Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper including a chamber, a compressible component disposed within the chamber and operable between a relaxed state and a constricted state, a sole structure including a recess forming a cavity, and a pump device disposed within the cavity and fluidly coupled to the chamber, the pump device operable to transition the compressible component from the relaxed state to the constricted state by removing fluid from the chamber.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for assigning read requests to storage devices in a manner that reduces the likelihood that any storage device will become overloaded or underutilized. Specifically, a read-request handler assigns read requests that are directed to each particular item among the storage devices that have copies of the item based on how busy each of those storage devices is. Consequently, even though certain storage devices may have copies of the same item, there may be times during which one storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the other storage device is busy with read requests for other items, and there may be other times during which other storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the one storage device is busy with read request for other items.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for assigning read requests to storage devices in a manner that reduces the likelihood that any storage device will become overloaded or underutilized. Specifically, a read-request handler assigns read requests that are directed to each particular item among the storage devices that have copies of the item based on how busy each of those storage devices is. Consequently, even though certain storage devices may have copies of the same item, there may be times during which one storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the other storage device is busy with read requests for other items, and there may be other times during which other storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the one storage device is busy with read request for other items.

Abstract: An improved volumetric concrete mixing system and method of the present invention utilizes load cells for measuring weight loss from the aggregate and cement bins. Load cells may also be used for measuring weight loss from the water tank. The load cells provide input data corresponding to the weight loss of each container to a controller which automatically adjusts the delivery of ingredients to a mixing boot so as to achieve a desired concrete mix ratio.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for assigning read requests to storage devices in a manner that reduces the likelihood that any storage device will become overloaded or underutilized. Specifically, a read-request handler assigns read requests that are directed to each particular item among the storage devices that have copies of the item based on how busy each of those storage devices is. Consequently, even though certain storage devices may have copies of the same item, there may be times during which one storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the other storage device is busy with read requests for other items, and there may be other times during which other storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the one storage device is busy with read request for other items.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for assigning read requests to storage devices in a manner that reduces the likelihood that any storage device will become overloaded or underutilized. Specifically, a read-request handler assigns read requests that are directed to each particular item among the storage devices that have copies of the item based on how busy each of those storage devices is. Consequently, even though certain storage devices may have copies of the same item, there may be times during which one storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the other storage device is busy with read requests for other items, and there may be other times during which other storage device is assigned a disproportionate number of the reads of the item because the one storage device is busy with read request for other items.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention enable dynamic repartitioning of data storage in response to one or more triggers. In embodiments, a trigger may be a user-initiated action, a system-generated action, and/or an inference based on storage usage parameters. Applications of the present invention are its use in embodiments of a storage management system comprising a file system manager and a volume manager, where the placement of data into a partition (data storage region) may be specified by matching one or more disk region placement data attributes assigned to data with corresponding disk region attributes. In embodiments, dynamic repartitioning comprises adjustment of the location of the boundary between adjacent disk partitions and, if necessary, rebalancing of the data stored within the partitions by identifying mismatched data and relocating it to the partition with which it is associated.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention enable dynamic repartitioning of data storage in response to one or more triggers. In embodiments, a trigger may be a user-initiated action, a system-generated action, and/or an inference based on storage usage parameters. Applications of the present invention are its use in embodiments of a storage management system comprising a file system manager and a volume manager, where the placement of data into a partition (data storage region) may be specified by matching one or more disk region placement data attributes assigned to data with corresponding disk region attributes. In embodiments, dynamic repartitioning comprises adjustment of the location of the boundary between adjacent disk partitions and, if necessary, rebalancing of the data stored within the partitions by identifying mismatched data and relocating it to the partition with which it is associated.

Abstract: An improved volumetric concrete mixing system and method of the present invention utilizes load cells for measuring weight loss from the aggregate and cement bins. Load cells may also be used for measuring weight loss from the water tank. The load cells provide input data corresponding to the weight loss of each container to a controller which automatically adjusts the delivery of ingredients to a mixing boot so as to achieve a desired concrete mix ratio.

Abstract: An improved volumetric cement mixer has bins, containers, and troughs formed from UHMW material reinforced with expanded metal. A metal skeletal frame supports the UHMW walls of the sand and gravel bins, while mininizing the weight of the mixer. The UHMW troughs for the boot mixer and discharge chute improve product flow and mixing, and simplifies cleaning of the troughs.

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a power sliding door system having a power drive mechanism for propelling the sliding door and a power latching mechanism for latching the sliding door in a latched condition. The methodology provides enhanced monitoring and control of the power sliding door system to improve the operation of the sliding door in both the power-assisted and manual modes. The control methodology inhibits the operation of the power sliding door system in response to the actuation of any of the sliding door handles or if a fuel door is in the path of the sliding door. The control methodology also inhibits the operation of the sliding door system if a child guard mechanism is enabled. The control methodology includes an obstacle detection routine which detects obstacles in two directions of travel. The control methodology does not require the power drive mechanism or inertia to cause the latch mechanism to latch the sliding door in the latched condition.

