Abstract: A planar insertion device and supporting structure for a planar insertion device for treating a synchrotron radiation beam includes a primary frame on which at least two secondary C-frames are mounted. An upper and a lower girders are mounted on the secondary C-frames forming a gap between girders and arranged substantially horizontally and parallel to each other and to the synchrotron radiation beam. Magnetic arrays rigidly mounted on the girders are facing each other and facing the gap between girders, with the synchrotron radiation beam passing between the magnetic arrays through the gap. The planar insertion device supporting structure prevents detrimental deformation reactions to variations of magnetic loadings with changes in the gap and subsequent geometrical misalignments.

Abstract: The invention provides a sensor for monitoring an environmental parameter in concrete comprising an enclosure for embedding in concrete; a detecting means connected to the enclosure for detecting at least one environmental parameter in concrete, the detecting means comprising at least one capacitive element for measuring capacitive change; an active material connected to the enclosure, the active material being liable to respond to the environmental parameter and the active material being operably connected to the capacitive element; a RFID chip mounted within the enclosure, the RFID chip being operably connected to the detecting means; and an antenna operably connected to the RFID chip, the antenna being operably connected to the detecting means, and the antenna being part of an L-R-C circuit whose resonance frequency shifts within an assigned frequency band. The invention also provides a MEMS-based capacitor that responds to an environmental parameter in concrete.

Abstract: A Natural Language Product Comparison Guide Synthesizer that lets developers easily create web-based comparison guides for a given type of product. Each comparison guide will solicit users' product requirements, let them compare different products, and recommend one or more products based on their preferences. The guide uses automatically generated natural language to facilitate the comparison of products, and to convey and explain its recommendations.

Abstract: An undersea logging device has a pressure sensor and at least one environmental parameter sensor. The data measured by the sensors is logged and is wirelessly transmitted when a preset value of pressure is detected by the pressure sensor.

Abstract: In the present invention, the impedance between patient's body and the jet injection drug delivery device is measured through the liquid jet during the drug delivery process. The liquid jet completes the electrical circuit formed by impedance monitor, drug delivery device, and the patient's body. When the jet pierces stratum corneum, the impedance in the circuit immediately decreases, thus an indicating the successful drug delivery. The impedance monitor then provides a signal, visible, audible, or electronic, indicating that the process of the drug delivery through skin was successful.

Abstract: The present invention applies the fundamental electrochemical NEMCA effect (Non-Faradaic Electrochemical Modification of Catalytic Activity), to the treatment of the automotive exhaust. A solid electrolyte layer is sandwiched between a conductive catalyst layer and the underlying metal honeycomb multichannel supporting structure forming the exhaust treatment device. Electric current is applied between the catalyst layer and the metallic structure resulting in an increase of catalytic activity of the catalyst. The exhaust stream is passing through the multichannel honeycomb structure and is catalytically treated with increased efficiency.

Abstract: A conductive, corrosion-resistant coating includes a mixture of corrosion-resistant binder and highly conductive corrosion-resistant particles. The size of the particles is equal to or greater than the final thickness of the coating. After the coating is applied and cured, the surface of the coating is machined to remove the top surface layer of the binder as well as the top parts of the particles embedded in the binder, thus opening multiple direct conductive paths to the underlying substrate through the conductive particles.

Abstract: The invention provides a humidity control system (HCS) to control indoor humidity within a specified range so as to reduce indoor house-dust mite allergen levels. The invention also provides a hydrogel absorber/desorber for reversibly absorbing water vapor from air releasing water vapor to air. The invention employs a reversible hydrogel desiccant as the active element for absorption and desorption of water, thus rendering the HCS more effective and energy-efficient than traditional humidification/dehumidification systems. The HCS of the invention treats indoor air by drawing fresh air in from outside and adjusting the humidity of the air-stream. In certain embodiments, fresh air is drawn in from the outside and mixed with recirculated air. The HCS uses a controller to introduce fresh air into the interior space and to control air circulation within it. Relative humidity is monitored remotely throughout the interior space using wired or wireless sensors.

Abstract: A winch assembly is disclosed that eliminates rope crushing, even when synthetic ropes are used. Tension is applied to the rope by at least one traction sheave so that the tension at the drum is reduced. By using multiple sheaves with large wrap angles traction can be applied to the rope over a much larger area, reducing shear stress and minimizing internal wear due to relative motion of rope components. The winch drum and at least one traction sheave are driven independently, preferably by AC induction motors using frequency control. The winch assembly may operate in conjunction with a hydraulic tensioner so that lower horsepower motors can be used to maintain constant tension in moving systems.