Abstract: A smoking article (130) comprises a variable flow system configured to vary gaseous flow into or through the smoking article.

Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods are provided for rapid venting of vacuum to mitigate occlusion break surge within a phaco fluidics aspiration system. The aspiration system may utilize a positive displacement pump to generate flow and a vent valve to vent or moderate the pressure or vacuum level based on pressure sensor feedback detected within the eye and at the pump. Embodiments described herein provide a quick-opening vent valve that produces a quick-opening flow response upon angular rotation of the quick-opening vent valve. The flow performance at the quick-opening vent valve is improved by increasing the effective cross-sectional area of the valve at near-closed valve positions. In particular, the increase in the cross-sectional area is achieved by forming a concaving edge portion to complement a circular edge of and opening of a flow channel formed through the vent valve.

Abstract: A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors.

Abstract: A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors.

Abstract: A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors.

Abstract: A smoking article (130) comprises a variable flow system configured to vary gaseous flow into or through the smoking article.

Abstract: A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors.

Abstract: A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors.

Abstract: An integrated debugger environment system includes a debugger speedbar to display symbolic information for source code associated with a plurality of firmware programs.

Abstract: A distribution system for transferring a plurality of items from a distribution center to a customer comprises a delivery device and a retail device. The delivery device identifies the items and maintains a delivery record of a transfer of the items from the distribution center to the customer. The retail device identifies the items and maintains a receipt record of the transfer of the items. Upon identifying the item, the delivery device displays a description of the item on a display screen, such as the display on a portable computer. The delivery device identifies the items with a barcode scanner. The delivery device also includes a data entry apparatus to enter transfer information, such as an electronically captured signature, into the delivery record.

Abstract: A solution fertilizer introduction system for use with automatic lawn watering systems which include an attachment arrangement for introducing liquid fertilizers to underground lawn watering systems. The system may also be used with other chemicals such as weed killers, bug killers or the like that are available in a liquid state for application to lawns. The system includes a quick connect arrangement from the supplied material source to the watering system for removal and replacement of the same and a flow measurer for correlating the additive introduction or flow to water flow with metering and a timer for controlling the additive to produce a desired lawn. A microprocessor may be utilized for control of the additive.

Abstract: A solution fertilizer introduction system for use with automatic lawn watering systems which include an attachment arrangement for introducing liquid fertilizers to underground lawn watering systems. The system may also be used with other chemicals such as weed killers, bug killers or the like that are available in a liquid state for application to lawns. The system includes a quick connect arrangement from the supplied material source to the watering system for removal and replacement of the same and a flow measuring device for correlating the additive introduction or flow to water flow with metering and timing devices for controlling the additive to produce a desired lawn. A microprocessor may be utilized for control of the additive.

Abstract: A distribution system for transferring a plurality of items from a distribution center to a customer comprises a delivery device and a retail device. The delivery device identifies the items and maintains a delivery record of a transfer of the items from the distribution center to the customer. The retail device identifies the items and maintains a receipt record of the transfer of the items. Upon identifying the item, the delivery device displays a description of the item on a display screen, such as the display on a portable computer. The delivery device identifies the items with a barcode scanner. The delivery device also includes a data entry apparatus to enter transfer information, such as an electronically captured signature, into the delivery record.