Abstract: A filament guide assembly is provided with a support rod carrying a plurality of filament guides each for guiding a respective one of a plurality of filaments. A pair of support blocks mount the support rod at each end thereof to allow for (i) rotational movements between a raised position, wherein the filament guides are spaced from a respective one of the filaments, and a lowered position wherein the guides are in contact with the respective one of the filaments, and (ii) lateral shifting movements between an operative position, wherein the guides are aligned with the respective one of the filaments, and a rest position wherein the guides are laterally misaligned with the respective one of the filaments. Most preferably, the guide assembly is employed in combination with a finish oil applicator so that the guides bias the individual filaments into contact with finish oil nozzles thereof, and in so doing, ensure that positive contact between the finish oil nozzles and the filaments occurs.

Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneously treating a plurality of cords for use in power transmission belts. The apparatus has a heating chamber, heated air in the chamber, and a guide system for simultaneously guiding a first cord in a first predetermined path and a second cord in a second predetermined path through the heating chamber. The guide system has at least a first roller with a first axis and first structure for causing the first cord and the second cord to move at least partially around the axis of the first roller progressively axially relative to the first roller as the first cord moves in the first predetermined path and the second cord moves in the second predetermined path through the heating chamber.

Abstract: The invention comprises a fixture and method for holding optical waveguid such as fiber optic cable, in a relatively stable fashion for processing. The fixture includes a first frame and a second frame, releasably securable to the first frame to form a unitary structure. Chambers disposed in at least one of the frames are adapted for removably receiving optical fiber cable when the first and second frames are released from one another and for securely retaining with molding material optical fiber cables when the first and second frames form the unitary structure. A process area is defined in the unitary structure such that segments of optical fiber cables secured therein are accessible in the process area for processing. An optional coating fixture is securable to said unitary structure for forming with a molding material a protective coating about the cable segments in the processing area.

Abstract: A die member forming a component of cross-head die apparatus is configured to facilitate removal of the die member from the axial bore of the body of the apparatus following assembly of a die member at room temperature with a body at elevated temperature. The external, frustoconical surface of prior art die members is provided with recessed portions which do not contact the opposing surface of the axial bore in the body. Also, the angle of taper of the conical plane of the mating die member and body bore surfaces is increased to 7.degree. from the prior art standard of 5.degree..

Abstract: A method and apparatus for covering a ribbon of optical fibers with a resin. The resin is polymerizable under the effect of UV radiation and forms a protective covering surrounding and holding the fibers. The method includes a pre-polymerization step during which the coated fibers advance through a UV irradiating chamber having a pre-polymerization ultraviolet radiation power of less than one fourth of the total power required to polymerize the resin, which is just sufficient to initiation polymerization. This step is followed by a polymerization finishing step during which the pre-polymerized ribbon is subjected to UV radiation of higher power than the radiation produced during the pre-polymerization step, which completes the polymerization process.

Abstract: Welding electrodes are continuously coated with a flux material with this pressure coating system. The flux material is supplied to the coating station by two supply bins which are automatically controlled such that the flux material is always supplied to the coating station. While one supply bin is supplying the flux material to the coating station the other bin is being replenished in an alternate manner.

Abstract: A system for applying textile treatment compositions to textile materials. A conduit member is provided which includes a passageway having a first end, a second end, and a medial portion with a constricted (narrowed) region. The passageway may include at least one baffle having an opening therethrough. A yarn strand is then moved through the passageway. A textile treatment composition (a sizing agent or dye) dissolved in a carrier medium (a supercritical fluid or liquified gas) is thereafter introduced into the constricted region, preferably at an acute angle relative to the passageway. The carrier medium expands inside the passageway which causes delivery of the treatment composition to the yarn. The treated yarn then passes through the baffle (if used) which facilitates drying of the yarn. During this process, a carrier gas can be introduced into the passageway to ensure the production of a smooth, dry product.

