Abstract: A surgical fastener for securing a prosthetic device to tissue includes a first leg having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first insertion tip at the distal end of the first leg, and a second leg including a distal end, a proximal end, and a second insertion tip at the distal end of the second leg. A bridge connects the proximal ends of the first and second legs for forming a closed end of the surgical fastener. The first insertion tip has a first insertion tool seating surface, and the second insertion tip has a second insertion tool seating surface. The first insertion tool seating surface is closer to the distal end of the first leg than the proximal end of the first leg, and the second insertion tool seating surface is closer to the distal end of the second leg than the proximal end of the second leg. The first and second legs extend along respective longitudinal axes, and the first and second insertion tips are skewed outwardly relative to the respective longitudinal axes.

Abstract: A means for automatic detection and selection of an optimal I/O system resource virtualization protocol. The invention is a solution for the problem of complexity and the resulting lack of optimization in I/O system resource virtualization implementations. The invention shields the user from the complexity of network analysis and allows the engaging of multiple I/O system resource virtualization protocols—as opposed to a single protocol. The invention enables automatic detection and selection of an optimal I/O system resource virtualization protocol on a per resource basis, which is a unique capability and something that has not been accomplished in the prior art. The net result is a simplified user experience and optimized performance when using virtualized I/O system resource.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a fuel injector system and method in which the timing of events in during period of fuel injection of a piezoelectric-actuated fuel injector are estimated based on sensed forces within the injector. The force sensor is positioned between a piezoelectric actuator and a hydraulic link assembly mechanically coupled with the piezoelectric actuator, and the force sensor operable to output a signal corresponding to forces between the piezoelectric actuator and the hydraulic link assembly. From information contained in the sensor output signal, timing in the injection period of at least one fueling characteristic based can be estimated to allow for adjusting fuel injector characteristics to compensate for variations affecting fuel injection, such as manufacturing tolerances, environmental conditions, and deterioration/wear.

Abstract: An adapter card adapting the ad hoc resource add/removal inherent to a host PCI or PCI Express-based system to a wireless link and wireless endpoint. The adaptation allows mobile PCI Express resources to ingress and be allocated system resources within a host's PCI system and then egress and have the allocated resources freed up for re-use/reassignment, emulating the hot plug insertion and removal of an adapter card. The invention leverages the i-PCI protocol as defined by U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/148,712, filed Apr. 21, 2008, the teachings which are incorporated by reference.

Abstract: A means for extending a PCI System of a host computer via software-centric virtualization. A Root Complex is virtualized at the host computer, and physically separated with a portion located remotely at an Endpoint, such as at a Remote Bus Adapter. One aspect of the invention avoids the need for a Host Bus Adapter. The invention utilizes 1 Gbps-10 Gbps or greater connectivity via the host's existing standard LAN adapter along with unique software to form the virtualization solution. The invention works within a host's PCI Express topology, extending the topology by adding an entire virtual I/O hierarchy via virtualization. The invention enables I/O virtualization in those implementations where a specialized host bus may not be desirable or feasible. Some examples of this may be a laptop computer, an embedded design, a cost-sensitive design, or a blade host where expansion slots are not available or accessible.

Abstract: A scraper for a coulter assembly is provided. One coulter assembly includes a scraper having an upper leading edge section positioned adjacent to a central portion of a disc blade and configured to contact the disc blade while the disc blade is substantially undeflected, and a lower leading edge section positioned adjacent to an outer portion of the disc blade and configured to contact the disc blade while the disc blade is substantially undeflected. The upper leading edge section and the lower leading edge section are configured to maintain contact with the disc blade as the outer portion of the disc blade is deflected relative to the central portion of the disc blade along a substantially arcuate path.

Abstract: A means for automatic detection and selection of an optimal network storage virtualization protocol. The invention is a solution for the problem of complexity and the resulting lack of optimization in storage virtualization implementations. The invention shields the user from the complexity of network analysis and allows the engaging of multiple storage virtualization protocols—as opposed to a single protocol. The invention enables automatic detection and selection of an optimal network storage virtualization protocol on a per resource basis, which is a unique capability and something that has not been accomplished in the prior art. The net result is a simplified user experience and optimized performance when using virtualized storage.

Abstract: Among other things, there is disclosed an orthopedic plate system for use in supporting or stabilizing long bones in pediatric patients. The plate includes a substantially planar portion for placement along a diaphysis of a long bone and a portion curved out of the plane of the planar portion for placement along at least part of a metaphysis of the long bone. Holes through the plate are provided for screws in both the curved and planar portions, which hold the plate to the long bone. The holes are substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the plane of the planar portion. Screws through the holes and into the bone are substantially parallel to an epiphyseal plate of the long bone, so that attachment of the plate to the bone does not adversely affect growth of the long bone.

