Abstract: A method for wireless communication in a reflective environment includes (a) receiving first wireless signals at a first antenna assembly at least partially via a first reflective environment, (b) generating a first electrical signal from a first antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the first antenna element having a first polarization, (c) generating a second electrical signal from a second antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the second antenna element having a second polarization different from the first polarization, (d) shifting phase of at least one of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal, and (e) after shifting phase, combining at least the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to generate a combined electrical signal.

Abstract: A method for wireless communication in a reflective environment includes (a) receiving first wireless signals at a first antenna assembly at least partially via a first reflective environment, (b) generating a first electrical signal from a first antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the first antenna element having a first polarization, (c) generating a second electrical signal from a second antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the second antenna element having a second polarization different from the first polarization, (d) shifting phase of at least one of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal, and (e) after shifting phase, combining at least the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to generate a combined electrical signal.

Abstract: A method for wireless communication in a reflective environment includes (a) receiving first wireless signals at a first antenna assembly at least partially via a first reflective environment, (b) generating a first electrical signal from a first antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the first antenna element having a first polarization, (c) generating a second electrical signal from a second antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the second antenna element having a second polarization different from the first polarization, (d) shifting phase of at least one of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal, and (e) after shifting phase, combining at least the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to generate a combined electrical signal.

Abstract: A method for wireless communication in a reflective environment includes (a) receiving first wireless signals at a first antenna assembly at least partially via a first reflective environment, (b) generating a first electrical signal from a first antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the first antenna element having a first polarization, (c) generating a second electrical signal from a second antenna element of the first antenna assembly in response to the first wireless signals, the second antenna element having a second polarization different from the first polarization, (d) shifting phase of at least one of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal, and (e) after shifting phase, combining at least the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to generate a combined electrical signal.

Abstract: A method for detecting a beacon signal, by receiving a beacon signal and processing the beacon signal with respect to a local copy of the beacon signal. The processing including multiplying the beacon signal with a local copy of the beacon signal and integrating the result to generate a background noise filtered beacon signal output. The beacon signal output may be utilized to align an antenna with the beacon signal by adjusting alignment until the beacon signal output is either maximized or minimized, depending upon the function applied.

Abstract: Systems, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for fixing bones, such as rib bones, with bone plates.

Abstract: Device for fixing bone. In some embodiments, the device may comprise a plate member and a pair of hooks members. The plate member may have a pair of opposing edges arranged opposite each other. The pair of hook members each may project from a position adjacent the same edge of the plate member, to form a space to receive a same bone between the plate member and each of the hook members. Both hook members may be configured to contact a same side of the same bone. The plate member and a hook member may define first and second aligned apertures. The device also may comprise a fastener configured to extend from the first aperture, through the bone, and into locked engagement with the second aperture.

Abstract: Systems, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for fixing bones, such as rib bones, with bone plates.

Abstract: Systems, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for fixing bones, such as rib bones, with bone plates.

Abstract: Systems, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for fixing bones, such as rib bones, with bone plates.

Abstract: A new technique is presented that allows for controlling the phase of a propagating signal by selectively switching in and out relatively small perturbations along a transmission line section that provide slightly different physical paths for the currents to follow. By using relatively minor perturbations, the phase of a transmission line section can be controlled without drastically altering the impedance of the section, thereby maintaining good impedance matching properties. Also, by keeping the alternate current paths small, generally fine control of phase shift is possible along with allowing the design to remain relatively simple. Such tunable elements can then be incorporated in designs where resonators (or other elements) are separated by specific phase lengths to construct other signal processing functions, such as filters.

Abstract: A captive screw including a screw and a ferrule is disclosed. One end of the ferrule is adapted for engagement to a hole in a panel to be secured by the captive screw. The screw has an annular flange that is captured within the bore of the ferrule. The screw has a shaft with a threaded portion. The threaded portion of the screw shaft can be made to extend from the ferrule to varying amounts as the screw is moved relative to the ferrule between extended and retracted positions. An optional spring may be provided in the ferrule to bias the screw toward the retracted position.

Abstract: A drive rivet fastens a plurality of panel members together as a unit. The drive rivet is installed within preformed holes which are drilled or punched through each of the panel members. The drive rivet includes a head portion which abuts the outer surface of the first panel member when installed. A shank portion extends from the head portion and includes a plurality of expansible prongs on its distal end which protrude out from the opposite end of the panel members. The shank portion includes at least a first area of substantially constant diameter and a second area of decreased diameter less than that of the first area which is not in contact with the panel members when the drive rivet is received therein. A generally elongated bore is formed within the drive rivet which is adapted for receiving an expander pin.

Abstract: A captive screw including a screw and a ferrule is disclosed. One end of the ferrule is adapted for engagement to a hole in a panel to be secured by the captive screw. The screw has an annular flange that is captured within the bore of the ferrule. The screw has a shaft with a threaded portion. The threaded portion of the screw shaft can be made to extend from the ferrule to varying amounts as the screw is moved relative to the ferrule between extended and retracted positions. An optional spring may be provided in the ferrule to bias the screw toward the retracted position.