Abstract: A finish applicator mounting unit includes an apertured member having a plurality of apertures shaped to receive a corresponding plurality of finish applicator nozzles, and a locking mechanism that selectively obstructs the plurality of apertures such that when the corresponding plurality of finish applicator nozzles are received in the plurality of apertures, the finish applicator nozzles are selectively locked in the finish applicator mounting unit. The mounting unit preferably includes an alignment pin that ensures both proper alignment and proper insertion of the finish applicator nozzles. The finish applicator nozzles include a ceramic applicator head fictionally received in an elastic connector. A filament slot is configured to cooperate with the alignment pin to ensure the proper alignment and insertion of the nozzles. The nozzles operate more effectively and efficiently than conventional nozzles, and the mounting unit enables easy access to the nozzles for cleaning, repair and/or replacement.

Abstract: A cross-head die for applying one or more layers of coating materials to a single, longitudinally fed, filamentary member, or to a plurality of such members in spaced, side-by-side relation. Tip and die members of relatively flat, wafer-like configuration are placed in a cylindrical cavity of the body member of the apparatus with central openings in each of the tip and die members coaxially arranged and a protrusion surrounding the opening in the tip extending into the opening in the die. Flowable coating material is injected through a radial opening in the body member and flows in both directions about an annular passageway formed by cooperatively arranged grooves in the peripheries of the tip and die members. The coating material flows from the annular passageway to the die aperture through opposing, spaced, angularly arranged surfaces on the tip and die members.

Abstract: Cross-head die apparatus and method for applying visually distinguishable coating layers simultaneously to two filament members such as electrical wires. The apparatus includes a body having a pair of generally axial bores and a pair of radial bores respectively communicating between sources of first and second flowable coating materials and the axial bores. A flow guide to direct the coating materials through the axial bores to form uniform layers on wires moved axially through the bores. The two axial bores mutually communicate through an internal conduit, coaxial with the two radial bores, in the body. The two coating materials are supplied at different pressures, causing a portion of the first material to migrate through the internal conduit from one axial bore to the other, whereby the first material forms the entire coating layer on one wire and appears, together with the second material, as a longitudinal stripe in the coating layer on the other wire.

Abstract: Co-extrusion cross-head die apparatus for applying two coating materials in inner and outer layers to an electrical wire, or the like. A body member has a through, axial bore in which a tip and die members, with respective tip and die holders, are positioned. A pair of radial bores, with which sources of two flowable coating materials communicate, extend from the exterior of the body member to the axial bore. The first coating material flows forwardly of the apparatus through a first flow passage, the second coating material flows rearwardly through a second flow passage, and the two materials flow forwardly, in superposed relation, through a third flow passage from a confluence of the first and second passages to an orifice in the die member where they are deposited in uniform, inner and outer layers, on the wire.

Abstract: A fiber bundle workpiece is coated with a particulate material during passage about a plurality of pulleys arranged to establish a serpentine travel path portion through a coating zone. The pulleys have arcuate grooves extending thereabout, which cause the fiber bundle to twist axially, and the fibers of the bundle move with respect to one another as the fiber bundle moves along the serpentine path. These two actions increase coating efficiency and the penetration of particulate material into the fiber bundle. The travel path portion will preferably lie in a horizontal plane, and the coating unit will normally constitute an electrostatic fluidized bed of particulate material. After exiting the coating zone, the fiber bundle may pass through an oven to partially melt the particulate material, and thereby cause the particles to adhesively attach to the fiber bundle.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying gel to a plurality of optical fibers includes a housing having a cavity through which a plurality of separated optical fibers are fed. The gel is provided to the cavity from a gel reservoir via a pump that maintains the pressure and gel level to ensure that the optical fibers are coated with gel to eliminate air gaps and thus prevent sticking among the optical fibers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for bonding, coating and/or dyeing yarn which impregnates the yarn with a solution containing at least one of a polymer resin, coating or dyestuff dissolved in a flammable solvent/carrier. The solvent/carrier in the impregnated yarn is then ignited to burn away a part of the solvent/carrier from the yarn. A portion of the solvent/carrier remains in the yarn to prevent damage to the yarn. The yarn containing the residual solvent/carrier then is dried at an elevated temperature.

