Abstract: Methods, apparatus, kits and systems are presented for determining the intraoperative position of at least a first anatomic location of a surgical patient and optionally for measuring the distance between at least first and second anatomic locations of a surgical patient.

Abstract: A system and method for facilitating measurement of environmental conditions such as might be used in emergencies or other situational awareness applications. The method includes dispersing several networked nodes in a region, the nodes being coupled to one or more sensors, and then employing the one or more sensors to sense one or more environmental conditions and providing sensed data in response thereto. In a more specific embodiment, the region exhibits a fire, and the method further includes utilizing the sensed data to predict fire conditions, such as fire movement and temperature. A controller may be employed to selectively adjust power to one or more sensors based on predetermined priorities associated with sensed data output from the one or more sensors.

Abstract: A torsional vibration dampener assembly having resilient means to provide a variable torque output in conjunction with variable damping friction torque. The assembly utilizes a first set of torsion springs to provide a low deflection or displacement rate for a first stage of travel between the input and output members and a second set of springs providing an increased deflection rate for a second stage of travel, and a cooperating cam construction which can be arranged to provide an increase or decrease in damping friction as required in relation to the transmitted torque.

Abstract: A vibration damper for use in a lock-up clutch for a hydraulic torque converter, wherein the clutch provides a direct drive between the engine and transmission of a vehicle in high gear. The vibration damper is designed to be located in a limited space and yet provide relatively large springs for a requisite high torque capacity. The damper is provided with a hub, a driven plate and spring retainer or drive plates; the plates having alternating mounting flanges or legs to be secured to a clutch plate in a common plane and reduce the total thickness of the assembly.