Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus, systems and methods for transacting and managing like-kind exchanges for a plurality of taxpayers over a global communications network whereby each taxpayer relinquishes for divestment one or more properties in exchange for one or more replacement properties. The present invention further provides an interactive computer system for transacting like-kind exchanges, such that the computer system is programmed to transact an exchange by a taxpayer of at least one property to be relinquished by the taxpayer for at least one like-kind replacement property, said exchange transacted according to a set of tax-deferred treatment rules. The computer system transacts each like-kind exchange such that at least one property to be relinquished is exchanged for at least one like-kind replacement property wherein the exchange is transacted between a taxpayer, at least one relinquishment property receiver, and at least one replacement property provider.

Abstract: The present invention provides for multiple portions of a shoe structure and the method of making these portions wherein one or more of the portions comprise two or more flat perimeter edges. The present invention further provides faceted lasts for making faceted shoe portions. An exemplary embodiment (FIG. 9) of a shoe having a faceted outsole, rand, and shoe upper of the present invention features five separate straight-line facets (30-34) and six angled corners (40-45). Alternative degrees of the angle formed by the intersection of the various straight-line facets, and the number of the various straight-line facets, can be varied for different types of foot structures. For example, the angle degrees and number of outsole facets may vary as between shoes for adult males and for women and children's feet. Facet (30) and facet (32) contact exemplary edge formations (4a, 4b) respectively with outsole contact areas (7a-1, 7b-1).

Abstract: In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an instep strap would be used to increase tension on a cord that would substantially encircle a circumference of an ankle portion of a shoe. In the exemplary embodiment, a first end of the cord would be attached to an instep portion of a first side of a shoe upper; a second end of the cord would be attached to an instep portion of a second side of the shoe; and the cord would pass through at least one channel substantially disposed around the circumference of the ankle portion of the shoe. In an alternative exemplary two-cord embodiment of the present invention, an instep strap would be used to increase tension on two cords. By tightening and fastening the instep strap, both cords would be somewhat distorted and a tension would be created, or increased, thereby causing a snug fit of the shoe.

Abstract: The exemplary embodiment of the present invention would provide an apparatus for concealed transport of a medical fluid administration device. The medical fluid administration device would be capable of infusing medical fluids to, or collecting medical fluids from, as the case may be, the body of a patient during concealed transport. The exemplary apparatus would comprise one or more of the following: a stand disposed within a carrying case, said stand capable of being extended during stationary use or collapsed during ambulatory use; a medical fluid pump disposed within the carrying case, said pump capable of delivering or collecting medical fluids during concealed transport within the carrying case; and a tubing retraction device for engaging tubing for delivery of medical fluids to, or collection of medical fluids from, a body of a patient.

Abstract: The exemplary embodiment of the present invention will provide computer systems and methods for protecting the security of processing for customization of computer-based value-bearing items, such as, for example, securing processing of exemplary image-customized computer-based postage label 1 in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as depicted in FIG. 1. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention will further provide computer systems and methods for securing computer-based value-bearing items, such as, for example, securing image-customized computer-based postage label 1 as depicted in FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary customized computer-based postage label 1 will bear an image 2 that would be provided by a corresponding user, namely by the user that orders the customized computer-based postage label. The user may provide image 2 in an electronic form, such as by uploading a digital representation of image 2.

Abstract: The exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides methods and systems for automatically selecting a media type for which to format Value-Bearing Item indicia based on a user's input of a secured paper control number. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a method for selecting a media type format for which to generate value-bearing item indicia, said method comprising receiving an input of a secured paper control number, and identifying a media type format corresponding to the secured paper control number. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a method for determining a media type for a particular unit of secured paper, said method comprising receiving an input of a media type identifier, wherein the media type identifier is displayed on the particular unit of secured paper, and retrieving from a memory storage a record corresponding to the media type identifier, wherein said record defines a media type format corresponding to the media type identifier.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for pro-active, intelligent fire suppression and/or control using a micro-controller that is communicatably connected to at least one fire-energy detection sensor and to at least one fire suppression device. The present invention provides apparatus and methods for sensing the exact direction of a fire as well as a regional location of a fire. The present invention provides apparatus and methods for directing a fire suppressant at the source of the flame. As depicted in FIG. 1a, the present invention provides fine protection apparatus (10) for identifying the existence of a fire hazard and for determining the exact direction and regional location of the file hazard by using multiple infrared (IR) detectors. A first IR detector (20) with a wide angle view of an area of coverage corresponding to an area requiring fire protection will be continuously queried by a micro-controller (100).

Abstract: A freely rotatable binding base assembly for use on a board used in single-board sports such as snowboarding and slalom water skiing. A binding assembly mounted on and movably secured to the board, and is adapted to receive a conventional boot as worn by a rider. Additional features include a locking means for selectably blocking rotation, and a clutch for braking rotation by applying side loading to the board.

Abstract: The exemplary embodiment of the present invention integrates a two-way communications device into a personal floatation device (“PFD”; sometimes also referred to herein as a “life vest”). Integration of the two-way communications device in the exemplary PFD embodiment would provide water ingress protection (water-proofing) of at least International Standard CEI/IEC 529: 1989:IPX7. In the exemplary embodiment, the two-way communications device integrated in the PFD would provide an antenna integrated into a shoulder of the PFD. The exemplary embodiment would further provide an advanced microphone, and an ear bud speaker. The exemplary embodiment would further provide signal processing to mitigate ambient noise and to enhance transmission of true vocal content. The exemplary transceiver of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention would be environmentally hardened and would be operable to communicate radio frequencies in a range between 462.5625 MHz and 467.7125 MHz.