Abstract: A thermal anemometer or mass flow meter having temperature and flow velocity sensor elements is provided in which a thin film temperature sensor is provided in the heated sensor of the fluid velocity sensor element of the system. The thin-film sensor is captured at least partially within a spacer or interface member, the spacer being received within a housing. The thermal anemometer is constructed to offer sufficient precision and accuracy in its design to be suitable for sensitive scientific and industrial applications. This goal is achieved while using cost effective parts—as in the thin film temperature sensor(s)—in connection with a construction approach minimizing or eliminating gaps or other system configuration variability.

Abstract: Volumetric flow meters, volumetric flow controllers, mass flow meters, and mass flow controllers using a transverse laminar flow assembly are described. The flow assembly may be constructed from a plurality of open and/or closed slices or layers stacked upon one another and held together in compression by through bolts or another means. Meter or flow controller accuracy may be aided by use of flow conditioning features preceding an axial bore of the transverse flow assembly including one or more of a deflector, filter and nozzle.

Abstract: Chain guides for the front sprockets of bicycles are disclosed. More particularly, the chain guides are adapted or configured for bicycles that have multiple (usually 2 or 3) sprockets/chain rings mounted to the crank assembly. The setup is provided to freely allow shifting between the gears. All of the chain guide variations presented are provided with an outer flange attached to a roller section so that these portions roll together with the chain they restrain. Additional optional features include aspects to do with roller positioning, bracket mounting, roller configuration and supplemental chain restrain means (including a stop/post member and inner roller flange.

Abstract: Starting devices are provided that are adapted to help hold the front end of a motorcycle down, especially in a “hole shot” or starting applications. The devices allow a rider to compress the suspension fork of the motorcycle down by about 3 to about 4 inches and temporarily lock the fork in a given position. Certain variations provide for selection one of a number of positions. Lock-down and automatic release are accomplished by pushing in a spring loaded lock button while the fork struts are compressed. A pin member interfaces with a stop member located on the fork to prevent decompression of the fork. Upon further compression of the fork (e.g., due to braking) the pin is released and the spring member draws the pin out of the way to allow clearance for free fork travel.

Abstract: A thermal anemometer or mass flow meter having temperature and flow velocity sensor elements is provided in which a thin film temperature sensor is provided in the heated sensor of the fluid velocity sensor element of the system. The thin-film sensor is captured at least partially within a spacer or interface member, the spacer being received within a housing. The thermal anemometer is constructed to offer sufficient precision and accuracy in its design to be suitable for sensitive scientific and industrial applications. This goal is achieved while using cost effective parts—as in the thin film temperature sensor(s)—in connection with a construction approach minimizing or eliminating gaps or other system configuration variability.

Abstract: A towing system, especially useful in wake boarding is described. Using a beam mounted to a tower and a carriage that travels over the beam, a towline attached to the carriage of one variation of the system offers a rider more air time and eliminates certain burdens created with the towline/rope. Further, more room to gain speed and set up for the wake jump, more air and natural feeling during the air time due to the elimination of rope tightening otherwise experienced. A number of other possible system variations and options in addition to the basic beam and carriage configuration are also disclosed. Preferably, the beam and carriage are configured to offer a virtual pivot point for the tow rope that is pushed forward of where the beam is mounted.

Abstract: Multi-tilt mirrors, assemblies and applications of the same, and methods of making. Micromirror devices employing a superstructure that includes a mirror supported over a hinge set above substructure. Various features described are applicable to improve manufacturability, enable further miniaturization of the elements and/or to increase relative light return. Devices can be produced utilizing the various optional features described herein to provide miniaturized, highly controllable optics solutions.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention includes a surgical device for coagulating soft tissue such as atrial tissue in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and atrial tachycardia. The surgical device can include at least one elongate member comprising conductive elements adapted to coagulate soft tissue when radiofrequency or direct current energy is transmitted to the conductive elements. Openings through said conductive elements are routed through lumens in the elongate member to a vacuum source to actively engage the soft tissue surface intended to coagulate into intimate contact with the conductive elements to facilitate the coagulation process and ensure the lesions created are consistent, contiguous, and transmural.

Abstract: Micromirror devices, especially for use in digital projection are disclosed. Other applications are contemplated as well. The devices employ a superstructure that includes a mirror supported over a hinge set above a substructure. Various improvements to the superstructure over known micromirror devices are provided. The features described are applicable to improve manufacturability, enable further miniaturization of the elements and/or to increase relative light return. Devices can be produced utilizing the various optional features described herein, possibly offering cost savings, lower power consumption, and higher resolution.

Abstract: Micromirror devices, especially for use in digital projection are disclosed. Other applications are contemplated as well. The devices employ a superstructure that includes a mirror supported over a hinge set above a substructure. Various improvements to the superstructure over known micromirror devices are provided. The features described are applicable to improve manufacturability, enable further miniaturization of the elements and/or to increase relative light return. Devices can be produced utilizing the various optional features described herein, possibly offering cost savings, lower power consumption, and higher resolution.

