Abstract: A method for predicting performance of a future product is disclosed. The method includes generating historical data for at least one product and generating a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for the at least one product. The method also includes determining a relationship between an FMEA indicator of the FMEA generated for the at least one product and the historical data for the at least one product. The method further includes generating an FMEA for the future product and applying the determined relationship to the FMEA indicator from the FMEA generated for the future product to predict performance for the future product.

Abstract: A method for predicting performance of a future product is disclosed. The method includes generating historical data for at least one product and generating a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for the at least one product. The method also includes determining a relationship between an FMEA indicator of the FMEA generated for the at least one product and the historical data for the at least one product. The method further includes generating an. FMEA for the future product and applying the determined relationship to the FMEA indicator from the FMEA generated for the future product to predict performance for the future product.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and kits for reducing a microbial population on a surface are provided. The microbial populations which can be treated using the methods, compositions, and kits of the present invention include prokaryotic, viral, and protozoan populations. The methods, compositions, and kits of the present invention have a number of uses in the fields of food production and medicine.

Abstract: A retrofittable valve monitor provides an input to an electrical circuit to indicate a fully closed position of a ball valve. A magnetically permeable object attached to the ball valve lever handle actuates a magnetic reed switch in a proximity sensor when the ball valve is moved to the fully closed position. A bracket which fits between the ball valve body and the ball valve lever handle is held in place by the ball valve locking nut so the proximity sensor is held in proper alignment to be actuated by the magnetically permeable object. The actuated reed switch provides an input to a switched electrical circuit.

Abstract: A retrofittable valve monitor provides an input to an electrical circuit to indicate a fully closed position of a ball valve. A magnetically permeable object attached to the ball valve lever handle actuates a magnetic reed switch in a proximity sensor when the ball valve is moved to the fully closed position. A bracket which fits between the ball valve body and the ball valve lever handle is held in place by the ball valve locking nut so the proximity sensor is held in proper alignment to be actuated by the magnetically permeable object. The actuated reed switch provides an input to a switched electrical circuit.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and kits for reducing a microbial population on a surface are provided. The microbial populations which can be treated using the methods, compositions, and kits of the present invention include prokaryotic, viral, and protozoan populations. The methods, compositions, and kits of the present invention have a number of uses in the fields of food production and medicine.

Abstract: A traction position indicator for a feeding tube catheter provides a permanent magnet and a sensor, both in the distal end portion of the catheter, wherein the sensor is responsive to the presence of a magnetic field of predetermined strength supplied by an external magnet. The external magnet forms a magnetic coupling with the catheter magnet to permit manipulation of the catheter in response to movement of the external magnet. The sensor responds to the magnetic field of the external magnet, but only when the external magnet and the catheter magnet are magnetically coupled sufficiently to create a traction force so that the catheter distal end portion can be manipulated by movement of the external magnet.Apparatus for creating a magnetic guidance path for a remote device includes a follower magnet and a sensor, both of which are attached to the remote device, and a leader magnet.

Abstract: A ratchet device which comprises a rotatable driving member, a rotatable driven member, first and second ratchet means through which the driving member rotates the driven member when the driving member is rotated in respective first and second directions, and means which automatically permits to-and-fro movement of the driving member to enable the driven member to be turned in one direction by alternate strokes of said driving member.

Abstract: A valve actuated in response to a drop in fuel pressure across a fuel supply valve that will drain the fuel from a fuel line but not leak when exposed to high fuel pressures during normal operation. The dump valve is particularly applicable to the draining of fuel from a gas turbine engine fuel nozzle line after shutoff of the engine fuel supply valve.