Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed a method for determining costs within an enterprise. The method comprises determining a set of cost-drivers based on characteristics of three-dimensional design data of a manufacturable component; and providing, to a plurality of different enterprise functions, database access to cost data from any combination of: the set of cost-drivers, and a set of costs determined based on the set of cost-drivers. In another embodiment, there is disclosed a computer system for determining costs within an enterprise. The system comprises a database comprising a set of stored cost-drivers determined based on characteristics of three-dimensional design data of a manufacturable component; and a network capable of providing, to a plurality of different enterprise functions, access to cost data from any combination of: the set of cost drivers, and a set of costs determined based on the set of cost-drivers.

Abstract: A flexible mesoscopic heat exchanger is provided by the invention. The heat exchanger of the invention includes uniform microchannels for fluid flow. Separate header and channel layers include microchannels for fluid flow and heat exchange. A layered structure with channels aligned in multiple orientations in the layers permits the use of a flexible material without channel sagging and provides uniform flows. In a preferred embodiment, layers are heat sealed, e.g., by a preferred lamination fabrication process.

Abstract: A compact active vapor compression cycle heat transfer device. The device of the invention includes a flexible diaphragm serving as the compressive member in a layered compressor. The compressor is stimulated by capacitive electrical action and drives the relatively small refrigerant charge for the device through a closed loop defined by the compressor, an evaporator and a condenser. The evaporator and condenser include microchannel heat exchange elements to respectively draw heat from an atmosphere on a cool side of the device and expel heat into an atmosphere on a hot side of the device. The overall structure and size of the device is similar to microelectronic packages, and it may be combined to operate with similar devices in useful arrays.

Abstract: A method of testing a substance for its ability to promote, maintain, increase or arrest hair growth, or influence hair pigmentation comprise the steps of:i. isolating a viable hair follicle from skin, without damaging the hair bulb;ii. maintaining the isolated, viable hair follicle in a nutrient medium;iii. contacting the isolated hair follicle in said medium with a test substance, andiv. assessing the response of the hair follicle to said test substance.