Abstract: A microdermabrasion device, microdermabrasion system employing the device and method of performing microdermabrasion. A device for exfoliating skin cells from an external surface of skin includes a vacuum head base defining a chamber therein and having a substantially smooth treatment tip attached and extending from an end thereof or integral therewith. The tip has at least one central opening which is open to the chamber, and is adapted to contact the skin and traverse the skin in a substantially non-abrasive manner. A vacuum access opening is provided through a side wall of the vacuum head base and adapted to connect with a source of vacuum.

Abstract: A system for laying down stripes of solution on substrate is described. The substrate preferably comprises a web of material set on a backing roller passed by a specially configured die. The die includes at least a mouth with lips extending beyond a face or body of the die. The die is adapted to avoid fluid leakage therefrom. Upper and lower portions of the die defining the mouth are preferably substantially flat and mirror images of each other. The lips are preferably placed in close proximity to the material on which the solution is to be deposited. Solution passing through the mouth of the die is directed to the webbing and deposited in a substantially constant thickness stripe or band. Often, the solution comprises a reagent-type solution. The solution coating is typically dried onto the substrate. Dried product may then be used in reagent test strop production.

Abstract: In connection with a fluidic medical diagnostic device that permits measurement of the coagulation time of blood, software, methods and associated devices for quality control are disclosed. The fluidic device preferably includes a test strip with one end having a sample port for introducing a sample and a bladder at the other end for drawing the sample to a measurement area. A channel carries sample from the sample port to an assay measurement area and first and second control measurement areas. Preferably, a stop junction, between the measurement areas and bladder, halts the sample flow for measurement. If results from measurements taken for each control fall within a predetermined zone or defined limits, the assay measurement is qualified. If not, an error is registered and the test strip is counted as unfit.

Abstract: A method for laying down stripes of solution on substrate is described. The substrate preferably comprises a web of material set on a backing roller passed by a specially configured die. The die includes at least a mouth with lips extending beyond a face or body of the die. The die is adapted to avoid fluid leakage therefrom. Upper and lower portions of the die defining the mouth are preferably substantially flat and mirror images of each other. The lips are preferably placed in close proximity to the material on which the solution is to be deposited. Solution passing through the mouth of the die is directed to the webbing and deposited in a substantially constant thickness stripe or band. Often, the solution comprises a reagent-type solution. The solution coating is typically dried onto the substrate. Dried product may then be used in reagent test strip production.

Abstract: In connection with a fluidic medical diagnostic device that permits measurement of the coagulation time of blood, software, methods and associated devices for quality control are disclosed. The fluidic device preferably includes a test strip with one end having a sample port for introducing a sample and a bladder at the other end for drawing the sample to a measurement area. A channel carries sample from the sample port to an assay measurement area and first and second control measurement areas. Preferably a stop junction, between the measurement areas and bladder, halts the sample flow for measurement. If results from measurements taken for each control fall within a predetermined zone or defined limits, the assay measurement is qualified. If not, an error is registered and the test strip is counted as unfit.

Abstract: Methods and devices for extracting thermal energy from the core body of a mammal are provided. In practicing the subject methods, a portion of the mammal, e.g. a limb or portion thereof, is placed in a sealed enclosure to produce an enclosed portion of the mammal. A surface of the enclosed portion of the mammal is then contacted with a low temperature medium under negative pressure conditions for a period of time sufficient to provide for the desired core body thermal energy extraction. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of applications, e.g. providing relief from temperature sensitive disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, and the treatment of hyperthermia, among other treatments. The subject methods and devices are particularly suited for use in enhancing the physical ability of a mammal.

Abstract: Methods and devices for electrochemically detecting a change in the viscosity of a fluid are provided. In the subject methods, a fluid sample is introduced into an electrochemical cell having oppositely spaced apart working and reference electrodes. An electric potential is applied to the cell to first achieve a steady state cell current. A decrease in the steady state cell current is then detected and related to a change in viscosity of the sample. In many embodiments, the sample is blood and the change in viscosity is related to the onset of coagulation in the blood sample, and often the PT of the blood sample. Also provided are test strips, kits thereof and meters for use in practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: Methods and devices for manipulating the thermoregulatory status of a mammal are provided. In the subject methods, thermal energy is transferred between the environment and both the thoracic/abdominal core body and head of the mammal. In general, such thermal energy transfer occurs under negative pressure conditions. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of applications.

Abstract: A pressure applicator for applying pressure to a flowable implant material, e.g., PMMA. A pressure applicator or driver includes a pair of columns which are engageable with one another, preferably by threads to generate a driving pressure. A handle is provided for the operator to grasp and steady the device as he turns the handle to apply pressure to the implantable material within the applicator. A luer-lock or other connecting device is provided for attaching the applicator to a cannula (or a connecting conduit that in turns connects with a cannula) that will deliver the implant material to the desired site. Pressures of about 1000-3000 psi may be generated by this device.

Abstract: A substantially non-compliant conduit for delivery an implant material from a high pressure applicator to an implant delivery device. Also, a high pressure, substantially non-compliant system for delivery of accurate volumes of implant material to the desired site.