Abstract: A method for calendering a suture includes passing the suture lengthwise between two pairs of calendering rollers each pair being oriented orthogonally to the other pair. The suture may be coated and/or filled by passing it through the contacting region of a suture filling applicator to which filling agent is supplied by a metering pump. The filling process may be computer controlled.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for winding a cord continuously. A rotation of a winding bobbin around which a cord to be a tension member of a belt and so on is wound is detected directly or indirectly. A cord is forwarded in an axial direction of a winding bobbin at a pitch, which corresponds to a diameter of the cord, in relation to a rotation of a winding bobbin. And a bobbin axis of the winding bobbin is rotated at a constant speed by rotation driving means so that the cord is wound around the winding bobbin. The rotation of the bobbin axis is detected by rotation detection means directly or indirectly. The cord is forwarded in the axial direction of the winding bobbin in relation to the rotation of the winding bobbin at a pitch which corresponds to the diameter of the cord by receiving signals from the rotation detection means.

Abstract: Apparatus for producing refractory material filaments comprises an enclosure (11), means for heating the constituents of the refractory material, non-contacting means to support a drop (17) of molten material such as silicon, being one of the constituents of the refractory material within the enclosure and means to transport a filament (10) such as carbon, being a second constituent of the refractory material, through the drop of molten material in use. A levitation coil and/or an inert gas jet is used to support the drop of molten material and a silica glass or other refractory tube (13) is used to direct the gas jet. The enclosure has opposed side arms (15, 16) respectively for entry and exit of the filament (10) or the filament may be passed vertically through the molten silicon drop. An inclined side tube may be provided through which grains of silicon may be introduced into the enclosure for addition to the molten drop.

Abstract: This invention relates to a mechanical solution applicating device and method for cleaning and/or lubricating a raw stock material as it is being fed to a production machine or station. The applicating device is in the form of a holding tank having a reservoir portion for containing a supply of treating solution. Disposed within the reservoir portion and separated from the treating solution is a bathing tank through which the raw stock material is fed and treated. The feed of the raw stock material is utilized to effect rotation of a scoop wheel which scoops the treating solution out of the reservoir portion and into the bathing tank where the raw stock material is bathed or coated with the treating solution as it is fed therethrough. The rotation of the scoop wheel is effected by a driving wheel journaled thereto disposed in driving relationship with the raw stock material being fed through the bathing tank.

Abstract: A holder attached to a base member comprises an upright post and a multiplicity of rod extensions orthogonally supported on the post. A different spool of fishing line is mounted for rotation on each rod extension. Adjustable tensioning means are provided on each rod extension engaging a corresponding spool to vary the tension in the fishing line as the spool is rotated on each rod extension thereby permitting selection of the tension of the fishing line as it is wound from the spool to a fishing reel. Attachment means are provided for rendering the base member stationary on a flat supporting surface. In addition, the base member includes means for applying fish scent to the line as it is withdrawn from a selected spool, and cutting means for severing the fishing line after it is wound from each spool.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved wiper head comprising a laminated wiper including a plurality of discrete layers of a fibrous material, an inner resilient solid block layer, and means for bonding said discrete layers to said resilient solid block layer to provide a unitary structure. The wiper includes an outermost layer in contact with the wire and a plurality of inner fibrous layers spaced from the wire and located between the outermost layer and the resilient solid block layer. A wiper holder is mounted adjacent the exit end of the tank and includes means for supporting the wiper in a path of movement of the wire so that the wiper outermost layer removes excess plating material from the wire.

Abstract: A method for continuously coating individual fibers of a fiber bundle with resin. The individual fibers are grouped at a single grouping pint defined by a first concave supporting surface. The fibers are directed through a resin bath while spreading the fibers apart on a convex surface in a regularly spaced arrangement to form a continuous coating of resin along at least a portion of the fibers. The convex surface is at least partially described by an arc rotated about a horizontal axis, and comprises at least a portion of a surface of maximum radius R which is symmetrical relative to a vertical plane of symmetry passing through the fiber grouping point.

Abstract: An apparatus for coating a continuous fiber which includes (a) a coating composition container having an orifice in the bottom portion thereof; (b) means for introducing coating composition into the coating container; (c) a catch vessel positioned below the orifice in the coating container; (d) means for deflecting excess coating composition flowing through the container orifice into the catch vessel; (e) means for removing coating composition from the catch vessel and returning the same to the coating container; and (f) means for transporting a continuous fiber to be coated through the orifice and the coating composition in the coating container; wherein the orifice in the coating container is of sufficient diameter that the continuous fiber need have no contact therewith, and preferably, has no contact therewith.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved wiper head which includes a laminated wiper including a plurality of discrete layers of a fibrous material and means for bonding the layers to provide a unitary structure. A wiper holder is mounted adjacent an exit end of a tank and includes structure for supporting the wiper in a path of movement of the wire so that the wiper removes excess plating material from the wire.

