Abstract:
Provided are novel photovoltaic module structures and related fabrication techniques. According to various embodiments, the structures include a structural bond related between two sealing sheets of the photovoltaic module configured to support one sealing sheet with respect to the other and, in certain embodiments, to support photovoltaic cells with respect to both sealing sheets. In certain embodiments, a photovoltaic module is fabricated without a back encapsulant layer, and the back sealing sheet is supported by the structural bond. The structural bond may also be used as a moisture barrier in addition or instead of an edge seal. The structural bond material can include a silicone-based polymer, which provides good adhesive and UV resistance properties. The structural bond may be formed by a structural bonding material that is dispensed around the photovoltaic cells.
Abstract:
Provided are novel photovoltaic module structures and fabrication techniques that include a composite encapsulant disposed and substantially filling voids between at least one sealing sheet and one or more photovoltaic cells. The composite encapsulant contains a bulk encapsulant and filler uniformly distributed throughout the bulk encapsulant. In certain embodiments, at least about 30% by weight of the composite encapsulant is the filler. Adding certain fillers into polymer-based bulk encapsulants in such large amounts reduces encapsulation costs and improves certain performance characteristics of the resulting composite encapsulants. In certain embodiments, the composite encapsulants have better temperature stability, UV stability, mechanical integrity, and/or adhesion than traditional encapsulants. Also, in certain embodiments, the added fillers do not substantially alter the optical properties of initial bulk encapsulants. The composite encapsulants are particularly useful for a front light-incident side of a module.
Abstract:
An inflatable balloon cuff associated with a tracheal tube may be adapted to filter microbial secretions and reduce their passage into the lungs. A cuff as provided may include a cross-linked polymeric structure that may serve to exclude certain secretions on the basis of size. The polymeric structure may be incorporated onto all or part of the surface of the inflatable balloon cuff.
Abstract:
A card actuated automated banking machine (10) is operative to carry out financial transactions responsive to data included on user cards. The machine includes a user interface (15) including a display (24). The user interface includes a card reader (16) which is operative to read data on user cards which identify at least one of user and a user's financial accounts. A fascia of the machine includes a keypad (404, 438, 458) through which users input confidential data. Covers (400, 422, 430) prevent unauthorized persons from viewing confidential inputs to the keypad. Authorization signals assure that the display is operating in a manner that provides appropriate user instructions. A visual indicator is operative to indicate to a user that keypad inputs are being encrypted.
Abstract:
An automated banking machine (10) is operative to carry out financial transactions and includes a user interface (15). The user interface includes a card reader (16) which is operative to read data on user cards which identify user's financial accounts. A fascia of the machine includes a keypad (404, 438, 458) through which users input confidential data. Covers (400, 422, 430) prevent unauthorized persons from viewing confidential inputs to the keypad. Alternatively, movable panels (462, 464) are movable to prevent unauthorized viewing of confidential inputs. Alternatively a keypad cover is selectively collapsible to prevent digit access. A visual indicator is operative to indicate to a user that keypad inputs are being encrypted. Disinfecting techniques may be used to disinfect manual contact surfaces of the machine.
Abstract:
An inflatable cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. Packaging and transporting of these cuffs while inflated may provide for decreased wrinkles and thereby improved sealing of the trachea. Provided is a package for a medical device with an inflatable region, comprising a substantially non-stretchable region that substantially conforms to the shape of the inflatable region of the medical device when the inflatable region is inflated.
Abstract:
An inflatable balloon cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. Configurations of these cuffs that include tapered regions with certain characteristics, such as cuff wall diameter and thickness, may provide improved sealing of the trachea.
Abstract:
An inflatable balloon cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. Configurations of these cuffs that include tapered regions with certain characteristics, such as cuff wall diameter and thickness, may provide improved sealing of the trachea.
Abstract:
An inflatable cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. Packaging and transporting of these cuffs while inflated may provide for decreased wrinkles and thereby improved sealing of the trachea. Provided is a package for a medical device with an inflatable region, comprising a substantially non-stretchable region that substantially conforms to the shape of the inflatable region of the medical device when the inflatable region is inflated.