Abstract: The method includes receiving parameters input by a user and calculating crack behavior estimations based on the received parameters by using a plurality of accessible crack behavior models. The crack behavior estimations calculated from each of the models are displayed to the user in order to illustrate how the different models compare in calculating a desired crack behavior profile. The displayed crack behavior estimations utilize a compilation of both historical crack growth rate data, as well as predicted crack growth rate data, and may be displayed as an estimated crack growth rate versus time, or as estimated crack growth over time. These parameters are displayed graphically for each crack behavior model in order to enable the user to make a comparison for each crack growth model.

Abstract: A sample taking apparatus comprises a plurality of separation tools (10) (for example, punching capillaries) on a holding device (20), wherein the separation tools (10) are each provided with actuating means (30) for separate control thereof. In a sample taking method (for example, for punching samples from separation gels), successively removed samples are deposited in parallel onto a target substrate.

Abstract: Plant parameters and performance of an industrial plant such as a boiling water nuclear reactor plant can be assessed over a global network. Plant parameter and performance data are compiled from a plurality of operating plants, and this data is stored in a categorized historical database. Users are provided access to the historical database over the global network to perform self-assessments and generate comparison graphics showing percentile ranking, trending, etc. Data generated at a particular plant can be downloaded to a server site for more detailed engineering analyses using conventional methods. Reports and commentary on the analyses can be returned to the user via the global network.

Abstract: A method of monitoring process parameters and process effectiveness over a global network enables multiple processing sites to utilize globally compiled field data to determine process parameters and the like. Application parameters are received from multiple processing sites over the global network, and post-application data is received from the multiple processing sites at preset time intervals. The application parameters and the post-application data are analyzed to determine analytical models for future application parameters, which are accessible by system users via the global network.

Abstract: The method includes receiving parameters input by a user and calculating crack behavior estimations based on the received parameters by using a plurality of accessible crack behavior models. The crack behavior estimations calculated from each of the models are displayed to the user in order to illustrate how the different models compare in calculating a desired crack behavior profile. The displayed crack behavior estimations utilize a compilation of both historical crack growth rate data, as well as predicted crack growth rate data, and may be displayed as an estimated crack growth rate versus time, or as estimated crack growth over time. These parameters are displayed graphically for each crack behavior model in order to enable the user to make a comparison for each crack growth model.

Abstract: Plant parameters and performance of an industrial plant such as a boiling water nuclear reactor plant can be assessed over a global network. Plant parameter and performance data are compiled from a plurality of operating plants, and this data is stored in a categorized historical database. Users are provided access to the historical database over the global network to perform self-assessments and generate comparison graphics showing percentile ranking, trending, etc. Data generated at a particular plant can be downloaded to a server site for more detailed engineering analyses using conventional methods. Reports and commentary on the analyses can be returned to the user via the global network.

Abstract: A method of predicting component crack behavior in a nuclear reactor provides access to a crack growth behavior model over a global network. A user inputs water chemistry and material characteristics of a particular nuclear reactor and can perform crack growth rate predictions by accessing the behavior model over the computer network. A crack growth prediction profile or crack growth based result is output over the network according to an analysis by the behavior model.

Abstract: A device for machining workpieces of wood or plastic has at least one spindle having a spindle axis and being moveable transverse to the spindle axis relative to a reference plane. A machining tool having cutting edges is provided. The machining tool is seated on the spindle. At least one measuring device is provided for correctly positioning the cutting edges relative to the reference plane. Correct positioning is achieved by moving the spindle in a direction transverse to the spindle axis and detecting by the measuring device a preset position of the cutting edges of the machining tool relative to the reference plane and generating a switch-off signal when the cutting edges of the matching tool are in the preset position.

Abstract: An electromagnetically actuatable fuel-injection valve for injection systems of internal combustion engines has a valve housing, a soft-iron core which is located within the valve housing and bears a fixed solenoid winding, and a valve closure plate which forms an armature and coaxially faces said core forming an air gap with it. This plate can be urged by a compression spring against an annular seat 10 which surrounds an outlet, and whose radially circumferential edge is guided in axial movement along a guide which correspondingly surrounds said edge. The valve closure plate has a coaxially protruding plug which extends through or into the outlet.

Abstract: An electromagnetically actuatable fuel-injection valve for injection systems of internal combustion engines having a valve housing, a soft-iron core which is arranged within the valve housing and bears a stationary magnet windind and an armature which is coaxial to the core and faces it forming an air gap therewith. The armature forms a valve closure member. The valve has a passage bore which extends from an inlet, through the soft-iron core, to the valve closure member, within which bore a compression spring is arranged with its one end buttressed therein and its other end resting with a given initial stress against the armature. The compression spring is buttressed via an axially, plastically deformable support element in the passage bore, the resistance to deformation of the buttress element being greater than the force of the given initial stress of the compression spring.