Abstract: A translucent composite material that can be used in various airplane interior applications that allows sufficient light transmissivity while preferably meeting Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flammability requirements for overhead materials in the cabin of a commercial aircraft. The material also meets FAA standards regarding vertical burn, smoke emissions tests, and toxic fume emissions tests. The composite material is formed by laminating long glass fibers and (PPSU) into a composite sheet under controlled heat and pressure. The composite sheet is then cut, bent or thermoformed to form the desired part. The parts formed are available for a wide variety of uses within the passenger cabin of a commercial aircraft. The long glass fibers may be unidirectional or weaved into a glass cloth like material. While preferably formed for airplane interior applications, these components may also be used in other aerospace or non-aerospace applications.

Abstract: A piezoelectric valve actuation system for an internal combustion engine includes a piezoelectric driver in the form of a pre-stressed wafer or strip including a layer of piezoceramic material such as lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The driver has a central portion which includes an aperture for direct engagement with a valve stem so that the valve is moved between open and closed positions directly by the piezoelectric driver. The piezoelectric driver can have end portions which attach to the engine cylinder head proximate the valve location. The piezoelectric actuator is driven by an electronic control module (ECM) providing electrical signals to control valve operation based various engine parameters along with user input.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine having a vacuum release mechanism that includes a centrifugally actuated member movably attached to the camshaft and having a vacuum release cam extending therefrom. The vacuum release cam is in lifting engagement with the exhaust valve assembly at crankshaft cranking speeds during a portion of the power stroke to relieve vacuum forces opposing motion of the piston. The vacuum release cam centrifugally pivots out of engagement with the exhaust valve assembly in response to the crankshaft attaining running speeds.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine having a vacuum release mechanism that includes a centrifugally actuated member movably attached to the camshaft and having a vacuum release cam extending therefrom. The vacuum release cam is in lifting engagement with the exhaust valve assembly at crankshaft cranking speeds during a portion of the power stroke to relieve vacuum forces opposing motion of the piston. The vacuum release cam centrifugally pivots out of engagement with the exhaust valve assembly in response to the crankshaft attaining running speeds.

Abstract: A shock insulated container for a disk drive features a plastic enclosure having a top hingedely secured to a bottom. The enclosure is formed of anti-static materials. A foam liner is provided to surround the hard drive. The drive and liner are encapsulated in the container, which is secured, using press fit projections. The package may then be mounted to a commercial type video game machine.