Abstract: A secure custom application cloud computing architecture which facilitates virtually seamless migration of custom applications to and from a cloud computing environment in response to user needs. The architecture identifies the custom applications and the associated network architecture needed to support the applications. The network architecture is then replicated in the cloud and the custom applications are migrated thereto. In some embodiments, the application can be archived while in the cloud and disabled, then later reenabled when needed.

Abstract: A propeller shaft and energy storage assembly includes a first power transfer mechanism for selectively drivingly interconnecting the propeller shaft and an energy storage device to store energy within the energy storage device. A second power transfer mechanism is operable to selectively retain and release energy stored within the energy storage device. A third power transfer mechanism selectively drivingly interconnects the energy storage device and the propeller shaft when vehicle acceleration is desired.

Abstract: A method of inspecting a workpiece during a production run in which workpieces are supplied to workstations by an autoloader. In accordance with the method, the supply of the workpieces by the autoloader is performed in accordance with a supply control routine. When it is desired to inspect a workpiece in a workstation, the supply control routine is interrupted after its then current cycle and the autoloader is used to move the workpiece to a quality control station. The supply of the workpieces in accordance with the supply control routine is then resumed. While the autoloader is operating in accordance with the supply control routine, the workpiece is inspected. If the workpiece is acceptable, the supply control routine is again interrupted after its then current cycle and the autoloader is used to move the workpiece to an output area. The supply of the workpieces in accordance with the supply control routine is then resumed again.

Abstract: A method of controlling an autoloader that supplies workpieces to a plurality of workstations. Each of the workstations is operable to generate and transmit a call signal, a ready signal and an error signal. In accordance with the method, the autoloader supplies workpieces to the workstations based on the chronological order of the receipt of call signals from the workstations. If an error signal is received from a workstation that is to be supplied with a workpiece, the autoloader instead supplies the workpiece to the next workstation that is to be supplied.

Abstract: A method of identifying workstations that performed work on a workpiece in a work line having a plurality of zones, wherein each zone includes workstations that perform the same type of operation. In accordance with the method, the workpiece is moved to and from workstations by a plurality of autoloaders. After the workpiece is worked on in a particular workstation, an autoloader moves the workpiece to a drop-off station where the workpiece is marked with a mark indicating that the workstation worked on the workpiece. When the workpiece is finished, the workpiece has a plurality of marks disposed in different locations of the workpiece. For each of the marks, the location of the mark in combination with the nature of the mark comprises a code that identifies a particular one of the workstations that worked on the workpiece.

Abstract: A method of inspecting a workpiece during a production run in which workpieces are supplied to workstations by an autoloader. In accordance with the method, the supply of the workpieces by the autoloader is performed in accordance with a supply control routine. When it is desired to inspect a workpiece in a workstation, the supply control routine is interrupted after its then current cycle and the autoloader is used to move the workpiece to a quality control station. The supply of the workpieces in accordance with the supply control routine is then resumed. While the autoloader is operating in accordance with the supply control routine, the workpiece is inspected. If the workpiece is acceptable, the supply control routine is again interrupted after its then current cycle and the autoloader is used to move the workpiece to an output area. The supply of the workpieces in accordance with the supply control routine is then resumed again.