Abstract: A system and method for providing a pre-paid product using a unique container. The system comprises a computer system comprising a storage medium readable by a processing circuit and stored instructions for execution by the processing circuit. The computer system includes a sales module that acquires an identifier for the unique container and generates a credential ID for a customer. The sales module also activates the unique container, and stores the identifier for the unique container and the corresponding credential ID in the storage medium. Also included is a dispensing module that receives a request from a remote dispensing device for validation of the unique container to receive the prepaid product, compares a received identifier and a received credential ID with the identifier and the credential ID stored in the storage medium, and authorizes the dispensing of the prepaid product if they match.

Abstract: Caps having porous elements that act as a vent to facilitate cooling of hot fluids stored in containers. Certain embodiments comprise a cap that may be affixed to a container filled with a hot fluid. The cap may include a porous element that allows air to enter the container during the cooling process, but also prevents the introduction of microbes and bacteria into the container. The cap may include a through hole, chamber, or recessed area to receive and secure the porous element. In certain embodiments the porous element may comprise a sintered composite material with thermoplastic particles and either metal particles and/or metal powder. In other embodiments, the porous element may comprise a layered structure. The layers may include a combination of the sintered composite material, a metallic layer, or various porous layers.

Abstract: A vehicle wheel includes a central hub region and a rim coaxial with the central hub region. The rim is configured to receive a motor vehicle tire and includes an exposed annular surface visible when the tire is received on the rim. A middle region extends from the central hub region toward the rim and joins the central hub region and the rim. The wheel additionally includes a cover member configured to attach to the exposed annular surface of the rim. The cover member is configured to substantially conform to a shape of the exposed annular surface of the rim and to substantially continue a contour of the tire when the tire is received on the rim.

Abstract: A polarographic sensor for blood oxygen monitoring is defined by respective anode and cathode electrode wires fixedly maintained in conventional fashion. The end cross sections of the wires are carried on a surface, and overlying this surface is a capillary pore ultrafiltration membrane. The microscopic capillary pores, which have diameters less than 12 micrometers each, pass water therethrough and thus allow the blood, which passes on the side of the membrane opposite the anode and cathode, to act as its own electrolyte.