Abstract: Dispensable objects are loaded into a portable case for transport to a dispensing site by connecting a reload controller with a case to be reloaded. Latchable and unlatchable object retainers arrayed in the case are relatched, and the reload controller is activated to respond to a reloading request to unlatch some of the retainers in locations suitable for receiving reloaded objects. A person then reloads the chosen objects in the array locations opened up by the unlatched retainers and relatches those retainers. The controller then acts upon another reloading request to unlatch more retainers in locations suitable for receiving additionally loaded objects, as the loading sequence repeats.

Abstract: An information management system is applied to a supply flow of dispensed objects by incorporating microcircuitry into a portable dispensing case that is loaded with objects at a loading site and transported to a dispensing site where the objects are dispensed from the portable case. A communication connection connects the microcircuitry with a reload controller at the loading site and a dispensing controller at the dispensing site. By means of the communication connection loading information on the identities and locations of objects in the case is supplied to the microcircuitry where it is made available at the dispensing site, and transactional information involved in dispensing of the objects at the dispensing site is loaded into the microcircuitry for return to the reloading site. Such an arrangement allows analysis of the transactional information and the loading information showing actual usage of objects at both the dispensing site and the reloading site.

Abstract: An object dispenser uses a support structure arranged to receive and hold a compact array of objects for dispensing. The objects can be contained in packages that are dispensed along with the objects from any location in the array. Gravity can provide the motive power for dispensing the objects when they are selectively released from the array. This is accomplished by retainers that hold the objects in place when latched and release the objects for dispensing when selectively unlatched.

Abstract: An object dispenser uses a support structure arranged to receive and hold a compact array of objects for dispensing. The objects can be contained in packages that are dispensed along with the objects from any location in the array. Gravity can provide the motive power for dispensing the objects when they are selectively released from the array. This is accomplished by retainers that hold the objects in place when latched and release the objects for dispensing when selectively unlatched.

Abstract: An information management system is applied to a supply flow of dispensed objects by incorporating microcircuitry into a portable dispensing case that is loaded with objects at a loading site and transported to a dispensing site where the objects are dispensed from the portable case. A communication connection connects the microcircuitry with a reload controller at the loading site and a dispensing controller at the dispensing site. By means of the communication connection loading information on the identities and locations of objects in the case is supplied to the microcircuitry where it is made available at the dispensing site, and transactional information involved in dispensing of the objects at the dispensing site is loaded into the microcircuitry for return to the reloading site. Such an arrangement allows analysis of the transactional information and the loading information showing actual usage of objects at both the dispensing site and the reloading site.

Abstract: Control circuit for generating two control currents for a variable gain amplifier having a gain which is substantially proportional to the ratio of the two control currents. For a gain control which is independent of the signal level of the variable gain amplifier an exponential control characteristic is needed. The control circuit generates a set of control currents 2*I and 2*J with a ratio which is pseudo-exponential dependent on the control parameter u.sub.c. The ideal exponential characteristic is approximated to with a second-order function of the type ((1+x)/(1-x)).sup.2 by means of a voltage-to-current converter, a first translinear loop and a second translinear loop.

Abstract: A variety of Dahlia with low plant growing habit producing attractive pink flowers is described.