Abstract: A RFID tag or label comprises a RFID tag module (comprising an electronic identification circuit and a coupling means) and an antenna structure coupled to the coupling means. The RFID tag module is separate from, separable or arranged to be severable from, the antenna structure. The tag module can be placed in or on an object and the antenna structure in or on packaging material for use with the object. A patch antenna type RFID tag antenna structure has a ground plane spaced from the patch antenna so as to increase the range of the tag. The ground plane is not substantially larger than, and electrically insulated from, the patch antenna. The ground plane is flexible, so the RFID tag structure can be worn by a human, and can be incorporated into a piece of clothing. A RFID antenna structure for use with a tag reader is made flat and robust so that it can be mounted on the ground to be walked upon or driven over.

Abstract: An electronic radio frequency (RF) identification system 10 is disclosed and claimed. The system includes an interrogator 11 and a plurality of RF transponders 12.1 to 12.n. In use, each transponder is operative in response to an interrogation signal 14 to respond with a forward error correctable data message 16.1 including base data encoded as symbol characters in accordance with a forward error correcting code, such as a Reed Solomon Code, and check characters on the base data as defined in the forward error correcting code. The interrogator 11 utilizes data relating to the forward error correcting code, the symbol characters and check characters in the received forward error correctable data message, to reconstruct the base data in the event of corruption of the forward error correctable data message during transmission.

Abstract: A V-shaped frame (102) is attached to a pipe (100) to be drilled. The frame may be used with larger pipes by attaching a removable extension plates (120) to the arms (104) (106) of the V-shaped frame, thereby increasing the size of the recess between the arms (104, 106). The apparatus may be fixed to the pipe (100) by a chain (110) which connects to the platform (102) and extends around the pipe (100), or by attaching clips to the frame and attaching the clips to the surface of the pipe by screws etc. To attach the apparatus to a pipe having a corrugated outer surface, clamp members (340) extend into the grooves (308?) of the corrugations to grip the groove walls (316).

Abstract: A platform for a drill is supported on four support members which are pivotable on the platform to alter the angle between opposite members. In one embodiment a stop limits the movement of the support members so that the maximum angle between them can be controlled to suit the diameter of a pipe on which the apparatus is mounted. In another embodiment, the support members are attached by connecting rods to a cross member which is raised and lowered on a threaded rod to pivot the members.

Abstract: Disclosed are isolated nucleic acids consisting essentially of RPW nucleotide sequences (especially RPW8 from Arabidopsis thaliana, and related homologues and other sequences e.g. from Brassica napus; B. oleracea). These encode a novel class of resistance polypeptides having an N-terminal transmembrane domain and a coiled coil domain and which is capable of recognising and activating in a plant into which said nucleic acid is introduced a specific defense response to challenge with a powdery mildew pathogen e.g. E. cichoracearum. Also provided are related products e.g. primers, polypeptides, transgenic plants having enhanced resistance, plus also processes for producing these, and methods of use.

Abstract: A refreshment center having a modular construction and including a mini door and a frame is described. The mini door is fabricated and assembled separate from the frame, and the mini door includes a hinge system and a trigger. The mini door provides quick and convenient access to the refreshment center by being simple and easy to open and close. The frame, in an exemplary embodiment, is a one piece plastic molded part which serves as the main structural member of the assembly. The frame includes first and second spaced apart planar members, and further includes a keeper slot and a keeper for being inserted within the slot. The keeper extends from the slot and at least partially through a keeper slot in the door trim. The frame further includes a switch cavity for housing at least a portion of a switch assembly. A switch bracket is provided to be secured over the switch cavity and is engaged to the frame by a screw.

Abstract: A bracket for mounting electronic instruments, such as antennas, on a building or pole or wall, is able to pivot in two perpendicular planes and be securely locked in position. The bracket can slide from an extended position to a retracted position to conserve space. A key plate allows the instrument to be removed from the bracket, and another instrument quickly installed without needing realignment. A screw is provided for fine angular adjustment.

Abstract: A network service access system and method for intelligent networks uses a network element called a mediation point between network service switching points (SSP) and third party service provider service control points (SCP). The mediation point acts as a gateway to the AIN network for the service provider SCPs. The mediation point at the boundary of the intelligent network has ports for connection to service providers SCPs and a list of SSPs within the intelligent network to which each respective service provider is allowed access.

Abstract: A method of determining static gel strength of a fluid in a container comprises: commencing relative movement between the fluid in the container and a member disposed in the fluid in the container so that torque is created; stopping the relative movement; and sensing the torque during the time between commencing and stopping the relative movement and detecting the peak torque during such time, wherein the detected peak torque defines the static gel strength of the fluid.

Abstract: A method for maintaining in a computer memory laboratory test records for a plurality of projects, particularly adapted to projects for cementing oil or gas wells, are disclosed. Records of data identifying the plurality of projects and records of test data for the plurality of projects are entered within the computer memory. Data from selected records are compiled in a predetermined report format. More particularly disclosed is a method of designing a cement job for an oil or gas well. This includes receiving into a computer, programmed with records of data in predetermined categories for a plurality of previous cement jobs, a field of search for a selected predetermined category of data pertinent to a cement job being designed. Automatic searching within the computer finds records which contain data within the field of search. These are displayed. Design data are selected in response to the displayed records and the design data are stored in the computer in a record for the cement job being designed.

Abstract: An inflator probe for filling gas containers and the like comprising a one-piece body molded from suitable plastic material and providing a cylindrical externally threaded end piece for attachment to a pump followed by an enlarged-diameter shoulder with an elongated tapered nozzle extending therefrom insertable into the inflatable container, an internal center bore commencing at the threaded end reduced to form a circular ridge acting as a seat for a ball positioned in a chamber formed in the end piece, the ball sealing against back flow of gas between strokes of the pump, a non-circular restricted throat providing communication between the chamber and the bore for the flow of gas forced by the pump toward the nozzle outlet but restraining passage of the ball through the bore, the molding material being sufficient resilient to permit insertion and retention of the ball within the chamber after molding and including therein a lubricant for assisting easy entry of the nozzle into the inflatable container.