Abstract: A method and system are provided for controlling the energization of at least one glow plug in an internal combustion engine wherein a solid state drive circuit, including a semiconductor switch, is utilized for applying an energizing current to the at least one glow plug from a voltage source based on a control signal to electrically heat the at least one glow plug. The control signal is preferably a 50 Hz switched ground duty cycle signal from an electronic control module (ECM). Based on the duty cycle input, the drive circuit for each of the glow plugs supplies current from a main feed bus. A glow plug current monitoring circuit is provided for each of the glow plugs to detect whenever an open or short circuit condition appears in any of the glow plugs. The semiconductor device preferable is a current sensing type of MOSFET called a SENSEFET. Each SENSEFET internally monitors individual current draw of its respective glow plug to verify its proper operation.

Abstract: A flexible guide wire for use in the placement of a surgical instrument or the like within a human or animal body includes an elongated shaft with a coil spring mounted on its distal end, the shaft being tapered at its distal end to enhance its flexibility, and the shaft having a stepped down portion near its distal end defining a reduced diameter portion for the shaft which is less than the inner diameter of the coil spring to facilitate attachment of the coil spring thereto while providing a smooth transition between the shaft and the coil spring at their junction point.

Abstract: A localization needle assembly includes an outer tubular cannula and an inner needle slidably mounted for movement within the outer cannula between extended and retracted portions, the needle having a pointed tip which projects from the front end of the assembly when the needle is extended while the surgeon locates a lesion. When the tip is retracted, a barb, which is secured to the needle, is deployed through an opening in the sidewall of the outer cannula when the needle is retracted, the barb anchoring the needle assembly in body tissue in the proximity of the lesion. Detachable handles are provided for locking the inner needle and outer cannula together and to facilitate extension and retraction of the needle. In one embodiment, the outer cannula has a helical screw tip for securing the needle assembly to a body organ or body tissue.