Abstract: Methods and apparatus for improving the upstream data transfer rate for a cable modem. A device that shares an upstream channel with other devices determines whether, based on particular data, an upstream channel data transfer rate can be improved over a current data transfer rate of a current upstream channel from the device to a remote system. If the upstream channel data rate can be improved, the device improves the upstream channel data transfer rate based, at least in part, on the particular data used to determine whether the data transfer rate can be improved.

Abstract: A system for monitoring medication compliance in a patient includes an electronic pill that includes a drug-transporting device and an antenna positioned on a surface of the drug-transporting device. A detector is positionable external a gastrointestinal tract of a patient for detecting a presence of the antenna in the patient gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system and an audio product for instructing a user in the operating functions of a motor vehicle. The invention features an audio file containing audio information for teaching the operating functions of a motor vehicle, and which may be brought into use on a player. By using the invention, a user of a motor vehicle may learn the operating functions of the motor vehicle simply and reliably by audio means.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for data transfer optimization. A computing platform may, for example, modify a first property of a communication network in relation to an analysis of a second property of said communication network and a property of a data item. For example, a processor or a modem may dynamically modify a payload header suppression module to suppress a static portion of a data packet or an acknowledgment packet.

Abstract: An animal trap has a rectangular housing with one or more access openings in the side. The preferred trap has two access openings in adjacent sides, at diametrically-opposed corners. A tunnel leads from each access opening into the container. Within the tunnel is a gravity door, pivoted at the top and sloping inwardly so that an animal may push the door open to enter the container but cannot open the door to the outside. The door is perforated and carries a lure housing on its inside surface. An odoriferous lure is carried in the lure housing to attract animals into the access opening an through the tunnel. For use in very cold weather, a heating wire, preferably battery powered, may be used to warm the lure.

Abstract: A container contains a plurality of strips or rows of nails adhesively secured together and a wedge block splits off one row at a time for dispensing. The separated strip of nails is moved forwardly by means of a magnet so that the front nail of the strip is situated through an aperture and under a tappet. This tappet is struck lightly with a hammer which separates the front nail and enables it to be partially engaged within the work surface. The tappet is spring loaded or counterweighted in order to return it to the uppermost position.

Abstract: A locking nut assembly comprises an axle nut, a resilient ring member and a cover member. The axle nut has a threaded bore at one end and a locking bore at the other end thereof. The threaded bore has a structural configuration which threadingly engages a bicycle axle. The outer surface of the axle nut has flat surface areas and an annular groove. The resilient ring member is disposed within the annular groove. The cover member is slidingly disposed over the outer surface of the axle nut. The cover member has a tapered, smooth outer surface and an end portion with a bore opening juxtaposed the locking bore of the axle nut. The use of the assembly prevents the untightening of the axle nut which holds the bicycle wheel in place on the bicycle frame.

Abstract: A lever arm lock for a conventional quick-release hub assembly includes a cover mountable to a first skewer rod end nut supporting a quick-release lever arm. The cover is secured to the end nut with a locking mechanism (combination, magnetic, key, etc.) and maintains the lever arm in a locked position making it impossible to remove the hub. A second skewer rod end nut opposite the first end nut is formed with a substantially smooth outer surface that is continuously inclined with respect to the axle. This surface configuration prevents removal of the locked hub assembly by turning the second end nut with a pliers or other tool. The lever arm lock also prevents the hub from being jarred loose on impact with curbs, rocks, etc. The end nut assemblies have extensions which abut the frame thereby preventing loosening thereof for unauthorized removal.