Abstract: A water filter comprises a cap (70) having an inlet (84) and an outlet (74), a valve (88) being provided in the inlet (84). A housing (10) has a filter cartridge (26) removably contained in the housing. Valve opening means in the form of a ramp like projection (56) is provided on an upper end cap (40) of the filter cartridge (26). The housing is connected to the cap by a bayonet fitting. When the housing (10) is rotated to connect to the cap (70), the cartridge (26) is also rotated, and the projection (56) contacts the valve member (96) to open the valve.

Abstract: A method for evaluating a business proposal, and a computerized system for evaluating and pricing the proposal. An evaluation for a service is generated by gathering information on the customer, the service-provider's cost experience in providing services to this and to other customers, and the estimated cost of providing this particular service. The method also may be used to calculate the benefit to the provider of providing and to customer of receiving a particular service.

Abstract: A locking assembly for securing spools of fibrous material on a spindle during a pressurized dyeing operation. The locking assembly has jaws which, when in a locked position, engage with the spindle to secure the spools thereon. An actuator moves the jaws to a released position for removal of the spools. A tapered surface of the jaws cooperates with the spindle to allow the locking assembly to be placed on the spindle without the need for manually setting the jaws in a released state.