Abstract: A method and system for data input is provided. The method includes inputting data, reading a subset of a set of predefined machine-readable codes from a printed media, the printed media including thereon the set of predefined machine-readable codes and a set of human-readable indicia. Each of the set of human-readable indicia is associated with a respective one of the set of predefined machine-readable codes. Each of the set of human-readable indicia indicates a user-selectable input value. The subset of the plurality of predefined machine-readable codes consists of predefined machine-readable codes that have not been defaced. The method also includes saving as user input values the user-selectable input values indicated by the indicia that are associated with the machine-readable codes in the set of predefined machine-readable codes that have not been read.

Abstract: A mobile lottery terminal is disclosed. The mobile lottery terminal includes a processor. The mobile lottery terminal may include a Braille keypad in communication with the processor. The mobile lottery terminal may also include a customer information input device in communication with the processor and operable to input information indicative of a customer-selected lottery number. A system incorporating mobile lottery terminals and method of vending lottery tickets using mobile lottery terminals is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of assaying a biologically active material from an in situ catheter lumen for the presence of fibrin, a microorganism and/or debris thereof which comprises subjecting the biologically active material from the in situ catheter lumen to analysis wherein the lumen is subjected to mechanical action to dislodge the biologically active material from the wall of the catheter lumen in an amount sufficient to allow identification of a target microorganism without culturing. The invention also provides an analysis kit for this purpose.

Abstract: A piping assembly for a compressed air assembly and a method of forming the piping assembly. The piping assembly comprises hollow aluminum tubing having first and second ends. First and second threaded connector members associated with first and second compressed air assembly components. A compression fitting is associated with each end of the aluminum tubing and each compression fitting is configured to sealingly engage a respective one of the threaded connector members.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for examining a nuclear reactor shroud are described. In one embodiment the inspection apparatus includes a drive system, a mast subassembly, and a scanner subassembly. The drive system includes at least two drive assemblies that engage the shroud top to move the inspection apparatus relative to the shroud. The mast subassembly is coupled to the drive system and includes a roller foot which engages the shroud bottom flange to prevent movement of the inspection apparatus during scanning of the shroud. The scanner subassembly is movably coupled to the mast subassembly and includes a horizontal frame, a scanner carriage having a turntable, a movable plate and a scanner. The scanner subassembly coupled to the mast subassembly provides the scanner with four degrees of motion.

Abstract: A collapsible sun shade, including: a shade; at least two supports, each support having a first end and a second end, with the second end of each support coupled to the shade at spaced-apart locations thereof; and a connector coupled to the first end of each support; wherein the shade is adapted to assume an unstable equilibrium position in which the supports and the shade are substantially coplanar with the connector, a collapsed position when the shade and supports are on one side of the unstable equilibrium position in which the shade is folded, and a deployed position when the shade and supports are on the other side of the unstable equilibrium position in which the supports and the shade are expanded.