Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for reading a file into a universal representation and translating from that universal representation into various file formats. For example, a method according to one embodiment comprises: reading compressed audio data from a first audio file, the first audio file comprising audio data compressed using a first compression algorithm and bookkeeping data having a first format, the bookkeeping data specifying a location of the compressed audio data within the first audio file; and generating a universal representation of the first audio file without decompressing and recompressing the audio data, the universal representation having bookkeeping data of a second format specifying the location of compressed audio data within the universal representation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for reading a file into a universal representation and translating from that universal representation into various file formats. For example, a method according to one embodiment comprises: reading compressed audio data from a first audio file, the first audio file comprising audio data compressed using a first compression algorithm and bookkeeping data having a first format, the bookkeeping data specifying a location of the compressed audio data within the first audio file; and generating a universal representation of the first audio file without decompressing and recompressing the audio data, the universal representation having bookkeeping data of a second format specifying the location of compressed audio data within the universal representation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for reading a file into a universal representation and translating from that universal representation into various file formats. For example, a method according to one embodiment comprises: reading compressed audio data from a first audio file, the first audio file comprising audio data compressed using a first compression algorithm and bookkeeping data having a first format, the bookkeeping data specifying a location of the compressed audio data within the first audio file; and generating a universal representation of the first audio file without decompressing and recompressing the audio data, the universal representation having bookkeeping data of a second format specifying the location of compressed audio data within the universal representation.

Abstract: A flask is filled with a heat resistant filling material, such as sand, to embed therein a pattern of the type which melts down and generates combustible gas when it is heated, a runner connected to the pattern and provided with a sprue and a hollow venting device having an open upper end and a sidewall provided with at least one vent opening. A molten metal is poured into the sprue. The molten metal reaching the pattern through the runner heats the pattern and causes it to melt down and generate gas. The molten metal occupies a cavity formed by the meltdown of the pattern and drives out the gas into the venting device through the filling material and the vent opening. The gas is burned at the upper end of the venting device. Disclosed also is an apparatus which can be used for carrying out the method as hereinabove summarized. The apparatus is useful for either a batch or a continuous type of casting operation.