Abstract: An integrated circuit is provided in which a surge protector, protecting against modest over-voltage events which may contain a lot of energy, and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protector, protecting against high voltage events that may contain only a little energy, are provided within the integrated circuit package. The two types of protectors may protect against different types of electrical events.

Abstract: An integrated circuit is provided in which a surge protector, protecting against modest over-voltage events which may contain a lot of energy, and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protector, protecting against high voltage events that may contain only a little energy, are provided within the integrated circuit package. The two types of protectors may protect against different types of electrical events.

Abstract: Systems and methods for optimizing outcomes in view of various business scenarios are based on a unique quantification of work and estimate of task duration, which may be used to develop a measure of the work required to complete a task. This measure may be compared to forecasted work and used to allocate resources accordingly. Additionally, optimal outcomes may be identified subject to any classification, such as by class of worker, type of task, location of task, and/or size of work unit.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling is disposed within and extends through an opening of a combustion chamber for a water heater. The coupling includes a fitting which is a relatively inexpensive stamped component. A stepped tubular connection extends from a plate and includes a first portion having a first diameter which necks down to a second portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. The stepped tubular connection receives a gas supply tube into the first portion and a gas supply line over the second portion. The tubes are braised to the stepped connection. Other gas supply couplings include a machined fitting and a direct connection between a gas supply tube and a gas supply line in which the gas supply tube itself provides for both the seal to the shield and the connection to the gas supply line.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling is disposed within and extends through an opening of a combustion chamber for a water heater. The coupling includes a fitting which is a relatively inexpensive stamped component. A stepped tubular connection extends from a plate and includes a first portion having a first diameter which necks down to a second portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. The stepped tubular connection receives a gas supply tube into the first portion and a gas supply line over the second portion. The tubes are braised to the stepped connection. Other gas supply couplings include a machined fitting and a direct connection between a gas supply tube and a gas supply line in which the gas supply tube itself provides for both the seal to the shield and the connection to the gas supply line.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling and method of assembly for the delivery of combustion gases to a combustion chamber of a heating device includes a crimp ring which provides a metal-to-metal seal between the gas supply tube and the gas supply line.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling is disposed within and extends through an opening of a combustion chamber for a water heater. The coupling including a fitting which is a relatively inexpensive stamped component. A stepped tubular connection extends from a plate and includes a first portion having a first diameter which necks down to a second portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. The stepped tubular connection receives a gas supply tube into the first portion and a gas supply line over the second portion. The tubes are braised to the stepped connection. Other gas supply couplings include a machined fitting and a direct connection between a gas supply tube and a gas supply line in which the gas supply tube itself provides for both the seal to the shield and the connection to the gas supply line.

Abstract: A method for integrating various processes is described. The method includes managing of data by a first business unit, where managing of data includes at least one of storing-the data within a data repository and editing the data. The method also includes automatically sending a notification from the first business unit to a second business unit after the first business unit has completed managing the data.

Abstract: A number of improved excess flow valves are disclosed wherein pressure drop is optimized through the device to maximize efficiency while minimizing shut-off flow rates. Flow restrictions are minimized throughout the valve structure and maximized across a valve closure plate, eliminating flow restriction variations caused by orientation of the valve components. A magnet having radially opposing poles optimizes the magnet's attractive force relationship with the valve plate.

Abstract: A number of improved excess flow valves are disclosed wherein pressure drop is optimized through the device to maximize efficiency while minimizing shut-off flow rates. Flow restrictions are minimized throughout the valve structure and maximized across a valve closure plate, eliminating flow restriction variations caused by orientation of the valve components. A magnet having radially opposing poles optimizes the magnet's attractive force relationship with the valve plate.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling for a water heater incorporating a shield to close the opening to the combustion chamber. The coupling includes a supply tube, a connector extending through the shield and a gas supply line detachably connected to the connector. The connector is staked to the shield to prevent disassembly requiring that the entire coupling be removed from the combustion chamber prior to disassembly. The gas supply line includes a threaded fastener having a unique exterior configuration requiring a specialized tool for separation from the connector.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a computerized method for creating a customized lifestyle plan for a user. The user's desired lifestyle is identified. At least one user preference associated with the desired lifestyle is identified. Financial information associated with the user is identified. The cost of the user's desired lifestyle, in accordance with the user preference, is determined. The desired lifestyle scenario is evaluated to determine whether the desired lifestyle is achievable with respect to the user financial information. If the lifestyle is achievable, a lifestyle plan associated with the desired lifestyle and the financial information is provided to the user.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling for a water heater incorporating a shield to close the opening to the combustion chamber. The coupling includes a supply tube, a connector extending through the shield and a gas supply line detachably connected to the connector. The connector is staked to the shield to prevent disassembly requiring that the entire coupling be removed from the combustion chamber prior to disassembly. The gas supply line includes a threaded fastener having a unique exterior configuration requiring a specialized tool for separation from the connector.

Abstract: A seat belt retractor (20): comprising a spool (25), a frame (52) for rotationally supporting the spool, a seat belt (16) receivable on the spool, a rewind spring (100) for biasing the spool in a belt winding direction comprising a spring coil (100) having an inner spring end (103) connected to and rotated by a shaft (56) movable with the spool and an outer spring end (104) and a rotatable spring cup (70,72, 80, 81) connected to the outer spring end in continuous connection with the retractor shaft (56) for unwinding a predetermined number of coils from the spring coil in relation to the rotation of the shaft and reducing the rewind force or tensions applied to the shoulder of an occupant.