Abstract: A pilot operated valve has a main poppet that selectively controls flow of fluid between first and second ports in response to pressure in a control chamber on one side of the main poppet. The main poppet has an aperture extending between the control chamber and the first port. A pilot piston slides within the aperture and has the pilot passage with a pilot orifice and a first disk spring biases the pilot piston with respect to the main poppet. A pilot valve element selectively engages the pilot orifice to open and close the pilot passage and thereby controls motion of the main poppet. Forces from the first disk spring and a pressure differential between control and pilot chambers alter a position of the pilot valve seat with respect to the main poppet. The change in position compensates for effects on valve operation due to variation of the pressure at the two ports.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods of selling space aboard a cruise ship. In certain embodiments, disclosed methods include incorporating a first business entity in a first jurisdiction and organizing a cooperative association. An interest in at least a portion of a ship is transferred, such as by a lease, by the first business entity to the cooperative association. The cooperative association transfers an interest in at least a portion of the ship, such as by a lease, to a consumer for the consumer's residential use. The consumer receives stock, or similar interest, in the cooperative association. The stock can be used by the consumer as collateral for a loan to finance the purchase of the ship space.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided which has sensors that detect pressure on opposite sides of a control valve which controls the flow of hydraulic fluid from a source to a hydraulic actuator. The sensors produce electrical signals indicating those pressures. In response to the sensor signals, a controller produces an output signal the operates a proportional control valve to thereby regulate pressure at a node of the hydraulic circuit. Several mechanisms are described that react to the pressure at the node by varying the pressure of the fluid being supplied to the main valve so that a controlled pressure level is achieved.

Abstract: A serial bus (106) communication protocol communicates data packets. When priority messages are identified, transmission of a data packet (302) being transmitted, if any, is interrupted. The priority message (402) is transmitted. Thereafter, transmission of an interrupted data packet is completed.