Abstract: A blockchain system may include nodes, member network entities, and a protocol entity. The nodes together are configured to maintain an immutable record as a blockchain, based on commands provided by the protocol entity. A member may provide a request for a transaction to the protocol entity to perform an operation along with encrypted data. For example, the operation may include a transaction. The protocol entity may invoke a smart contract at one or more nodes to perform the operation on the encrypted data. In response, the node decrypts the encrypted data using a decryption key stored in the node storage equipment to generate cleartext data. The node then performs the operation based on the cleartext data and secures the cleartext data. The immutable record of the blockchain to be updated based on the operation. For example, the secured data and audience permission information may be added to the blockchain.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus to ease the consumption of drink and food including a sleeve of flexible material, a perforation formed in one end of the sleeve configured to be removed and form an opening in communication with a chamber formed in the sleeve. The apparatus also includes a straw with a first end to be inserted into the chamber through the sleeve, and a second end with at least one prong to be inserted into the chamber and the food. The second end may be inserted through the opening. The invention also provides a method of consuming food and drink from an apparatus. The invention further provides a method of assembling a snack apparatus.

Abstract: A barbecue cover assembly includes a container having a base, walls moveable between an erected configuration and an outwardly collapsed configuration, and an actuating member operable to retain the walls in the erected configuration and to permit outward movement of the walls to the collapsed configuration. A barbecue cover is housed within the container. The cover assembly is positionable on top of a barbecue whereby the actuating member can be operated to permit movement of the walls to the outwardly collapsed configuration and thus permits the cover to be deployed to a barbecue covering position.