Abstract: Apparatus and method for temperature control in a rapid thermal processing(RTP) system using an adaptive control are disclosed. The apparatus of the present invention is comprised of a controller, a nonlinear dynamic estimator, and a parameter adaptator as a whole. The parameter adaptator reflects tracking errors between desired output and actual output to vary parameters, and the nonlinear dynamic estimator enables on-line identification of the dynamic characteristics of the system using the varied parameters. The controller generates the control input on the basis of the estimated values to perform the control of the system. According to the present invention, in the temperature control of a RTP system an accurate output tracking to a reference trajectory can be achieved by on-line identification of system dynamics and adaptive control even though system model is unknown or system characteristics are time-varying.

Abstract: An article holding device for a cooler for removably positioning on a cooler for transportation items with the cooler. The article holding device for a cooler includes a top panel having a peripheral edge. A peripheral panel is attached to and extends along the peripheral edge such that a front panel, a back panel, and a pair of side panels are defined. The top panel is positionable on a cover of a cooler such that the peripheral panel generally covers walls of the cooler. A plurality of pockets is attached to the peripheral panel. Each of the pockets has an opening facing upwardly toward the top panel.

Abstract: An article holding device for a cooler for removably positioning on a cooler for transportation items with the cooler. The article holding device for a cooler includes a top panel having a peripheral edge. A peripheral panel is attached to and extends along the peripheral edge such that a front panel, a back panel, and a pair of side panels are defined. The top panel is positionable on a cover of a cooler such that the peripheral panel generally covers walls of the cooler. A plurality of pockets is attached to the peripheral panel. Each of the pockets has an opening facing upwardly toward the top panel.

Abstract: A novel, monopolar, electrosurgical instrument is provided with one active and one non-active end effector. Current is passed through a conductive portion of one effector into tissue of a patient. The active blade may be partially or totally conductive. The non-active blade may be utilized to shield current from the active electrode effector.

Abstract: A novel, bipolar, electrosurgical instrument is provided with two end effectors. Current is passed through the second end effector and through an insulated conduit to the distal tip of the first end effector. The first and second end effectors allow the current to travel along exposed conductive strips which are spaced apart cutting surfaces by a gap of preferably approximately 0.020-0.040 inches when the first and second blade supports are brought into contact with tissue. Current flows between the exposed metal strip on the first blade and the exposed metal strip on the second blade thereby effecting cauterization, preferably slightly in advance or at the point of cutting between the ceramic and metal blades. The first and second end effectors may be partially insulated to direct current between the conductive strips, and both may have gaps at their respective surfaces.

Abstract: A trocar is formed from a cannula and an interfitting obturator for penetrating body cavity walls in laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery. The obturator is provided with an improved piercing tip having a pointed blade with an improved sheath mounting and shield design. Hydrophilic coatings or components are also employed on the shield and cannula to facilitate quicker shield action covering the pointed blade and ease of entry of the cannula tube through the body cavity wall. The sheath and obturator handle and housing assembly may be fabricated as a single plastic piece.