Abstract: A pump jack for a scaffold in a system to support a work platform and move the platform up and down a pole to access a vertical work surface. The pump jack includes an L-shaped framework having a horizontal frame member which supports the work platform and a vertical frame member. The vertical frame member having laterally opposing Z-shaped channels, each having a leg that bends about the pole and extends inward toward the pole. The pump jack includes an upper shackle supported by the framework. The pump jack includes a lower shackle supported by the framework, which with the upper shackle applies a coupling force for gripping the pole. The pump jack includes a pump arm lever pivotably coupled to the vertical frame member to step upwardly the pump jack relative to the pole. The pump jack includes a crank mechanism coupled to the vertical frame member. A method for supporting and moving a work platform up and down a pole to access a vertical work surface.

Abstract: A database server helps to streamline the retrieval of LOB values by deciding to send a locator in replacement of the LOB value, or the LOB value itself, depending upon the specific LOB value being retrieved. A threshold value is determined in a fetch query, and the LOB sizes below that threshold are sent as values in a corresponding fetch response, and the lengths above are sent as locators in the fetch response. Indicators are inserted in a fetch parameter of the response to inform the receiving client the form of retrieval that was used for each requested LOB value being returned.

Abstract: A method of forming graphitic bodies comprises the steps of:—

Abstract: A system provides efficient multi-protocol database transaction processing in a multi-communications protocol and multi-programming model computing environment. The system separates the source and the target functionalities, and uses generic function names linked to function pointers, in order to permit the source layer to call embedded functions in the target layer. As an example, the system provides a source layer code path that includes embedded call-back functions and embedded generic function names. A target layer code path is set to include embedded functions and generic call-back function names. A function pointer array permits the source layer code path to call functions embedded in the target layer code path using the generic function names. A call-back function pointer array permits the target layer code path to call the call-back functions embedded in the source layer code path using the generic call-back function names.

Abstract: A flow field plate for a fuel cell comprising at least one channel extending from a source of fluid to a drain for said fluid, in which the cross-sectional area of said channel at drain or source is less than 95% of the cross-sectional area at source or drain respectively.

Abstract: A method, computer program product and computing device for promoting reuse of previously generated access plans in a relational DBMS are disclosed. SQL statements containing literals are amended so as to substitute a parameter marker for each literal. Amended statements are provided to the DBMS along with parameters comprising the substituted literals and a substitution indicator indicating that the substitution has been performed. The DBMS assesses the soundness of the substitutions that are performed. Soundness may be measured in terms of the semantic correctness of the amended statement and the likelihood that the literal substitution will improve DBMS efficiency. If a substitution is unsound, the DBMS may obtain and optimize (i.e. select an access plan for) the original version of the amended SQL statement. Otherwise, the amended statement is optimized.

Abstract: A molded rectangular top component of a stepladder is disclosed which incorporates an improved method of securely supporting a bucket or paint can at the top of the ladder. A recess in a second wall of the laddertop corresponds to and accommodates the arcuate shape of the bail of a bucket, and a hook is attached at the lower portion of the recess, which has the beneficial effect of moving the weight closer to the center of the ladder than on a protruding hook. The ladder top includes at least one slot in a first wall which extends from the ladder top through which accessories can be attached. The first wall opposes the second wall.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a ladder. The ladder includes a first plastic side rail, at least a portion of which is hollow. The ladder also includes a second plastic side rail, at least a portion of which is hollow. The second side rail is in parallel with the first side rail. Additionally, the ladder includes a plurality of steps, each of which is attached to the first and second side rails at predetermined locations such that each step forms a flat weight bearing platform upon which a user can stand. The first and second side rails each have a plurality of pockets having solid cross sections disposed therealong at predetermined positions, and each of the steps are attached to the first and second side rails at corresponding pockets therein with fasteners through holes in the solid cross sections. The present invention also pertains to a stepladder. The stepladder includes a first side rail. The stepladder also includes a second side rail adjacent to and in parallel with the first side rail.

Abstract: The present invention is a ladder top for a ladder. The ladder top has a top panel having a perimeter. The perimeter has at least a first edge, a second edge, a third edge and a fourth edge. The ladder top also has a first side wall extending in an integral fashion from the first edge, and an opposing second side wall extending in an integral fashion from the second edge. The first side wall has at least one slot through which accessories can be attached. A third side wall extends in an integral fashion from the third edge and in juxtaposition with the first and second side walls. A fourth side wall extends in an integral fashion from the fourth edge and in juxtaposition with the first and second side walls and opposing the third side wall. The ladder is connected to the ladder top through the third and fourth side walls. Preferably, the first side wall has two slots in a spaced relationship with each other. Preferably, the slots are rectangularly shaped with rounded ends.

Abstract: The present invention is a ladder top for a ladder. The ladder top has a top panel having a perimeter. The perimeter has at least a first edge, a second edge, a third edge and a fourth edge. The ladder top also has a first side wall extending in an integral fashion from the first edge, and an opposing second side wall extending in an integral fashion from the second edge. The first side wall has at least one slot through which accessories can be attached. A third side wall extends in an integral fashion from the third edge and in juxtaposition with the first and second side walls. A fourth side wall extends in an integral fashion from the fourth edge and in juxtaposition with the first and second side walls and opposing the third side wall. The ladder is connected to the ladder top through the third and fourth side walls. Preferably, the first side wall has two slots in a spaced relationship with each other. Preferably, the slots are rectangularly shaped with rounded ends.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a plastic ladder. The plastic ladder includes a front section which has a first hollow side rail and a second hollow side rail disposed essentially in parallel with the first side rail. The first and second side rails are made of plastic and have reinforced pockets disposed along the respective rails at predetermined locations. The plastic ladder also has a plurality of hollow plastic steps. Each of the steps is attached to the first and second rails at corresponding reinforced pockets therein such that each step forms a flat weight bearing platform upon which a user can stand. Each step has blow molded tread patterns which provide a slip resistant surface. The ladder also has a rear section comprised of a third hollow plastic side rail and a fourth hollow plastic side rail disposed essentially in parallel with the third hollow plastic side rail.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for irrigating plant life in a manner which conserves water and optimizes soil moisture conditions. A valve is interposed between a source of water and a water outlet which is responsive to changes in soil moisture and correlative of the need for moisture in the soil. A diaphragm reciprocates between first and second positions, and the diaphragm is operatively connecting a water inlet and an outlet through a seal. The diaphragm movement is restrained by pneumatic pressure opposing the water inlet pressure. In addition, a check valve is provided whereupon a moisture sensor disposed at a terminal portion of the device directly reading moisture level in the soil allows unidirectional air flow for self-purging of the sensor.