Abstract: A heated hose assembly (10) includes a tubular member (12), a heater device (14) having an electrical resistance element (18) in thermal communication with the tubular member (12), and a thermal regulating device (30) that controls a flow of electrical current through the heater device (14) based on a sensed temperature of the hose assembly (10). Heat generated by the heater device (14) when the electrical current flows through the resistance element (18) heats the tubular member (12) to prevent or minimize condensation of gases, or coagulation or freezing of liquids, within the tubular member (12) at relatively low ambient temperatures.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically handling exceptions in a business-to-business transaction. E-commerce internet gateways through which the business-to-business transaction passes are monitored for exceptions. When an exception is detected, an intelligent contact manager automatically determines and then locates the representative(s) authorized to resolve this exception. A unified communication system is then utilized to automatically contact and notify the authorized representative(s) of the exception. A web collaboration system is then utilized to automatically establish a collaboration session between representatives of the business-to-business transaction so that the exception can be readily resolved.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a locate, collaborate, and transact (LCT) communications platform for a business-to-business exchange service center. The LCT communications platform enables the needed human communications between buyers and sellers to take place within a virtual marketplace as a fully integrated software communication platform within a B2B exchange environment. The LCT communications platform comprises call center technology, web collaboration technology, and unified communication technology. The integration of these three technologies integrates human communications into high value business transactions that require quick resolution of opportunity or exception handling (e.g.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically handling exceptions in a business-to-business transaction. E-commerce internet gateways through which the business-to-business transaction passes are monitored for exceptions. When an exception is detected, an intelligent contact manager automatically determines and then locates the representative(s) authorized to resolve this exception. A unified communication system is then utilized to automatically contact and notify the authorized representative(s) of the exception. A web collaboration system is then utilized to automatically establish a collaboration session between representatives of the business-to-business transaction so that the exception can be readily resolved.

Abstract: A proactive call center which detects problems, resolves the problems, and then contacts the customers before customers initiate calls themselves. In the present invention, the workflow process is monitored to ensure that a transaction is completed without problems. If a problem occurs, a call center agent is notified of the problem. The call center agent can then take immediate steps to research the problem, fix the problem, or otherwise find alternative solutions to help ameliorate the problem. The call center agent then contacts the customer to explain the problem and what steps were taken to address the problem. By proactively taking steps to address problems as they occur rather than in response to customer complaints, businesses can maintain goodwill.

Abstract: Push-on hose construction for a self-gripping connection with a barbed nipple or other push in fitting end. The hose has an innermost core tube which exhibits a reduced coefficient of friction for easier insertion of the fitting end. Such core tube may be extruded or otherwise formed of thermoplastic polyurethane or other resin which is dulled or otherwise incompatibilized by the addition of an immiscible such as nonpolar polyolefin homopolymer, copolymer, or mixture thereof.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically handling exceptions in a business-to-business transaction. E-commerce internet gateways through which the business-to-business transaction passes are monitored for exceptions. When an exception is detected, an intelligent contact manager automatically determines and then locates the representative(s) authorized to resolve this exception. A unified communication system is then utilized to automatically contact and notify the authorized representative(s) of the exception. A web collaboration system is then utilized to automatically establish a collaboration session between representatives of the business-to-business transaction so that the exception can be readily resolved.