Abstract: A computer database for medical imaging stores and manipulates multimedia data from various sources and reduces misidentification of data. A unique identifier is generated and linked to each data object, preferably at the time the image is generated. A graphical representation of the identifier is incorporated into the image or text when displayed or printed. A detector may be used to read the representation, allowing the identifier to be read and identify the data.

Abstract: A lightweight engine-driven generator set including a stator having at least first and second windings (preferably three-phase) and a rotor having a soft magnetic core and a plurality of high energy product permanent magnets, separated by consequence poles, disposed proximate the stator such that relative motion of the rotor and stator causes magnetic flux from the rotor to interact with and induce current in the stator windings. The first winding includes a predetermined number of turns corresponding to a first predetermined voltage output; and the second winding includes a predetermined number of turns corresponding to a second predetermined voltage output, the respective windings being grouped together as a unit and wound about the core such that the respective winding coils are wound in continuous close thermal contact with each other.

Abstract: In order to interface diverging paging networks, a gateway is established which includes a rules engine for applying rules to received packets. Each rule includes matching, modifying and routing elements for identifying and handling received paging packets. When a packet is received, it is first determined if the packet is matched to a first, matching element of one of a set of previously established rules. If, the packet is matched to the first element of a given rule, it is modified in accordance with the second element of the given rule and forwarded in accordance with the third element of the given rule. However, if the received packet is not matched to a matching element of any of the rules, a default rule is applied during the modification and forwarding procedures. User invokable procedures are provided by which rules can be modified or new rules can be added.

Abstract: A particularly advantageous power converter, suitable for use in an engine powered generator system. A signal simulating a desired AC waveform is produced by a converter circuit at first and second converter output terminals. The converter circuit, responsive to respective switching signals applied thereto, selectively effects current paths between a juncture node and one of the first and second converter output terminals and between a common rail and the other of the first and second converter output terminals. A controller selectively generates control signals to the converter circuit and to a mechanism for varying the magnitude of the juncture node voltage, to create a predetermined waveform at the converter output terminals simulating the desired AC waveform. A number of alternative embodiments for producing a simulated sine wave are described, as well as accommodations for inductive loads, and mechanisms for minimizing power dissipation during the switching interval.

Abstract: An improved method and system of increasing the effective electrical load capacity of a power converter is disclosed. Potential damage due to current surges from variation in load is avoided by sensing an impending over-current condition, decreasing the system output by a predetermined amount or to a predetermined level, and then gradually increasing the output to bring the system back to desired operating conditions. Such control can be affected by varying the throttle setting to adjust rotor speed, controlling the DC rail level, or a combination of both methods.

Abstract: In order to achieve very secure transmission of sensitive information over a public communications medium such as the Internet to carry out transactions therebetween, an account initialization data set is developed in a client system and duplicated, by secure means, in a host system. At each of the client and host systems, an initial client control file data set including a plurality of control fields (at least one of which includes data developed from information which is unique to the client system hardware) is independently developed and stored using functionally identical algorithms and incorporating information included in at least a part of the account initialization data set.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel solution to the problem the quickly approaching turn of the century will have on software systems that were not designed to handle dates beyond the year 2000. The present invention is also applicable to any software application where it is desired to virtually change the formatting of any arbitrary item of data. The item of data can come from any type of data source such as data files or computer screen memory. The present invention operates by severing the link between the program conversion process and the data file conversion process. The present invention assumes control each time a converted program reads or writes a record of a data file that has not yet been converted. Converting records during I/O operations, enables a converted program to access an unconverted data file as if it were converted. The invention converts the data fields in a read record to a new format that is implementation specific before passing it on to the program.

Abstract: In order to optimally control the charging of a rechargeable battery of one or more cells to ensure that full and rapid charge is achieved without damaging the battery, a maximum safe value (or sequence of values during the charging process) for one or more charging parameters is determined during a test charge, and subsequent charges of the battery are performed without exceeding the predetermined maximum value(s) for the charging parameter(s). Among the charging parameters contemplated for use are: the charging voltage potential placed across the battery terminals, the charging current supplied to the battery, the temperature of the battery cell and internal pressure of the battery cell as well as rates of changes of the parameters.

