Abstract: A method for performing an operation on a hierarchical data tree comprising retrieving data from an anchor node in the tree and a plurality of neighboring nodes each potentially affected by the operation. A cache is queried for a key representing the anchor node and the plurality of neighboring nodes based on the retrieved data. If the query finds a match, the retrieved data is replaced with cached data. If the query does not find a match, the operation is performed on the retrieved data to generate post-operation data, the retrieved data is replaced with the post-operation data and the post-operation data is stored in the cache based on the key.

Abstract: A side airbag retention system for installation in a keyhole opening including a bolt with a generally conical head portion and a shaft disposed through an aperture of the air bag retainer, and a bolt retainer disposed about the bolt shaft between the bolt head and the air bag retainer. The bolt retainer preferably includes a spring washer having a pronged engagement member extending generally radially therefrom between anti-rotation tabs extending from a side thereof opposite the bolt head, and a compression limiting member disposed about and protruding from the washer opening toward the bolt head.

Abstract: A closure mechanism is provided for the end of a fuel system filler tube. The closure mechanism has an arm that opens and closes as a refueling nozzle is inserted or removed. The mechanism has channels that direct away any liquids that accumulate near the filler tube end.

Abstract: The damper includes a cylindrical housing with a cylindrical passageway formed therewithin. A piston traverses the cylindrical passageway. A strand element is integrally molded with the piston on a first end and integrally molded with an attachment element on a second end. The portion of the cylindrical passageway through which the piston traverses when the damper is in its retracted position has a reduced diameter.

Abstract: The damper includes a cylindrical housing with a cylindrical passageway formed therewithin. A piston traverses the cylindrical passageway. A monofilament element is integral with the piston on a first end and includes a plurality of molded annular rings on a second end. The molded annular rings serve as a male element for engaging a female clamping element with internal serrations. This allows for the female clamping element to be positioned along an adjustable distance with respect to the male element. The portion of the cylindrical passageway through which the piston traverses when the damper is in its retracted position has a reduced diameter.

Abstract: A portable outdoor steamer system comprising a hollow container with an open top and a closed generally inverted dome-shaped bottom with a cover in a dome-shaped configuration. The steamer also contains a hollow support with a circular upper end secured to the lower surface of the bottom of the container. Also provided are heating components including a burner secured in the upper extent of the support on a circular plate, a hook-up mounted externally on the base and operatively coupled to the burner and a heat control dial mounted externally of the housing on a control panel operatively coupled to the burner with air holes through the base above the plate and a door formed in the housing to provide access to the burner.

Abstract: An inexpensive, compact, portable, retractable cord, visual indicator, electrical/telephone connector-type surge protector, which comprises a housing composed of a molded plastic, with two female receiving grounding inlets on its upper surface, a visual indicator light, and a pair of female telephone inlets on one side. On another side, the housing has two openings for a retractable electrical extension cord and a retractable telephone cord. On the opposite side of the housing are two independent, retaining, on-off switches for the two cords. The housing is composed of two sections, an upper and lower section, with an inner spring coil mechanism on two independent reels in each section for the electrical and telephone cords respectively. The invention is designed to be used with standard electrical apparatus or other sensitive electrical devices, which are to be protected from electrical surges, where extension cords may be required, and allows for the retraction of the cords when not required.

Abstract: A compositely plated, threaded fastener has zinc plating applied to a threaded fastener core and an aluminum plating is applied to the zinc underplating. Optionally, a polymeric top coat can be applied to the aluminum plating for pigmented appearance. The combination of the composite aluminum and zinc platings not only provide the fasteners with improved corrosion resistance but also provide particularly reduced torque load in driving such fasteners, for example, in drilling applications.