Abstract: Methods and systems for transferring funds are disclosed that utilize a transfer card issued to a sender that enables the sender to transfer funds at independent host locations. The transfer card may be encoded with information about the sender and the intended receiver so that transfer forms are not required for each transaction. The receiver obtains the finds via a distribution center, wherein the personal identity of the receiver is verified before the funds are distributed.

Abstract: A counting system for a poultry processing plant that uses conveyors is disclosed. Two types of conveyors are addressed, one where poultry hang from the conveyor and one where the carcasses are supported above the conveyor. The sensors are located at different levels to sense elements of the carriers as well as poultry. Logic within the system compares the readings of the sensors to determine whether a chicken is present and whether to increment the total. Additionally, the sensors are recessed in steel tubing on mounting plates which support their own cover plates. The sensors can thereby be adjusted for alignment while the cover plates move with the sensors. The cover plates are easily removed for cleaning and put back into position without blocking the sensors. Air is blown through the steel tubing to keep a positive air pressure in the tubing to prevent dirt from entering the openings.

Abstract: A system for the on-line distribution and sales of electronic content over a distributed client-server network is described. A server computer maintains a database and processing engine that stores and processes data pertaining to a selection of digital content product, such as music CDs, movie DVDs, video games, computer software, and the like. A user registers for a membership on the vendor web site. Users may select from a wide range of products available through the vendor or other vendors associated with the web site. The user can search for auctions for individual titles or products. When the user wins an auction, the vendor sends the product for use during a trial period. The auction price sets the trial price for the product. Upon expiration of the trial period, the user can return the product to the vendor, or keep it and pay a price based on the trial price.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus which automates the weight measurement of a payload in conjunction with a roller bed based loading/unloading station. The apparatus is designed as a retrofit for an existing loading station and consists a stationary frame mounted underneath the roller bed loading station. The apparatus includes lifters which are raised by air cylinders or the equivalent upon activation to physically remove the payload temporarily from the roller bar station while the weight is measured through load cells arranged with the lifters. The engagement and release of the lifters as well as the reading of information from the load cells is coordinated and controlled by a microprocessor. Appropriate communication means are provided for, to enable the system to be activated, and to allow the weight readings taken to be incorporated into other payload management functions such as billing, receiving, inventory control, or other functions.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus which automates the weight measurement of a payload in conjunction with a roller bed based loading/unloading station. The apparatus is designed as a retrofit for an existing loading station and consists a stationary frame mounted underneath the roller bed loading station. The apparatus includes lifters which are raised by air cylinders or the equivalent upon activation to physically remove the payload temporarily from the roller bar station while the weight is measured through load cells arranged with the lifters. The engagement and release of the lifters as well as the reading of information from the load cells is coordinated and controlled by a microprocessor. Appropriate communication means are provided for, to enable the system to be activated, and to allow the weight readings taken to be incorporated into other payload management functions such as billing, receiving, inventory control, or other functions.

Abstract: A method of delinting cotton seed comprises the steps of passing the cotton seed through a saw delinter to remove a substantial portion of the lint, preferably at least 40%, therefrom, and thereafter passing the partially delinted seed through a brush delinter to remove substantially all of the remaining lint therefrom.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the seed is passed through two saw delinting stages to remove more than about 40% in the first stage and up to about 20% or more in the second stage, whereby more than about 60% of the lint is removed in the two saw delinting stages. Subsequent passage of the seed through a brush delinter removes additional lint so that up to 97% of the lint is removed in the combination of the saw delinting and brush delinting steps. An optional further step of passing the seed through a flamer can be used to remove the remaining approximately 3% of the lint.