Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for plasma-assisted processing multiple work pieces in a manufacturing line. In one embodiment, the method can include placing the work pieces in movable carriers, moving the carriers on a conveyor into an irradiation zone, flowing a gas into the irradiation zone, igniting the gas in the irradiation zone to form a plasma (e.g., by subjecting the gas to electromagnetic radiation in the presence of a plasma catalyst), sustaining the plasma for a period of time sufficient to at least partially plasma process at least one of the work pieces in the irradiation zone, and advancing the conveyor to move the at least one plasma-processed work piece out of the irradiation zone. Various types of plasma catalysts are also provided.

Abstract: A thermal management system for a positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system of an engine is provided. The inventive system includes a heat pipe having one end coupled to a heat source such as the cylinder head of the engine. The heat pipe is then configured to be in thermal contact with one or more components of the PCV system, such as the PCV valve or a hose. The present invention further provides a vehicle subassembly comprising a PCV valve and a heat pipe routed through the PCV valve. The subassembly may further include a hose coupled to the PCV valve.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for suppression of fluid-borne noise in hydraulic or fluid handling systems, such as automotive power steering, power brakes, air conditioning and fuel systems wherein a multi-chamber solution to attenuate fluid-borne noise in the system is disclosed. This solution optimizes both damping, interference and wave cancellation mechanisms in a fluid system and consists of dividing an attenuator conduit hose or pipe assembly serially into tuning chambers by a restrictor or other mechanism. In some embodiments, a tuner is placed in each and every chamber. The number of chambers can vary between two and four depending on the objective of the attenuation. In order to attenuate the ripple at the pump, the tuner in the first or most upstream chamber can be removed.