Abstract: Described is a method for managing flow of protocol information in a node of a hierarchical network in which the protocol information is communicated between network nodes in topology state elements. The method comprises checking topology state elements generated by the node to identify protocol information encapsulated therein, and selectively allowing transmittal of the topology state elements from the node to lower levels of the network based on the protocol information identified.

Abstract: A method for providing a user device with a set of access codes comprises, in the user device, storing an encryption key and an identification code, and sending a message containing the identification code to a server via a communications network. In the server, an encryption key is stored corresponding to the key stored in the user device, allocating the set of access codes on receipt of the identification code from the user device. A look up function is performed based on the identification code received in the message to retrieve the key from storage. The set of access codes is encrypted using the retrieved key to produce an encrypted set. A message containing the encrypted set is sent to the user device via the network. In the user device, the encrypted set received from the server is decrypted using the key in storage, and storing the decrypted set of access codes for use by a user of the user device.

Abstract: Described is a method for managing flow of protocol information in a node of a hierarchical network in which the protocol information is communicated between network nodes in topology state elements. The method comprises checking topology state elements generated by the node to identify protocol information encapsulated therein, and selectively allowing transmittal of the topology state elements from the node to lower levels of the network based on the protocol information identified.

Abstract: A multifunctional robot tool includes a pair of driven fingers configured as a gripper and a blade depending from each finger. The blades are configured as a digging spade when closed together by the fingers. A knife is associated with at least one blade for cutting wire.

Abstract: A system for controlling and safeguarding the dispensing of fluids used in servicing centers is provided. The system is devised to provide lubricants to motor vehicles and includes a programmable system that comprises means to activate and deactivate a plurality of fluid dispensing pumps including a shut down of pump feeding air pressure to prevent fluid spills and to preclude the theft or dispensing of fluids at unauthorized times such as at times outside normal servicing hours. The invention also affords improved central proprietors of servicing facilities to set and monitor operable pump periods and includes an automatic shut down, until reactivated by a master key, of pump functions at a specified time of day.

Abstract: The present invention relates to digitally signing of electronic documents which are to be kept secure for a very long time, thereby taking into account future cryptographic developments which could render current cryptographic key-lengths insufficient. In accordance with the invention a double signature is issued for each document. A first digital signature (DTS) ensures the long time security, whilst a second digital signature (DUS) ensures the involvement of an individual user. Thereby, the second digital signature is less computationally intensive in its generation than the first digital signature.

Abstract: A cutting method and apparatus are provided to cut a portion of an optical fibre or waveguide with a laser beam. The proposed cutting action takes advantage of the sharp cutting edge of a laser beam generated so as to have a predetermined asymmetric intensity distribution. In operation, a prescribed amount of the beam distribution is impinged on the fibre or waveguide portion and causes the portion to ablate or vaporise so as to effect a cut at the portion in dependence upon the impingement. No translation of the laser beam across the fibre or waveguide is effected during cutting. The proposed cutting action bears definite advantages over conventional cutting techniques and finds utility for many optical fibre or waveguide applications. For example, the proposed cutting action can produce a substantially flat optical fibre or waveguide surface or a lens of enhanced quality at the end of the fibre or waveguide portion.

Abstract: A readily portable self-contained, pre-pressurized lubricating fluid dispenser is provided. The tank contains an internal impermeable flexible membrane that isolates the working fluid to be dispensed from the pressurizing delivery fluid, e.g., compressed air, which dispenses the servicing fluid under pressure. The dispenser that can be readily pre-loaded with deliverable servicing fluid, such as motor vehicle lubricant. The tank supplied with or without the servicing fluid is provided with pre-pressurized gas as a permanent sealed fixture with the tank to provide a fully self-contained portable servicing tool. The working fluid is readily replenishable when exhausted. The flexible membrane isolates the working replenishable servicing fluid from the pressurized gas. The unit may be secured to a wall or mobile attachment to a convenient location for periodic scheduled servicing and may comprise a wheeled supporting carriage or a back-pack configuration for optimum versatility.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling the clustering of nodes which implement a cluster-based routing protocol in a data communications network system where the system comprises a plurality of such nodes which are interconnectable to form a plurality of ad hoc networks. For each node which is a member of a cluster, cluster control information (CCMs) is maintained, this cluster control information being dependent on the size of at least the cluster of which that node is a member. On connection of two nodes which are members of two respective clusters, each of the two nodes transmits its cluster control information to the other node, and then determines whether a clustering condition is satisfied. In each node, the clustering condition is dependent on the cluster control information maintained for that node and the cluster control information received from the other node. In each node, if the clustering condition is satisfied, the node then communicates a clustering agreement to the other node.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for managing protocol information in a PNNI hierarchical network. In a PAR-enabled device (1) of the network, topology indicators (HC, LC) are assigned to protocol information encapsulated in PAR PTSEs received by the PAR-enabled device (1) from the network. The assignment of a topology indicator (HC, LC) to protocol information in a PAR PTSE is dependent on the location of the network node which originated that PAR PTSE in the PNNI topology as seen by the PAR-enabled device (1). Protocol information in received PAR PTSEs is then supplied to a protocol device (5) associated with the PAR-enabled device (1) in a manner dependent on the assigned topology indicators (HC, LC), for example with tags comprising the assigned topology indicators (HC, LC). The information supplied to the protocol device (5) thus reflects the topology indicators (HC, LC) which in turn reflect the location in the PNNI topology of the originating nodes of the PAR PTSEs.

