipping cradle and engine to be lifted upwardly.

Abstract: An invention (58) for attachment to a near frictionless fluid levitated transporter includes a guide wheel (18) integrated with a ground rubbing brake (20). Invention (58) both guides and stops transporter movement.

Abstract: A method of introducing/discharging a heavy article is provided that allows for introducing and/or discharging a coil-shape heavy article to and from a transporting receptacle. The method includes utilizing a pallet, a stage, and a carrying vehicle to introduce/discharge the coil-shape heavy article. A coil-shape heavy article is secured to the pallet using a securing member and is transported, while secured to the pallet, between the stage, which is secured to the transporting receptacle, and the transporting receptacle. The stage includes a table having a height that is adjustable relative the floor surface of the transporting receptacle. Movement of the pallet between the stage and the transporting receptacle is performed by levitating a support frame of the carrying vehicle on which the pallet has been positioned using a controllable discharge of gas exiting from exhaust nozzles of the carrying vehicle.

Abstract: An assembly (72) including a brake (70), or a brake with guide wheel (69) combination centrally integrated within a levitating fluid caster. Assembly (72) levitates heavy loads upon a near frictionless pressurized fluid, and also controls stopping or guiding movement of loads.

Abstract: A novel Ground Effect Machine capable of operating in low airflow and low air-pressure conditions. By using an air bladder, partially filed with liquid, in lieu of a skirt, the invention is able to reduce airflow, and consequently maximize the lift provided by air pressure pump, thus minimizing the amount of air pressure required. In addition, by alternating between positive and negative air pressure within a pressure chamber beneath the ground effect machine, the invention may lift and transport heavy loads or securely fasten the ground effect machine to the floor surface.

Abstract: A materials handling apparatus and method utilizing flotation pads to inject a thin fluid film to produce a near frictionless surface for easily positioning and finishing foundry castings. The present invention further relates to a material handling apparatus and method utilizing a vacuum lock to serve as a vice for securing foundry castings or other work pieces during finishing stages. The invention further incorporates an apparatus and method for protecting the vacuum lock components from damage or interference with material movement during positioning.

Abstract: An improved transporter to guide and propel heavy loads in an industry where the loads levitate upon pressurized fluid plenums. The transporter is very light weight that provides many opportunities of lower cost, small size, ease of movement to its point of use, short turn radius, etc. The transporter is able to pull or push very heavy loads with such light weight. The key is that transporter includes a vertical forcing device, such as a piston and cylinder. The forcing device pushes upward against a load hitch rigidly attached to the load. More importantly, the forcing device pushes downward on transporter drive wheels. The vertical downward force on the wheels is controllable. Force can vary from so minimal as to allow wheel slipping on the floor during steering, to extreme force facilitating maximum desired pulling or pushing wheel traction.

Abstract: A system for facilitating movement of a shipping container uses a plurality of air bearing pontoons interposed between a shipping container and a h, soft or water surface. Each air bearing pontoon includes an inflatable skirt and its own controllable air supply that allows the skirt to float on a cushion of air above the surface.

Abstract: A flexible, low friction, rideable sliding toy is disclosed that slides over relatively smooth, firm surfaces with very low friction. The toy is comprised of a bag of flexible, air impermeable material having one or more relatively large holes cut out of the bottom of the bag where the bag contacts the floor when in use. The bag is inflated by allowing it to drop onto the floor, trapping air inside it as it lands. The outer edges of the hole form a relatively airtight seal allowing the bag to retain its inflated state when laid upon by a user, thus permitting a user to propel himself over fiat surfaces in a low friction manner. A flap of material may be affixed inside the bag positioned so that it lies loosely over the large holes, providing a seal when the bag leaks unduly.

Abstract: A mattress has an upper patient supporting low air loss bladder for ventilating and preventing skin degeneration of a patient supported thereby, an intermediate rigidly inflatable static bladder which becomes relatively rigid upon inflation to aid in transferring or weighing a patient, and a lower high air loss bladder for reducing the friction force between the mattress and the supporting surface to facilitate surface-to-surface transfers. The high air loss bladder includes a peripheral tube which seals against a supporting surface to contain the air which escapes from longitudinal sacks within the tube. The foot sections of the low air loss and static bladders are selectively deflatable.

Abstract: A transport system for improved transport of stage panels The stage panel assembly transport system includes a transport sled and a modified stage panel assembly support base adapted for detachable engagement with the transport sled. The transport sled uses an air cushion support to lift a substantial portion of the weight of the stage panel assembly, with the remaining portion of stage panel assembly's weight being stably supported by a castor wheel arrangement.

Abstract: A flexible, low friction, rideable sliding toy is disclosed that slides over relatively smooth, firm surfaces with very low friction. The toy is comprised of a bag of flexible, air impermeable material having one or more relatively large holes cut out of the bottom of the bag where the bag contacts the floor when in use. The bag is inflated by allowing it to drop onto the floor, trapping air inside it as it lands. The outer edges of the hole form a relatively air-tight seal allowing the bag to retain its inflated state when laid upon by a user, thus permitting a user to propel himself over flat surfaces in a low friction manner.

