Abstract: A system and method for Enhanced Overflow Call Processing redirects calls which cannot be completed to alternate terminations. An originating switch queries a network database for an alternate termination for the call each time the originating switch detects that the call cannot be completed to the current termination. The network database determines the alternate termination for each query using a hierarchical set of multi-branch overflow statements which are configured by the user. A set of overflow statements is selected by the network database based on the original termination of the call. The set of overflow statements is searched hierarchically until an active overflow statement is found. This overflow statement then controls all queries relating to that call. The reason the call was not completed is used to select either an alternate termination to which the call is to be routed or a particular treatment, such as a busy signal or network message, which is to be applied to the call.

Abstract: A flapper-type gas valve automatically closable by accelerations characteristic of earthquakes. The arm is held up in the "valve open" position by a magnet attracting a soft ferromagnetic armature. The armature can be displaced to release the flapper to close the valve, either by seismic accelerations or manually by novel magnetic means--the latter for testing or for non-seismic emergencies. The latter employ movable permanent magnets or electromagnets. Additional magnets are provided to hold the valve closed. Indicating means on the flapper shaft can be viewed through a window to see the valve status--open or closed. The electromagnetic modification provides remote status indication via a magnetically-actuated switch.

Abstract: A telecommunications system provides a call transfer function while user-A is involved in two independent calls: one with user-B and one with user-C. The call transfer by user-A is initiated by sending a message to the long distance carrier switching office. In the switching office, both independent calls are identified as part of the transfer request. The switching office then requests the call transfer function by sending a message to the network control system for the validation of the transfer. After the network control system determines allowability of the transfer, the call between user-B and user-C is connected, while user-A and user-A's customer premise equipment is disconnected from user-B and user-C.

Abstract: An acceleration-responsive magnetic device for closing a valve or operating a switch or the like in response to a disturbance such as an earthquake. A pendulum operates to increase the length of a magnetic path, releasing a magnetic element to perform the desired actuation.

Abstract: A safey shutoff valve for insertion into a gas line or other fluid line, that closes in response to an electrical input pulse or to a seismic disturbance. A pivoted flapper arm is held in the open position by a permanent magnet embedded in it. When the magnetic attractive force is reduced enough, the arm swings down by gravity into the closed position and a primary flapper seal element seals the valve seat. Line pressure keeps it closed. The magnetic holding force may be reduced by means of an opposing electromagnet or by the mechanical displacement of a ferromagnetic ball. The valve is manually reset by turning a reset shaft to raise the flapper arm to the open position. The reset shaft also raises a secondary flapper to uncover a small bypass tube to bleed off any residual line pressure; this bypass is automatically closed when the valve closes. No standby power is required.

Abstract: A seismometer system which provides readouts of the time integral (Cumulative Absolute Velocity or CAV) of the acceleration time history of an earthquake. CAV is found to be a measure of the structural damage potential of an earthquake. Three triaxial low frequency acceleration sensors are connected into a digital computer system. Each sensor has a capacitive pickoff, whose capacitances determines the length of an electrical pulse; the pulse gates high-frequency clock cycles into a counter. The counts are summed to give the time integral. A microprocessor provides for periodic re-zeroing and other calibration functions, and for the actuation of alarms, relays and electrical pulses for utility shutoff and the like at predetermined levels of CAV. The acceleration time history of the earthquake is stored in the memory for later retrieval if desired. The whole system is contained in a small inexpensive package.

Abstract: A mechanical seismic instrument for recording relative horizontal displacements between the base and foundation of base-isolated buildings or other large structures during earthquakes. A rigid tripod-like arm is connected to the base of the structure; on the other end of the arm is a marking stylus. A record plate is connected to the foundation. When base and foundation move relative to one another, the stylus scribes a record trace on the record plate. Arm and record plate are mounted respectively on mounting plates which are connected and covered by a flexible enclosure. Timing marks on the record trace may be made by striking devices which tap against the shank of the stylus.