Abstract: A computer implemented conversational method to parse meaning from input sequences of symbols, using a large dictionary stored in a semantic network, where thousands of dictionary entries for symbols are stored as nodes connected by inheritance links. Input symbols are matched to dictionary entries, with priority given to entries which cover a range of concreteness similar to the range covered by the dictionary. Ranges of concreteness which are missing are identified and reported back to the user. Concreteness of each entry is quantified from topology of inheritance links; quantification is done automatically when defining meanings by inheritance. As network topology shifts due to creation and removal inheritance links, quantified concreteness of affected dictionary entries are updated, automatically maintaining a consistent concreteness numbers. New inheritor links cause entries to become more concrete.

Abstract: A system and methods for allocating and traversing tree structured data in contiguous portions of memory by encapsulating lower level subtrees within the memory allocated for their higher level parent trees. These encapsulated memory allocations are encoded with length descriptors at both lowest and highest ends in memory, so that allocated subtrees can be retrieved or skipped when scanning allocated subtrees in either lowest-to-highest or highest-to-lowest directions in memory. The length descriptors themselves are allocated variable amounts of memory by allocating additional multiplier bits to describe larger lengths. Smaller lengths can be described with a smaller number of bits. There is no limit to the size of length which can be described. Extra reserve memory may be allocated within some subtrees to localize the allocation of memory within those subtrees.

Abstract: A fluid forcing device comprising many rotatable slender elements that converts mechanical energy into fluid energy by mechanically arranging and maintaining, at all time, the rotatable slender elements in a predetermined wave form and by mechanically moving the wave form in a direction normal to the rotation of the elements by an improved drive comprising two fluted rollers. The new drive reduces the weight and complexity of the entire fluid forcing device and renders it more mechanically rigid and less vibration prone.

Abstract: A fluid forcing device comprising many rotatable slender elements that converts mechanical energy into fluid energy by mechanically arranging and maintaining, at all times, the rotatable slender elements in a pre-determined wave form and by mechanically moving the wave form in a direction normal to the rotation of the elements.

Abstract: An indexed record locating and counting mechanism quickly returns time critical information to query mechanisms. The amount of time required to return time critical information is linearly bounded by the length of the sequences of symbols or records requested by the query, allowing massively scaled databases to be manipulated quickly and efficiently on a record by record basis.

Abstract: A golf club head, particularly a putter, having an improved selectable weight and adjustable balance system. The head has an elongated threaded weight chamber extending from toe to heel. The chamber contains weights, preferably coins, and thrust/ friction washers which are captured and secured by opposing threaded end plugs. The amount of weights used and their collective effective center of gravity is adjustable by the user. The center of gravity or sweet spot is adjusted when the end plugs along with the captive weights and washers are rotated toward the toe or heel. When rotated toward each other, the end plugs produce a strong locking force on the entire weight assembly. The balance and sweet spot characteristics are also controlled by the strategic placement of weights within the chamber. The washers can also be used as spacers to aid weight distribution. When more weight separation is required, an optional compression spring is used between weights.