Abstract: The apparatus (10) is used for determining the consistency index (k) and the power law index (n) of a Newtonian fluid or non-Newtonian power law fluid. A method is also disclosed. Accordingly, the fluid flows in a laminar manner through a first (12) and a second static mixer (14) successively connected together by means of an intermediary pipe (18). A first pressure differential (&Dgr;P1) corresponding to a pressure drop of the fluid through the first static mixer (12) is measured. Similarly, a second pressure differential (&Dgr;P2) corresponding to a pressure drop of the fluid through the second static mixer (14) is measured. Finally, the consistency index (k) and the power law index (n) are calculated using the Metzner and Otto concept generalized to static mixers. The apparent viscosity may also be calculated. This invention may be mounted directly on a main supply pipe (16) and allows the rheological properties of the fluid to be known in real time.

Abstract: A stabilizing fin assembly for use with a watercraft includes a mounting structure, a stabilizing fin structure, and a releasable securement structure. The mounting structure is fixedly attached to a side portion of a hull of a watercraft. The stabilizing fin structure is removably mounted to the mounting structure. When the mounting structure is fixedly attached to the hull, the stabilizing fin structure is disposed externally of the hull and adjacent the side portion of the hull in an operative position wherein at least a portion of the stabilizing fin structure extends into a body of water while the watercraft is in a normal operative position. The releasable securement structure is disposed in a releasably secured position on the hull. The stabilizing fin structure facilitates removal and replacement of the stabilizing fin structure without requiring access to the interior of the watercraft.

Abstract: A method of reducing speech delay and improving speech quality in digital transmission systems by implementing a single coder-decoder (codec) for an entire speech path from a calling party to a called party. The method is applicable to calls between mobile subscribers and between a mobile subscriber and an H.323 client terminal in a data network. After obtaining location information for the called party, an indication of a requested codec is sent from the calling party to the called party utilizing Integrated Services Data Network User Part (ISUP) or Primary Rate Interface (PRI) out-of-band signaling during call setup. If the called party supports the requested codec, a confirmation of the requested codec is sent from the called party to the calling party. A speech path is then established between the parties, and a single codec translation is performed for the entire speech path.