Abstract: A method includes a data storage device for receiving, storing, and providing access to building characteristic information, a computer processor for executing program instructions and for retrieving the building characteristic information and hazard information from the data storage device, a memory, coupled to the computer processor, for storing program instructions for execution by the computer processor, a quoting system and a validation engine.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for battery charging, a battery charger (20) charges a battery (11), preferably in a battery pack (10), by providing an initial battery charging current (I.sub.1) and terminating the initial charging current at a time t.sub.2 in response to a measured battery condition (for example, battery temperature rate of change; Delta T/Delta t) exceeding a limit. A battery parameter, preferably battery voltage, is measured at the time t.sub.2 and stored as a limit (V.sub.peak). After t.sub.2, battery charging current is provided in accordance with a predetermined criteria and battery charging current is altered (to I.sub.3 ; or to I.sub.1) in response to comparing a measured battery parameter, preferably battery voltage, after t.sub.2 to a threshold (V.sub.peak ; or V.sub.peak -Delta V) based on the stored limit (V.sub.peak). Preferably, rapid battery charging is implemented in response to a comparison of a measured battery parameter, preferably battery voltage, after the time t.sub.

Abstract: A tracked load carrying vehicle comprises a chassis (10); an engine (11) mounted on the chassis for propelling the vehicle; an output shaft (13) driven by the engine; two tracks (14,15) provided in parallel on either side of the chassis and each one running over a plurality of wheels (16-19,20-23), at least one of which being adapted to be driven by the output shaft (13) of the engine for driving the track; and a control lever (60) for steering the vehicle. A clutch is connected between the output shaft (13) of the engine and each one of the tracks (14,15), so that either one of the tracks can be disengaged. The control lever (60) is adapted to actuate one or the other of the clutches by means of a linkage, so that the clutch interrupts the transmission to the pertaining track (14,15). These features will give the vehicle a small turning radius and good maneuverability. The vehicle can also be provided with braking means for braking the tracks.