Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for observing samples at non-ambient temperatures and pressures. One apparatus comprises a cell body having a fluid flow-through passage and a light passage intersecting the fluid flow-through passage at an adjustable light pathlength fluid analysis region; first and second light-transmissive windows in the light passage, each window having at least one crystal axis aligned longitudinally with a longitudinal axis of the window, the windows having opposed, spaced apart, substantially flat surfaces defining the adjustable light pathlength fluid analysis region, the first window having a first window holder and the second window having a second window holder, the first window rotationally isolated from the first window holder, the second window rotationally coupled to the second window holder, the first window holder able to gradually move the first window and thus adjust the light pathlength; and first and second light polarization filters.

Abstract: A tray device for use in treating a patient's teeth using a pattern formed from dental wax having a length and height sufficient to cover the patient's teeth. The pattern is packaged in a packaging platform for forming a tray shaped device by pressing the pattern on the platform to thereby form a tray sized to cover the selected teeth on the teeth. The package holding the platform may also have a hollow region sized and positioned to cover the pattern on the platform. The dental wax is sufficiently deformable at room temperature to permit a patient to conform the tray to the teeth.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for isolating or manipulating a portion of a sample at non-ambient temperatures and pressures. One apparatus embodiment of the invention comprises a primary sample containment vessel defining a primary chamber, the vessel having a primary sample inlet and outlet; a secondary sample collection container defining a collection chamber fluidly connected to the primary containment vessel; and a sample probe comprising a distal end able to isolate a secondary sample in the primary chamber and transfer it to the collection chamber, the probe fluidly connected to the primary chamber via a seal allowing at least the distal end to be moved in 3-dimensions within the primary chamber. This abstract complies with rules requiring an abstract. It should not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A fluid analysis assembly for analyzing a fluid the fluid analysis assembly includes a chamber, a fluid movement device, a pressurization assembly and at least one sensor. The chamber defines an evaluation cavity for receiving the fluid. The fluid movement device has a force medium applying force to the fluid to cause the fluid to move within the cavity. The pressurization assembly changes the pressure of the fluid in a continuous manner. The at least one sensor communicates with the fluid for sensing at least one parameter of the fluid while the pressure of the fluid is changing in the continuous manner.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for observing samples at non-ambient temperatures and pressures. One apparatus comprises a cell body having a fluid flow-through passage and a light passage intersecting the fluid flow-through passage at an adjustable light pathlength fluid analysis region; first and second light-transmissive windows in the light passage, each window having at least one crystal axis aligned longitudinally with a longitudinal axis of the window, the windows having opposed, spaced apart, substantially flat surfaces defining the adjustable light pathlength fluid analysis region, the first window having a first window holder and the second window having a second window holder, the first window rotationally isolated from the first window holder, the second window rotationally coupled to the second window holder, the first window holder able to gradually move the first window and thus adjust the light pathlength; and first and second light polarization filters.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide data management systems with an ability to integrate parent-child and peer-to-peer relationships (e.g., hierarchies) in a single interface, allowing a user to parent/unparent, link/unlink, merge/unmerge, and modify trusted attributes in a single interaction using highly accurate algorithms to provide data, including hints and recommendations for the management of these hierarchies. A user interface allows a user to perform hierarchy global management functions including read, write, business-to-business (B2B) search, navigation, and maintenance.

Abstract: Methods and tools are described to reduce sanding including the steps of fracturing the cement sheath in a localized zone around the casing and having the fractured zone act as sand filter between the formation and openings in the casing, with the openings being best pre-formed but temporarily blocked so as to allow a conventional primary cementing of the casing. The fracturing step can also be used for remedial operation to reopen blocked formation or screens.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for isolating or manipulating a portion of a sample at non-ambient temperatures and pressures. One apparatus embodiment of the invention comprises a primary sample containment vessel defining a primary chamber, the vessel having a primary sample inlet and outlet; a secondary sample collection container defining a collection chamber fluidly connected to the primary containment vessel; and a sample probe comprising a distal end able to isolate a secondary sample in the primary chamber and transfer it to the collection chamber, the probe fluidly connected to the primary chamber via a seal allowing at least the distal end to be moved in 3-dimensions within the primary chamber. This abstract complies with rules requiring an abstract. It should not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A technique distributes localized stress acting on a tubular. The tubular is formed with an inner layer and an outer layer that is compliant relative to the inner layer. A force distribution material is disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer to spread any concentrated loads acting against the tubular. The compliant nature of the outer layer causes it to distort against the force distribution material when acted on by a concentrated external load. The outer compliant layer and the force distribution material cooperate to isolate and protect the inner layer from displacements of the surrounding subterranean material.