Abstract: A board game for teaching the principles of personal finance whereby significant wealth may be accumulated includes a playing board having a first, Rat Race, track and an entirely separate second, Fast Track. Each player begins the game on the Rat Race track and is provided with a Game Card to track his/her finances. The Game Card is configured as a combined Income/Balance Sheet, and basic accounting rules of personal finance are carefully followed in updating the Game Card while a player progresses along the Rat Race according to the roll of die. The Rat Race track includes spaces on which a player can land which presents unexpected financial obstacles, but the Rat Race also includes spaces which present financial opportunities. By prudently investing as opportunities arise, a player may obtain passive income in addition to a salary. Once a player's passive income exceeds his/her expenses, the player moves to the Fast Track for further play.

Abstract: A detachably-mountable washing device is disclosed. The washing device generally comprises a cloth support section and a mounting section attached to the cloth support section. The support section is preferably a foam pad having an attachment surface and a curved, cloth support surface. The mounting section includes a mounting surface and an attachment surface. The mounting surface comprises a plurality of suction cups and gripper ribs for retaining a wash cloth. The attachment surface is connected to the attachment surface of the pad, preferably by a hot-melt adhesive, to assemble the washing device. The assembled washing device is secured to a wall or other surface by the suction cups. A wash cloth is then placed on the support surface of the support pad and secured by pressing its edges between the gripper ribs and the surface to which the washing device is mounted.

Abstract: A particularly advantageous power converter, suitable for use in an engine powered generator system. A signal simulating a desired AC waveform is produced by a converter circuit at first and second converter output terminals. The converter circuit, responsive to respective switching signals applied thereto, selectively effects current paths between a juncture node and one of the first and second converter output terminals and between a common rail and the other of the first and second converter output terminals. A controller selectively generates control signals to the converter circuit and to a mechanism for varying the magnitude of the juncture node voltage, to create a predetermined waveform at the converter output terminals simulating the desired AC waveform. A number of alternative embodiments for producing a simulated sine wave are described, as well as accommodations for inductive loads, and mechanisms for minimizing power dissipation during the switching interval.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for impregnating a molten or viscous cleaning composition into a traveling, three dimensional, lofty, dense nonwoven web is disclosed. The composition is applied by an applicator manifold and is retained in the voids within the web. The velocity of the web and the flow of the cleaning composition are adjusted depending on the viscosity of the composition and the web density. Additionally, the viscosity of the composition can be controlled by altering its temperature or by altering the line pressure. The process eliminates the use of a doctor blade, spray system and application roll to meter the amount of cleaning composition into the web, and is suitable for the application of a molten or very viscous chemical compositions into a lofty, dense nonwoven web.

Abstract: A minimally invasive approach for surgery on portions of the heart and great vessels located between a point approximately three centimeters above supra annular ridge and the mid ventricular cavity. A parasternal incision is made extending across a predetermined number of costal cartilage, e.g., a right parasternal incision extending from the lower edge of the second costal cartilage to the superior edge of the fifth costal cartilage. One or more costal cartilages, e.g., the third and fourth, are then excised to provide access to the portion of the heart or great vessels of interest, and a desired procedure completed. A minimally invasive procedure for repair or replacement of the aortic valve is disclosed.

Abstract: A product for forming a stable resilient surface layer which comprises a particulate aggregate having particles of a plurality of sizes and including fiber strands and a selected amount of water-absorbent, water-activated adhesive particles having a swell volume when absorbing water in a range of 25% to 45%. When subjected to sufficient water the water-absorbent particles swell and bind the aggregate and fiber strands forming a high shear strength, flexible resilient layer.

Abstract: A computer database for medical imaging stores and manipulates multimedia data from various sources and reduces misidentification of data. A unique identifier is generated and linked to each data object, preferably at the time the image is generated. A graphical representation of the identifier is incorporated into the image or text when displayed or printed. A detector may be used to read the representation, allowing the identifier to be read and identify the data.

Abstract: A method of conditioning soil and an organic soil conditioner particularly useful in treating athletic fields derived by drying and grinding plants from the Plantago family. The soil conditioner is applied to the surface of tilled soil and thereafter worked into the soil, deep-watered, allowed to dry and packed. Time-released fertilizer may be included in the soil conditioner if desired.