Abstract: A transportation device for transporting an object comprises a base body, a depression provided on a top surface of the base body, a lifting mechanism provided on the base body in correspondence to the depression and including a lift plate for supporting the object thereon and an air envelope unit supplied with compressed air for causing a dilatation in response thereto, the lift plate being connected to the air envelope unit such that the lift plate is lifted upward upon a supply of the compressed air, and an air foil bearing provided on the base body such that a top surface of the air foil bearing is located at a level above a bottom surface of the base body.

Abstract: A method and assembly provide for the quick and effective one step loading and unloading of an overseas transport container, which can be accomplished by one operator and a minimum of effort. First, second, third, and fourth identical fingers each about 20' long have a plurality of air bearings associated with them, the air bearings connected up to a source of air under pressure. Inflatable load bars are provided on the tops of the fingers. At the first ends of the first and second fingers they are connected to a structural cross-member which is integral with a manifold for supplying air under pressure to the fingers for inflating the air bearings, and also mounts air-supplying structure for inflating the load bars. The third and fourth fingers are continuations of the first and second, and are utilized when loading or unloading a 40' container.

Abstract: A floating mold changer carriage is movable between a shaping device for shaping a sheet of glass with at least one mold and a mold storage area spaced from the shaping device, for replacing the mold with a new mold. The carriage includes a main frame having a plurality of pallets mounted on a lower surface thereof and each having a flow passage with its one open end connected to fluid source. The pallet has a cylindrical portion on its lower surface and a hollow annular member of a resilient material disposed around the cylindrical portion. The annular member has an opening confronting the other open end of the flow passage. When a fluid or air is supplied from the fluid source via the flow passage into the annular members, the annular members are inflated to float the main frame off the floor. Continued supply of air develops a fluid or air layer between the floor and the annular members to lower the coefficient of friction therebetween, thus allowing the carriage to be moved easily.

Abstract: Air chamber-type air pallets incorporate side-to-side linked air pressurized tubes or chambers in two integrated rows, having common members for adjacent chambers under air pressurization rendered rigid over a certain extent to rigidify the air chambers thereof which form load backing chambers in place of rigid backing members conventionally employed in air pallets maintaining the load footprint borne by the air pressurized backing chambers matched by that of the developed air bearing or air film by passage of compressed air through the pattern of perforations. Preferably, linked tubes of one row are laterally offset but integrated physically to those of a second row to both limit lateral shrinkage of linked tubes extending completely across the pin hole perforations within the thin, flexible bottom sheet partially forming such air pallets.

Abstract: A patient transfer apparatus includes an air bearing attached beneath an inflatable cushion which has peripheral chambers so that the peripheral portions fill before the central portions. A diverter valve enables the apparatus to tap into the pressurized air supply provided by a fluidized bed. A tri-fold patient transfer board has a pair of parallel spaced apart ribs extending in the longitudinal direction near the center line of each tri-fold section.

Abstract: Load-lifting apparatus includes a pair of elements moveable on air bearings laterally toward and away from one another. Each element carries an inflatable bladder for lifting a load. A rack is also provided for receiving various loads, for example, automotive vehicles. The elements have cutouts at longitudinally spaced positions such that, upon disposition of the elements below the rack, the elements can be moved laterally away from one another with the cutouts registering with the wheel wells. The bladders may be inflated to lift the rack and load carried thereby for movement into a container. The process may be reversed to remove the rack and load from the container.

Abstract: Fingers having air bearings along the bottom thereof are used to quickly load and unload overseas transport containers. Sheet material, such as ribbed plastic (nylon) sheeting, is automatically dispensed between the fingers and loading deck so that it provides a smooth surface as the finger traverses the dock. A frame is mounted to the front of the finger, with a shaft on which the sheet material is coiled mounted to the frame, and an air motor for applying a generally constant tension (e.g. about 10 lbs. per square inch) to the plastic sheet. A hook or magnet is mounted in a recess in the deck and engages the free, leading end of the sheet material to hold it stationary on the deck as the finger traverses the deck, and thereby provide for automatic dispensing and take up of the sheet material.

Abstract: Air chamber-type air pallets incorporate side-to-side linked air pressurized tubes or chambers in two integrated rows, having common members for adjacent chambers under air pressurization rendered rigid over a certain extent to rigidify the air chambers thereof which form load backing chambers in place of rigid backing members conventionally employed in air pallets maintaining the load footprint borne by the air pressurized backing chambers matched by that of the developed air bearing or air film by passage of compressed air through the pattern of perforations. Preferably, linked tubes of one row are laterally offset but integrated physically to those of a second row to both limit lateral shrinkage of linked tubes extending completely across the pin hole perforations within the thin, flexible bottom sheet partially forming such air pallets.