Abstract: A method for establishing and maintaining a nodal network in a communication system is described using a network connectivity matrix at each node of the network. The network connectivity matrix has a plurality of channels each corresponding to a node of the network and storing nodal information about the connectivity status of the node in the network. Each channel (row) of the network connectivity matrix at each node includes a first field for storing data indicating whether a usable line-of-sight (LOS) transmission path exists between the node and each other node of the network, a second field for storing data indicating when the row was last revised, a third field for storing the identification of the most recent transmission received by the node and a fourth field for storing data indicating a quality of the transmission path between the node and each node within LOS of the node.

Abstract: A machine for forming a slug of edgewise supported flat articles. The machine includes a table above which the articles of the slug are accumulated. Paired conveyor belt means advance the articles in shingle fashion past an edge of the table. One of the belt means has a portion parallel to and at substantially the level of the table for rapidly advancing lower edges of the articles away from the other of the belt means and onto the table. An upper backstop supports the articles on the table and on said belt portion. The articles are urged toward the backstop means to form the slug. The upper backstop is advanced from said edge of the table as the slug of articles forms on the table. Control of the slug is transferred from the upper backstop to an auxiliary backstop. Upright fingers are advanced into engagement with a last article in the slug so that the slug is held between the fingers and the auxiliary backstop.