Abstract: A database system includes servers configured to receive requests from user systems. Each server includes a local and a global store. Each local store stores the number of requests received by its server. The system includes a processor configured to receive the number of requests from servers. The processor is configured to determine the number of requests received by all of the servers, and send this number of requests to each server. The global store stores the number of requests received from the processor. A given server is configured to compare the number of requests received by the servers with a threshold number. If this number is greater than the threshold number, then the given server is configured to send a message to the user systems that the number of threshold requests has been exceeded and/or the given server will discontinue accepting requests.

Abstract: A Fluid Flow-Schedule Control System includes a flow volume regulating subsystem and a control subsystem for determining and maintaining optimal time-based scheduling of fluid flow volume to a fluid actuated host. Together, the subsystems provide a functionally independent system for easy integration with host systems of new manufacture and particularly for retrofit. Fluid flow volume to the host is sensed by and regulated by the volume regulating subsystem according to a continuously variable, schedule sequence. The schedule sequence is preferably determined by a user and.backslash.or automatically according to specific time-based flow volume levels and.backslash.or by extrapolation from known parameters. Schedule implementation is preferably achieved through control of an electrically controllable, multiple aperture valve or pump according to schedule and/or interactive data and actual volume sensing.

Abstract: A Fluid Flow-Schedule Control System includes a flow volume regulating subsystem and a control subsystem for determining and maintaining optimal time-based scheduling of fluid flow volume to a fluid actuated host. Together, the subsystems provide a functionally independent system for easy integration with host systems of new manufacture and particularly for retrofit. Fluid flow volume to the host is sensed by and regulated by the volume regulating subsystem according to a continuously variable, schedule sequence. The schedule sequence is preferably determined by a user and/or automatically according to specific time-based flow volume levels and/or by extrapolation from known parameters. Schedule implementation is preferably achieved through control of an electrically controllable, multiple aperture valve or pump according to schedule and/or interactive data and actual volume sensing.

Abstract: A hammer and chisel device for clearing slag from welds includes a chipping chisel interchangeably and springingly affixed within a weighted handle having a slip resistant grip. Since welds often produce slag in a hard to reach spot, the invention provides for repeated one handed slag removal. A sturdy chisel with a resilient cutting surface is replaceably received by the handle utilizing a releasable retaining washer and retaining ring. A spring within the handle returns the chisel shank to an extended position, thereby providing for repeatable hammer-like blows to the chisel shank by the handle. The handle or striking rod includes a chisel shank guide receiving track for consistent sequential strikes without axial rotation. A molded slip resistant grip minimizes necessary grip pressure and prevents hand slippage. Heavy construction provides sufficient force for quick, one handed operation. A slim design provides for easy handling and use in harder to reach places.

Abstract: A portable table includes a frame that is worn by various size users while standing or sitting and can be used where free-standing tables are impractical for writing, eating and other purposes. Two hooks that telescope longitudinally from the main frame fit over the user's shoulders. A table is affixed rotatingly at a bottom side to the main frame and rotatingly and removably at a top side to a slider which is slidably affixed to the main frame. Moving the slider upward thereby rotates the table surface toward the main frame for storage while moving the slider downward rotates the table surface essentially perpendicular to the main frame for use. The slider can further be locked into place using convention means. In addition, a support bar is affixed rotatingly to the bottom of the main frame and can be rotated toward and affixed to the table in a conventional manner while the table is in use.

Abstract: A parking brake valve includes a magnetically attractable sled containing fluid stoppers and fluid passers that moves along a track, a fluid exchange unit, solenoids at either end of the track and a remote actuator. The parking brake valve is added to an existing hydraulic vehicle braking system. When the existing braking system is actuated, braking fluid is forced through the parking brake valve. Activating a locking solenoid attracts the sled into a fluid interrupting or locking position, thereby locking the brake system in a braking state. Activating an unlocking solenoid moves the sled such that brake fluid can again flow through the parking brake valve, thereby allowing the braking system to function normally. Integral fluid pressure valves allow the monitoring of fluid pressure within the parking brake valve allowing operation to be monitored.

Abstract: A water slide includes a water distributor depressed within the slide surface near the upper end of the slide and one or more sets of water outlets to spread a small volume of water evenly accross the slide surface between two integral side walls. Water is drawn from a pool into which the lower end of the water slide projects and is pumped onto the slide surface through the water outlets using a conventional, inexpensive water pump, hoses and fittings. The dark color of the slide surface absorbs heat from the sun which is then transferred to the small volume of water flowing down the pitched slide surface. A support means and an access means are mounted to the water slide. The lower end of the slide has a steeper pitch, allowing the slide to be supported in various positions. The speed of descent can therefore be adjusted to accommodate various user needs.

Abstract: A Radio Alarm Clock With Reminder Capability provides an electronic alarm clock with message storing, editing, displaying and scheduling and an audio receiver that can be triggered by an alarm and used independently. Conventional controls and displays, standard message selection, and default settings accommodate the less sophisticated user of a beside alarm clock. Manual and automated data protection accommodate the less coherent awakening user of a bedside alarm clock by changing key functions to a conventional sleep function. Nonvolatile storage and a battery low warning protect stored data from power outages. Multiple alarm and speaker capabilities, along with an audio balance adjust remote control accommodate multiple users. Receiver independent operation, multiple speakers, a separate audio display, conventional control and an auxilliary audio input further provide a versitile sound system capability.