Abstract: A propeller according to an embodiment includes a hub and a series of blades extending outward from the hub. Each blade of the series of blades includes a core and a skin covering the core. The core may be formed of a ceramic first material and the skin is formed of a second material different than the ceramic first material. The ceramic first material of the core may be ceramic Si3N4 (silicon nitride), yttria-toughened zirconia ceramic, or alumina-zirconia ceramic, and the second material of the skin may be a polymer. The polymer skin is configured to function as a shock absorber protecting the ceramic core, and the ceramic core is configured to provide rigidity to maintain the shape of the propeller blades under aerodynamic loading, which enables improved aerodynamic efficiency and reduced noise generation.

Abstract: An electrode patch for use with an external medical device, the electrode patch comprising: a first surface configured to be attached to a skin of a patient monitored by the external medical device, and an indicating mechanism disposed on the electrode patch and configured to indicate an end of a predetermined lifespan of the electrode patch.

Abstract: An electrode patch for use with an external medical device, the electrode patch comprising: a first surface configured to be attached to a skin of a patient monitored by the external medical device, and an indicating mechanism disposed on the electrode patch and configured to indicate an end of a predetermined lifespan of the electrode patch.

Abstract: An electrode patch for use with an external medical device, the electrode patch comprising: a first surface configured to be attached to a skin of a patient monitored by the external medical device, and an indicating mechanism disposed on the electrode patch and configured to indicate an end of a predetermined lifespan of the electrode patch.

Abstract: An electrode patch for use with an external medical device, the electrode patch comprising: a first surface configured to be attached to a skin of a patient monitored by the external medical device, and an indicating mechanism disposed on the electrode patch and configured to indicate an end of a predetermined lifespan of the electrode patch.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for enabling a user interface on a computer operated by a user to cause memory content of an electronic device distinct from the computer to be modified. A communication link may be established between the user interface and the electronic device by establishing a first connection between the user interface and a server distinct from each of the computer and the electronic device, and establishing a second connection between the electronic device and the server. The user interface may be used to communicate with the server via the first connection so as to cause the server to communicate with the electronic device via the second connection and thereby cause new information to be added to the memory of the electronic device via the second connection.

Abstract: A process for optimizing maintenance work schedules for at least one engine includes the steps of retrieving at least one set of data for an engine from a computer readable storage medium; selecting at least one scheduling parameter for the engine; selecting a set of maintenance rules for the engine; selecting at least one maintenance work decision; selecting at least one objective for the engine; optimizing the at least one objective to generate at least one optimal maintenance work decision; and generating at least one optimal maintenance work schedule for the engine.

Abstract: An internet based system for conducting self-assessment and self-improvement inquiries, including expert and peer evaluations, advisement, and support within the context of an internet based dynamic and interactive online community designed to further the self-assessment and self-improvement process by providing users with computer based self-assessment and self-improvement tests utilizing a dynamic flash based “video-game-like” interface and, then providing the results to be used within that interactive online community to further the self-improvement process by the participation in an internet-based online community in which the user is matched with actual online resources with aptitudes and preferences as determined by the results of the directed self-assessment. Said results may also be used to match vocational and avocational aptitudes with the potential employers and mentors of the social community.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an electronic device is used to authenticate an identity of a user to determine that the user is permitted to access restricted information on a server. In response to the electronic device authenticating the identity of the user, a software module on a computer operated by the user is permitted to access the restricted information. In another embodiment, an electronic device is used to authenticate an identity of a user. In response to the electronic device authenticating the identity of the user, the settings on a computer are altered to correspond to settings on the electronic device.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately measuring a variety of objects of disparate shape, having a substantially flat plate-like stationary member fixed to a base member and second, substantially flat plate-like movable member facing the surface of the first member and mounted for movement toward and away from the first member. The opposing plate-like surfaces of the first and second members are maintained substantially in parallel with each other and are dimensioned to make contact with the outermost surface part of an object to be measured in a given orientation of the object. Means are provided for accurately measuring the distance between the plate-like surfaces when an object is placed between the first and second members. The movable member is normally biased for movement toward the fixed member.