Abstract: A method for securing passwords and personal identification numbers utilizes a mastercode. At least ten characters are selected for the mastercode. The selected characters are randomly associated to a corresponding digit, wherein the association defines the mastercode. A numeric sequence is translated into a corresponding character sequence using the mastercode. The corresponding character sequence is expanded into an ordinary word. An apparatus for implementing the method is also described. For enhanced security the mastercode can be embedded within a mastergrid camouflaging the mastercode.

Abstract: A helmet apparatus includes a head-covering assembly which includes a top portion and a side portion extending downward from the top portion. A guard support is connected to the side portion of the head-covering assembly, and a guard assembly is connected to the guard support. The helmet apparatus of the invention can be used as a batter's helmet to protect a batter in a baseball or softball game. The guard assembly can be installed when a player is batting, and the guard assembly can be easily removed when the player is no longer batting. The guard assembly includes a lower guard portion for covering a wearer's chin and an upper guard portion for covering a wearer's cheek. With a first embodiment of the invention, the guard support includes a guard support bracket, and the guard assembly includes bracket-connection portions for connecting to the guard support bracket. The guard support bracket includes a reception panel which includes a plurality of reception apertures.

Abstract: In a data processor having an application program accessible from a DTMF telephone, a calculator program is also provided. When a user has accessed the application program by means of a DTMF telephone, the user can switch to the calculator program to carry out a calculator function by means of a hot key input, in which the user presses the star key twice. Once in the calculator program, the user can enter numbers by pressing the telephone numerical keys and enter key sequences to command mathematical operations to be performed. The user can hot key back to the application program to continue the application program at any time by again entering the hot key transfer sequence in which the user presses the star key twice.

Abstract: Apparatus for the vacuum, countergravity casting of metal in shell molds including a gas permeable shell mold secured to the mouth of a vacuum box by a plurality of keepers on the ends of rotatable shafts reciprocably slidable through the ceiling of the vacuum box, which keepers are adapted for insertion into and rotation within an anchoring cavity in the mold such that the keeper engages a portion of the mold overhanging the cavity to secure the mold to the box.

Abstract: Immersion-type vacuum countergravity casting apparatus having a vacuum chamber including spring means for pressing the mold portions sealingly together and/or resisting destructive inward flexure of the mold. A split vacuum chamber, including a floating lower skirt portion, avoids the creation of stress concentration sites between the chamber and the mold.