Abstract: A control system is configured to monitor operation of a flow control, like a control valve. These configurations can use of continuous or real-time data to evaluate fitness or function of the device under operating conditions. This feature can alert operators to problems or issues with one or more devices, or process lines in total. These problems may, for example, indicate that a valve is incorrectly sized for actual working conditions. As a result, engineers may find that the valve is too big (or oversize) or too small (or undersize) because the design process for layout of the process line relies upon a design load that reflects a future maximum (plus some factor of safety), and not the actual working conditions that might prevail once the device is in service in the field.

Abstract: The hollow needle (1) for medical use comprises a duct (10), which usually contains an aperture (11) which is elliptic or similar to an ellipse. The edge (14) of this aperture (11) is rounded by melting in the converging part (14') when regarded from the point (1') of the hollow needle (1). The process for rounding the edge (44) by melting uses a laser (45) which is pulsated or operates continuously, in the effective range (45') of which the part (44') to be rounded of the edge (44) lies.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for introducing spinal anesthesia directly into the subarachnoid space of a patient. One apparatus and method utilizes a small gauge spinal needle for penetrating the dura; the other utilizes a small gauge catheter with an internal stylet having a non-piercing pencil point to spread apart the filaments of the dura wall. An introducer having a rounded tip is also provided for guiding and supporting the spinal needle or catheter, as force is applied thereto, to cause the same to penetrate the dura.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for introducing spinal anesthesia directly into the subarachnoid space of a patient. One apparatus and method utilizes a small gauge spinal needle for penetrating the dura; the other utilizes a small gauge catheter with an internal stylet having a non-piercing pencil point to spread apart the filaments of the dura wall. An introducer having a rounded tip is also provided for guiding and supporting the spinal needle or catheter, as force is applied thereto, to cause the same to penetrate the dura.