Abstract: A component trend monitoring system for monitoring the performance of components and comparing the performance with stored performance data to accurately trend and predict the failure of the components. The system includes computer chips attached to the various components, for receiving and storing historical and performance data about each component, and a processor for retrieving the stored data from the memory chips. The processor receives and analyzes the data against historical data for predicting failure based upon past trends within the historical data. The processor also provides a signal for impending failure of a given component.

Abstract: A component trend monitoring system for monitoring the performance of components and comparing the performance with stored performance data to accurately trend and predict the failure of the components. The system includes computer chips attached to the various components, for receiving and storing historical and performance data about each component, and a processor for retrieving the stored data from the memory chips. The processor receives and analyzes the data against historical data for predicting failure based upon past trends within the historical data. The processor also provides a signal for impending failure of a given component.

Abstract: A toy vehicle trackset includes a base supporting a vertically extending tower. A toy vehicle trackway includes a vertically rising portion supported by the tower which transitions to a vertical loop and a plurality of helically arranged downwardly spiraling track loop portions. The track loop portion form intersections with the vertically rising portion of the track. Each intersection is covered by a shroud to prevent injury to a child user in the event of collisions within a given intersection. The trackway includes a return which is coupled to a toy vehicle accelerator whereby toy vehicles repeatedly cycle through the trackway set.

Abstract: A multifunction integrated power unit (MIPU) for use aboard aircraft provides the functions both of an auxiliary power unit and of an emergency power unit while being smaller, lighter, and less expensive than the two units it replaces. Additionally, the integration of both functions in a single unit allows elimination of duplicated service devices and a further reduction in size, cost, and weight in the aircraft itself. The MIPU includes two turbine engines operable under differing conditions, an integrating gear box receiving power from the two engines selectively, and a plurality of accessory devices receiving shaft power from either of the two engines via the gear box.

Abstract: A self-contained pneumatic starting system and method for initiating starting of a gas turbine machine includes a reservoir of pressurized gas which delivers motive gas flow to an expansion type pneumatic motor directly coupled to the compressor of the gas turbine machine for initiating rotation of the compressor during start up. Upon reaching self-sustaining speeds, the compressor delivers a flow of pressurized gas to replenish the reservoir for subsequent starting operation. A pressure amplifier increases the pressure of the recharging gas being supplied to the reservoir. Embodiments for driving the pressure amplifier both hydraulically and pneumatically are disclosed.