Abstract: This invention is for a reader/writer device (terminal) for accessing item-related data in rewritable tags of the “RF-ID” type wherein each tag includes non-volatile memory. In a farm animal application each animal is implanted with an identified tag. From time to time, the terminal can be given a selected security level by reading password-like and individual identity data from a special tag held by an individual. As a result the individual can gain “read” and/or “write” to selected fields in the data record held within the tag. Further information may be added from time to time by empowered individuals. Schemes are enabled for the enhanced management of animals having such tags include accurate descriptors, proving ownership, showing compliance with disease control programmes and withholding periods after possible treatments, traceability of meat products from the shop to the farm, breeding schemes and performance recording.

Abstract: The temperature or some other specific characteristic of a mixture of two liquids at different temperatures in a mixing chamber (14) is controlled by a microprocessor (8) which controls the supply of power to solenoid actuated valves (10 and 11) to control the quantities of the liquids admitted to the chamber (14) so that a desired temperature of the mixture is achieved using pulse width modulation control. The pulse width modulation control requires only one microprocessor timer and provides a substantially constant supply of power to one valve while varying the power supplied to the other valve to control flow through each valve and thus the temperature of the liquid mixture.

Abstract: A specific physical characteristic (temperature) of a mixture of two liquids in a mixing chamber (14) is controlled by progressively opening a valve member (35) of a selected valve (10,11) through which one of the liquids flows while the other liquid flows through the other valve, and if the temperature of the mixed liquids has not reached a desired level, the selected valve is left fully open while the other valve is progressively closed to adjust the temperature to that desired. The opening and closing of the valves is controlled in response to signals from a sensor in the mixing chamber.

Abstract: A specific physical characteristic (temperature) of a mixture of two liquids in a mixing chamber (14) is controlled by progressively opening a valve member (35) of a selected valve (10,11) through which one of the liquids flows while the other liquid flows through the other valve, and if the temperature of the mixed liquids has not reached a desired level, the selected valve is left fully open while the other valve is progressively closed to adjust the temperature to that desired. The opening and closing of the valves is controlled in response to signals from a sensor in the mixing chamber.