Abstract: A distributed, object-oriented database engine utilizing independent, intelligent processing nodes as a cooperative, massively parallel system with redundancy and fault tolerance. Instead of using traditional methods of parallelism as found in most distributed databases, the invention utilizes a messaging system and a series of message processing nodes to determine where attributes and data files associated with objects are stored. The architecture is loosely coupled, each node independently determining if it manages or routes storage and retrieval requests.

Abstract: An underwater chime and method of use thereof, wherein the underwater chime functions to enhance the pacifying effect of any swimming pool, whirlpool, jet tub and/or spa environment by effectively transmitting soothing, relaxing and meditative chimes/sound waves throughout the aquatic medium.

Abstract: An adjustable gate bracket apparatus and system. The apparatus typically includes a front bracket portion and a rear bracket portion. The front bracket portion includes a generally first rectangular planar body pivotally connected to a second rectangular planar body integrally connected to a curved planar body. The rear bracket portion typically includes two rectangular planar bodies pivotally connected to each other at respective corners. The ends of uprights and rails are connected between the front and rear bracket portions and secured together with rivets, bolts or other suitable. An adjustable gate bracket is secured at each corner of the gate panel. The gate panel is then adjusted to a desired angular orientation on a hill or other contour. Once the desired configuration is attained, the front and rear portions are fixed so that they do not pivot and the gate retains its angular orientation.

Abstract: A secure financial transactions system. The system generally includes a card that can be used a credit card, ATM card or debit card having a personal identification number (PIN) that can include a panic digit or panic PIN. The panic digit or panic PIN can be used to begin an emergency notification sequence including sending emergency signals and video transmissions from the commercial transactions machine. The card can include several biometric devices as well as financial transaction records. The card can include data to interact with data gathered from biometric devices on the ATM or POP devices. The card can then be interfaced with a personal computer. The card could also be made into other formats such as a ring, key chain, or other jewelry.

Abstract: A power cord plug securing device for securably maintaining a power cord plug in electrically operative engagement with an electrical outlet and/or electrical extension cord, thereby eliminating forced disengagement of same, and the resulting structural and functional damage to the power cord, plug head, and electrical outlet.

Abstract: A landscape edging system and device, and methods of installation and use thereof, wherein a J-shaped track system is installed in a trench along landscape edges, and wherein a pulley wheel attached to a rod is utilized to push the grass down onto a cutting edge of the track to execute the edging process, thereby simplifying the task of edging, eliminating risk of personal injury and allowing for essentially silent lawn care at any hour of the day, wherein decorative outer coverings may be incorporated along the track edging to simulate landscape features, such as rock or brick, and wherein lighted tubing may be installed within the track, thereby enhancing visual nighttime display and illuminating the landscape edge for aesthetic as well as safety reasons.

Abstract: A mixing cap and method for use thereof, wherein the mixing cap is preferably pre-loaded during time of manufacture with a selected dry or liquid ingredient to facilitate subsequent consumer use. The mixing cap comprises an apertured inner tube threadably-engagable to the mouth of a bottle, and an outer housing cooperatively-engaged to the inner tube and slidably-restricted thereover via a flange arrangement. Preloaded ingredients contained within the outer housing may be introduced or discharged into the bottle by simply depressing the outer housing over the inner tube, thereby permitting the ingredients to flow through the apertures of the inner tube and into the liquid contents of the bottle. The combined ingredients and liquid within the bottle may subsequently be shaken without fear or risk of leakage or spillage.

Abstract: A lighted tent apparatus and system. The embodiments described herein typically include an inherent light source, advantageously incorporated into the textile elements of the structure, such as in the seams. In a typical embodiment, light emitting diodes having low power consumption are implemented.

Abstract: An electric meter base bracket apparatus and system. Embodiments include a meter bracket installed between studs of a dwelling or structure. The bracket includes several holes to install the bracket to the studs as well as feed-through holes for wiring to the dwelling. Bolts are included on the bracket to attach directly to the meter base. A hole can be cut through the siding so that the meter base and the bracket can connect. An alternative embodiment of the meter base bracket includes a pair of L-brackets that can be co-arranged to form an upper bracket and an additional pair of L-brackets arranged generally parallel to the first pair forming a lower bracket.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mixing gas and liquid comprising a dome, lower housing, aerator device and flotation device, wherein intermeshed rotating sets of discs operate on parallel shafts driven by variable speed drives, and strakes are radially mounted on the discs to carry liquid up into a mixing area and to carry air and liquid down into a mixing area resulting in a shear force that drives air into the oxygen depleted liquid. The dome and lower housing create an air tight space, wherein the barometric pressure is raised by a blower, in order to pop foam bubbles and allow for optimum mixing of air into the oxygen depleted liquid, and intake and discharge openings of the lower housing are positioned beneath the liquid line, thereby preventing the escape of foam, noise and odorous gases into the local environment.

Abstract: A weight sensitive squirrel proof bird feeder with multiple perch rods. In general, a feed reservoir includes perch rods positioned generally perpendicular to an outer surface of the feed reservoir. When a predetermined weight is placed upon the perches, the perches rotate about their longitudinal axis by a motor thereby expelling the source of the weight, typically squirrels or other undesirable animals from the perches.