Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for filtering transactions performed between a master device and a slave device, where each transaction comprises one or more transfers. The apparatus has a first interface for coupling to the master device and a second interface for coupling to the slave device. Routing circuitry is used to route, between the first interface and the second interface, signals representing each transfer. Filtering decision generation circuitry is arranged to perform a combinatorial operation to generate a filtering decision dependent on current values of one or more received input variables. The routing circuitry is then responsive to the filtering decision indicating a block condition for a current transfer, to block the current transfer by preventing one or more of the signals representing that current transfer from being passed between the first interface and the second interface in either direction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for filtering transactions performed between a master device and a slave device, where each transaction comprises one or more transfers. The apparatus has a first interface for coupling to the master device and a second interface for coupling to the slave device. Routing circuitry is used to route, between the first interface and the second interface, signals representing each transfer. Filtering decision generation circuitry is arranged to perform a combinatorial operation to generate a filtering decision dependent on current values of one or more received input variables. The routing circuitry is then responsive to the filtering decision indicating a block condition for a current transfer, to block the current transfer by preventing one or more of the signals representing that current transfer from being passed between the first interface and the second interface in either direction.

Abstract: Systems for mounting and retaining solar panels are disclosed. In particular, systems for conventional tilted roofs (gable, hip, etc.) and for ground installations. Additionally, systems for electrically grounding the components of a solar panel assembly and systems for managing the many electrical wires that must be run along the installation to interconnect and ground the solar panels and supporting structures are disclosed.

Abstract: A mounting system for attaching solar panels or similar structures to a surface and to each other to form an array is disclosed. In accordance with the invention, a bracket that has an upper section with a mounting surface and a retaining lip spaced apart to accept an edge of the panel is provided. A riser connects the upper section to a base disposed on the surface. A ballast disposed against the base keeps the array in place. When the edges of the panels are engaged under the retaining lip of each bracket and the brackets moved to lock the panel in place, the array remains mounted to the surface without mechanical fastening. In certain embodiments, a wind deflector is attached between adjacent panels, and in certain embodiments a separator block is also inserted to fully lock the panels in place. Methods of assembling an array of panels without tools or fasteners are also disclosed.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for isolating hydraulic devices in a stacked hydraulic circuit of modular design employing an isolator valve module which enables partial and/or complete isolation of components in a hydraulic system to be isolated for inspection, testing, maintenance or replacement, by selective operation of the isolator valves in the isolator valve module. The isolator valve module may be a sub-plate module supporting other modules or a plurality of stacks of modules or may be a “sandwich” type module sandwiched between a sub-plate and another module or between two sandwich-type modules.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for isolating hydraulic devices in a stacked hydraulic circuit of modular design employing an isolator valve module which enables partial and/or complete isolation of components in a hydraulic system to be isolated for inspection, testing, maintenance or replacement, by selective operation of the isolator valves in the isolator valve module. The isolator valve module may be a sub-plate module supporting other modules or a plurality of stacks of modules or may be a “sandwich” type module sandwiched between a sub-plate and another module or between two sandwich-type modules.

Abstract: In an automatic on-off sprinkler, water enters an inlet and passes through a hollow interior region to the outlet. A reciprocating member in the hollow region normally blocks the outlet when water entering a narrow passageway fills a central chamber above the reciprocating member. A large gap between the hollow region ID and the reciprocating member OD permits friction-free movement of the reciprocating member. A flexible, water-tight diaphragm seals the central region, preventing liquid entering the narrow passageway from communicating with a lower region from passing to the outlet. A sensor detects an emergency condition, unsealing a control opening larger than the narrow passageway, allowing liquid to rapidly escape through the unsealed control, dropping the pressure in the central region, whereby a pressure imbalance lifts the reciprocating member closing the outlet. When the control opening is resealed, liquid pressure in the central region sealed by the water-tight membrane increases.

Abstract: An illumination assembly includes a lens housing having a first end and a second end, a first lens having first and second opposing surfaces with the first lens being disposed in a first end of the lens housing. A cane having a first a second surfaces is disposed in the lens housing with the first surface of the cane being spaced a predetermined distance from a first surface of the lens and wherein the second surface of the cane is polished and disposed against a first polished surface of a fiber optic bundle.

Abstract: In an automatic turn-off sprinkler, water enters an inlet and passes through a hollow interior region to the outlet. A reciprocating spool in the hollow region normally blocks the outlet enabling incoming water to fill a chamber above the spool. The gap between the ID of the bore and the OD of the spool permits sliding movement of the spool while providing a watertight seal preventing liquid entering the small opening communication with a chamber above the top of the spool from passing to the outlet opening. A heat sensor detects an emergency condition, unsealing a normally sealed opening allowing liquid pressing upon the spool to escape through the unsealed opening dropping the pressure on the top of the spool, whereby water pressure upon the bottom of the spool lifts the spool above the outlet. When the heat sensor seals the control opening, liquid pressure upon the top surface builds.