Abstract: Connectors permits acoustic and digital stethoscope transmissions. Connectors include first and second pieces for the stethoscope chest piece and earpiece channels. The first piece has a moveable inner element with openings and includes a channel in line with the chest piece channel to provide an acoustic mode of functioning. The openings are collinear with the inner element channel and the extruded channels. The extruded channels and inner element channel may be arrayed in a line and have diameters that successively decrease. A transducer inside the inner element blocks sound from the first extruded channel, and a second transducer is inside the inner element on the other side of one of the openings. For an electronic mode of functioning, the first transducer is in line with the chest piece extruded channel and the second transducer is in line with the earpiece extruded channel. A switch may switch between the modes.

Abstract: Connectors permits acoustic and digital stethoscope transmissions. Connectors include first and second pieces for the stethoscope chest piece and earpiece channels. The first piece has a moveable inner element with openings and includes a channel in line with the chest piece channel to provide an acoustic mode of functioning. The openings are collinear with the inner element channel and the extruded channels. The extruded channels and inner element channel may be arrayed in a line and have diameters that successively decrease. A transducer inside the inner element blocks sound from the first extruded channel, and a second transducer is inside the inner element on the other side of one of the openings. For an electronic mode of functioning, the first transducer is in line with the chest piece extruded channel and the second transducer is in line with the earpiece extruded channel. A switch may switch between the modes.

Abstract: Methods and computer-based systems analyze designs for casting parts from molds. An input including that defines a part to be cast is received, including a mold design for the part and/or a set of graphical triangles that visually represent the part. Based on the received design, an undercut region and associated parting line location are determined. The orientation or directionality of the part for the casting may further be determined. Hotspots in the design are further identified. Based on these identified features, feeder dimensions and position are determined for the part to be cast. Directional solidification areas are further identified, and the identified characteristics are output or used to determine improved casting parameter. The part may then be poured into a casting using a mold with the determined characteristics.