Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) automatic vehicle identification (AVI) system configured to mitigate signal interference, the system comprising a plurality of RFID readers, comprising a first RFID reader and a second RFID reader; and a plurality of antennas, wherein a first antenna is connected to the first RFID reader and a second antenna is connected to the second RFID reader. Prior to the first RFID reader transmitting a signal through the first antenna, the first RFID reader samples a received radio frequency (RF) signal from the first antenna, and if the received RF signal meets predetermined strength and frequency criteria, the first RFID reader inhibits transmission of the signal through the first antenna.

Abstract: A method for establishing a surgical port for endoscopic or arthroscopic surgery is disclosed. A trocar is initially provided, and the obturator of the trocar includes a flat cutting blade, a shield that moves proximally and distally from a precock position to an extended position, a precock lever to move the shield proximally to expose the flat cutting blade, and a shield retaining assembly to constrain the shield in the proximal position. "Precocking" the trocar of the present invention moves the shield from the distal position wherein the flat blade is covered, to a proximal position wherein the flat blade is exposed, and the shield is constrained by the shield retaining assembly. Once the flat cutting blade is exposed, the skin of the patient is incised with the flat cutting blade of the obturator. The flat blade of the trocar is inserted into the incision and a penetrating force is applied so that the flat blade penetrates into the internal body cavity of the patient.