Abstract: A system and method for assessing risk. In one embodiment, a system for risk assessment includes a processor and a storage device. The storage device is coupled to the processor, and stores instructions that when executed cause the processor to: 1) receive inspection result information for an inspected unit; 2) generate a probability of mishap value for the inspected unit based on the inspection result information; 3) generate a risk assessment code for the inspected unit based on the probability of mishap value; and 4) generate an inspection schedule for the inspected unit based on the risk assessment code.

Abstract: A personnel transfer device, of the type commonly used in offshore oil and gas operations, has a means for lowering personnel from the personnel transfer device in a controlled manner, with the personnel transfer device in an elevated position. In one embodiment, the personnel transfer device has an automatic descender device fixed thereto. Such personnel transfer devices are typically lifted by cranes mounted on offshore platforms or drilling rigs, and move personnel from elevated positions on the platform or drilling rig to and from the decks of boats. In the event of a crane failure during the personnel transfer procedure, resulting in the personnel transfer device suspended in the air in an elevated position, personnel that are in the personnel transfer device can use the automatic descender to safely lower themselves from the elevated personnel transfer device to a waiting boat, the water's surface, etc.

Abstract: An inflatable coupling component tube for a fluid-operated brake or clutch includes an elongated, generally tubular-shaped structure of predetermined length having two ends and a joint between the two ends that closes the tube to form a generally toroidal-shaped cavity. A coupling component for a fluid-operated brake or clutch that includes an inflatable tube, and a method of making an inflatable coupling component tube are also disclosed.

Abstract: Electron multipliers, radiation detectors, and methods of making the multipliers and detectors are described. In some embodiments an electron multiplier has a structure including a plurality of interconnected fibers having electron-emissive surfaces, the fibers having a width to thickness aspect ratio greater than one.

Abstract: Radiation detectors, such as neutron detectors, and methods of detecting radiation, are described.

Abstract: An electron multiplier includes a plate having a plurality of interconnected particles, e.g., fibers, having electron-emissive surfaces. The particles may include a neutron-sensitive and/or neutron reactive material, such as 6Li, 10B, 155Gd, 157Gd,—and/or hydrogenous compounds, in excess of their natural abundance. The particles may include an X-ray sensitive and/or X-ray reactive material, such as Pb.

Abstract: A cleaning formulation, in tablet form, capable of providing uniform delivery of cleaning agents, fragrance and colorants while immersed in a the tank of a toilet.

Abstract: A cleaning formulation, in tablet form, capable of providing uniform delivery of cleaning agents, fragrance and colorants while immersed in a the tank of a toilet.

Abstract: A cleaning formulation, in tablet form, capable of providing uniform delivery of cleaning agents, fragrance and colorant while immersed in a the tank of a toilet.

Abstract: Apparatus wherein sheet material is longitudinally step-advanced by alternately being gripped and released in a guide path by a reciprocative gripper, and alternately released and gripped in a gripping station, the sheet material being restrained against buckling from the guide path by guide means adjacent to both of opposite faces of the sheet material, and the guide means enabling the reciprocative gripper gripping the sheet material in the guide path to be operated for effecting a forward feeding stroke having the sheet material released in the gripping station, and subsequently a backward stroke, throughout which latter stroke the reciprocative gripper is in a released condition with reference to the sheet material and the latter is gripped in the gripping station.