Abstract: A method of assigning a unique identifier to an entity includes receiving a name of an entity and associated information about the entity; and assigning a globally unique identifier to the entity conforming to both the ISO 8000-115 and the ISO 8000-116 standards The unique identifier includes a domain portion defining a jurisdiction of the entity; a sub-domain portion having an entity type, global registration agency code for the jurisdiction, and a date of registration or formation of the entity; and a registration identifier portion of the entity in the jurisdiction. The method further includes storing the unique identifier along with the name of the entity in a database for fast retrieval of information about the entity.

Abstract: This application is directed to recognizing unstructured information based on hints provided by structured information. A computer system obtains unstructured information collected from a handwritten or audio source, and identifies one or more terms from the unstructured information. The one or more terms includes a first term that is ambiguous. The computer system performs a recognition operation on the first term to derive a first plurality of candidate terms for the first term, and obtains first contextual information from an information template associated with the unstructured information. In accordance with the first contextual information, the computer system selects a first answer term from the first plurality of candidate terms, such that the first term is recognized as the first answer term.

Abstract: This application is directed to recognizing unstructured information based on hints provided by structured information. A computer system obtains unstructured information collected from a handwritten or audio source, and identifies one or more terms from the unstructured information. The one or more terms includes a first term that is ambiguous. The computer system performs a recognition operation on the first term to derive a first plurality of candidate terms for the first term, and obtains first contextual information from an information template associated with the unstructured information. In accordance with the first contextual information, the computer system selects a first answer term from the first plurality of candidate terms, such that the first term is recognized as the first answer term.

Abstract: This application is directed to recognizing unstructured information based on hints provided by structured information. A computer system obtains unstructured information collected from a handwritten or audio source, and identifies one or more terms from the unstructured information. The one or more terms includes a first term that is ambiguous. The computer system performs a recognition operation on the first term to derive a first plurality of candidate terms for the first term, and obtains first contextual information from an information template associated with the unstructured information. In accordance with the first contextual information, the computer system selects a first answer term from the first plurality of candidate terms, such that the first term is recognized as the first answer term.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a personal transporter. The transporter includes a support for supporting a driver. Three or more ground engaging devices are provided for engaging the ground during transport. An electric drive is provided for driving at least one of the ground engaging devices to propel the transporter. A handle bar is provided for enabling the driver to control at least one of the ground engaging devices to steer the transporter. Advantageously, three or more ground engaging devices provide improved stability and may carry greater loads when compared with the two wheels of a Segway.

Abstract: This application is directed to recognizing unstructured information based on hints provided by structured information. A computer system obtains unstructured information collected from a handwritten or audio source, and identifies one or more terms from the unstructured information. The one or more terms includes a first term that is ambiguous. The computer system performs a recognition operation on the first term to derive a first plurality of candidate terms for the first term, and obtains first contextual information from an information template associated with the unstructured information. In accordance with the first contextual information, the computer system selects a first answer term from the first plurality of candidate terms, such that the first term is recognized as the first answer term.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a building. The building includes a distributed power supply and a lighting system for being powered by the distributed power supply. The system includes distributed lights for being coupled to the distributed power supply. Covers are provided for covering respective lights. Photoluminescence is borne by each cover. Advantageously, the light charges the photoluminescence borne by the cover. In turn, the cover passively discharges and provides passive illumination in the dark by virtue of the photoluminescence. The building lighting system provides illumination for after-hours personnel in the building after the light is turned off, or in the event of a power disruption when a backup power generator is not present.

Abstract: This application is directed to recognizing unstructured information based on hints provided by structured information. A computer system obtains unstructured information collected from a handwritten or audio source, and identifies one or more terms from the unstructured information. The one or more terms includes a first term that is ambiguous. The computer system performs a recognition operation on the first term to derive a first plurality of candidate terms for the first term, and obtains first contextual information from an information template associated with the unstructured information. In accordance with the first contextual information, the computer system selects a first answer term from the first plurality of candidate terms, such that the first term is recognized as the first answer term.

Abstract: An exhaust system is provided for mitigating condensate formation in a common exhaust stack and for effecting improved heat transfer. Reduced condensate formation and improved heat transfer is achieved by inducing non-laminar flow through the common exhaust stack and a heat exchanger operatively coupled to the common exhaust stack. Heat transfer is further improved by dew point control. Non-laminar flow is induced by connecting more than one gas turbine to the common exhaust stack through non-laminar flow inducing arrangements. The various coupling arrangements also add structural rigidity to the common exhaust stack for increased stack height and improved plume dispersion.

Abstract: A computer server talent management system facilitates management of temporary staff procurement and administration. The server provides a network based implementation of an improved process that allows workplace managers to initiate the procurement of temporary staff in a familiar manner, such as by calling, emailing or faxing the vendor. The Vendor then uses an interface provided by the server to generate a purchase order based on a workplace company's specific template. The purchase order is then sent to the workplace manager, who uses interfaces provided by the server to approve the purchase order in accordance with rules enforced by the server.

Abstract: Planning tools guide marketing professionals through steps of performing a situation assessment, identifying opportunities, developing growth strategies, developing growth tactics, and developing measurements. The planning tools provide disciplined processes in a question and answer format. The tools are personalized to the answers given by marketing professionals and new tools or modified tools can be easily implemented. These tools can be provided in a stand-alone manner, as part of a network, and as part of a collaborative environment. The planning tools preferably form part of an entire marketing investment manager which includes a marketing management solution, digital asset management, and hooks to existing systems, such as customer relationship management, finance, manufacturing, and information technology. The marketing management solution adopts best practices and includes collaboration, project management, campaign management, and analytics, and measurement units.