Abstract: A load isolation device, or suspension assembly of a vehicle, including a damping air spring and a pneumatic control system. The damping air spring is operatively connected to a structure to be isolated and extends from a base operatively connected to or operatively disposed on a source of vibration. The pneumatic control system includes a height control valve connected to the damping air spring and is capable of being actuated between a first operating state and a second operating state. The height control valve enables the damping air spring to maintain the structure at a primary height in the first operating state and at a secondary height different from the primary height in the second operating state.

Abstract: A vehicle tire inflation system includes an air supply that is connected to a vehicle tire by a pneumatic conduit. A pump that is independent of and pneumatically parallel to the vehicle air supply includes an inlet and an outlet. The pump inlet receives air from atmosphere, the pump compresses the air, and the pump outlet is fluidly connected to the pneumatic conduit. When the air pressure in the pneumatic conduit drops below a predetermined level, compressed air from the pump is introduced into the pneumatic conduit, thus increasing the air pressure in the conduit to increase the air pressure that is available to the tire. A reservoir tank, which is also independent of the vehicle air supply, may be in fluid communication with the pump outlet and the pneumatic conduit. The invention also includes a parallel pump that captures air to increase the pressure in the vehicle air supply.

Abstract: A ball and socket joint prosthesis for use in arthroplasty is provided. The prosthesis includes a body for implantation at least partially within the medullary canal of a long bone. The long bone defines trabeculae in the proximal cancellous bone and lamellae in the cortical bone. The body includes a proximal portion thereof and a distal portion. The proximal portion has a medial periphery and includes surface features on a substantial portion of its proximal portion. The surface features are positioned to optimally transfer load from the prosthesis to the long bone.