Abstract: An access assembly includes an instrument valve housing and a valve assembly disposed within the instrument valve housing. The instrument valve housing includes upper and lower housing sections. The valve assembly includes a centering mechanism, a seal assembly, and a guard assembly. The centering mechanism is configured to bias the valve assembly towards a generally centered position within the instrument valve housing. The centering mechanism includes a base seal member having an annular base and a flange portion. The flange portion includes an arcuate portion configured to adjustably engage first and second surfaces of the instrument valve housing in a sealing relation. The seal assembly is attachable to the centering mechanism. The seal assembly is configured to engage a surgical instrument inserted into the access assembly in a sealing relation. The guard assembly is attachable to the centering mechanism.

Abstract: A series-hybrid powertrain includes a range extender, a battery, an electric motor and a controller. The range extender may include an internal combustion engine and a generator. The powertrain has three modes of operation. In electric only mode, the battery powers the motor and the range extender is not allowed to operate. In forced charge mode, the range extender attempts to power the drive motor and also re-charge the battery if the battery is discharged to, or is found below, a specified charge. In hybrid mode, the range extender is operated by a controller that determines the output of the range extender in hybrid mode considering inputs that relate to the state of charge of the battery and the power consumption of the electric motor. Optionally, the controller uses fuzzy logic to determine the output of the range extender. The powertrain may be used in an industrial vehicle.

Abstract: Titanium-based compositions as well as titanium composites such as carbide-reinforced titanium composites are disclosed herein. More specifically, composite materials comprising a titanium metal matrix and titanium carbide dispersed in the matrix are disclosed. The composite materials comprise about 0.5 wt. % to about 3.0 wt. % of carbon, based on the total weight of titanium and carbon in the composite materials. Compositions comprising a titanium-based powder and at least one of a carbon-based material and a binder are also disclosed. The compositions comprise about 0.5 wt. % to about 3.0 wt. % of carbon-based material, based on the total weight of the titanium-based powder and the carbon-based material.

Abstract: A magnesium-based semi-solid alloy having improved creep resistance, ultimate tensile strength, tensile yield strength and average % elongation at 150° C. Castings are cast from a semi-solid alloy slurry comprising, in weight percent, between about 3 to 7% Aluminum, between about 0.5% and 3% Strontium with the balance being magnesium except for impurities commonly found in magnesium alloys. The semi-solid alloy slurry includes up to 5% or up to about 20% solid fraction by weight.