Abstract: The present invention is a system comprising image capture device, such as a scanner or digital camera connected to a computer processor that is able to capture and store images, and method of using the same for storing and processing expense receipts. The computer processor analyzes the images of the receipts, converts the images to text, analyzes the data, extracts expense data, and puts the data into an expense report. The end user can review the captured expense data, correct it or add to it. Preferably, the system displays the image of the receipt side-by-side with the captured expense data to make review and editing easier. In a preferred embodiment the image capture device is portable, such as a handheld scanner or digital camera, so that a user can scan receipts while traveling and discard the receipt. Also, in a preferred embodiment, the images are encrypted to prevent tampering by the user or a third party, and thereby preserve the integrity of the receipt image.

Abstract: A packet interception system intercepts message packets transmitted from a packet source or to a packet destination, and processes them so as to facilitate verification of the contents and the sequence with which the message packets are intercepted, and for storing the processed message packets for later use. The packet interception system generates for each intercepted message packets respective hash values based on the respective intercepted message packet and the hash value generated for the previously-intercepted message packet, or, for the first intercepted message packet, a value that is provided to identify the session. To verify a previously-stored intercepted message packet, the packet interception system, or another device, using the same hash algorithm, can process the sequence of stored intercepted message packets up to and including the intercepted message packet to be verified, to and compare the hash value generated to the previously-generated hash value for each of the message packets.

Abstract: This invention is a method and system for improved garbage collection in a distributed computing system. Garbage collection is the process of releasing resources that are no longer being utilized by the objects to which those resources are allocated. Specifically, a garbage collection system and method are described that allow for different types of garbage collection to be used at different times and/or on different objects or resources in the system. In the preferred embodiment, the garbage collection routines are contained in separate mobile code module that can be changed dynamically interchanged to provide different garbage collection algorithms.

Abstract: A system and method for collecting ticket data from mass transportation vehicles in which conductors on each vehicle collect tickets, scan in the ticket information into readers, and the readers on each vehicle transmit the ticket information back to a central computer. In some embodiments the central computer can also transmit data, such as expected passenger lists, to the readers.

Abstract: A foldable stairway ladder for use in accessing items includes a structure that can be conveniently folded to reduce the amount of space taken up by ladder when not in use. The ladder consists of a stairway section connected to a platform, in turn rotatably connected to a support. The foldable ladder is also provided with a manually operable folding system adapted to fold the stairway section and support relative to each other. Additionally, the support may have a member capable of extending the length of the support, thus facilitating the ease by which a use can fold the stairway ladder.

Abstract: The invention is a method of handling groups of services where the makeup of the groups can be determined and changed while the application is running. This is mainly accomplished through a group proxy, which is generated at run time, and which handles interactions with groups of services on behalf of one or more clients. The group proxy consists of a group logic shell which contains all the group-aware logic, and a service proxy for each service in the group which contains the necessary logic to interact with the particular service. The group proxy, which is given to a client for all of its interactions with the group of services, buffers calls from that client to its group when the group is unavailable because it is in transition. When the transition is complete the group proxy transmits the stored client commands to the group.

Abstract: A packet interception system intercepts message packets transmitted from a packet source or to a packet destination, and processes them so as to facilitate verification of the contents and the sequence with which the message packets are intercepted, and for storing the processed message packets for later use. The packet interception system generates for each intercepted message packets respective hash values based on the respective intercepted message packet and the hash value generated for the previously-intercepted message packet, or, for the first intercepted message packet, a value that is provided to identify the session. To verify a previously-stored intercepted message packet, the packet interception system, or another device, using the same hash algorithm, can process the sequence of stored intercepted message packets up to and including the intercepted message packet to be verified, to and compare the hash value generated to the previously-generated hash value for each of the message packets.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled high frequency electronic ballast for gas discharge lamps in which the dimming is accomplished by varying the frequency of the square wave generated by the ballast. Prior to ignition the ballast generates a high frequency square wave to preheat the lamp filament. The microprocessor, which is programmable, controls the operating and preheating frequencies of the ballast. The ballast demonstrates very few losses due to the efficiency gained by operating at high frequencies.