Abstract: A controller and methods for operating the controller are provided for an improved paddle, such as a pickleball paddle. The controller operates in a low-power state to ignore all inputs other than a “wake” input, such as tapping a pickleball on the controller or housing of the controller. Programmable options are presented, such as by computer generated/recorded speech, for selection via a mechanical input (e.g., a tap). The controller then operates to report ball strikes received on an impact sensor and reports the location of the impact to the user, such as with generated/recorded speech. As a result, the user may receive near real-time feedback of their performance and where they are striking a ball with a paddle comprising the controller and impact sensor. Focus functions are provided, such as to illuminate a particular LED to indicate an impact with the paddle, strike location, or both.

Abstract: Fracturing of a subterranean formation may be achieved using a hydrogel. A preferred gel is formed from a gel precursor formulation which comprises an aqueous formulation of poly(1,4-di(4-(N-methylpyridinyl))-2,3-di(4-(1-formylphenyl)butylidene), poly (vinyl alcohol) and a suitable proppant, in the presence of an acid catalyst. The gel may be prepared at the surface with a viscosity of greater than 200 cp measured at 100 s?1 and then injected into the subterranean formation under high pressure to fracture the formation.

Abstract: A heat shielding system is disclosed. The system is suitable for use with burner booms, as are found on oil rigs and vessels. In some embodiments, the system includes two types of fluid nozzles that are disposed near the end of the burner boom. The first type of nozzle, which in some embodiments receives a flow of fresh water, generates a very fine mist that is primarily responsible for shielding the oil rig, etc., and associated personnel from heat that radiates from the flame exiting the burner. The second type of nozzle generates a spray of liquid that is primarily responsible for acting as a wind shield for the mist that is dispensed from the first type of nozzle.

Abstract: An apparatus for constraining and lifting rigid elongated material, such as pipe, is disclosed. The apparatus is structured so that it separates or decouples the pipe-constraining function and the lifting function. Consequently, the pipe-constraining apparatus is not classified as a “lifting” device and a relatively lighter-weight construction can be used to meet regulatory requirements.

Abstract: Water problems in the production of oil or gas from subterranean formations is addressed by providing a method of restricting passage of a fluid from a first location to a second location in a subterranean formation by injecting into the formation a formulation comprising a first material, for example a dialdehyde, arranged to cross-link a second polymeric material, for example a polyvinyl alcohol, thereby to form a polymeric material of high viscosity which may block the passage between the first and second locations.