Abstract: A method, system and computer program product for instant message communication in a wireless and non-wireless environment. A message is sent from a mobile unit device over a wireless communication network. The message includes a destination address, information associated with the mobile unit device's user, message content and message address. If, according to information previously stored for the mobile unit device's user at the instant message system, the destination address is associated with an instant message function, the associated instant message function is executed at the instant message system using the information contained in the message content, if required as determined by the associated instant message function.

Abstract: A method, system and computer program product for instant message communication in a wireless and non-wireless environment. A message is sent from a mobile unit device over a wireless communication network. The message includes a destination address, information associated with the mobile unit device's user, message content and message address. If, according to information previously stored for the mobile unit device's user at the instant message system, the destination address is associated with an instant message function, the associated instant message function is executed at the instant message system using the information contained in the message content, if required as determined by the associated instant message function.

Abstract: The exercise device uses three main components to provide a simplified abdominal exercise for the user. A base frame relaeasably supports two pivoting body support structures. The body support structures are pivotally secured to the frame at intermediate points in the length of the body support structures. The base frame is preferably collapsible to simplify securement and storage. Each body support structure is independently secured to the base frame. The user is able to perform exercises according to his own requirements merely by modifying the extent of movement of the body support structures.

Abstract: A brake controller, for controlling the brakes of a towed vehicle, having a control module and a power module is provided. The control module is mounted in the cab of a vehicle used for towing, in such a manner that it can be easily seen and accessed by the driver. The control module is provided with an accelerometer, which can read acceleration forces in at least two axes, and a microprocessor which polls the accelerometer and sends braking information to the power module. The control module is also provided with a gain control, to adjust the amount of brake force information, a manual braking lever and a display panel. The power module, which may be mounted in a convenient location, preferably on the towed vehicle, receives the braking information from the control module and secures power from the towed vehicle to engage its brakes.

Abstract: This invention utilizes transparent plastic probes or a single multi-level probe, immersed in a fuel tank to detect fuel level. A light source and light sensing element is incorporated with the level probe so that as liquid touches the immersed end of the probe a change in reflective light occurs which results in a change in the electrical output of each light sensing device. The resulting signals from the light sensing devices are converted for use in fuel level gagging and for use by flight computers and similar devices. The invention also includes corporation of static electricity suppressing. coatings and an encasement cage to reduce the effect of fuel foam and fuel level fluctuations to due movement of fuel in the tank resulting from vehicle movement.

Abstract: This invention uses the change visual appearance on one end of a transparent probe when the opposite end contacts the surface of the liquid to be measured. A flexible fiber optic device is used to allow remote viewing or sensing with electronic sensors. The device includes the use of multiple probe levels to allow indication of a range of liquid levels. Optional use of a light source in low light conditions is also provided.

Abstract: An antenna comprising two essentially identical electrically conducting rectangular plates lying in parallel planes and separated so that a gap is formed between the plates also includes a dielectric situated within the gap and exhibiting a relative permittivity that changes with frequency. Electrical connectors connect the plates to corresponding conductors that carry the signal to be radiated by the antenna.

Abstract: An antenna comprising two essentially identical electrically conducting rectangular plates lying in parallel planes and separated so that a gap is formed between the plates also includes a dielectric situated within the gap and exhibiting a relative permittivity that changes with frequency. Electrical connectors connect the plates to corresponding conductors that carry the signal to be radiated by the antenna.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a supported liquid membrane carrier liquid with a dielectric constant between approximately 20 and 32, more particularly between 22 and 28, and preferably about 24, and the use of that carrier liquid in a supported liquid membrane device to extract one or more chemical species from a feed liquid. The invention further comprises such a device where a temperature gradient is maintained between any of the feed, carrier, or strip liquids. In another embodiment of the invention, any of the feed, carrier, or strip liquids are conditioned, for example, by passing the liquids through a purifier, or replacing lost carrier liquid. In another embodiment of the invention, two or more devices are connected in series or parallel.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a supported liquid membrane carrier liquid with a dielectric constant between approximately 20 and 32, more particularly between 22 and 28, and preferably about 24, and the use of that carrier liquid in a supported liquid membrane device to extract one or more chemical species from a feed liquid. The invention further comprises such a device where a temperature gradient is maintained between any of the feed, carrier, or strip liquids. In another embodiment of the invention, any of the feed, carrier, or strip liquids are conditioned, for example, by passing the liquids through a purifier, or replacing lost carrier liquid. In another embodiment of the invention, two or more devices are connected in series or parallel.

Abstract: A hierarchical database reporting and updating system is disclosed. The invention makes unique use of bit vectors to represent the relationship between various data items to enable the system to provide powerful data analysis functions. The data structure allows users to change values which represent intermediate or grand summary levels. Such changes are prorated across all lower level data items which make up the intermediate or grand summary level. The invention also allows for the graphical representation of data. Users may modify these graphical representations and the system will update the underlying data.

Abstract: A rigidly constructed tonneau cover, hatch and seat assembly is disclosed for converting the truck bed of a standard pickup truck into an expanded seating capacity outside of the truck cab. The assembly is comprised of a generally rectangular tonneau cover for covering the bed portion of the pickup truck. This cover includes a hingably openable back portion that functions like a trunk to allow easy access to the truck bed. This portion can be locked so the contents of the truck bed are secured. The tonneau cover also has a removable hatch that provides access and protection for a rotatably mounted windshield, and for persons in one or more seats slidably mounted on the truck bed. In the closed position, the hatch protects the truck bed, seats, and added cargo, etc., from damage and undesired access. When the hatch is detached from the tonneau cover, it may be positioned vertically behind the seats and projects above the surface of the tonneau cover.

Abstract: A pressure-actuated head for detonating a gun for perforating a well bore is suspended on a tubing string for lowering down the well. The head includes a detonator pin biased towards a detonator but restrained until detonation is required. Detonation is effected by causing or allowing a pressure differential to develop across a piston. Fluid communication between chambers on respective sides of the piston is via a pressure control system which allows the pressure differential to develop over a period of time.

Abstract: A method for measuring continuously shrinkage and crimp development in a long continuous sample of yarn involves the steps providing a zero-tension loop, applying a standard tension, then developing crimp in a single downward pass through a hot air chamber providing a second zero-tension loop and thereafter retensioning it. The shrinkage and crimp development is calculated from differential speeds of rolls advancing the yarn.