Abstract: A technique for enhancing the modifiability and reuse of telecommunications software systems is described. The problem domain is first partitioned into tasks that are assigned to distinct software program modules. In one embodiment, each of the software modules have multiple output ports. Each output port provides a mechanism to link the software module to a specific version of a different program module. The multiple output ports are used to selectively link the module to one of several versions of a different program module. The linking is performed as early as system design time or as late as run-time, or at any intermediate time between the two. The use of output ports makes software modules less dependent on each other and also simplifies the “hot-swapping” or dynamic replacement of one module by another at run-time. In an alternative embodiment, each of the software modules has a unitary output port where each output port comprises an array of linking records.

Abstract: The principal impediment to achieving interoperability, modifiability, implementation-independence and the reuse of object-oriented software components is the strong coupling between objects.

Abstract: An exposure table (20) included in an apparatus for handling sheets for microfilming or other similar recording is provided with slots (28) open through the table surface (27) facing the camera (14). Sheet drivers (22) run in these slots for feeding a sheet stepwise to the exposure table, said drivers being fastened to conveyor belts (21) running in channels (26) below the table surface (27). The conveyor belts have preferably a feed direction that forms a small angle (v.sub.1) with a guide ledge (23) along one table edge extending in the conveyor direction. Moreover, the exposure table is preferably provided with means (29, 30) for sucking by vacuum each sheet firm on the exposure table surface.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus is provided for casting molten metallic materials through runners in the form of casting gates, flow-through tubes, feeders, rising gates and the like. The method basically comprises casting the molten metals through runners defined by bodies of porous calcium hydro-silicate such as gas concrete. A filler, such as quartz, may be used. The runner bodies are formed of gas concrete and provided with a moisture ratio of 3 to 30% so as to afford progressive evaporation of the moisture during casting to thereby produce a cooling effect on the runner walls. The runner bodies can be reinforced.