A distributed system of this invention forms multiplexing by n computers, and permits up to f computers to fail and halt. In particular, the present invention provides a method and apparatus for temporarily immobilizing a local area of heart tissue to thereby permit surgery on a coronary vessel in that area without significant deterioration of the pumping function of the beating heart. Charge air may be supplied to the EGR system by maintaining the intake manifold pressure above the pressure in the exhaust manifold.