Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining valves in a water distribution system is the subject matter. A description is prepared of each valve in the system. An individual identifying symbol is assigned to each valve. The identifying symbol and the valve individual description and location, is loaded into a computer database. A group of valves in the system is selected to define an inspection route. A portable computer is loaded with the information regarding each valve along the inspection route. A valve turning machine is positioned adjacent to a selected valve. The valve turning machine includes an identification reader, a timer and the portable computer. A reader identifies a select valve by means of its symbol and the symbol is recorded in the portable computer. The turning machine is connected to the stem of the selected valve to turn the stem in a selected direction. The number of revolutions of the valve stem is counted and recorded in the portable computer.

Abstract: In a cordless telephone it is usual for the base station and the handset to be allotted a single address code to provide "dial security". Such an address code is usually programmed in during manufacture. In the present arrangement, a printed circuit board (2) in the handset or base station bears a single common track (5) and a set of tracks (6) adjacent to it. Each cordless set's two units also has a label (1) with a set of conductive strips on it which is secured to the board so as to connect the common track and a selection of the individual tracks. Thus energization of the common track (5) energizes a selection of the tracks (6) according to the address.When a number is to be sent the address code defined by the handset's label is sent to the base station and compared with that for the base station's label. If they agree, "dialling" is permitted.The label can also be wrapped round the edge of the board or plugged into a socket on the board.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of economically exploiting deep set porphyry ore bodies of the type containing metal values such as sulfidic copper nickel or uranium minerals and minerals capable of absorbing copper, uranium and nickel ions. The method involves establishing communication with the ore body through access and recovery wells and passing fluids sequentially therethrough. If necessary, thief zones of as low as 25 to 50 md in igneous rock of 1 to 5 md are prevented from distorting flow, by the injection of a polymeric solution of macromolecules with molecular weights of the order of 5 million along the entire wellbore, the higher permeability zones initially accepting the majority of the flow and being impaired at a much faster rate than the less permeable zones.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for causing coloration of an electrochromic material includes passing through the material an electrical pulse above a coloration threshold potential for the material and of a predetermined polarity and subsequently applying a D. C. potential of the same polarity to the material of a magnitude less than the threshold potential.