Abstract: The present invention relates to stored value cards and improved bank processing systems. In particular, it relates to systems and methods that load value into demand deposit and plastic account number accounts corresponding to the stored value card and make funds available without delay, even for the unbanked. It also relates to methods for avoiding fraud.

Abstract: A method of transferring communication between communication channels of differing bandwidth comprises establishing data communications on a first channel having a first bandwidth, establishing data communications on a second channel in response to a trigger indicating changes in the data to be communicated, wherein the second channel has a bandwidth providing resources different from the first bandwidth of the first channel. The method further comprises responding to the discontinuation of an in-progress mixed-media call that transmits data using a first and second media by initiating a second call not supporting the second media.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an improved cover for securing the roof a residential home or other building structure from the weather conditions that are associated with severe storms such as hurricanes. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises at least one protective membrane disposed adjacent the roof's upper surface. In a particular embodiment, the membrane is configured to cover substantially the entire roof surface. The membrane, which may comprise stretch wrap or shrink wrap, may be adhered in place, for example, using water resistant tape, an adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or a girdle sheet that is wrapped around the vertical walls of the building structure so as to capture the protective membrane between the girdle sheet and the vertical walls. Alternatively, the roof cover may be maintained adjacent the roof substantially entirely through its own physical properties, especially if the roof cover is comprised of stretch or shrink wrap.

Abstract: A drive control arrangement for a material sampling apparatus in which the sampling bucket is operatively carried on a swing arm for movement through a stream of material when in the now sampling position and in a reverse direction back through the stream in a sample cutting position so that the sample can be dumped and directed to processing apparatus ancillary to the sampling apparatus. The apparatus is placed under the drive control arrangement for hydraulic and electrical systems which control the sequence of movements of the swing arm and the sampling bucket and the directing of the sample when dumped from the bucket.