Abstract: A method for obtaining a baseline for detecting rotating stall using localized information already included within the frequency spectrum. Namely, ratiometric measures, i.e., quadratic coefficients obtained from weighted quadratic regression of sub-synchronous spectrum and/or information obtained through peak detections, are used to detect rotating stall. These ratiometric measures are configured to isolate changes caused by rotating stall from those caused by other operational conditions. As a result, new baseline information can be established to more reliably characterize a system, such as a system with associated turbines or compressors. Empirical or statistical approaches can be combined to automate the process of obtaining a new baseline and to detect rotating stall.

Abstract: An improved wheel rim is provided that has a varying cross-sectional profile in the axial direction, the radial direction, or both that is not limited to any specific cross-section shape, number of repeating patterns, construction material or style, with the cross-sectional profile optionally varying either uniformly or non-uniformly.

Abstract: A method for obtaining a baseline for detecting rotating stall using localized information already included within the frequency spectrum. Namely, ratiometric measures, i.e., quadratic coefficients obtained from weighted quadratic regression of sub-synchronous spectrum and/or information obtained through peak detections, are used to detect rotating stall. These ratiometric measures are configured to isolate changes caused by rotating stall from those caused by other operational conditions. As a result, new baseline information can be established to more reliably characterize a system, such as a system with associated turbines or compressors. Empirical or statistical approaches can be combined to automate the process of obtaining a new baseline and to detect rotating stall.

Abstract: The flossing of teeth for users wearing braces is facilitated by a device having a handle attached to side supporting elements and a central tip element where a piece of dental floss is attached to the side supporting elements. The side supporting elements and a central tip element are attached to the handle with a strand of dental floss rigidly connected to the side supporting elements and passing through the central tip element. The central tip element is thin enough to enter the space between the tooth and the brace wire. The user may position the central tip element into the space between a tooth and the brace wire such that one of the side supporting elements is positioned in the mouth and the user may then move the handle in an up and down motion in order to floss between the teeth.

Abstract: An artificial seedbed used in growing vegetation. The artificial seedbed comprises a base layer formed of a biodegradable product having a porosity and wet density that permit a root of the desired vegetation to penetrate the base layer and establish the vegetation for growing. The artificial seedbed also comprises an intermediate layer comprising a plurality of seeds for use in growing the desired vegetation. A cover layer cooperates with the base layer to form an envelope about the intermediate layer. The cover layer can be coextensive with the base layer and secured to the base layer by a bonding agent. The cover layer is formed of the same or different biodegradable product as the base layer. The material used in the cover layer permits the sprouting vegetation to penetrate it during the growing process.

Abstract: An artificial seedbed used in growing vegetation. The artificial seedbed comprises a base layer formed of a biodegradable product having a porosity and wet density that permit a root of the desired vegetation to penetrate the base layer and establish the vegetation for growing. The artificial seedbed also comprises an intermediate layer comprising a plurality of seeds for use in growing the desired vegetation. A cover layer cooperates with the base layer to form an envelope about the intermediate layer. The cover layer can be coextensive with the base layer and secured to the base layer by a bonding agent. The cover layer is formed of the same or different biodegradable product as the base layer. The material used in the cover layer permits the sprouting vegetation to penetrate it during the growing process.