Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for selectively inhibiting a stop-start controller of a vehicle based on a predicted anxiety of a driver of the vehicle on a road segment that includes one or more road attributes associated with increased levels of anxiety. In one example, selectively inhibiting a stop-start controller of a vehicle based on a predicted anxiety of a driver of the vehicle includes determining a driver classification for a driver operating the vehicle; predicting an anxiety level of the driver at an upcoming traffic condition, based on the driver classification; and selectively inhibiting an upcoming engine idle-stop event based on the predicted anxiety level of the driver.

Abstract: A computer includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to determine a predicted classification related to a road segment; upon a vehicle including the computer traveling over the road segment, determine an actual classification related to the road segment; in response to the actual classification failing to match the predicted classification, transmit a notification to a server remote from the vehicle; and upon receiving an instruction responsive to the notification, transmit vehicle data related to the road segment to the server.

Abstract: A computer includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to generate an operation parameter histogram for each of a plurality of vehicle operation parameters, operate a test vehicle according to the operation parameter histograms, input each operation parameter histogram and a plurality of test vehicle environment data to a machine learning program, output from the machine learning program a classification for each operation parameter histogram from the machine learning program, input the classifications to a predictive damage model of a three-dimensional schematic of a vehicle component, and adjust one of a size or a shape of the three-dimensional schematic based the output of the predictive damage model. The operation parameter histograms are based on collected data about operation of a plurality of vehicles. Each operation parameter histogram includes an array of elements.

Abstract: Vehicle environment data about operation of a plurality of vehicles and vehicle component data for a vehicle component is input into a machine learning program to obtain a transfer function that correlates vehicle environment data to vehicle component data within a specified range of vehicle component parameters. A first event is identified by determining that a datum in the vehicle component data is outside the specified range. A predictive damage model of a vehicle component is updated based on the first event. A virtual parameter of a component model is adjusted based on output from the predictive damage model.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for selectively inhibiting a stop-start controller of a vehicle based on a predicted anxiety of a driver of the vehicle on a road segment that includes one or more road attributes associated with increased levels of anxiety. In one example, selectively inhibiting a stop-start controller of a vehicle based on a predicted anxiety of a driver of the vehicle includes determining a driver classification for a driver operating the vehicle; predicting an anxiety level of the driver at an upcoming traffic condition, based on the driver classification; and selectively inhibiting an upcoming engine idle-stop event based on the predicted anxiety level of the driver.

Abstract: A computer includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to generate an operation parameter histogram for each of a plurality of vehicle operation parameters, operate a test vehicle according to the operation parameter histograms, input each operation parameter histogram and a plurality of test vehicle environment data to a machine learning program, output from the machine learning program a classification for each operation parameter histogram from the machine learning program, input the classifications to a predictive damage model of a three-dimensional schematic of a vehicle component, and adjust one of a size or a shape of the three-dimensional schematic based the output of the predictive damage model. The operation parameter histograms are based on collected data about operation of a plurality of vehicles. Each operation parameter histogram includes an array of elements.

Abstract: A pathogen-catching bag system includes a pathogen-catching bag assembly having a bag body formed from a flexible material and including a top edge having an opening therethrough, a bottom-edge, a left-edge, a right-edge, an exterior surface, an inner surface having a pathogen neutralizing lining, an inner-volume, and a nozzle portion connected to the top edge and opening and is adapted to fit snugly around a user's nose and mouth forming an air-tight seal. The pathogen-catching bag system permits the user to keep the sneeze confined to the pathogen-catching bag assembly thereby preventing transmittal of the pathogens into ambient-air thereby lowering transmission of colds and other viruses transmitted by sneezing to public areas.

Abstract: A system for repairing a continuous loop chain includes a plurality of pairs of chain links, each link having a pair of straight, substantially parallel side bars. Each pair of chain links has an outer link having a first width between the outer link side bars, and an inner link having a second width between the inner link side bars. The second width is less than the first width such that the side bars of the inner link are adapted to fit between the side bars of the outer link. The outer links and inner links are pivotally joined to each other. A repair link having a pair of offset side bars is adapted to connect on one end to the inner link of one of the pairs of chain links and on the other end to the outer link of another one of the pairs of chain links. In this way, a defective link, or a pair of defective links, can be replaced by one or more of the repair links.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing pet food items comprising a cap and a body portion is provided. The body portion includes a first cylindrical section connected to a second cylindrical section by a transitional section. When the cap is attached to the first cylindrical section a chamber is formed inside of a combination of the cap, the first cylindrical section, the transitional section, the second cylindrical section, and the end piece, so that the only exit from the chamber is through an opening in the second cylindrical section. A plurality of pet treats or food items may be located inside of the body portion.

Abstract: In accordance with the invention, an SPE extraction apparatus is provided with a new SPE disk which eliminates radial wicking and weeping and new disk holding apparatus which minimizes the indirect flow region and minimizes the number of sample transfers required. The new SPE disk encapsulates the sorbent/fiber matrix between two porous outer layers which can be filters, united into an essentially non-porous rim around the disk perimeter. The disk holder and ring seal against this disk rim so that the active central portion of the disk is held entirely within the direct flow path. Thus weeping and indirect flow loss are virtually eliminated. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus eliminates the need to manually disassemble the apparatus while in use. Advantageously a flow control mechanism is incorporated into the disk holder to further minimize the amount of solvent needed for extraction.

