Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the throttle position of a vehicle by modifying the pedal to throttle progression typically used by the electronic throttle controller to a throttle progression based on the driver's target acceleration and vehicle speed. Target acceleration is determined using a lookup table with inputs current vehicle speed and accelerator pedal displacement. Another lookup determines the end vehicle speed the driver will attain if the pedal displacement does not change. A signal indicating the new throttle position is the output of a controller whose input is the difference between end vehicle speed and current vehicle speed and whose gain is based on the target acceleration. Changes in throttle position can be limited based on an arbitration incorporating information received from other vehicle control systems. Preferably, control of the throttle will revert to the idle control system whenever the accelerator pedal is not displaced.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the throttle position of a vehicle by modifying the pedal to throttle progression typically used by the electronic throttle controller to a throttle progression based on the driver's target acceleration and vehicle speed. Target acceleration is determined using a lookup table with inputs current vehicle speed and accelerator pedal displacement. Another lookup determines the end vehicle speed the driver will attain if the pedal displacement does not change. A signal indicating the new throttle position is the output of a controller whose input is the difference between end vehicle speed and current vehicle speed and whose gain is based on the target acceleration. Changes in throttle position can be limited based on an arbitration incorporating information received from other vehicle control systems. Preferably, control of the throttle will revert to the idle control system whenever the accelerator pedal is not displaced.

Abstract: Blister formation in extrusion molded, non-asbestos friction elements such as clutch facings containing substantially non-porous fibers is substantially eliminated by the inclusion in the extrusible plastic mix of which the friction elements are made of a small amount of diatomite having a particle size including agglomerates such that at least 10 percent by weight thereof is maintained on a 325 mesh screen.

Abstract: A stream of water or a water-methanol mixture is injected into the induction passage of a spark ignition internal combustion engine, and a probe disposed in the induction passage is contacted by the stream to sense when the density of the engine charge can be increased, the air-fuel ratio of the engine charge can be leaned and the timing of ignition of the engine charge can be advanced beyond normal operating ranges.

Abstract: Endodontic filling systems are provided having improved properties over those known to the prior art. Endodontic points are provided comprising hydrophilic, polymeric compositions. Such points are swellable when placed into a prepared root canal space and provide substantially complete filling of lateral cavity spaces without invasion of the subapicial space. According to a preferred embodiment, such points are used in conjunction with pastes or fluids comprising hydrophilic, polymeric compositions.