Abstract: An all-in-one external counterpulsation apparatus and method for minimizing end diastolic pressure that includes an internally housed fluid distribution assembly interconnecting a plurality of inflatable devices adapted to be received about the lower extremities of a patient and an internally housed compressed fluid source to be distributed by the fluid distribution assembly to the inflatable devices. The apparatus includes a curvilinear table with apertures adapted to provide communication between the inflatable devices and the fluid source.

Abstract: A method of controlling an external counterpulsation apparatus includes selecting a patient treatment pressure; outputting a signal corresponding to the selected treatment pressure; detecting a pressure of a compressed fluid reservoir; comparing the selected treatment pressure to the compressed fluid reservoir pressure; and controlling a pressure regulator valve based on a difference between the patient treatment pressure and the compressed fluid reservoir pressure. The compressed fluid reservoir pressure may be decreased when the compressed fluid reservoir pressure is greater than a preset difference from the patient treatment pressure, particularly by venting the compressed fluid reservoir to atmosphere. The compressed fluid reservoir pressure may be necessary when the compressed fluid reservoir pressure is less than a preset difference from the patient treatment pressure, particularly by operating a compressor.

Abstract: A combination hole punching and reinforcing device for punching holes in sheets of paper and other sheet materials applies flat reinforcement rings about holes formed in those sheets concurrently as the holes are formed. The device employs a die punch, which is preferably configured as a disposable item that is detachable from the lower end of the punching ram. The die punch is configured with a punching tip at its lower extremity and a shank that is preferably narrower than the punching tip. A plurality of reinforcement rings are stacked one atop each other and are carried upon a shoulder formed at the demarcation between the die punch tip and the die punch shank. A transverse pressure plate located atop the shank applies pressure to sequentially affix the lowermost reinforcement ring in the stack to a sheet of paper concurrently with the formation of an aperture through that sheet.

Abstract: A compact disc storage and retrieval system is arranged to selectively push forward a single, selected compact disc from within a plurality of compact disc storage slots located within a case. Each compact disc storage slot is provided with a spring loaded push rod which, when actuated, pushes a selected compact disc or compact disc case partially out of an ejection opening. Each push rod passes through an aperture in a longitudinal partition extending the length of the compact disc filer case. A coil spring is disposed about the push rod between the partition and the compact disc or compact disc case. Each push rod is provided with an annular detent channel about its outer circumference. In the normal position in which each compact disc is stored, the coil spring is compressed and a solenoid associated therewith has a latching fork that engages the detent channel in the push rod to hold it in the retracted position with the push rod spring depressed.

Abstract: A compact disc storage and retrieval system is arranged to selectively push forward a single, selected compact disc from within a plurality of compact disc storage slots located within a case. Each compact disc storage slot is provided with a spring loaded push rod which, when actuated, pushes a selected compact disc or compact disc case partially out of an ejection opening. Each push rod passes through an aperture in a longitudinal partition extending the length of the compact disc filer case. A coil spring is disposed about the push rod between the partition and the compact disc or compact disc case. Each push rod is provided with an annular detent channel about its outer circumference. In the normal position in which each compact disc is stored, the coil spring is compressed and a solenoid associated therewith has a latching fork that engages the detent channel in the push rod to hold it in the retracted position with the push rod spring depressed.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved BiCMOS device and a method of fabricating such a BiCMOS device which requires fewer process steps than known fabrication methods. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of forming an interpoly capacitor in a BiCMOS device which maintains the thickness of the interpoly dielectric in the capacitor while a window is etched for the emitter in a bipolar transistor. The method includes the use of a thin polysilicon layer overlying the oxide layer, which protects the oxide from etching while the emitter window is etched.

Abstract: Polymeric sheets having on one or both sides a fabric texture and a network of elongated channels in the interior of the structural framework of the sheet. In one embodiment, the sheets comprise a plurality of interbonded continuous polymeric ribs extending in a direction parallel to the plane of the sheet. The ribs impart a fabric texture to both sides of the sheet and define between them recessed portions on each surface of the sheet. The elongated channels extend throughout the ribs. The open area between the ribs can vary from zero to 60%. In another embodiment, the sheets have an ultra-thin, pinhole-free silicone rubber membrane on one side and a fabric texture on the other side. The sheets are useful as burn coverings where they serve as synthetic temporary replacements for damaged or missing skin.