Abstract: A media game that employs a method for randomly shuffling through a large set of video and/or audio clips stored on readable media using a media player, such as a DVD player, is disclosed. In addition to the readable media, the game also includes a game board, moveable play pieces, trivia question cards, random name cards, a numbered die, and a challenge die. The game board can be converted from long play to short play by lifting the endmost sections of the game board and placing them next to each other on top of intermediate sections of the game board. A path circumnavigates the game board and appears to be continuous in both long and short play modes. The begin and end regions reside at least partially on the endmost sections and appear as unbroken shapes when configured for both long and short play.

Abstract: A micro-controller to perform the FSK (HART) modem functions as well as communications and control functions in an isolated channel implementation is described. In one embodiment, the micro-controller comprises: a processor, an analog-to-digital converter configured to transform received analog signals into digital values at a predetermined digital sample rate; and a memory unit containing a set of computer-executable instructions that, when executed on the processor, provide a built-in FSK bi-directional modem function that converts the received digital values into binary signals. The FSK (HART) demodulation function is performed by the micro-controller with the built-in FSK modem function in three sequential phases implemented in computer code: (1) zero crossing and amplitude detection; (2) bit stream and timing generation, and (3) character generation and bit synchronization.

Abstract: In a microwave module with at least one semiconductor chip, which provides on its upper side a connecting-line structure formed in particular as a coplanar line, which is connected to at least one adjacent incoming and/or outgoing line structure formed on the upper side of the substrate, the chip is glued with its underside and all lateral surfaces, on which no high-frequency connecting lines lead to the chip, within a recess of a metal part with good thermal conduction.

Abstract: A vertical lift platform assembly 100 has a lift platform 140, which is translatable in a vertical direction between at least a raised position and a lowered position by at least one actuator 200. The lift platform 140 may be surrounded on all sides by vertically extending walls 112 and one or more doors 110 to provide access to the lift platform 140. A control panel 113 enables an operator to control the vertical travel of the lift platform 140.

Abstract: A method of hydrogenation of heavy oil. A first step involves providing a continuous pipe reactor defining a serpentine flow path. A second step involves heating heavy oil to lower the viscosity of the heavy oil. A third step involves pumping a turbulent flow of heavy oil and hydrogen through the continuous pipe reactor to promote addition of hydrogen into the heavy oil. The method has improved mass transfer due to the continuous turbulent flow through the continuous pipe reactor.

Abstract: A power generating system includes a main engine operated over a range of speeds, an electric generator, and a hydrostatic transmission drivably connecting the engine with the generator to drive the generator at a desired speed. The hydrostatic transmission includes one or more variable pumps. A controller monitors the pump pressure and the generator frequency. The pressure set point is used with the monitored pressure to control the pump output. The pressure set point varies with the generator load, and is adjusted based on the deviation of the generator frequency from a predetermined desired electric power frequency. When multiple pumps are used to drive the motor, the pumps are operated sequentially such that all except one pump is either off or at maximum output.

Abstract: Methods for increasing the growth and biomass of algae and algae lipids by growing the algae in the presence of a polycationic substance such as soluble or insoluble chitosan and/or chitin are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of harvesting algae from an aqueous environment by growing the algae in aggregated clumps and/or mats (formed by the inclusion of soluble or insoluble chitosan and/or chitin or other polycationic or cationic substances) that can be easily removed from the aqueous environment either by filtration, surface skimming, and/or growing in a porous containment device, such as a natural or synthetic fabric, and removing the fabric from the aqueous environment containing the aggregated algae. The methods disclosed have direct applications in biofuel and energy production, agricultural feedstock production, nutrient production, greenhouse gas reduction, removal of microconstituents from water, and water reclamation.

Abstract: An apparatus and related method for fracturing a formation penetrated by a well comprises a frac pressure pump, a frac fluid source, and a proppant supply source. The frac pressure pump is connected to the well. The frac fluid source is connected to supply a stream of frac fluid to the frac pressure pump. The proppant supply source has a proppant receiver, a positive displacement pump, and at least an inlet into the proppant supply source. The at least an inlet is connected to one or more liquid hydrocarbon sources to supply liquid hydrocarbons to proppant in the proppant supply source. The positive displacement pump is connected to pump proppant into the stream of frac fluid before the frac pressure pump. Fluid lines connecting the frac pressure pump, the well, and the frac fluid source have isolation valves spaced so that the volume of fluid containable between any set of neighboring isolation valves is less than or equal to 500 L.

Abstract: A portable changing table of the present disclosure includes at least one extendable arm assembly moveable between a retracted position and an extended position. The at least one extendable arm assembly is removably securable to a support structure. The portable changing table further includes a collapsible frame hingedly secured to the at least one extendable arm assembly, wherein the collapsible frame is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The portable changing table further includes a flexible support member secured to a portion of the collapsible frame. The flexible support member extends across a portion of the collapsible frame in the deployed position.