Abstract: A system and method for calibrating a manufacturing machine that includes a leveling device including a machine base interface to a manufacturing machine, a support system that comprises of a set of linearly actuating supports, a workpiece interface, and wherein actuation of supports collectively adjusts the orientation of the workpiece interface with two degrees of angular freedom; and a calibration system with sensors configured to measure the orientation of the workpiece interface.

Abstract: A system and method for calibrating a manufacturing machine that includes a leveling device including a machine base interface to a manufacturing machine, a support system that comprises of a set of linearly actuating supports, a workpiece interface, and wherein actuation of supports collectively adjusts the orientation of the workpiece interface with two degrees of angular freedom; and a calibration system with sensors configured to measure the orientation of the workpiece interface.

Abstract: A URL sharing utility and social network facilitates group discussions about shared links. Unlike conventional applications, this service enables live discussions about specific URLs, so people who join the discussion already share an interest in a particular topic. The sharing mechanism preferably enables many people around the world to see the discussion topic and join if they are interested. Sharing a URL together with a second URL reserved for a live discussion of the first URL preferably enables users to promote the discussion in a less socially risky way. A one-to-one correspondence between one URL and a second, predictable network address for the discussion of the original URL allows everyone who shares an interest in a URL to be funneled into a single discussion about that URL. Users preferably specify explicit social and professional networking policies so that every discussion with others carries the promise of a beneficial, lasting connection.

Abstract: A URL sharing utility and social network facilitates group discussions about shared links. Unlike conventional applications, this service enables live discussions about specific URLs, so people who join the discussion already share an interest in a particular topic. The sharing mechanism preferably enables many people around the world to see the discussion topic and join if they are interested. Sharing a URL together with a second URL reserved for a live discussion of the first URL preferably enables users to promote the discussion in a less socially risky way. A one-to-one correspondence between one URL and a second, predictable network address for the discussion of the original URL allows everyone who shares an interest in a URL to be funneled into a single discussion about that URL. Users preferably specify explicit social and professional networking policies so that every discussion with others carries the promise of a beneficial, lasting connection.

Abstract: In one example, a stored value card system is modified to process discount cards that are capable of providing varying percentage discounts on an array of products or services that can be purchased by a consumer. Implementations of the stored value card system can include modifications that allow a transaction using the discount card to pass through as an authorized transaction in spite of, for instance, application software logic that otherwise rejects transactions for stored value cards having a zero balance. For example, when the modified stored value card system detects a transaction involving a discount card, an authorization system within the modified stored value card system can generate an alternative error code that prevents the point of sale system from rejecting the transaction due to a zero balance.