Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for delivering a work part to an assembly line worker using a dolly assembly in a first configuration and retrieving the work part from the dolly assembly by the assembly line work while the dolly assembly is in a second configuration. According to some embodiments, a dolly assembly is provided comprising a base assembly having a support member and a mobility mechanism, the support member positioned obliquely with respect to a horizontal plane. The dolly assembly also includes a part-carrying member rotationally connected to the support member and having a part-holding structure for receiving a work part. The part-carrying member extends downward at an angle below the horizontal plane when in a first configuration, and extends upward from at an angle above the horizontal plane when in a second configuration.

Abstract: A surgical instrument, has an end effector that includes an ultrasonic blade, and a clamp arm that moves relative to the ultrasonic blade from an opened position toward an intermediate position and a closed position. The clamp arm is offset from the ultrasonic blade to define a predetermined gap in the intermediate position between the opened position and the closed position. A clamp arm actuator connects to the clamp arm and moves from an opened configuration to a closed configuration to direct the clamp arm from the opened position toward the intermediate position and the closed position. A spacer connects with the clamp arm to inhibit movement of the clamp arm from the intermediate position toward the closed position for maintaining the predetermined gap between the clamp arm and the ultrasonic blade.

Abstract: Flat, rectangular composite insulation comprising two dissimilar insulating materials on a separate flexible backing material is described. At least one of the two dissimilar materials is rigid. V-grooves are formed in the dissimilar materials extending from the surface of the insulation opposite of the flexible backing up to, but not through the flexible backing. The V-grooving permits the rigid composite insulation to be fitted to a curved surface such as a pipe.

Abstract: A module of the type used in insulating the wall of a high-temperature furnace comprising a planar face, a hub joined and extending rearwardly from substantially the mid-point of the surface opposite the planar face, and a plurality of radial members extending outwardly from the hub is described. Preferably the entire module is integral. The module can be used in combination with an attachment which fits over the hub for attaching the module to a furnace wall. Blanketing material can be used with the module to vary the heat-insulating characteristics of the module. The module, which is easily attached to a furnace wall, can be cut along any of its edges without varying the heat-insulating characteristics of the module, permitting the installation of the modules on a furnace wall without substantial pre-engineering.