Abstract: A data processing system is described in which the workload is divided into packets. A plurality of processors access the packets and process them by rewriting them according to predetermined rules. Packets can be of a number of different types, including XAPP and PAPP. An XAPP packet contains a function and one or more arguments in evaluated form, so that the function can be immediately applied to the arguements. A PAPP packet is similar except that its arguments may not be in evaluated form. Processing of an active PAPP packet consists of activating other packets which evaluate the arguments of the PAPP packet, and converting the PAPP to a suspended XAPP packet, awaiting return information from those other packets. The use of different packet types allows greater efficiency, by eliminating redundant actions in processing of the packets.

Abstract: An automatically disconnecting connector apparatus for a floatable device, such as a fisherman's float tube, includes one coupling member having an aperture and another coupling member having another aperture. The other coupling member is bifurcated so that it can receive the first-mentioned coupling member therein. In this relationship, the apertures of the coupling members are aligned for receiving a shaft of a pin member which is retained in the apertures by gravity when the floatable device is in an upright position. The pin member is automatically extracted in response to gravity when the floatable device is overturned, thereby automatically disconnecting the connector apparatus.

Abstract: A solid titanium alloy comprises Ti+Co+Cu+ optionally other elements. The titanium is from 95 to 40 wt. %. The liquidus is below 1300.degree. C. and the structure is of small equiaxed high-melting grains surrounded by at least 10 vol. % of low-melting material. This structure is achieved by vigorously agitating the alloy between its liquidus and solidus so as to break up dendrites, and thereby permits the alloy to be subsequently thixocast.