Abstract: A flexible and configurable system for distributing media (or programming) to one or more distribution networks. The system includes a media server, at least one server interface unit, a first communications path coupling the media server and a server interface unit, distribution network interface unit(s), and a second communications path coupling a server interface unit and the distribution network interface unit(s). The media server stores files of encoded (e.g., compressed) media data and files of scheduling information. Each of the distribution network interface unit(s) conditions received media data for transmission over the distribution network(s) which may be analog and/or digital distribution networks.

Abstract: A computer program for manipulating diagnostic images obtained with computed tomography or magnetic resonance systems stores acquired voxel data in addresses in an electronic memory related to the spatial location of the voxels. Sample lines are identified in the space of the voxels and interpolated values are determined for points along these sample lines by accessing the volume data in the electronic memory as a "tube" which includes voxel data having spatial coordinates which vary only in the dimension of the sample line. The tube of data may be more easily accessed from the electronic memory than would a series of random accesses and also allows the sharing of interpolation calculations for the interpolated points along the sample lines.

Abstract: An X-ray apparatus has motors for moving its components in different directions. Sensors are provided to detect a collision between a motor driven component and an object, such as a patient being examined. In response to a collision being detected, a normal motor power supply is disconnected from the motor and another power supply is connected to the motor to move the component in the reverse direction. A safeguard is incorporated to insure that both power supplies cannot be coupled to the motor at the same time. For components which can strike a patient when moving in either of two directions, different collision sensors are provided for each direction. For this configuration, a mechanism also is provided to inhibit the connection of the other power supply when collisions are simultaneously detected each direction of component movement.

Abstract: A system to facilitate installation of push-in type fasteners including apparatus to feed fasteners to an escapement unit and a manually actuable hand tool to take the fasteners from the escapement unit and insert them in a workpiece. The apparatus includes a vibratory bowl feeder for providing a continuous supply of fasteners to a track member extending between the vibratory bowl feeder and the escapement unit. The escapement unit aligns a first fastener for receipt in the fastener inserting tool, positions a second fastener for subsequent alignment, and limits advancement of the second fastener until the first fastener has been removed from the escapement unit. The fastener inserting tool comprises an outer housing or handle that carries a press rod and an outwardly biased insert body. The insert body has fastener grasping jaws at one end.