Abstract: A system and method of tensioning a bolt across a flange assembly. A tensioning apparatus includes the bolt and an unthreaded nut connected to the shank member by an interference fit. The interference fit may be selectively relaxed by applying a fluid pressure to a groove between the nut and the bolt. A tensioner is energized by a pressure to pre-load the bolt by pulling on the bolt while pushing on the nut while the interference fit is sufficiently relaxed to allow relative movement between the nut and the bolt. The tensioner is sized to achieve the required pre-load in the bolt at the same working fluid pressure that is necessary to relax the interference fit on the stretched bolt, thus permitting a single pressure source to be used for both functions. Once the pre-load is established, the interference fit is reestablished by releasing pressure to the nut to secure the nut in position for maintaining the closure force across the flange assembly after the tensioner is removed.

Abstract: A system and method for reconfiguring an airfoil of a turbine vane segment. In at least one embodiment, the system may be used to straighten an airfoil of a turbine vane segment to remove lean, twist, or racking, or any combination thereof. The airfoil may be straightened by applying a load to an inner shroud in a direction that is generally tangential to an outer shroud of the turbine vane segment. Orifices may be cut into the airfoil suction side, inboard of the outer shroud, to facilitate the straightening process. The orifices may be sealed upon completion of the process.

Abstract: A method for reconfiguring an airfoil of a turbine vane segment. In at least one embodiment, the method may be used to straighten an airfoil of a turbine vane segment to remove lean, twist, or racking, or any combination thereof. The airfoil may be straightened by heating the airfoil to no more than 750 degrees F. while applying a load to an inner shroud in a direction that is generally tangential to an outer shroud of the turbine vane segment. The load is up to 6000 lbf. Orifices may be cut into the airfoil suction side, inboard of the outer shroud, to facilitate the straightening process. The orifices may be sealed upon completion of the process.

Abstract: Problem to be solved: Whilst partaking in an electronic questionnaire survey, responses given by any one respondent are almost always emotional in their nature due to the survey format. As a result, in summarising the respondents answers statistically, it is not possible to truly measure how satisfied the respondent is with the subject(s) the survey has been designed to address. This can lead to a misinterpretation of the actual situation, which, for surveys such as customer satisfaction surveys or employee opinion surveys can have negative consequences for a company. Solution: By structuring the system and method of an electronic questionnaire survey in accordance with a strict set of guidelines, it is possible to measure a respondent's views on any subject matter both emotionally and rationally, together with the respondent's level of conviction.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of identifying a substance suitable for use in the treatment of a leukocyte-associated inflammatory disease which modulates the activity of a polypeptide encoded by the human transient receptor potential 6 gene. The method involves combining a candidate substance with the polypeptide and measuring the effect of the candidate substance on the activity of the polypeptide.

Abstract: A system for indicating unauthorized use of a vehicle has a display (2) which when activated by an alarm actuating device flashes alternately the word "STOLEN" and the registration number of the vehicle. The alarm actuating device comprises a housing (11) for receiving a key plug (4) and including sensing regions (12) for detecting whether resiliently mounted members (6) of the key plug (4) are in contact with their respective sensing regions (12). With an incorrect key inserted into the key plug (4) one or more of the members (6) will contact its sensing region (12) and actuate the alarm.