Abstract: In accordance with the invention, an SPE extraction apparatus is provided with a new SPE disk which eliminates radial wicking and weeping and new disk holding apparatus which minimizes the indirect flow region and minimizes the number of sample transfers required. The new SPE disk encapsulates the sorbent/fiber matrix between two porous outer layers which can be filters, united into an essentially non-porous rim around the disk perimeter. The disk holder and ring seal against this disk rim so that the active central portion of the disk is held entirely within the direct flow path. Thus weeping and indirect flow loss are virtually eliminated. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus eliminates the need to manually disassemble the apparatus while in use. Advantageously a flow control mechanism is incorporated into the disk holder to further minimize the amount of solvent needed for extraction.

Abstract: An articulated pivoting tie-down device for securing a cargo to a vehicle comprises a retainer portion secured to a vehicle, a clevis encircled by the retainer portion, a connector having a hook/cable opening and a strap opening, and a pin interconnecting the clevis and the connector and forming a common pivotal axis therebetween. A modified embodiment comprises a pin connecting a clevis and a retainer portion and forming a common pivotal axis therebetween, a connector, and a link, having a generally elliptical cross-section, which interconnects the clevis and the connector such that the clevis and the connector are generally operably co-planar. The clevis is generally semi-elliptical with its major axis parallel to the common pivotal axis.

Abstract: A parachute deployment actuator incorporating an aneroid with a relatively long strike results in a significant diminution in the degree of precision with which the associated parts have to be made. A spring is provided externally of the aneroid in such relationship as to augment the natural spring force tending to expand the aneroid, such spring operating not only to keep the aneroid off its internal stop at sea level but also to cause the overall system to have a desired spring rate. A variable lever system inter-relates a preprinted scale and associated altitude cam with the aneroid in such relationship that the parachute actuator will release the chute very near a pre-set altitude.

Abstract: A parachute release apparatus having a spring powered release mechanism for coupling to the ripcord of the parachute, with a latch retaining a spring powered piston of the release mechanism against the force of the spring. A spring powered timing mechanism is locked out above a preestablished altitude by an aneroid assembly, but operative thereafter. A manually settable interlock coacts with a catch arm to set the spring of the timing mechanism upon winding, with an arming cable assembly actuating the interlock to a release position upon separation of the parachute wearing aviator from the seat or the aircraft. The timing mechanism includes a timing disc viewable through a window only when the release mechanism has been set and when the timing mechanism has been wound.

Abstract: A fly-fishing reel has a rotatable spool provided with a click gear engaged by a pivoted pawl which can apply resistance to rotation of the spool in opposite directions by independently adjustable spring means. A pair of exteriorly exposed adjustment knobs are each provided with an eccentric pin extending into the reel housing to slide a plate which carries a pretensioned spring engaged with one of the opposite radial sides of the pawl. By rotating the knobs, the slides move linearly to vary the contact point of the springs with the pawl and thereby regulate the moment arm of the force resisting rotation of the pawl and thus the click gear and spool to which is engaged. Since the adjustments are independent, the resistances to rotation of the spool may be varied as to degree and to which direction of rotation they apply. The slides mount the springs in a manner to limit the degree to which the springs may follow movements of the pawls.

Abstract: A breathing valve for the selective entry of a gas to be inhaled and for the exit of exhaled gas, which utilizes a rolling diaphragm and flapper valves for its workings which are quiet and are constructed so as to be unlikely to freeze up or become sticky.

Abstract: A vacuum pump is connected through a vacuum line to the milking apparatus, and a pressure regulator is employed to admit into the line the amount of ambient air necessary to maintain line pressure constant within narrow limits. The pressure regulator comprises a rolling-sleeve air valve to control the admission of ambient air, and which is itself controlled by a bias spring and an opposed diaphragm. One side of the diaphragm is subjected to pressure generally equal to line pressure, whereas the other side is subjected to the pressure of air within a dome. Means are provided to admit into the dome sufficient air to maintain dome pressure constant. Means are also provided to bleed air through the diaphragm, thus maintaining substantially constant the pressure drop thereacross. The air valve is constructed with a deflecting skirt which prevents false sensing of line pressure.

Abstract: A compact aneroid actuated explosive initiator for releasing a parachute upon descent to a predetermined altitude includes a firing pin releasably restrained by a rotatable sear that is urged toward release position. Cocking is achieved by compressing a driving spring without moving the firing pin, but concomitantly releasing a first restraint upon release of the sear. A second restraint upon release of the sear is provided by trigger levers under control of an aneroid barometer whereby the sear can be released and the firing pin driven by the firing spring only after cocking has been accomplished and a selected barometric condition exists.

Abstract: A mechanical self-timing valve is connected between a source of sanitizing solution and a milking machine to sanitize the milking machine between each milking operation. Initiation of the valve cycle is accomplished by pressing a button-type plunger to admit pressurized fluid to a cylinder and drive the piston and valve poppet to a flush position. Return of the poppet and piston to a drain position is resisted by pressurized fluid in the cylinder which is permited to bleed through a long, large diameter helical bleed conduit that winds around the plunger. In flush position, a sanitizing solution is directed through the valve, through a flexible milking line and through the claw and teat cups of the milking machine. In drain position, flow of sanitizing solution is blocked and the disconnected milking machine is gravity drained of remaining sanitizing solution, partly through the disconnected teat cups and partly through a valve drain port.