Abstract: A method of animating a virtual object within a virtual world, wherein the virtual object comprises a plurality of object parts, wherein for a first object part there is one or more associated second object parts, the method comprising: at an animation update step: specifying a target frame in the virtual world; and applying control to the first object part, wherein the control is arranged such that the application of the control in isolation to the first object part would cause a movement of the first object part in the virtual world that reduces a difference between a control frame and the target frame, the control frame being a frame at a specified position and orientation in the virtual world relative to the first object part, wherein applying control to the first object part comprises moving the one or more second object parts within the virtual world to compensate for the movement of the first object part in the virtual world caused by applying the control to the first object part.

Abstract: A device for supporting a patient during a radiological imaging procedure is disclosed. The device includes a base, a support member pivotally coupled to the base and configured to receive a portion of the patient undergoing the radiological imaging procedure and an adjustment device comprising an inflatable bladder. The inflatable bladder has a first portion acting on the base and a second portion acting on the support member. An inflatable state of the adjustment device is controllable to selectively adjust an angular positioning of the support member relative to the base.

Abstract: A new and useful wireline extensometer is provided that uses a tensioned cable extending between a supply spool and an anchor (e.g. of a type connected to a slope mass), measures movement of the cable to reflect movement of the anchor (e.g. due to movement of the slope mass), and includes a magnetic brake configured to provide a predetermined constant non-frictional braking force on the supply spool. The preferred wireline extensometer is designed to (i) minimize the risk of the extensometer reporting data that suggest slope movement where the slope mass has not moved to an undesirable extent, (ii) measure slope movement at relatively slow rates as well as rapid rates, and to (iii) measure slope mass movements continuously, and in a manner that can be efficiently and effectively communicated to responsible personnel.

Abstract: A disposable electrode comprising an annulus of foam, a substantially uniform electrode gel in a central region of the annulus, a conductive layer in the electrode gel and making electrical contact with it, and a cap over the conductive layer, electrode gel and annulus of foam. The electrode is made in a plastic tray by placing said annulus in a recess in the tray, placing the conductive layer on the annulus, pouring hot electrode gel into the center region of the annulus, covering the gel with the cap and covering the tray with a sheet whcih is heat sealed to the tray with the electrode inside.

Abstract: A disposable electrode comprising an annulus of foam, a substantially uniform electrode gel in a central region of the annulus, a conductive layer in the electrode gel and making electrical contact with it, and a cap over the conductive layer, electrode gel and annulus of foam. The electrode is made in a plastic tray by placing said annulus in a recess in the tray, placing the conductive layer on the annulus, pouring hot electrode gel into the center region of the annulus, covering the gel with the cap and covering the tray with a sheet which is heat sealed to the tray with the electrode inside.