Abstract: There is disclosed a method of estimating a precursor shape (44, 45) for a part (2) suitable for manufacture via a process selected from a plurality of manufacturing processes. The method includes: generating a convergence line (20) within the confines of a final part shape (1); providing an array (18) of spaced-apart forming shape points (19) around the final part shape (1); converging said points (19) towards the convergence line (20) using a force-energy-balance technique via a movement algorithm; and applying a smoothing algorithm to the converged points (19) to create an estimated precursor shape (44, 45). The algorithms include coefficients specific to a predetermined one of said manufacturing processes.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of estimating a precursor shape (44, 45) for a part (2) suitable for manufacture via a process selected from a plurality of manufacturing processes. The method includes: generating a convergence line (20) within the confines of a final part shape (1); providing an array (18) of spaced-apart forming shape points (19) around the final part shape (1); converging said points (19) towards the convergence line (20) using a force-energy-balance technique via a movement algorithm; and applying a smoothing algorithm to the converged points (19) to create an estimated precursor shape (44, 45). The algorithms include coefficients specific to a predetermined one of said manufacturing processes.

Abstract: Systems and methods for regulating, for example, the temperature of high temperature superconducting (HTSC) thin film filters used in connection with a Stirling cycle cryocooler. The system employs a digital signal processor-based control system. The system includes a cryocooler drive control loop for controlling the cryocooler drive in response to a measured cryocooler driving current and a cryocooler driving current set point. The system also includes a temperature control loop for generating the cryocooler driving current set point in response to either a cooldown profile algorithm or a comparison between a measured temperature and a set point temperature stored in DSP memory.

Abstract: An insulator for wire terminals for covering connectors at the ends of temporarily detached live electric wires includes an upper housing and a lower housing hingedly attached at one end. Each housing is structured to include a cavity and a semi-circular recess leading from the respective cavity to a side of the respective housing opposite the hinge. The insulator further includes a tab like grip for facilitating manipulation of the insulator and adhesive pads for holding the housings together.

Abstract: A self-contained, electronic message-emitting device in the form of a talking business card for providing a recorded message. The talking business card includes a card holding member having a base member and opposite side wall members thereon which form a first receiving channel on one side and a second receiving channel on the opposite side for slidably receiving therein the opposite sides of the business card. The base member includes a compartment for receiving an electronic message emitting assembly. The electronic message emitting assembly includes an electronic voice microchip for recording a message, a record button to initiate and activate the voice microchip to record a given message and/or sound, a play back button to play back the given message and/or sound for audio listening by the user, and a power source component for energizing the voice microchip. The business card holding member may be made of plastic or metal.