Abstract: A method and apparatus for normalizing data. A computer system receives category data for a first code from a first client of a plurality of clients. The computer system also generates a category rule based on the category data. The computer system also assigns a category to a second code of a second client of the plurality of clients using the category rule. The category data is generated using input from the first client. Assigning the category to the second code of the second client comprises selecting the category rule to use to assign the category to the second code from a plurality of category rules.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for normalizing data. A computer system receives category data for a first code from a first client of a plurality of clients. The computer system also generates a category rule based on the category data. The computer system also assigns a category to a second code of a second client of the plurality of clients using the category rule. The category data is generated using input from the first client. Assigning the category to the second code of the second client comprises selecting the category rule to use to assign the category to the second code from a plurality of category rules.

Abstract: A tool for applying an identification tag body and a tag retainer to an ear of an animal. The tool includes a main handle member on which a tag body is mounted, a swinging bracket pivotally mounted on the main handle member, a second handle member pivotally connected to the swinging bracket, a first sliding link member pivotally connected to the second handle member, and a second sliding link member pivotally connected to the second handle member. The tag retainer is mounted on the swinging bracket. As the swinging bracket swings, the tag retainer can pass through the animal's ear and enter a boss of the tag body for locking therein. Support structure on each of the sliding link members can engage support pins mounted on the main handle member so that linkage of the tool can advance in two stages as the handles are advanced toward each other. The support structure of the sliding link members can come free of the associated support pins, one at a time.

Abstract: A material sensing device comprising a flexible or collapsible tube with a light sensitive device therein which receives light through the tube from a spaced apart light emitting device. The signal from the light sensitive device is amplified and used to operate a silicon controlled rectifier that snap actuates a solenoid operated switch. The invention includes an amplifying circuit in which the amplifier is the load for the silicon controlled rectifier and a generally fixed bias is provided to the gate of the SCR with the result that the circuit automatically resets the SCR during normal operation.