Abstract: A tribometer and technique for determining torque at a physical interface of multiple rotating components. The tool and technique include aligning components about a rotational axis for independent rotation of each component. The components are in physical interface during the rotating with a resultant frictional torque. The torque may be measured by one or more torque meters during the rotating. This measured torque may be compared against an estimated torque for tool accuracy. Further, parameters such as load, temperature, component material, rotating rpm differentials and others may be varied to determine effect on measured frictional torque.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for evaluating default and foreclosure loss risk, both at time zero and for several years into the future, associated with a piece of real property on the basis of factors such as statistical home price trend information for a metropolitan statistical area (MSA) in which the real property is located and loan terms. An automated valuation estimate for the property is obtained and compared to the purchase price. A loan-to-value ratio is determined based on automated valuation estimate. A future home price is predicted based on statistical data obtained for a metropolitan statistical area (MSA) in which the real property is located. Based on the future home price and the LTV ratio, a probability that the real property will have negative equity is determined, and a risk score is generated based on the probability.