Abstract: A system for and method of facilitating data communication between (i) a first computer system that runs a legacy application and is operable as a service provider and (ii) a second computer system that is operable as a requester. Multi-layered software adapters are respectively interposed between an electronic network and each of the first and second computers thereby connecting the first and second computers to each other via the adapters. The first computer, which is operable as a service provider and runs the legacy application, publishes an interface model of its legacy application functions. The second computer, which is operable as a requester, looks up, via its adapter, the published interface model when a request for data that is available from the legacy application is made by the second computer. The adapters then communicate with each other in a common format and protocol to exchange information and data as is desired.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for use in weighing products having circular or oval footprint configurations. A conveyor having a pair of parallel conveyor elements arranged to underengage the footprint only adjacent the periphery thereof transports the products one at a time across a planar surface of a weigh pan or scale device. The surface of the weigh pan is shaped and the transverse spacing between the conveyor elements is adjustable in order to permit lengths of the surface of the weigh pan engaged by the conveyor elements to be selected to correspond essentially to dimensions of differently sized products to be weighed.

Abstract: Electric heating elements, particularly adapted for use in solder pots or in other uses wherein a substance is to be maintained in a molten or plastic condition, and commonly termed in such uses as over-the-side heaters. A conventional tubular heater is disposed within the central opening of a thick-wall metal pipe or tube, and the latter is swaged to reduce its cross-sectional size and thereby fit tightly about the tubular heater. Thereafter, the pipe and the heater therein, are bent in a pipe bender to any desired shape.