Abstract: A structure, including: at least two structural members; a joining element connected to the at least two structural members; and at least one active element within the joining element, or between the joining element and at least one of the structural members, wherein a force applied to one structural member passes at least partially through the active element and into the other structural member, the active element being configured such that the structure exhibits a prescribed load-deflection relationship when a force is applied thereto.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided a force-resisting device for transmitting forces and dissipating and absorbing energy across a discontinuous structural element of a structure. The device includes at least one active element, the active element having defined force versus deflection properties and able to transmit force and dissipate and absorb energy, one end of the active element configured to be connected to a structure, and at least one frame element disposed about a discontinuous structural element, wherein the frame is configured to be connected to a second end of the active element, wherein the active element and the frame element configured to resist forces applied to the structure by transmitting forces across the discontinuous structural element.

Abstract: A technique for serially controlling an array of optical sensor chips over a pair of signal lines. After broadcasting an initializing reset command to all chips over serial lines, a determine-address command is broadcast to commence unique address determination. On subsequent clock signals, each chip locks its address into an on-board register. Following this process, each chip can be addressed individually. Subsequently, when each array chip is directed to read data out, the data is output to a single common bus line to the controller. Alternatively, individual chip outputs may be connected directly to the controller, or the outputs of odd and even chip pairs may be tied together for broadcast readout of all odd chips or all even chips.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a structural reinforcement system for reinforcing and securing an opening in a building/structure. The movable panel is further adapted to augment the shear stiffness of the building/structure when the panel is disposed in a closed position, such that the overall wall with the structural reinforcement system in accordance with the present invention has shear stiffness equal to or better than a uniform shear wall.

Abstract: A moveable structural reinforcement system is described including a moveable panel adapted to substantially close a building opening, the panel including variable shear load resistance means for regulating the shear stiffness of the building when the panel is in a closed position.

Abstract: An optical sensor array with zone-programmable gain and offset prior to A/D conversion for reducing quantization noise. The circuit comprises a register file which contains digital words for controlling gain and offset according to multi-pixel zones.

Abstract: A computer based means and system for the undertaking of three party (or more) transactions consisting of a buyer, seller and agent, or other facilitating party where not all of the parties necessarily have a presence on the Internet® or other type of network. A further aspect of the invention is the use of dedicated e-mail and/or phone systems or other communication system operating in parallel with the transactional system to prevent uncontrolled access between the parties, thus allowing transactions to occur on a first come, first serve basis rather than excessive number of calls between agents and sellers and agents and buyers. All parties to the transaction can participate in an agreed upon manner. A buyer can request that all the agents search for the seller of a specific item, or can request one agent to search for them, and a seller can do likewise. Agents may offer their services to buyers or sellers, or any combination that may suit the needs of the participants.

Abstract: The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a more efficient and cost effective method and apparatus for applying agents to plants, crops, vegetation, and trees, while avoiding the problems associated with conventional impingement velocity tunnel sprayers. The method and apparatus of the present invention utilizes the conditions in a controlled atmosphere to deposit agents on plants and provides a device which increases the maneuverability of pesticide spray rigs.

Abstract: The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a more efficient and cost effective method and apparatus for applying agents to plants, crops, vegetation, and trees, while avoiding the problems associated with conventional impingement velocity tunnel sprayers. The method and apparatus of the present invention utilizes the conditions in a controlled atmosphere to deposit agents on plants and provides a device which increases the maneuverability of pesticide spray rigs.

Abstract: A sprayable composition and a method of protecting material with the composition is disclosed. The composition comprises a polymer such as hydroxyethyl cellulose, clay, and water to provide a cover layer which, after spraying, is tough, flexible and water-repellent. Other materials such as shredded paper and gypsum can be used in the cover layer. The composition is effective as a cover layer over material such as soil, refuse at a dump site, or grain in a stockpile.

Abstract: A joint with tapered edges allows, by means of the taper, a gradual transmission of the loads from panel to joint to adjacent panel such that the panels contribute not only as a shear web between the tensile and compressive members but also contributes to the compressive, tensile and bending loads of the corner structure and such that the combined structure of joint and panels behave as a monocoque structure. This joint allows for a lighter weight preformed panel to be used.

Abstract: A sprayable composition and a method of protecting material with the composition is disclosed. The composition comprises a polymer such as hydroxyethyl cellulose, clay, and water to provide a cover layer which, after spraying, is tough, flexible and water-repellent. Other materials such as shredded paper and gypsum can be used in the cover layer. The composition is effective as a cover layer over material such as soil, refuse at a dump site, or grain in a stockpile.

Abstract: 2-Alkylpyrimidines are prepared from 1,3-diaminopropane and an appropriate alkanecarboxylic acid in a continuous vapor phase process without isolating any of the reaction intermediates. Improvements in each reaction step, namely, the amidation, the cyclization/dehydration and the dehydrogenation, contribute to the overall success of the continuous vapor phase process.