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a power sliding door system having a power drive mechanism for propelling the sliding door and a power latching mechanism for latching the sliding door in a latched condition. The methodology provides enhanced monitoring and control of the power sliding door system to improve the operation of the sliding door in both the power-assisted and manual modes. The control methodology inhibits the operation of the power sliding door system in response to the actuation of any of the sliding door handles or if a fuel door is in the path of the sliding door. The control methodology also inhibits the operation of the sliding door system if a child guard mechanism is enabled. The control methodology includes an obstacle detection routine which detects obstacles in two directions of travel. The control methodology does not require the power drive mechanism or inertia to cause the latch mechanism to latch the sliding door in the latched condition.

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a power sliding door system having a power drive mechanism for propelling the sliding door and a power latching mechanism for latching the sliding door in a latched condition. The methodology provides enhanced monitoring and control of the power sliding door system to improve the operation of the sliding door in both the power-assisted and manual modes. The control methodology inhibits the operation of the power sliding door system in response to the actuation of any of the sliding door handles or if a fuel door is in the path of the sliding door. The control methodology also inhibits the operation of the sliding door system if a child guard mechanism is enabled. The control methodology includes an obstacle detection routine which detects obstacles in two directions of travel. The control methodology does not require the power drive mechanism or inertia to cause the latch mechanism to latch the sliding door in the latched condition.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a power liftgate in an automobile, such as a minivan, is disclosed. The invention is comprised in a control system that includes a user input interface for receiving power liftgate actuation requests from a user. The actuation signals are carried to a body control module (BCM) where the request is broadcast to a power liftgate module (PLGM) over a serial data bus communications network meeting the SAE J1850 multiplex communications protocol standard. Upon receipt of the actuation message, the PLGM monitors several operating conditions of the automobile and makes a determination whether or not to carry out the power liftgate activation request. Power liftgate actuation is controlled by the PLGM via electric motors located at or near the liftgate. The user input interface includes interior switches as well as a RKE system.

Abstract: An apparatus for coating seeds and particulate material includes an elongated tray operably mounted on a support frame with a motor for oscillating the tray to move particulate material from a rearward end to a forward end therealong. The tray includes a perforated support surface with a saw-toothed cross-sectional shape such that the particulate climbs the inclined tread of each sawtooth and drops from the forward end of one tread to the rearward end of an adjacent tread to form a “curtain”. A plurality of spray nozzles are located over the tray to direct coating solution onto the seeds as they move along the tray. Preferably, the nozzles direct spray towards the curtain of falling seeds between the treads. An upper housing on the support frame includes an air plenum which directs air downwardly onto the seeds on the support surface and through the perforated support surface to a second air plenum formed under the support surface.

Abstract: Seed coatings and methods of their use are described. The coatings comprise limestone or other water insoluble particulate matter which either includes a polymer in the limestone layer or a separate polymer coating on top of the limestone layer. The coatings may also include a coloring agent. The coatings offer the advantages of making the seed size more desirable and provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance to the seeds.

Abstract: A machine for coating particulate material is provided with a housing and a cylindrical drum rotatably mounted within the housing. The drum includes a frame having opposite end rings and rails extending longitudinal between the end rings. A plurality of screen panels are slidably mounted on the rails to form a perforated drum side wall for holding particulate material. One or more spray nozzles are positioned within the drum for spraying a liquid solution onto the particulate material. An air inlet and outlet is provided to supply heated air for drying the solution on the particulate material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a power sliding door in an automobile, such as a minivan, is disclosed. The invention is comprised in a control system that includes a user input interface for receiving sliding door actuation requests from a user. The actuation signals are carried to a body control module (BCM) where the request is broadcast to a power sliding door module (PSDM) over a serial data bus communications network meeting the SAE J1850 multiplex communications protocol standard. Upon receipt of the actuation message the PSDM monitors several operating conditions of the automobile and makes a determination whether or not to carry out the power sliding door activation request. Power sliding door actuation is controlled by the PSDM via electric motors located at or near the power doors. A power liftgate module (PLGM) controls the power liftgate actuation upon via electric motors located at or near the liftgate. The user input interface includes interior switches as well as a RKE system.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for continuously coating particulate material, such as seeds. The apparatus includes a frame, a cylindrical drum rotatable about an axis tilted with respect to a horizontal plane, and a series of spray nozzles extending into the drum so as to spray one or more coating solutions onto the particulate material which tumbles within the rotating drum. The drum includes a rifling with flighting which carries the material upwardly from approximately 6 o'clock position to a 9 o'clock position, wherein the material falls from the flighting in a curtain spaced apart from the sidewall of the drum. Perforations in the sidewall of the drum allow a flow of air through the drum and curtain of material so as to dry the coating solution on the material substantially instantaneously as the material is coated with solution in the drum. The drum is maintained at a negative pressure during the coating process.

Abstract: A battery protection device disconnects vehicle electronic components from a motor vehicle battery to prevent a full discharge thereof including a plurality of switches switchable between ON and OFF positions, and a control unit electrically connected to each of the switches and capable of switching each of the switches between the ON and OFF positions individually.