Abstract: A method for providing a user device with a set of access codes comprises, in the user device, storing an encryption key and an identification code, and sending a message containing the identification code to a server via a communications network. In the server, an encryption key is stored corresponding to the key stored in the user device, allocating the set of access codes on receipt of the identification code from the user device. A look up function is performed based on the identification code received in the message to retrieve the key from storage. The set of access codes is encrypted using the retrieved key to produce an encrypted set. A message containing the encrypted set is sent to the user device via the network. In the user device, the encrypted set received from the server is decrypted using the key in storage, and storing the decrypted set of access codes for use by a user of the user device.

Abstract: There is provided a method of quantitatively ranking transient ligand binding to target biomolecules by means of NMR relaxation dispersion profiles. The present invention also relates to a method to identify ligand site obeying two-state and more complex binding behavior in a transient complex of a ligand with a target molecule, still with the use of NMR. There is also provided an efficient method to quantitate fast dissociation rates of ligands containing at least one magnetic nuclei by performing NMR relaxation dispersion experiments at different protein concentrations, enabling the evaluation of populations and exchange rates, and extending the practical applicability of the NMR relaxation dispersion experiments.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for managing protocol information in a PNNI hierarchical network. In a PAR-enabled device (1) of the network PAR PTSEs received by the PAR-enabled device (1) from the network are checked to identify redundant protocol information encapsulated in the PAR PTSEs. Protocol information in received PAR PTSEs is then supplied to a protocol device associated with the PAR-enabled device (1). In some embodiments, protocol information identified as redundant is excluded from the protocol information supplied to the protocol device. In other embodiments, the protocol information supplied to the protocol device is tagged to distinguish redundant protocol information from non-redundant protocol information. This facilitates efficient configuration of the network topology for the protocol in question.

Abstract: An inertial reference unit (IRU) is described which includes a processor programmed to provide inertial data from received inertial signals, a primary sensor unit providing the inertial signals to the processor, and an input/output (I/O) unit communicatively coupled to the processor. The I/O unit provides signals, including inertial data, to an external interface of the IRU and routes signals to and from the processor. The inertial reference unit also includes a secondary sensor unit separate from the primary sensor unit which provides inertial data independent of the inertial data provided by the processor.

Abstract: A computer mouse accessory comprises a cover which is configured to fit over a computer mouse in such a way that the pressure-sensitive switches associated with the computer mouse are operable through an opening in the cover.

Abstract: Described is a method for managing flow of protocol information in a node of a hierarchical network in which the protocol information is communicated between network nodes in topology state elements. The method comprises checking topology state elements generated by the node to identify protocol information encapsulated therein, and selectively allowing transmittal of the topology state elements from the node to lower levels of the network based on the protocol information identified.

Abstract: Solid material, e.g., coal, is upgraded, e.g., the water content reduced and the BTU value increased, by a method comprising the steps of: (a) supplying the solid material to a reactor; (b) heating the solid material in the reactor under water saturation pressure conditions and removing water from the solid material; and (c) cooling the solid material by depressurising the solid material under water saturation conditions.

Abstract: A computer mouse accessory comprises a cover which is configured to fit over a computer mouse in such a way that the pressure-sensitive switches associated with the computer mouse are operable through an opening in the cover.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling the clustering of nodes which implement a cluster-based routing protocol in a data communications network system where the system comprises a plurality of such nodes which are interconnectable to form a plurality of ad hoc networks. For each node which is a member of a cluster, cluster control information (CCMs) is maintained, this cluster control information being dependent on the size of at least the cluster of which that node is a member. On connection of two nodes which are members of two respective clusters, each of the two nodes transmits its cluster control information to the other node, and then determines whether a clustering condition is satisfied. In each node, the clustering condition is dependent on the cluster control information maintained for that node and the cluster control information received from the other node. In each node, if the clustering condition is satisfied, the node then communicates a clustering agreement to the other node.

Abstract: Solid material, e.g., coal, is upgraded, e.g.