Abstract: A surgical instrument, has an end effector that includes an ultrasonic blade, and a clamp arm that moves relative to the ultrasonic blade from an opened position toward an intermediate position and a closed position. The clamp arm is offset from the ultrasonic blade to define a predetermined gap in the intermediate position between the opened position and the closed position. A clamp arm actuator connects to the clamp arm and moves from an opened configuration to a closed configuration to direct the clamp arm from the opened position toward the intermediate position and the closed position. A spacer connects with the clamp arm to inhibit movement of the clamp arm from the intermediate position toward the closed position for maintaining the predetermined gap between the clamp arm and the ultrasonic blade.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel method and modular assembly for producing a staircase. The modular staircase allows one with little to no skill to quickly and easily order and install a modular staircase at reasonable cost with no specialized technical skill necessary.

Abstract: A locking piston drive system and valve assembly is provided for shutdown of a nuclear reactor. "Chatter" in a check valve assembly which occurs during charging and/or re-charging of control fluid within a control line is eliminated by providing a valve head and a resisting portion defined on the valve head to resist movement of the valve head when it is urged from sealing engagement on its seat during the charging or re-charging procedure.

Abstract: A locking piston drive system and valve assembly is provided for shutdown of a nuclear reactor. "Chatter" in a check valve assembly which occurs during charging and/or re-charging of control fluid within a control line is eliminated by providing a valve head and a resisting portion defined on the valve head to resist movement of the valve, head when it is urged from sealing engagement on its seat during the charging or re-charging procedure.

Abstract: The invention relates to a press felt which is in the shape of an endless belt and which has opposed side edges. The lateral direction of the belt extends between the side edges, and the longitudinal direction extends perpendicular to the lateral direction. The felt comprises an open-mesh base fabric woven of a plurality of synthetic filaments extending in both the lateral and longitudinal directions, and at least one batt of staple fibers needled thereto. In accordance with the invention, at least some of the filaments extending in the lateral direction are monofilaments having a flattened cross-section, the long axis of the flattened cross-section lying in a plane parallel to the plane of the fabric.