Abstract: A technique enables testing of a wellbore tubular under simulated well conditions. The wellbore tubular is mounted in a fixture for testing. Controllable systems are used to subject the wellbore tubular to a variety of predetermined conditions simulating potential downhole environments. The controllable systems include manipulators able to place the wellbore tubular under predetermined load, displacement, temperature, and pressure conditions.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for isolating or manipulating a portion of a sample at non-ambient temperatures and pressures. One apparatus embodiment of the invention comprises a primary sample containment vessel defining a primary chamber, the vessel having a primary sample inlet and outlet; a secondary sample collection container defining a collection chamber fluidly connected to the primary containment vessel; and a sample probe comprising a distal end able to isolate a secondary sample in the primary chamber and transfer it to the collection chamber, the probe fluidly connected to the primary chamber via a seal allowing at least the distal end to be moved in 3-dimensions within the primary chamber. This abstract complies with rules requiring an abstract. It should not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: An in line mechanical timing valve is disclosed. The valve has an inlet capable of being coupled to a water source and an outlet. A valve housing is fluidly coupled to the inlet and the outlet to control water flow between the inlet and the outlet. A bisecting cylinder is installed perpendicular to the inlet and outlet. The bisecting cylinder has a central axis and a diaphragm which has an open position allowing water flow to the outlet and a closed position preventing water flow to the outlet. A dial knob has an extended position and a retracted position. The dial knob is rotatable about the central axis of the bisecting cylinder when in the retracted position. A timing mechanism has a windup shaft parallel to the central axis of the bisecting cylinder. One end of the windup shaft has one end coupled to the dial knob which allows the timing mechanism to be set by the dial knob. A shaft parallel to the central axis of the bisecting cylinder is inserted through the timing mechanism.

Abstract: Methods and tools are described to reduce sanding including the steps of fracturing the cement sheath in a localized zone around the casing and having the fractured zone act as sand filter between the formation and openings in the casing, with the openings being best pre-formed but temporarily blocked so as to allow a conventional primary cementing of the casing. The fracturing step can also be used for remedial operation to reopen blocked formation or screens.

Abstract: An adjustable spray wand is disclosed. The spray wand comprises a spray head body, a swiveling member, a locking mechanism, and a handle. The spray head body is rotatably coupled to the swiveling member. The spray head further has a locking mechanism having a contact arm having a first position allowing the swiveling member to rotate relative to the spray head body and an engagement position engaging the swiveling member and locking the swiveling member in one position. The swiveling member is coupled to a handle with a conduit, which may be coupled to a water source. In operation, water flows from the water source, through the handle, through the swiveling member, through the spray head body, and out of the outlets in a variably selected spray pattern.

Abstract: A fluid analysis assembly for analyzing a fluid the fluid analysis assembly includes a chamber, a fluid movement device, a pressurization assembly and at least one sensor. The chamber defines an evaluation cavity for receiving the fluid. The fluid movement device has a force medium applying force to the fluid to cause the fluid to move within the cavity. The pressurization assembly changes the pressure of the fluid in a continuous manner. The at least one sensor communicates with the fluid for sensing at least one parameter of the fluid while the pressure of the fluid is changing in the continuous manner.

Abstract: A dental tray having a planar portion and a single wall, useful for dental treatments including bleaching, fluoride applications, desensitizing teeth, antibacterial treatments and other dental operations. At least one groove or bead, either continuous or segmented, divides the planar portion into a first planar portion and a second foldable portion inside the tray that can be raised by the patient to form an inner wall after the tray has been inserted into the patient's mouth. The tray is formed from any dental tray material. Preferred are copolymer formed from ethylene and vinyl acetate having a forming temperature between 125° F. and 135° F. and a freezing point between about 80° F. and 106° F.

Abstract: Mechanisms and method of flow control for use in an oscillating sprinkler that varies the water stream height to lessen the adverse effects of wind on the water streams. The flow control mechanism varies water flow during rotation of a spray tube of a sprinkler to control the height of water streams in predetermined portions of the rotation.

Abstract: An intermittent fluid flow controller including a main body that houses an inlet in controlled fluid communication with an outlet, a mechanical timing mechanism including a rotatable member that rotates during an operation of the timing mechanism, and a first valve operated by the rotatable member. The first valve is disposed in the main body such that a rotational movement of the rotatable member actuates the first valve to intermittently permit and restrict a fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet over a pre-selected period of time determined by the operation of the timing mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sprinkling system. The system comprises a body portion comprising a housing and a spike depending downward from the housing, wherein the housing comprises a lower platform and an upwardly open U-shaped groove aligned along a center line of the platform for holding the tubing. The system comprises a saddle adapted to fit within the housing, the saddle comprising a top face having an outlet therein, and a bottom face having downwardly open inverted U-shaped groove depending therefrom. The system also comprises a hollow piercing element extending from the bottom face of the saddle to a point above the platform and in fluid communication with the outlet. The system further comprises a cap adapted to fit over the saddle, wherein securing the cap to the body portion is achieved without rotating the piercing element.

Abstract: A mouthguard for use by athletes, including a dual tray assembly molded together. The first tray is molded from a hard plastic such as an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, and has a portion that engage the cusps of the lower jaw molars to prevent the tray from moving backward on impact. A second tray is molded on to the first tray using a soft plastic or gel like material, such as a high percentage vinyl acetate copolymers of ethylene vinyl acetate, that softens at slightly elevated temperatures that a user can easily tolerate. The first time the mouthguard is used, it is heated in warm water, then the user puts it in his or her mouth and bites down to cause the second tray to conform to the upper teeth. When in use, the ridges on the first tray engage the teeth of the lower jaw to prevent movement of the lower jaw on impact.