Abstract: A method for starting a fast light-off catalytic reformer for producing hydrogen-rich reformate fuel from hydrocarbon fuel and air, the reformer having means for receiving flows of fuel and air, a reforming catalyst for reforming the fuel and air mixture, and an ignition device. A control system selects fuel and air flow rates to form a lean fuel/air mixture and operates the ignition device to ignite the lean mixture to produce hot exhaust gases that flow over and heat the reforming catalyst for a first length of time. Fuel flow is then stopped temporarily for a second length of time, and further ignition is terminated. Fuel flow is then restarted and adjusted to provide a rich fuel/air mixture which is directed to the heated catalyst for reforming into reformate fuel. Air flow may also be adjusted in setting the lean and/or rich fuel/air mixtures.

Abstract: A medical instrument including a tubular extension within which and to which two movable end effectors, such as jaw members, are rotatably attached by a pivot. The proximal end of each end effector is pivotally attached to and butts against a drive surface of its respective arm of a dual action drive member also located within the tubular extension. As the dual action drive member is moved proximally or distally within the tubular extension, the distal ends of the end effectors rotate or counter rotate about the pivot in opposition to one another. The dual action drive member paired arms have end surfaces which transfer, to the end effectors, the force required to rotate the end effectors toward one another, thereby reducing the shear force applied to pivot posts on the arms used to open the jaws. The dual action drive member may be used with a variety of different end effector devices including but not limited to medical grippers, hole punches, dissectors, extractors, scissors, and clamps.