Abstract: A method of operating a surgical instrument includes clamping tissue with a surgical instrument end effector and actuating the end effector to drive staples into the clamped tissue, including a first longitudinal row having at least one first formed staple with a first formed shape in which the first legs are aligned laterally with each other and with the first crown; a second longitudinal row having at least one second formed staple with a second formed shape in which each second leg is skewed laterally away from the second crown at a first angle; and a third longitudinal row of third formed staples having at least one third formed staple with a third formed shape in which each third leg is skewed laterally away from the third crown at a second angle.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring and replenishing an inventory of goods includes a first inventory area and a first movable structure having a first optical code associated with the first distinct inventory area. The first movable structure is placed in a replenishment signaling area after a supply of goods in the inventory area has been depleted. Boundary optical codes are disposed near a boundary of the replenishment signaling area. A camera generates periodic images of the replenishment signaling area and the boundary optical codes. A computer processor detects the boundary optical codes in the images and determines a boundary line of the replenishment signaling area based thereon. The processor determines a spatial relationship between the first optical code and the boundary line in the images and generates a replenishment notification based on the spatial relationship. The replenishment notification indicates that the supply of the first type of goods needs to be replenished.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring and replenishing an inventory of goods includes a first inventory area and a first movable structure having a first optical code associated with the first distinct inventory area. The first movable structure is placed in a replenishment signaling area after a supply of goods in the inventory area is depleted. Boundary optical codes are disposed near a boundary of the replenishment signaling area. A camera generates periodic images of the replenishment signaling area and the boundary optical codes. A computer processor detects the boundary optical codes in the images and determines a boundary line of the replenishment signaling area based thereon. The processor determines a spatial relationship between the first optical code and the boundary line in the images and generates a replenishment notification based on the spatial relationship. The replenishment notification indicates that the supply of the first type of goods needs to be replenished.

Abstract: The sampler includes two refractory body sections with two metal plates extending between and interconnecting the sections into a rigid unit. Said metal plates define two walls of a sampling chamber. Refractory surfaces define the remaining walls of said chamber. A first thermocouple is provided in the chamber for sensing the liquidus temperature as the sample cools and a second thermocouple senses bath temperature.