Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: The present invention provides a transformer having a positive temperature coefficient resistivity polymer element electrically coupled to either the primary or secondary winding of the transformer to provide protection against overcurrent, short circuit and thermal overheating conditions. Use of the positive temperature coefficient resistivity polymer element helps to further reduce the amount of space needed for electrical and thermal protection of the transformer while lowering manufacturing costs by eliminating the use of a fuse and fuse block. The positive temperature coefficient resistivity polymer element also provides an advantage to the end user in that the positive temperature coefficient resistivity polymer element does not require replacement, unlike prior art fuses, following an overcurrent, short circuit or thermal overheating event.

Abstract: A protected transformer system and method are disclosed. The protected transformer system uses positive temperature coefficient resistive devices. The system can comprise a transformer and a positive temperature coefficient device. The transformer has a primary and a secondary winding. The secondary winding has a housing, a first terminal, a second terminal, and an insulated covering. The positive temperature coefficient device is connected to the first terminal of the secondary winding. The positive temperature coefficient device mounted in the housing. The positive temperature coefficient device has a first and second side. The first side of the positive temperature coefficient device is mounted between 0.2 mm 0.4 mm from the secondary winding. The second side of the positive temperature coefficient device is mounted between 1 mm and 5 mm from the secondary winding. The insulated covering is between the first side of the positive temperature coefficient device and the secondary winding.

Abstract: A long burning fire starter produced by mixing diatomaceous earth particles with wood pellets; soaking the particles and pellet mix in a liquid burning agent and, if desired, a dye and fragrance; coating the soaked mix with wax; and packaging the soaked and coated mix in an airtight package.

Abstract: A racking assembly is provided for racking a circuit breaker into and out of electrical switchgear having a cell adapted to receive the circuit breaker and a cell door for enclosing the circuit breaker within the cell, the racking assembly includes a shaft having a first end adapted to be coupled to the circuit breaker and a motor coupled to a second end of the shaft for applying a rotational torque to the shaft. An anti-rotation assembly is coupled to the motor for preventing the motor from rotating when it is applying the rotational torque to the shaft.