Abstract: A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system uses read difficulty factors (RDFs) to improve tag-parameter estimation. During inventory, a reader can obtain a tag's item identifier (II), determine a read metric such as a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), retrieve an RDF associated with the II, and adjust the RSSI using the RDF to more accurately estimate a tag parameter such as distance from the reader antenna. The system can then use the estimated distance to categorize the tag.

Abstract: A chip has formed thereon integrated circuit elements, which include a main circuit and an associated non volatile memory structure. A test result associated with prior testing of a function of the main circuit is stored in the non volatile memory structure. Additional apparatus and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: An improved medical instrument with a releasable lock interposed between the handles of the medical instrument to hold the jaws in closed position to grip an object. The lock has at least one flexible finger and a plurality of movable sleeves that allow one hand operation to selectively lock and release the jaws without substantial lateral displacement of the object. A plurality of locking stops is provided so that the jaws may be held closed at a variety to tensions, to accommodate a variety of objects.

Abstract: An improved medical instrument with a releasable lock interposed between the handles of the needle holder to hold the jaws in closed position to grip an object. The lock has flexible fingers and a plurality of movable sleeves that allow one hand operation to selectively lock and release the jaws without substantial lateral displacement of the object. A plurality of locking stops is provided so that the jaws may be held closed at a variety to tensions, to accommodate a variety of objects.

Abstract: Necktie apparatus including a first necktie segment and a second necktie segment. A connector element is connected to each of the necktie segments for releasably attaching the necktie segments. The segments will disconnect automatically when a force of sufficient magnitude is applied to the tie, thus protecting the wearer from injury. The lengths of the front panels of each elongated necktie segment may be readily adjusted.

Abstract: A generally triangular bolster of rigid material provides firm support for persons wishing to recline or lounge upon a surface, while at the same time providing the comfort desired due to its specific structure. The bolster includes three sides which may be equilateral, with each of the sides preferably including an inward or concave curvature. The curvature not only provides additional comfort for the user, but also results in relatively sharp apex edges. The apex edges thus tend to penetrate a compliant surface, such as carpeting, grass, or sand, and thereby prevent the lateral displacement of the bolster when a person reclines upon it. The bolster may be formed of a variety of materials, such as plywood or other wood sheet, or molded or extruded from plastic. Handles near each apex edge provide easier portability, and the bolster may further include internal bracing which also provides storage shelf space within.

Abstract: A system for indicating level of material in a vessel as a function of material capacitance comprising a bridge circuit which includes a capacitance probe adapted to be disposed in a vessel so as to be responsive to variations in capacitance as a function of material level. An adjacent bridge arm includes a plurality of capacitors coupled to controlled electronic switches for selective connection into the bridge circuit. The bridge circuit is powered by an rf oscillator, and a differential amplifier is connected across the bridge circuit for detecting the balance condition of the bridge. An automatic calibration circuit includes a digital counter having outputs connected to the electronic switches. A comparator is responsive to the differential amplifier for enabling operation of the counter during a calibration mode of operation for selectively connecting the fixed capacitors into the bridge circuit until a preselected balance condition, corresponding to a preselected reference material level, is obtained.

Abstract: In an abrading tool having a cup-shaped outer housing with a shank for attachment to a power-driven chuck and rotatable abrading discs on radial axles inside this housing, a plurality of knocker bars are attached to the outside of this housing. As the rotating housing is moved across the surface to be abraded, these knocker bars appear in succession at its leading side to bite into the material there and overcome the tendency of the abrading discs to ride over this material.