Abstract: An adaptive overload system for controlling the amount of traffic processed by a network access controller is described for a network access controller arranged to control a plurality of network access points. Each network access point provides traffic with access to the communications network and the system comprises determining at the network access controller if an overload condition exists, and if so, generating at least one global constraint to restrict the rate at which a network access point admits said traffic to the communications network. The controller then multicasts at least one global traffic constraint to one or more of said plurality of network access points. Each network access point receiving the global constraint then processes the global traffic constraint to determine a plurality of local constraint conditions.

Abstract: A mounting aid arranged for receiving a valve-actuating sub-assembly intended for installation coaxially about a valve stem. The sub-assembly includes a valve coil spring, a spring retainer having a central aperture and a split collar. The mounting aid has a closing disc having an outer circumference and being arranged for engaging an outer radial surface of the spring retainer coaxially therewith; an axial extension attached to the closing disc at the outer circumference thereof; and hold-back means formed on the end of the extension for releasably securing the sub-assembly to the axial extension.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for routing traffic in a circuit switched network. A call between two nodes interconnected by a direct link is first offered to the direct route, and if that is blocked it is offered to a currently nominated two-link alternative route between the two nodes. If that route is busy, the call is lost, and a randomly chosen two-link route is assigned to be the new current nominated alternative route. The strategy is particularly effective because it is simple, available routes are quickly located and once one available route is found, that same route is used for rerouting further calls until it is full. Trunk reservation protection is applied on alternative routes.