Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Liatris spicata (L.) Willd. named ‘BCLT-08.001’ originated as an open controlled cross of Liatris spicata (L.) Willd. ‘Cobalt’. The present variety is similar to its parents in that it is a relatively compact plant with strong stems. It differs from its parents in that its lower leaves are resistant to blackening and are so wavy that they can be corkscrew in form. It has bright inflorescences that are resistant to drooping, and good commercial characteristics.

Abstract: An electric field sensor may be used to detect accumulation of frozen material. In one embodiment, an e-field system includes a first electrode, a second electrode located at a distance from the first electrode, the second electrode forming a capacitive element with the first electrode, wherein a gap is present between the first and second electrodes, and an electric field sensor having an electrode terminal coupled to the first electrode and providing an electric field output value representative of an amount of frozen material located in the gap between the first and second electrodes. The system may also include a first insulator adjacent the first electrode and outside the gap, and a conductive layer adjacent the first insulator, where the first insulator is between the first electrode and the conductive layer, and where a shield output of the electric field sensor is coupled to the conductive layer.

Abstract: A method and system for determining and controlling air/fuel ratio during engine cold start operation relies on applying a monotonically decreasing fuel pulse width modulation to the engine and synchronously measuring the effect of the modulation on related engine event periods. This effect is utilized in estimating air/fuel ratio, which is then compared to the desired air/fuel ratio. The difference between the estimated air/fuel ratio and the desired air/fuel ratio is used in controlling the air/fuel ratio to the desired air/fuel ratio.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Liatris spicata (L.) Willd. named ‘BCLT-08.001’ originated as an open controlled cross of Liatris spicata (L.) Willd. ‘Cobalt’. The present variety is similar to its parents in that it is a relatively compact plant with strong stems. It differs from its parents in that its lower leaves are resistant to blackening and are so wavy that they can be corkscrew in form. It has bright inflorescences that are resistant to drooping, and good commercial characteristics.