Abstract: A double-coating cup for applying two protective coatings simultaneously to an optical fiber includes a body having an bore formed therein and provided with a plurality of first and second coating-material inlet channels. A die holder is positioned in the bore in the body and the outer surface of the die holder has first and second slots formed therein positioned opposite the first and second coating-material inlet channels, respectively. The die holder also has first and second radial bores formed therein which communicate with the first and second slots, respectively. A guide die having a bore formed therein is positioned in the bore in the die holder and has a bore formed therein. First and second die nozzles and an intermediate die guide positioned therebetween are disposed in the die holder bore.

Abstract: A method for applying polymeric coatings to fibers is disclosed and claimed. The method involves solution casting a film atop a liquid bath and radially advancing the pre-cast film to a central point where the fiber to be coated is drawn through the film so that a uniform coating is applied about the entire circumference of the fiber. The polymeric film is maintained in a swollen state to ease processing and promote adhesion.

Abstract: In order to coat successive increments of length of an elongated strand material such as an optical fiber (22), for example, with a marking material, for example, a liquid coating material (40) is circulated through an input section (85) into an inner chamber (71) of a housing (62) and outwardly through an output section (87) to be returned to a reservoir (39). Elongated strand material is advanced through an entry portion into and through the inner chamber wherein it is contacted by the liquid coating material being circulated therethrough. Afterwards, each successive increment of length is advanced through an exit die (73) which causes the liquid coating material to be formed into a layer of predetermined thickness on the elongated strand material.

Abstract: An apparatus for continuously coating individual fibers of a fiber bundle with resin, which comprises a first concave support surface for grouping the fibers of the bundle substantially at a single grouping point and a second, convex, support surface at least partially described by an arc rotated about its horizontal axis, having a maximum radius R, which at least approximately satisfies the relationship expressed in the following formula: wherein r designates the radius of the arc at distance x from the plane of symmetry, passing through fiber grouping point (P): ##EQU1## and wherein L designates the length of a tangent to the second support surface which passes through grouping point (P), in the plane of symmetry, and .phi. designates the radian angle formed between the tangent and the vertical line.

Abstract: The method of impregnating and the apparatus for impregnating a thin cord with a medicinal solution with the cord to be used in the dental field as an appliance for gingival retraction in conjunction with the teeth of a human being. The cord is immersed in a bath of the medicinal solution, moved from the bath to a squeezing roller assembly so that the medicinal solution evenly permeates the cord, removing excess solution, drying the cord and winding the cord on a wind-up reel prior to being dispensed to the consumer.

Abstract: The surface quality and luster of galvanized wire produced by the gas jet wiping method and cooled by jets of a cooling fluid may be improved by exposing the wire to a reactive gas atmosphere containing sulphide or chloride radicals after the wire has passed through the gas jet wiping nozzle and before it is contacted by the cooling fluid. The wire is exposed to the reactive gas atmosphere for a sufficient length of time to form a protective surface coating of metal sulphide or chloride.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing reinforced optical fiber including conveying optical fiber from a source; symmetrically, coaxially winding reinforcing fiber to a selected density per unit length around the optical fiber; forming an resin matrix among the reinforcing fibers; and coating the resin matrix with an external coating. Reinforcing a predetermined length of an elongated optical fiber comprises gradually reducing the thickness of the external coating and then gradually reducing the density of reinforcing fiber and the thickness of the resin matrix to form a transition from a reinforced fiber and a non-reinforced fiber.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying liquid to a running yarn in a textile machine comprises a hollow body providing a manifold for the liquid and an elongate tube extending horizontally across the manifold. The tube is retained in a bore in the body by a yarn guide which is detachably secured to the body and the bore in the tube communicates with a groove yarn path provided by the yarn guide via a bore in the yarn guide of larger diameter than the bore in the tube. The constant supply of liquid to the yarn is provided by the controlled flow of liquid along the tube whose length is at least 100 times the diameter of the bore therein. A height adjustable weir in a liquid supply tank supplies liquid to the manifold at a predetermined pressure. The yarn path has a plurality of yarn contact points to ensure complete application of liquid by the yarn.

