Abstract: A method and system suitable for managing the power consumption of a handheld measurement system that combines a handheld computer, measurement sled, and sensors is provided. The handheld computer performs timing operations for sensor warm up and also shutting down the sensor power during a period of user inactivity after no measurements are being acquired. Additionally, the sled's firmware, implements simple sensor power on and off commands in response to the user.

Abstract: An interface that provides minimum changes in contact pressure over a thermal range is disclosed. The interface is a mated joint of given material, typically metallic, joined by a mechanical fastener or fasteners. The fastener(s) create contact pressure at the joint surface wherein the contact pressure variation over a temperature range is minimized by the use of a thermal compensator having a predetermined length. The thermal compensator's length is chosen by setting the thermally induced expansion delta to offset an equal delta created by the fastener and interface configuration. The difference in expansion of the mated joint and fastener is canceled by the equal, but negative, difference between compensator and fastener. This cancellation of expansion minimizes the change in contact pressure at the joint interface. Maintaining a constant pressure provides PIM reliability during temperature changes.

Abstract: An interface that provides minimum changes in contact pressure over a thermal range is disclosed. The interface is a mated joint of given material, typically metallic, joined by a mechanical fastener or fasteners. The fastener(s) create contact pressure at the joint surface wherein the contact pressure variation over a temperature range is minimized by the use of a thermal compensator having a predetermined length. The thermal compensator's length is chosen by setting the thermally induced expansion delta to offset an equal delta created by the fastener and interface configuration. The difference in expansion of the mated joint and fastener is canceled by the equal, but negative, difference between compensator and fastener. This cancellation of expansion minimizes the change in contact pressure at the joint interface. Maintaining a constant pressure provides PIM reliability during temperature changes.

Abstract: An interface that provides minimum changes in contact pressure over a thermal range is disclosed. The interface is a mated joint of given material, typically metallic, joined by a mechanical fastener or fasteners. The fastener(s) create contact pressure at the joint surface wherein the contact pressure variation over a temperature range is minimized by the use of a thermal compensator having a predetermined length. The thermal compensator's length is chosen by setting the thermally induced expansion delta to offset an equal delta created by the fastener and interface configuration. The difference in expansion of the mated joint and fastener is canceled by the equal, but negative, difference between compensator and fastener. This cancellation of expansion minimizes the change in contact pressure at the joint interface. Maintaining a constant pressure provides PIM reliability during temperature changes.

Abstract: A floating poker pad is provided that may be used on both land and water. The poker pad has a base member that has an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface of the floating poker pad has a slightly slopped central inner playing area for poker or card play and defines one or more water drainage scuppers for keeping the central inner playing area free from water build-up. Additionally, the floating poker pad has upper openings for receiving beverages and poker playing chips and defines a central opening throughout the base member for receiving an umbrella pole when placed on a patio table for use as a poker table on land.

Abstract: A lighting device for use in combination with a nail clipper and cutting pliers is disclosed. The lighting device comprises a casing defining an angular front wall having an electric power source, a switch and a light-emitting element all integrally assembled and electrically connected within the casing. A radiation surface is mounted within the angular front wall for transmitting illumination light emitted from the light-emitting element wherein means for removably attaching the casing to either the nail clipper or cutting pliers are provided whereby the angle defined by the front wall positions the illumination light emitted from the light-emitting element for illuminating a blood vein or nerve through the animals nail such that the user does not strike or nick the blood vein or nerve during a cutting operation.