Abstract: entitlement management messages (23) that direct fluctuation of an existing package with a communication structure that may involve a primary service directive indicator (3) that is altered, transformed, or fluctuated by a secondary service directive indicator (4) or more. Terse, high entropy directives and entitlement management messages can be transmitted and a multi-channel broadcast programming fluctuation processor (9) at a multichannel broadcast receiver (8) can act to achieve the proper authorization. A conditional access system can be provided through existing, even one-way or SSL, communication pathways with high levels of security. Large subscriber base a Ia carte options can be provided with rapid authorization that may include nonce programming collective storage (26) for use with a fluctuation entitlement management message transmission.

Abstract: A hydraulically driven extending clamp is disclosed having a pivoting main body which includes an extendable clamping rod disposed therein. The clamping rod extends above the pivot and is extended by air pressure and retracted by a spring internal to the clamping rod. A retaining member extends through a slot in the clamping rod and forms a travel limit stop as well as a retraction spring contact point. A hydraulic cylinder pivots the main body in seesaw-like fashion to apply clamping forces.

Abstract: A ball washing apparatus and method for children's play pools includes a venturi assembly having a high pressure air line which brush, diaphragm and air dry balls passing through. A divider at the air line junction of the venturi assembly prevents clogging and jamming as the balls rapidly exit the ball washer through a ball return conduit. Preferably an ultraviolet light source acts as a germicide treatment for the water and balls contained within the washing chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a children's ball pen for use in the home. The ball pen is made from a floor and sidewall of corrugated plastic sheets which are sonically welded together. Molded bottom anchors between the floor and sidewall together with rings hold resilient polymeric foam covered vertical posts in the desired upright position. A metal rod surrounds the top of the sidewall to give added rigidity and provide an anchor for the vertical post rings. A net and a top complete the ball pen and hold balls therein during play.

Abstract: A method of, and apparatus for, determining leakage in a valve or the like which is not dependent on bulk modulus of the fluid is described. The test apparatus includes a pressure transducer which measures the change in pressure along a length of pipe (XY) from the valve under test to a second valve for a period of time. The effect of bulk modulus of the test fluid is eliminated by placing a volume of gas between the pressure transducer and the section XY of pipe. Leakage is determined by measuring the change in pressure at the transducer over a period of time after the valve under test is closed.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a device for separating deformed balls from normal spherical balls prior to washing as is common in the ball pen industry. The device comprises an L-shaped tunnel which defines a slot on its lower surface. The slot feeds into a receptacle positioned below the tunnel. Balls enter under the force of vacuum pressure through an intake opening, striking a first bi-angled deflector plate. Deformed balls will fall through the slot into the receptacle in most cases. However, to increase the likelihood of such an eventuality, the balls then strike a second deflector plate and are sent down the second leg of the L-shaped tunnel. The second leg also defines a slot. By striking the second deflector plate, the ball is reoriented and the likelihood of passing through the slot is increased. Thus, normal balls are left and pass from the L-shaped tunnel out through an output opening and on for conventional washing.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a children's ball pen for use in the home. The ball pen is made from a floor and sidewall of corrugated plastic sheets which are sonically welded together. Molded bottom anchors between the floor and sidewall together with rings hold resilient polymeric foam covered vertical posts in the desired upright position. A metal rod surrounds the top of the sidewall to give added rigidity and provide an anchor for the vertical post rings. A net and a top complete the ball pen and hold balls therein during play.

Abstract: A ball cleaning system incorporates an object converger and diverter. The converger accepts objects from a plurality of inputs at a housing and uses a flexible tube to selectively connect each input to a single output. A motor, elongated member, and actuator move the flexible tube between inputs. The diverter includes a Y-shaped assembly, a solenoid, and a gate wherein the solenoid selectively moves the gate across the Y-shaped assembly so that objects passing through the Y-shaped assembly are directed down different branches of the Y. The actuator is a linear actuator.

Abstract: A ball cleaning system utilizes negative and positive pressures to urge ball travel to and from the ball washing compartment. The system described herein is particularly useful for "dry" pool balls which must be frequently moved and cleaned for sanitation and appearance purposes. Convergers and diverters increase the functionality of the system by allowing balls from multiple pools to be cleaned in an easy, convenient manner.

Abstract: A method is provided for washing spherical objects such as toy balls and the like. The balls are delivered into a bin above a hopper where they are manipulated to prevent jamming as they are passed from the hopper to a channel below consisting of rotating and stationary brushes. The balls are brushed and a detergent solution is applied. The balls are then rinsed and air is forced over them to dry any moisture thereon. The balls then exit through a discharge where they can then be collected and reused.

Abstract: The invention herein provides an apparatus and method for washing spherical objects such as toy balls and the like. The balls are delivered into a bin above a hopper where they are manipulated to prevent jamming as they are passed from the hopper to a channel below consisting of rotating and stationary brushes. The balls are brushed and a detergent solution is applied. The balls are then rinsed and air is forced over them to dry any moisture thereon. The balls then exit through a discharge where they can then be collected and reused.