Abstract:
A method of removing substantially all of the volatile component in a green, volatile-containing ceramic article is disclosed. The method comprises freezing the ceramic article; and then subjecting the frozen article to a vacuum for a sufficient time to freeze-dry the article. Frequently, the article is heated while being freeze-dried. Use of this method efficiently reduces the propensity for any warpage of the article. The article is often formed from a ceramic slurry in a gel-casting process. A method for fabricating a ceramic core used in investment casting is also described.
Abstract:
A sprinkler nozzle for a rotary sprinkler comprises two water flow passages extending therethrough, namely an upper passage and a parallel lower passage. The upper passage includes a straight, substantially cylindrical bore having stream straightening vanes, the upper passage watering radially outer portions of the watered pattern. The lower passage comprises a diffuser that reduces the energy of the water flowing into the lower passage by providing an expanded volume, namely a volume having a greater cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of the inlet. The water exits the diffuser through an outlet which includes a rear edge that forms an impact surface against which a portion of the boundary layer flow is directed. This impact surface is arch shaped and deflects the intercepted portion of the boundary layer flow from the top to the bottom of the lower passage. The boundary layer flow is then dumped onto a lower ramp of the outlet of the lower passage which lower ramp is downwardly inclined. The remaining water flowing through the lower passage bypasses the impact surface to exit through an upper arch of the outlet. Thus, the water exiting from the lower passage can water radially inner portions of the watered pattern while maintaining a substantially droplet form of water discharge even at medium to high water pressures.
Abstract:
In a conveyor system with a radiant heating system, convection is provided with hollow elongated tubes having small holes for providing a gentle air flow toward a workpiece to heat the workpiece with convection and radiation.
Abstract:
A stowable device for washing the underside and wheel well regions of a vehicle includes a base member joined at one end to a handle member such that the angle between the members can vary. A water jet disposed adjacent the distal end of the base member has a slit-like outlet. A length of flexible tubing couples the water jet to a trigger handle and waterjet valve located on the free end of the handle member. A source of water is coupled to the trigger handle, and passes through the flexible tubing and out the waterjet when the user presses the water jet valve. At least one non-swivelling wheel assembly is attached to the base member. The ratio between the length of the base member and the width of the wheel assembly preferably exceeds about 20:1 to promote maneuverability of the device.
Abstract:
An irrigation system for a field, wherein a circular central portion of the field is irrigated by a center pivot irrigation machine, comprising a buried primary water line which extends from a source of water to the vicinity of the field area to be irrigated. At least one, and normally several, header water lines are in fluid communication with the primary water line and extend therefrom with a three-way pulse valve being imposed in each of the header water lines. A plurality of distribution water lines are in fluid communication with each of the header water lines and extend therefrom downstream of the pulse valve. A plurality of spaced-apart, in-line pulse emitter valves are imposed in each of the water distribution lines and have a water discharge orifice associated therewith for discharging water outwardly from the water distribution line to the area immediately adjacent thereto.
Abstract:
The invention discloses a circle irrigation system providing improved chemical application control within said system by varying the height from the chemical application nozzles to the application area, spacing of the nozzles along the boom, delay switches for movement of the towers relative to turning the nozzles on and off, diaphragms providing quick cycling of the on-off of the nozzles without leakage, pressure valves for varying the nozzle pressure within a boom and means for mixing and monitoring a plurality of chemicals within water and eliminating the possibility of back flushing the chemical mixture into the water supply.
Abstract:
A gearbox for a drive line irrigation system in which the input and output shafts of the gearbox are sealed with a compressed and sintered silicon and carbide face seal. The face seal is contained within the gearbox and compressed between a gearbox end cap and a shaft bearing, obviating the need for external loading by bellows or similar spring elements.
Abstract:
Weight, particularly suited for use in irrigation systems, includes a body having a chamber with inner and outer walls. The chamber is sized and configured for receiving a fluid such as water, storing the water in use, and adding to the weight of the overall device. The unfilled weight is lightweight when empty for shipment, and relatively heavy, in use. A portion of water coming into the weight is diverted, such as when irrigating a field and the weight is connected to an irrigation line. Such diverted water fills the chamber and increases the service weight. The weight may include an outlet configured for attaching to an irrigation sprayer head. When the flow of irrigation water is stopped, the weight retains some water, maintains the desired service weight, and prevents undesired movement of the weight and associated sprinkler head.
Abstract:
A reciprocating coating system for coating objects. The reciprocating coating system includes a computer controller for controlling the motion of a coating device, and to allow configuration of system parameters. Configurable parameters include stroke length, stroke center point and stroke speed.
Abstract:
An irrigator has a single irrigation arm adapted to move in reciprocal rotational motion. In a first setting, the irrigator sprays irrigating liquid at a first orientation with respect to the arm to move the arm in a first direction. In a second setting, the irrigator sprays irrigating liquid at a second orientation with respect to the arm to effect a reversal in the rotational direction of the arm. Alternating mechanisms are provided to alter the arm between the first and second settings.