Abstract: A reactor includes a shell having an input port configured to receive a reaction mixture and an output port configured to discharge a reaction product and a plug within the shell, the sintered plug having a first catalyst configured to transform the reaction mixture into the reaction product, the plug having pores of at least 0.01 micrometers (?m) diameter. A conduit includes a first and second lumen, the first lumen configured to carry a first fluid in a first direction and the second lumen configured to carry a second fluid in a second direction, the first lumen helically twisted relative to the second lumen, and the first lumen configured to conductively transfer thermal energy to the second lumen. A system includes a reactor with a sintered plug and a heat exchanger including a first and a second lumen helically intertwined about an axis.

Abstract: Inflatable devices principally for vehicle occupant protection are addressed. Included among the devices are curtains or other cushions (18) with braided portions (42) along their lower edges (30) designed to form semi-rigid members when deployed. Unlike commercially-available vehicle curtains, inflation occurs from the bottom (where the semi-rigid member is formed) upward. The devices additionally optionally may include inflatable nodes (46) within the curtains (18) or otherwise extending from the cushions.

Abstract: Inflatable devices principally for vehicle occupant protection are addressed. Included among the devices are curtains or other cushions (18) with braided portions (42) along their lower edges (30) designed to form semi-rigid members when deployed. Unlike commercially-available vehicle curtains, inflation occurs from the bottom (where the semi-rigid member is formed) upward. The devices additionally optionally may include inflatable nodes (46) within the curtains (18) or otherwise extending from the cushions.

Abstract: Inflatable restraints or protective systems are addressed. Included among the restraints and systems are inflatable, braided cushions designed to enhance available protection for the torsos of vehicle occupants, particular when a vehicle is subject to a side-impact collision. The (typically unvented) cushions effectively create their own structure and transfer occupant energy from less tolerant to more tolerant areas of the occupants' bodies.

Abstract: An optical device is provided which includes a plurality of optical modules and an alignment compensation module. Each optical module includes an optical component fixedly coupled to a relative reference mount. The relative reference mount is configured to attach to a substrate. A plurality of optical modules mount on the substrate to form the optical device. The alignment compensation module removes residual alignment errors of the optical device.

Abstract: Inflatable devices principally for vehicle occupant protection are addressed. Included among the devices are curtains or other cushions with braided portions along their lower edges designed to form semi-rigid members when deployed. Unlike commercially-available vehicle curtains, inflation occurs from the bottom (where the semi-rigid member is formed) upward. The devices additionally optionally may include inflatable nodes within the curtains or otherwise extending from the cushions.

Abstract: A dynamically deployed device (“DDD”) assembly comprising a DDD, an anchor, and a mechanical stop, a vehicle member, a tether, or any other device that stops the rotation of the anchor. The anchor can be pivotally fastened to and stowed inside a vehicle structure member, with a DDD cord fastened to the end of the DDD anchor opposite the pivot attachment point. Upon deployment, the inflating DDD pulls the DDD cord tight. The DDD cord in turn pulls the anchor down such that the anchor rotates around its pivot attachment point and comes to rest against the stop, member, tether, or other similar device that stops the rotation. In this secured, locked position, the anchor provides a DDD attachment point offset from the vehicle structure member to which the anchor is fastened. Embodiments of the anchor include a link or cam.

Abstract: The present invention is a tubular structure which inflates upon side or oblique vehicle impact to protect the occupants of a vehicle such as an automobile. The structure is mounted in its undeployed state along the periphery of the vehicle's side pillars and roof rail. The primary component of the present invention is a braided tube linked to a gas generator. When a side impact is detected, the gas generator is ignited, inflating the braided tube. As the braided tube inflates, the diameter of the tube increases and its length decreases. The tube then pulls out of its storage location and forms a taut, semi-rigid structural member across the vehicle's side window.

Abstract: The present invention is a tubular structure which inflates upon side or oblique impact to protect the occupants of a vehicle such as an automobile. The structure is mounted in its undeployed state along the periphery of the vehicle's window. The primary component of the present invention is a braided tube containing a gas generator. When a side impact is detected, the gas generator is ignited, inflating the braided tube. As the braided tube inflates, the diameter of the tube increases and its length decreases. The tube then pulls out of its storage location and forms a taut, semi-rigid structural member across the vehicle's window.