Abstract: Linked databases including a core database and a distribution database support provisioning for computers in pay-per-use and subscription business models. The core database is well removed from front-end processing and includes job, device and bootstrap tables. The distribution database includes tables for packet distribution and logging and is near the front-end processing blocks. The core database is well protected from attack, while the more volatile data in the distribution database is available with low latency. Performance is maintained while reducing the surface area exposed to external attack.

Abstract: A client data distribution service may receive messages from a client device requesting data sets from the data distribution service. The data sets may include a client certificate used to protect in verified subsequent communications between the client device in the data distribution service as well as provisioning packets used by the client device to enable operation by the user. Specific messages between the client device in the data distribution service include hardware identifiers, initialization keys, last used sequence numbers, and Underwriter product identifiers. Corresponding acknowledgment messages may be used by the data distribution service to remove completed transactions.

Abstract: An application program interface (API) for sending and receiving batches of requests and responses has a batch request call for exchanging one or more request items between a provider system and a subscription system and a batch response call for exchanging corresponding responses between the provider system and the subscription system. Requests are grouped according to an extensible markup language schema and responses are grouped according to another extensible markup language schema.

Abstract: A pay-per-use or subscription computer may require customer assistance for both technical and business purposes. A customer service interface available via a web service may be used to provide customer service offered by a provider at a different level of the distribution chain. The web service may be focused in three areas, each exposing various methods. The three areas may include customer/computer data, distribution/sales data, and business or service level adjustments.

Abstract: A pay-per-use or pay-as-you-go computer uses a secure memory to store individual unique program identifiers. Each unique program identifier is associated with a particular hardware or software component, or service, or the entire computer available to a user. By combining the unique program identifier with a computer hardware identifier uniquely identified transactions may be tracked for both billing and reconciliation. Certificates associated with each unique program identifier, and coupled to the hardware identifier, provide a cryptographic basis for mutual verification of messages, requests, configuration instructions, and provisioning.

Abstract: A computer participates in a system for licensing use in a metered fashion using individual licenses cryptographically linked to the computer and a particular service provider or underwriter. The computer may have a cryptographic unit, secure memory, sanction and metering functions as part of a secure execution environment for enabling metered operation and conformance to a security policy. Payment for licenses may be made through a payment system with licenses generated at a server with access to cryptographic functions for verification of requests, certificate/key pair generation, and signing licenses.

Abstract: A dual strap system comprises two straps arranged to cooperate with the human form in a manner whereby a heavy side load is easily and comfortably supported. One strap has a conventionally shaped pad while the other has a specially shaped pad configured with a view to the forces which are applied to it and in further view of the angle in which rests upon a shoulder. Together, these straps are affixed at a joint to form an apparatus which may be worn over both shoulders. Length adjustability is effected in view of the unique arrangement by way of four specially placed adjustment buckles. Maximum utility is realized by minor adjustments whereby one can support heavy loads in the form a bag or satchel type sack at a user's side.

Abstract: A base support to support a bag can include a bottom, a back, and a pair of side portions each coupled to the back at curved joints. A plurality of reinforcement ribs can be configured along the bottom, back, and side portions to resist bending. The base support is formed from a single piece of material without corners and/or seams. The base support back portion, bottom portion, and side portions blend smoothly into one another and the base support is configured to accommodate at least a portion of the travel bag.

Abstract: A software provisioning method and apparatus use a provisioning packet delivery mechanism having a database, a distribution service, and a confirmation service to receive, queue, and confirm delivery of provisioning packet to a computer. When the number of unconfirmed delivery requests exceeds a limit the distribution service may remove the provisioning packet from the database, for example, to limit denial of service attacks.

Abstract: A modular system for a golf club bag shoulder strap arrangement has been discovered and is presented here. It includes sub-elements of four primary types. A single point fastener end, a two-to-one ‘V’ connector, a main padded strap, and a connection loop. Each of these elements couples in a special manner to appropriate cooperating sub-elements and may be easily decoupled for replacement, repair, resizing, et cetera. The coupling-decoupling function is indented to be quick, temporary, and replaceable in nature. Thus, these dual straps are provided with functionality not found in similar and competing systems.

Abstract: These inventions provide for golf bags, in particular stand type golf bags used in game play are arranged with modular components. These components can be easily switched by a golfer whereby the component may be replace with one having an alternative function or style. In addition, components subject to damage may be quickly and easily replaced with new components. Golf bags are configured with special fasteners which allow parts to be removably affixed to the bag for the switchable components. Standard materials and fasteners might be used elsewhere on the bag. Golf bag components which are arranged to be changeable include at least: the stand element, a back pad, shoulder straps and shoulder moulds, and pockets. Kits comprising an upgrade theme are also arranged to cooperate with these bags and to be sold as stand alone products in support of extended uses of the bags.

Abstract: These inventions provide for golf bags, in particular stand type golf bags used in game play are arranged with modular components. These components can be easily switched by a golfer whereby the component may be replace with one having an alternative function or style. In addition, components subject to damage may be quickly and easily replaced with new components. Golf bags are configured with special fasteners which allow parts to be removably affixed to the bag for the switchable components. Standard materials and fasteners might be used elsewhere on the bag. Golf bag components which are arranged to be changeable include at least: the stand element, a back pad, shoulder straps and shoulder moulds, and pockets. Kits comprising an upgrade theme are also arranged to cooperate with these bags and to be sold as stand alone products in support of extended uses of the bags.

Abstract: A dual strap system comprises two straps arranged to cooperate with the human form in a manner whereby a heavy side load is easily and comfortably supported. One strap has a conventionally shaped pad while the other has a specially shaped pad configured with a view to the forces which are applied to it and in further view of the angle in which rests upon a shoulder. Together, these straps are affixed at a joint to form an apparatus which may be worn over both shoulders. Length adjustability is effected in view of the unique arrangement by way of four specially placed adjustment buckles. Maximum utility is realized by minor adjustments whereby one can support heavy loads in the form a bag or satchel type sack at a user's side.

Abstract: A modular system for a golf club bag shoulder strap arrangement has been discovered and is presented here. It includes sub-elements of four primary types. A single point fastener end, a two-to-one ‘V’ connector, a main padded strap, and a connection loop. Each of these elements couples in a special manner to appropriate cooperating sub-elements and may be easily decoupled for replacement, repair, resizing, et cetera. The coupling-decoupling function is indented to be quick, temporary, and replaceable in nature. Thus, these dual straps are provided with functionality not found in similar and competing systems.

Abstract: Containers for sporting equipment include several compartments and supporting hardware such as zipper fasteners, snaps, liners, et cetera. In addition, a bag includes special support for advertising, publicity, and signage. This support is arranged whereby indicia presented thereon is readily changeable and dynamic replacement is facilitated. For example, a panel having a first company logo may be removed and replaced with a similar panel having another company logo. Thus, in a sport such as golf which generates significant revenues from advertising, a golfer can contract with various sponsors to display their message. Any particular message can be displayed for a set period of time and can be changed quickly and easily to other messages to be displayed at other times. Bags which present permanent indicia such as embroidery, the message cannot be changed without changing the entire garment.