Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a beach umbrella with a lower shaft, having an improved anchoring means integral to the lower half of the shaft and an air pressure venting means that results in enhanced stability. According to the present invention, the anchoring means is an auger or spiral flange. The lower shaft is further optionally provided with a handle such as a cross bar, which in addition to the auger or spiral flange, eases insertion of the lower shaft of the umbrella into the sand.

Abstract: A beach blanket comprising at least one hole for receiving an umbrella so that when the shaft of the umbrella is positioned over the blanket, the canopy of the umbrella provides shade over the blanket. The blanket further includes an upper side, a lower surface and a peripheral edge wherein at least one pocket is affixed to the lower surface of the blanket adjacent to the peripheral edge for receiving ballast material or valuables.

Abstract: A defrost system for a temperature controlled storage unit includes an enclosure providing a space for storage of products. A refrigeration system has a supply line and a return line coupled to a cooling element to circulate a refrigerant through the cooling element to provide cooling to the space. A control module initiates a plurality of defrost modes on a predetermined frequency and for a predetermined duration by reducing a flow rate of the refrigerant through the cooling element so that a superheat temperature of the refrigerant in the cooling coil is increased to a predetermined range.

Abstract: A system and method for conducting a financial transaction are described. In one embodiment, communication is established between a vehicle-accessed, payment-gateway terminal (VAPGT) and a pre-registered, key-enabled, personal transaction device (PTD). The PTD is accessed using a privacy card and a transaction request is transmitted to a server. Further, a transaction authorization message is received from the server to complete the transaction.

Abstract: An intelligent filter increases the user-friendliness of a computer graphical user interface (GUI) by determining user preferences based on user interaction with the GUI and changing the GUI accordingly. The filter monitors a graphical user interface to determine what frames and frame content are frequently used and remove frames and frame content of the interface that are not commonly used by an individual user. The interface is rearranged to cover any gaps. Additionally, the user is tracked to websites that the user frequents. Links to those websites are given emphasis on the rearranged user interface. The user is notified if changes are made to a favored website. The user is rewarded with discounts and other prizes for frequently going to a particular website.

Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting and locking tubular elements in preselected angular relationships. The connector assembly includes a pair of clevis having tube engaging elements at one end and three clevis rings at the other. The clevis rings of each clevis are interengaged and define a bore. The bore has a plurality of grooves therein. Locking elements, including a locking pin and a locking plug are inserted in the bore. The locking pin and locking plug each have a pair of opposed raised ribs and a pair of opposed resilient locking arms that engage the grooves in the bore. Detents on the ends of the resilient arms engage a space between the interengaged clevis rings to secure the locking elements in place. The tubular elements can be interconnected in a system of frames to suspend function and decorative panels.

Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting and locking tubular elements in preselected angular relationships. The connector assembly includes a pair of clevis having tube engaging elements at one end and three clevis rings at the other. The clevis rings of each clevis are interengaged and define a bore. The bore has a plurality of grooves therein. Locking elements, including a locking pin and a locking plug are inserted in the bore. The locking pin and locking plug each have a pair of opposed raised ribs and a pair of opposed resilient locking arms that engage the grooves in the bore. Detents on the ends of the resilient arms engage a space between the interengaged clevis rings to secure the locking elements in place. The tubular elements can be interconnected in a system of frames to suspend function and decorative panels.

Abstract: A computerized system and method for managing work in process is provided. Case specific information, including information from an initial transaction is electronically entered into a database and automatically linked with a work source index which includes basic client information. Input information residing in externally generated documents is scanned into the system as images for subsequent display or conversion to textual data. As work is performed on the case, the system tracks its progress and provides a variety of support functions. An electronic activity log function maintains a record of key activities involved in the processing of work items.