Abstract: A seal for vent openings of inflatable structures is provided that includes an interior and an exterior component that can be affixed to each other and to the inflatable structure and allows for higher pressures to be maintained within the inflatable structure.

Abstract: An inflatable device is provided including an inflatable framework for a projection screen or imaging surface wherein an additional support structure provides increased stability for the inflatable framework and the screen while avoiding contact or interference with the screen or imaging surface, thereby limiting screen distortion.

Abstract: A method and system for identifying a phase in an internal combustion engine (102) is disclosed. The internal combustion engine may include an even number of cylinders and is fitted with at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the method includes measuring a state of the internal combustion engine using the at least one sensor. The method may further include calculating a deviation of the state from an expected set of values, and determining the phase of the internal combustion engine, based on the deviation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for operating a plurality of valves in an engine uses valve actuators to move each valve. Accelerometers are used to detect acceleration of the valves and particularly the moment when they seat. A knock sensor detects an acoustic impulse made by the valves when they seat. A controller correlates signals from the sensor and accelerometers, wherein a signal from the sensor that correlates in time with a signal from an accelerometer indicates seating of the respective valve, which indicates a closure of the respective valve. The controller measures a magnitude of the acoustic impulse to be used as feedback in controlling the operation of the respective valve actuator, and provide softer landings of the valve.

Abstract: An engine control microprocessor transient interrupt system is provided wherein an engine throttle position sensor provides a throttle position input signal to a microprocessor which developes engine control output signals in response thereto. The throttle position sensor also provides an input signal to a transient detector external to the microprocessor which provides an interrupt signal to the microprocessor in response to the rate of change of throttle position exceeding a threshold. In response to the interrupt signal, the microprocessor provides a disable signal which disables the external transient detector, and then the microprocessor monitors the rate of change of engine throttle position to determine the end of the throttle position transient condition and enables the external transient detector in response to the end of the transient condition.