Abstract: Apparatus comprises a data encoder configured to derive, from an array of sample values, sample range flags each indicative of whether one or more sample values of the array of sample values lie in a predetermined range of sample values, the data encoder being configured in a first encoding mode to encode the array of sample values, at least in part, by encoding the sample range flags to an output data stream; a predictor configured to predict the state of a group of the sample range flags for a given array of sample values, the group being at least a subset of the sample range flags; and a comparator configured to compare the predicted state of the group of sample range flags with the actual state of the respective sample range flags for the given array of sample values; the data encoder being configured, in response to the comparator, to encode the given array of samples values in a second encoding mode in which the encoder is configured to encode to the output data stream a predetermined number of indicato

Abstract: The invention relates to gas flow controllers, for example to gas blender units such as an air/oxygen blender (2) for healthcare use, and to a valve (8) and valve pin (20,120) suitable for use in such a flow controller (20). In particular, a medical gas blender (2) is provided that avoids the need for pre-regulation by incorporating one or more flow control valves (8) having a high turndown ratio. Valves suitable for use in such a blender, or otherflow controller (2), are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention generally concerns systems, methods, and apparatus wherein a computer may receive information concerning a group of target date funds from a database. Information about the target date funds may comprise information about the glide path and the target retirement date of that fund. A diversification level of each of the target date funds may be determined from the received information. An equity ratio may also be determined for each of the target date funds using the received information. In some instances, the equity ratio may be based upon the amount of equity projected to be owned by the target date fund upon the target retirement date. After determining an equity ratio and a diversification level, a summary of the group of funds is output for review by a user. The summary may include a summary or graph of the diversification levels and equity ratios of the target date funds.

Abstract: The invention generally concerns systems, methods, and apparatus wherein a computer may receive information concerning a group of target date funds from a database. Information about the target date funds may comprise information about the glide path and the target retirement date of that fund. A diversification level of each of the target date funds may be determined from the received information. An equity ratio may also be determined for each of the target date funds using the received information. In some instances, the equity ratio may be based upon the amount of equity projected to be owned by the target date fund upon the target retirement date. After determining an equity ratio and a diversification level, a summary of the group of funds is output for review by a user. The summary may include a summary or graph of the diversification levels and equity ratios of the target date funds.

Abstract: The invention generally concerns systems, methods, and apparatus wherein a computer may receive information concerning a group of target date funds from a database. Information about the target date funds may comprise information about the glide path and the target retirement date of that fund. A diversification level of each of the target date funds may be determined from the received information. An equity ratio may also be determined for each of the target date funds using the received information. In some instances, the equity ratio may be based upon the amount of equity projected to be owned by the target date fund upon the target retirement date. After determining an equity ratio and a diversification level, a summary of the group of funds is output for review by a user. The summary may include a summary or graph of the diversification levels and equity ratios of the target date funds.

Abstract: The invention generally concerns systems, methods, and apparatus wherein a computer may receive information concerning a group of target date funds from a database. Information about the target date funds may comprise information about the glide path and the target retirement date of that fund. A diversification level of each of the target date funds may be determined from the received information. An equity ratio may also be determined for each of the target date funds using the received information. In some instances, the equity ratio may be based upon the amount of equity projected to be owned by the target date fund upon the target retirement date. After determining an equity ratio and a diversification level, a summary of the group of funds is output for review by a user. The summary may include a summary or graph of the diversification levels and equity ratios of the target date funds.

Abstract: A portable aircraft weighing scale, comprising:(a) a base having load cell mounting structures;(b) a plurality of shear beam load cells mounted to the base via the mounting structures;(c) a platform for supporting an aircraft wheel or wheel set; and(d) a mechanism for mounting the platform to the load cells.

Abstract: Air blast peening equipment includes a flow density transducer and a pressure or velocity transducer for measuring flow velocity. Measured values are compared during peening with predetermined desired values. Operation of the apparatus is automatically adjusted, if necessary, by adjustment of flow density and/or flow velocity to maintain these parameters at desired values.