Abstract: Multi-axis pivot assemblies for control sticks and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A multi-axis pivot assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology can include, for example, an input shaft, a first axis output shaft coupled to the input shaft, and a second axis output shaft coupled to the input shaft via a series of linkages and pivoting joints. The first and second axis output shafts rotated about corresponding first and second fixed bearing sets to capture a first axis output and a second axis output. The series of linkages are configured to decouple first axis movement of the input shaft from second axis movement of the input shaft such that the second axis output is substantially independent of the first axis output.

Abstract: Handheld, unmanned vehicle controllers including interchangeable function bridge modules attached to the grip handles of the controllers are described herein. Interchangeable function bridge modules can include, but are not limited to, a display screen module, a pushbutton module, and a keyboard module. An operator may quickly and easily swap modules, using different modules to perform various tasks.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and program code, and methods for monitoring the health and other conditions of the valve, are provided. An exemplary system for monitoring the condition of the gate valve includes a logic module configured to perform the operations of receiving sensor data providing an acoustic emission, vibration, and/or stream level signature and determining the level of lubricity, level of friction, level of surface degradation, and leakage rate at a gate-valve seat interface. An exemplary method for monitoring the condition of the gate valve includes receiving sensor data providing an acoustic emission, vibration, and/or stream level signature and determining the level of lubricity, level of friction, level of surface degradation, and leakage rate at a gate-valve seat interface.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for connecting a linear actuating mechanism of an actuator to a valve stem of a linearly actuated valve, are provided. An example of an apparatus can include an elongate valve stem member of a valve, an extension member of a linear actuating mechanism, a locking cap member, and a locking member insertable into the locking cap member for locking the valve stem member with the extension member through employment of the locking cap member.

Abstract: A seal assembly for use in a valve that maintains a seal during operational excursions of high temperature, such as during a fire. The seal assembly includes a eutectic material that retains an energizing element in place during normal conditions, which in turn keeps a secondary seal spaced axially away from a sealing position. During high temperature excursions, the eutectic material degrades and releases the energizing element. When released, the energizing element energizes a secondary seal that is in an annular space between a valve stem and valve housing.

Abstract: A firing system for an applicator instrument adapted to dispense surgical fasteners includes a housing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, a firing rod disposed within the elongated shaft, a firing rod release engageable with the firing rod for preventing distal movement of the firing rod during at least one stage of a firing cycle, a trigger mounted to the housing, and a firing spring having a first end connected with the firing rod and a second end adapted for being sequentially coupled and decoupled from the trigger during the firing cycle. The firing cycle includes an initial stage in which the trigger is open and decoupled from the energy storing element, and the firing spring is at least partially compressed, and a piloting stage during which the firing rod release is disengaged from the firing rod for enabling distal movement of the firing rod.

Abstract: An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, the elongated shaft having a proximal end coupled with the housing and a distal end remote therefrom, and a firing system for dispensing surgical fasteners from the distal end of the elongated shaft. The firing system includes a firing rod disposed in the elongated shaft, the firing system having a firing cycle with a first stage for advancing the firing rod toward the distal end of the elongated shaft at a first rate of speed and a second stage for advancing the firing rod toward the distal end of the elongated shaft at a second rate of speed that is greater than the first rate of speed.

Abstract: In a method of forming a cylindrical sputter target assembly, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a cylindrical backing tube; (b) providing a cylindrical sputter target, the inner diameter of which is larger than the outer diameter of the backing tube; (c) arranging the sputter target about the backing tube; and (d) bonding the sputter target to the backing tube by providing a solder layer between the backing tube and the sputter target; In accordance with the invention step (d) comprises directionally solidifying the solder layer.

Abstract: An image file format article of manufacture for a PFI.

Abstract: A PFI reader.

Abstract: A DC-DC converter includes a primary side sense circuit to detect a load current of the DC-DC converter based on reflected current from a secondary winding of the DC-DC converter to a primary winding of the DC-DC converter. A primary side diode models effects of a secondary side diode that is driven from the secondary winding of the DC-DC converter. An output correction circuit controls a switching waveform to the primary winding of the DC-DC converter based on feedback from the primary side sense circuit and the primary side diode.

Abstract: A gate valve assembly having a body, a gate, a stem, and a backseat for sealing between the stem and the body. The backseat is an annular member with a complementary surface on its inside that fits over a spherically shaped section of the stem; thus allowing the backseat to rotate and pivot with respect to the stem. An outer surface of the backseat is beveled for sealingly engaging a stem passage formed through the body. A flex member is provided that is for sealing a surface adjacent the backseat. The flex member can form a seal between the backseat member and the stem or between an annular retainer and the backseat.