Abstract: A measurement system assessment tool is disclosed. In particular embodiments, a method includes communicating a plurality of questions associated with a plurality of dimensions of a measurement system. The method further includes receiving a response to each of the plurality of questions, each of the plurality of responses associated with one of a plurality of dimensions of the measurement system. The method further includes determining, for each of the responses, a numerical value associated with the response. The method also includes, for each of the plurality of dimensions, selecting a subset of the plurality questions, each of the questions in the subset associated with the same respective dimension of the measurement system. The method further includes calculating, for each of the plurality of dimensions, an average score, wherein each average score comprises an average of the numerical values associated with the questions in the subset.

Abstract: System and methods for integrated compliance monitoring. Various application modules work together to accomplish risk assessment and compliance monitoring. A risk assessment module facilitates the development of risk ratings based on responses to a plurality of compliance-related questions. The system can also include an action tracking module, and can further include a training module and a self-assessment module to determine individual compliance gaps. A common database is operatively connected to the modules to monitor the completion of assessments and to track actions based on remediation plans. In some embodiments, the invention is implemented via a computing platform or a collection of computing platforms interconnected by a network, such as a corporate intranet, in which case a web browser can facilitate use of the invention.

Abstract: A chain saw is provided in which the tension of a cutting chain extending along a periphery of the guide bar may be adjusted without use of a tool. A locking knob is provided which engages with a cover of the chain saw. Protrusions of the locking knob fit within corresponding notches of the cover. The shape of the protrusions and the notches allow rotation of the locking knob in a first direction but not a second direction. Upon disengaging the locking knob from the cover, the guide bar may move relative to the engine housing and clutch cover to tighten the cutting chain extending along a periphery of the guide bar.

Abstract: A backpack blower has a lightweight engine, a starter, a fuel tank, a fan, a frame for the engine, two hollow tubes, and a control mechanism upon one tube. The blower improvement comes from a housing and two elbows. The round housing contains the fan and has two tangential outlets. The two elbows have a generally round cross section and a generally right angle shape. On each elbow, the first end connects with an outlet and the second end joins a tube. The elbows rotate and bend, directing leaves and debris with airflow from the tubes.

Abstract: System and methods for integrated compliance monitoring. Various application modules work together to accomplish risk assessment and compliance monitoring. A risk assessment module facilitates the development of risk ratings based on responses to a plurality of compliance-related questions. The system can also include an action tracking module, and can further include a training module and a self-assessment module to determine individual compliance gaps. A common database is operatively connected to the modules to monitor the completion of assessments and to track actions based on remediation plans. In some embodiments, the invention is implemented via a computing platform or a collection of computing platforms interconnected by a network, such as a corporate intranet, in which case a web browser can facilitate use of the invention.

Abstract: A safety circuit is provided for parallel connected electrical loads. The headlight circuit of an automobile or other vehicle is an important application for the circuit. In the circuit a reversely polled control rectifier is in a parallel conductor subcircuit to the bright lamp filament of the headlight. The gate of the control rectifier is connected to a conductor of the dim lamp filament of the headlight. The control rectifier presents an open circuit when both of the lamps are operable but is adapted to connect the bright lamp filament through a resistor and a diode when the dim lamp filament of the headlight fails.