Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing power management functions in a multifunction controller having an embedded microprocessor. An enter sleep mode indication is received in the microprocessor in the form of, for example, a command generated by a host central processing unit or an interrupt indicating a lack of system activity for a predetermined period of time. The clock input to the microprocessor is switched from a first clock source to a second clock source in response to the enter sleep mode indication. The main system supply may then be powered down by the microprocessor. The first clock source is then turned off after expiration of a first predetermined delay. The second clock is subsequently turned off after a second predetermined delay, to thereby place the system and the microprocessor into a sleep mode. While the system and microprocessor are in the sleep mode, an interrupt-handling portion of the microprocessor and a power control logic circuit remain powered off a low-current standby supply.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for giving a host CPU direct access to the address space of an embedded microprocessor in a multifunction controller. The data path of the multifunction controller chip is modified to enable this direct access.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved firearm, and in particular an improved rifle such as a bolt action rifle. Known rifles suffer from a number of problems, for example, accuracy, ease of disassembly, ease of assembly and realignment. Accordingly there is provided a rifle 5 comprising a stock 10 and an action 25 seated in the stock, the stock comprising a forestock 15 and a buttstock 20, wherein there are provided means for connecting a foremost end of the buttstock 20 to the action 25. The connection means allow the stock 10 and the action 25 to be releasably connecting one with the other.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved firearm, and in particular an improved rifle such as a bolt action rifle. Known rifles suffer from a number of problems, for example, accuracy, ease of disassembly, ease of assembly and realignment. Accordingly there is provided a rifle 5 comprising a stock 10 and an action 25 seated in the stock, the stock comprising a forestock 15 and a buttstock 20, wherein there are provided means for connecting a foremost end of the buttstock 20 to the action 25. The connection means allow the stock 10 and the action 25 to be releasably connection one with the other.

Abstract: We provide methods and apparatus for handling sod which includes a washing machine in which the water is recycled and during recycling the soil removed from the sod is delivered for reuse. We also provide a method of delivering and take up of rolls of sod in which the peripheral speed of the roll remains constant regardless of the roll diameter; we display methods of physically working sod to remove soil therefrom and also methods of handling sod by supporting it with a flexible mesh where there is likely to be stress on the sod.

Abstract: The apparatus comprises an input conveyor 10 for transporting the fins in a horizontal attitude and lengthways, a part-cylindrical chute 22 disposed with its convex surface facing upwards and its axis of curvature generally horizontal and parallel with direction of movement of the input conveyor 22, the upper end of the chute being contiguous with the end of the conveyor 10. A tray 28 into which the fins are to be loaded is supported beneath the chute 22 with a slot adjacent the lower edge of the chute, and a deflector 20 acts to divert fins from the conveyor 10 to cause the fins to slide over the surface of the chute 22 and fall into the slot in the tray aligned with the lower edge of the chute.