Abstract: The size applicator includes first and second spaced-apart squeeze rolls supported for rotation on a common horizontal axis and having their lower peripheral surface portions at least partially submerged in size solution contained in an open top pan. A single combination immersion and squeeze roll is positioned between the first and second squeeze rolls and on a common horizontal azis with said first and second squeeze rolls. The lower peripheral surface of the combination immersion and squeeze roll is also at least partially submerged in the size solution and pressure engagement is applied between the combination roll and the first and second squeeze rolls to form a pair of yarn squeezing nips therebetween.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for impregnating reinforcing fibers with a thermosetting resin having a short pot life. The method comprises mixing the components of the resin and supplying the mixed resin under pressure to an enclosed chamber. The reinforcing fibers are pulled through the chamber to rapidly impregnate the fibers with resin and the coated fibers are immediately utilized in forming a molded article.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for coating elongated materials such as optical fibers wherein a shear force is developed by the elongated material moving through liquid coating material in a coating applicator of a magnitude such as to prevent the coating material from flooding the applicator.

Abstract: A die assembly is provided which is suitable for the extrusion coating of elongate cores, such as optical fibers. The die assembly comprises a nozzle having an orifice therethrough. A die tip has a through-bore and is mounted such that the through-bore is alignable with the orifice to conduct a core through the through-bore and orifice. A passage is arranged for conducting a flowable coating material into and through the orifice. A hollow guide tube is slidably mounted in the through-bore and is sized to receive the core. The guide tube is positionable such that the forward end thereof is movable relative to the nozzle orifice.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying a primer paint coating onto a pipe wherein a structure movable along the pipe forms an enclosed annular cavity about the pipe. Primer paint fills the cavity and wets the complete circumference of the pipe. The cavity is filled by means of gravity flow with the surplus primer being collected in a reservoir and pumped back to the top of the cavity. Means are provided to wipe the primer to a predetermined thickness and returns the surplus to the reservoir. A gas rich environment surrounds the paint filled cavity and wiper means.

Abstract: Apparatus and a process for coating continuous lengths of filaments are described. The apparatus includes a tubular vessel for applying a fluid coating to a plurality of traveling filaments which are then separated and passed through drying and curing zones in separate and appropriate ovens. The method of the invention, carried out in the apparatus of the invention, is particularly useful to apply special coatings to continuous lengths of hollow fibers to prepare composite hollow fibers useful as separatory membranes.

Abstract: A hollow impregnation ring for coating fibers with a binder, the ring having a slot thru which the binder flows onto the fibers. The pressure of said binder within said ring controlling a seal and the flow of said binder from said slot.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for filling multi-conductor cables, particularly a telecommunication cable with several insulated wires surrounded by a covering and a sheath, with a mixture of powders which expand with the absorption of moisture. The conductors are fed in spaced relation into the entrance of a casing having an interior, frusto-conical wall which decreases in diameter from its entrance to its exit. The exit is small in diameter compared to the entrance so that the conductors converge as they pass from the entrance to the exit. Intermediate the entrance and the exit, the conductors are subjected to the powders which are caused to follow a helicoidal course by a screw which directs them toward the exit. Due to the shape of the casing wall, the powders are forced toward the conductors.

Abstract: A method is disclosed in which an insulating film of an oxide of metal, of which a stranded conductor (30) is made, is formed on the surface of all strands in a stranded conductor, while the stranded conductor is held in the stranded form. In a step of oxidation-treating the strands of an electric cable the pressure of an oxidation treatment solution at the outer portion of the stranded conductor immersed therein is made higher than the pressure in the inner portion of the stranded conductor (30), causing the oxidation treatment solution (48) to be adequately penetrated from the outer portion into the inner portion of the stranded conductor to permit a desired oxide film to be formed on the surface of all the strands in the stranded conductor.

