Abstract: A calibration system for a continuous blood pressure monitoring system using a tonometric sensor for continuously detecting a pulse wave comprises a digital cuff adapted to be placed around a digit of the patient for applying a calibration pressure to the digit; a pressure source coupled to the digital cuff for supplying the calibration pressure; a calibration sensor for measuring an actual blood pressure in the digit; and a microprocessor for determining a calibration factor for the tonometric sensor based on the actual blood pressure measured by the calibration system. The digital cuff is located on the patient such that the cuff is downstream of the artery over which the tonometer sensor is located. According to one aspect of the invention, a digital cuff pressure sensor is connected to the pressure source for determining the magnitude of the calibration pressure and a pulsatile component indicative of blood pressure in the digit.

Abstract: A shock absorber system was designed to absorb the energy imparted to doors in a nuclear reactor ice condenser compartment as they swing rapidly to an open position. Each shock absorber which is installed on a wall adjacent each door is large and must absorb up to about 40,000 foot pounds of energy. The basic shock absorber component comprises foam enclosed in a synthetic fabric bag having a volume about twice the foam volume. A stainless steel knitted mesh bag of the same volume as the fabric bag, contains the fabric bag and its enclosed foam. To protect the foam and bags during construction activities at the reactor site and from the shearing action of the doors, a protective sheet metal cover is installed over the shock absorber ends and the surface to be contacted by the moving door.