Abstract: A method of protecting a networked industrial controller from network storms is disclosed in the specification. The networked industrial controller has a real-time operating system and communication components performing communication exchanges with connected networks. The method comprises steps of: (a) Initializing a watchdog thread monitor thread to have a high priority within the real-time operating system's kernel level; (b) configuring a watchdog thread to periodically (every TAlive time) send an alive event signal to the watchdog thread monitor thread if all other threads of application programs are operating normally; (c) starting the watchdog thread monitor thread waiting for receiving the alive event signal within a timeout period TAliveTout (TAliveTout is longer than TAlive); (d) identifying a network storm in response to the alive event signal; and (e) controlling the communication exchanges in response to the alive event signal and current phase of the watchdog thread monitor thread.

Abstract: A reciprocating drive apparatus has a driving device and a driven device, one of the devices comprising a reciprocating member mounted for movement along a longitudinal axis. At least one rotary member is coupled to one of the devices and a linear bearing assembly has a linear guide rail and a linear slide member with an end coupled to the other device. A connecting link has a first end pivotally connected to the rotary member and a second end pivotally linked to the slide member. Where the reciprocating member is the driven device, rotation of the rotary member will cause the reciprocating member to move back and forth along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A modular automated assistive guitar is described comprising a base assembly, a pick assembly, a strumming mechanism and a fretting mechanism which, in combination with a standard guitar or similar stringed musical instrument (e.g., banjo, steel guitar, ukulele), forms a musical device that can be played by an individual with a range of independence, cognitive and physical abilities. The base assembly accepts, positions, and secures a standard guitar. The pick assembly includes quick attach and spring-loaded features for attaching and detaching picks, in addition to flexibility for smooth interaction with the guitar strings. The strumming mechanism provides cyclic motion and speed control to create pleasant and variable rhythm from the mounted guitar. The fretting mechanism allows a user to change chords and tone. An unmodified, traditional guitar is preferably used in the musical device. The guitar is easily interchangeable with another guitar or other stringed instrument, at the convenience of the user.

Abstract: A braided stent having an integral retrieval and/or repositioning loop includes a plurality of wires having first and second ends interbraided in a braided pattern to form a tubular stent having opposed atraumatic first and second open ends with each open end having a circumference; wherein said first and second wires ends are disposed at said second stent open end and said wires are looped at said second stent open end so that none of the first or second wires ends are exposed at the circumference of second stent open end; wherein at least of two of said wires are formed into a repositioning and/or retrieval loop having an elongated portion circumferentially disposed at said first opposed open end; and wherein said reposition and/or retrieval loop comprises two sections which run adjacent to each other prior to crossing to permit grabbing of both sections simultaneously by a practitioner.

Abstract: An interface routes power and digital signals to a load. The interface includes a rectifier receiving the power and the digital signals over a single wire pair and producing rectified power and rectified digital signals, and a separator for separating the rectified power driving the load from the rectified digital signals controlling output of the load.

Abstract: An insulated sheathing panel comprises an insulating member and a facing. The insulating member has two adjacent edges formed by a portion of its thickness extending beyond two corresponding adjacent edges of said facing. Two other adjacent edges of said insulating member in the said relative thickness portion are recessed within two corresponding edges of said facing. When the panels are applied to a stud wall, their edges are ship-lapped, with edges of the facings in abutted relation so there is not thermal break at the panel seam. “Z”-shaped clips or elongated bars are used to secure panels to the stud wall. The panel facings are finished and no vapor barrier is required. Methods are included.

Abstract: A fiber optic cable restoration apparatus preferably includes two weather-tight enclosures, connector panel with a plurality of connector interfaces for optically coupling two optical fibers received therein. Each connector interface includes a bare fiber adapters for receiving a bare optical fiber therein. The connector interfaces of each connector panel are connected across a connectorized MIC cable to form a communication bridge therebetween. Two cut ends of a cable can be repaired by inserting the individual fibers of one cut cable end into respective bare fiber connectors of one enclosure and inserting the individual fibers of the other cut cable end into the respective bare fiber adapters of the other enclosure. The apparatus is easier and faster to use and more cost efficient than present methods of repairing cables and eliminates the need for circuit rerouting operations altogether.

Abstract: The invention provides a substantially nonirritating oral composition containing a surfactant system comprised of a combination of an anionic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant and a nonesterified alkyl polyglucoside surfactant.

Abstract: A fluid valve suitable for use in slush pumps is disclosed. The valve includes an elastomeric seal and a metal wear ring held in place on a valve body by a retaining ring. Thrust of the valve body against a valve seat is absorbed by the wear ring which is held against a shoulder on the valve body. The elastomeric seal is held between the valve body and the wear ring. A second seal is disposed between the inside diameter of the wear ring and the valve body to prevent fluid leakage behind the wear ring. The structure of the valve provides for replacement of the wear ring.