Abstract: A method for wiping coated wire or strip which emerges vertically from a bath of molten metal, wherein the coated wire or strip, passes vertically through a pad wiping zone located above and spaced apart from the bath of molten metal. A pad wiping assembly is provided above the bath of molten metal and is adjustable by adjustment means from a position exterior the bath of molten metal.The pad wiping assembly includes pad wiping material in the form of compressed non-combustible material and strip or wire wiping pads are replaceable.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating textile cord on a continuous basis where the cord is sequentially treated by application of aqueous solution passed through a squeeze roll station, passed through a pull roll station and then to a drying operation. The applied liquid is additionally removed from the cord by specially positioned and designed elastomeric squeeges located in the squeeze roll area and the pull roll area.

Abstract: A liquid receptacle in the form of a chamber has a slit in one section thereof, the elongated sides of the slit being parallel straight lines. The chamber communicates through another section thereof with means for the supply thereto of a liquid treating composition at a controlled rate. Guide means configures a traveling multi-filament textile yarn in a close-packed monofilamentary layer and directs the so-configured traveling textile yarn under a desired tension and at a right angle over the slit and in contact with the chamber at a point downstream of the slit and in proximity thereto. The minimum length of the slit is equal to the total width of the traveling textile yarn when configured in a close-packed monofilamentary layer; and the width of the slit is between about 0.001 and 0.01 inches.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling metal coatings on wire, strip, mesh or the like, emerging substantially vertically from metal baths, comprising an electromagnetic device adapted for situation at or below the point of emergence of the wire, strip, mesh or the like from the molten bath, said electromagnetic device providing an alternating electromagnetic field generated by single phase alternating electric current, and the positioning being such that the point of emergence is always within the electromagnetic field.

Abstract: A system for preparing a composite crimped filament (2) using a nipping type false-twisting apparatus (7) which has two endless intercrossing belts (13), (16) whose working surfaces are urged against each other in their intercrossing region (17) to nip the filament yarns (2) therebetween. A liquid is applied to the yarns (2) upstream of the false twister (7) to reduce friction and heat.

Abstract: The conductors of a cable core unit are powder filled by passing the core unit through a fluidized bed of powder with the conductors substantially closed together. The filled cable core unit can be wrapped with tape after exit from the fluidized bed. Cable cores may be filled also by passing them through a fluidized bed. The core units of the cores may be closed together or separated, but the conductors of each unit are closed together.

Abstract: For powder filling of cables, in a fluidized powder bed, it has been proposed to pass the cable core through the bed in a substantially closed condition. There is a limit to the number of conductors a core can have for effective filling. In the present invention the cable core is opened up into a number of core units by passing through an opening member. The opening member is freely ridable on the cable core and has a hole for each unit. The opener is held against a support member and an air bearing formed between the two members. Air is also usually fed to the holes in the opener member through which the core units pass to prevent flow of powder out from the bed. The opening member can be positioned in the fluidized bed or outside immediately prior to passage of the cable core through the bed. The units are each in a substantially closed condition in the bed and the units close to a single core also in the bed.

Abstract: In application of metered finish to a high speed running yarn, a vent is provided in the finish passageway just prior to the exit.

Abstract: For powder filling of cables, in a fluidized powder bed, it has been proposed to pass the cable core through the bed in a substantially closed condition. There is a limit to the number of conductors a core can have for effective filling. In the present invention the cable core is opened up into a number of core units by passing through an opening member. The opening member is freely ridable on the cable core and has a hole for each unit. The opener is held against a support member and an air bearing formed between the two members. Air is also usually fed to the holes in the opener member through which the core units pass to prevent flow of powder out from the bed. The opening member can be positioned in the fluidized bed or outside immediately prior to passage of the cable core through the bed. The units are each in a substantially closed condition in the bed and the units close to a single core also in the bed.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for supplying a liquid to an advancing strand comprising: a frame; first actuator means associated with said frame; a first element mounted on said frame, said first element having a port adapted to supply said liquid to said strand; a member mounted on said first element; a second element fastened to said member, said second element being spaced from said first element, said second element having a port adapted to supply said liquid to said strand; a third element journaled at said member, said third element being spaced from said first element and said second element; and second actuator means associated with said first actuator means, said second actuator means being fastened to said third element, said first actuator means and said second actuator means being adapted to move said strand such that said strand does not contact said liquid supplied at said port of said first element when said member is in a first position, said second element being positioned such that said strand does