Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for a mobile tail support control system. An apparatus comprises a data processing system, an output device, a set of load sensors, a set of position sensors, and a computer program product executing on the data processing system. The output device is capable of generating signals for managing movement of a mobile tail support apparatus. The set of load sensors may be coupled to the data processing system and may be capable of detecting loads associated with a swing tail cargo door. The set of position sensors are coupled to the data processing system and detect a position of the mobile tail support apparatus relative to the swing tail cargo door. The computer program product may receive information from the set of load sensors and the set of position sensors and generate signals to manage the mobile tail support apparatus.

Abstract: Controlling a multi-variable process involves multi-dimensional representation of the values (Qa-Qh) of the process-variables (a-h) according to individual coordinate axes (Xa-Xh), and response based on historical values for the process-variables accumulated from multiple, earlier processes. An envelope (UL-LL) showing the best operating zone (‘BOZ’) for each process variable based on current values of the other variables is calculated from the accumulated historical values, and alarm conditions in which the current value of a variable lies outside the BOZ is rectified by changing the values (Qa-Qc) of manipulatable variables (a-c). Variable targets are achieved, alarms rectified and value optimisation realised using an inner envelope (UI-LI) derived from a subset of the BOZ-defining set of historical values. Where the alarm rate is low, operation is improved by narrowing the BOZ set to tighten the BOZ envelope (UL-LL) reducing an inner envelope where alarm rate remains acceptable, as a new BOZ.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and garment that incorporates sensors that can be used for measuring or monitoring pressure or forces in feet, the stumps of limbs of an amputee that are fitted with prosthetic devices, or any other parts of the body that are subject to forces such as the buttock while seated or when external pressure inducing devices are employed, such as for example, pressure bandages. The invention also relates to a method to monitor or diagnose any foot or limb related activity for recreational, sporting, military or medical reasons and is particularly aimed at the treatment of neuropathic or other degenerating conditions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a mobile tail support vehicle moving a swing tail cargo door of a swing tail aircraft. A mobile tail support apparatus is engaged to the swing tail cargo door on the swing tail aircraft. The swing tail cargo door is moved from a first position to a second position using the mobile tail support apparatus. Vertical reaction occurs to vertical loads on the swing tail cargo door during movement of the swing tail aircraft by the mobile tail support apparatus. Loads on a hinge and/or swing tail cargo door are reduced during the movement of the swing tail cargo door using the mobile tail support apparatus.

Abstract: A control of a multi-variable process throughout a plurality of successive, distinct operational phases of the process involves accumulation of sets of values of the process and quality variables (a-j) from previous multiple operations of the process through all its phases, as respective datasets of a historical record. Each dataset includes an identifier (p) of the phase to which it relates. The current values of the applicable process variables (Qa-Qh) during each phase and the phase identifier (p) are indicated on respective axes (Xp,Xa-Xh) of a multi-dimensional display in relation to an operational envelope which defines bounds (UL,LL) for the values of the individual process and quality variables (a-j) relevant to that phase and which is derived from the datasets of the historical record identified with that phase. Changes in the current process variables (Qa-Qh) result in changes of the bounds (UL,LL), and alarm is given when a current value departs from within them.

Abstract: Processing a communication received at a communications center over a communications network includes determining whether a sender of the communication sent previous communications to a communications center based on identification information obtained from the communication. Communication is routed to an agent, from a first group of agents, when it is determined that the sender did not send previous communications to the communications center. The communication is processed by generating a report by the agent from the first group of agents. Communication is routed to an agent, from a second group of agents, when it is determined that the sender sent send previous communications to the communications center. The communication is re-processed by retrieving an existing report by the agent from the second group of agents.

Abstract: A process for separating keratinous proteins from a keratin-containing material, the process comprising the steps of: subjecting the keratin-containing material to reduction in a liquid medium to solubilise the keratinous proteins under conditions that minimise hydrolysis of the keratinous proteins, to yield a solution of keratinous proteins and undissolved solids; subjecting the solution of keratinous proteins to peroxide oxidation, without any intervening keratin precipitation step; and separating the solution of keratinous proteins from the undissolved solids prior to, at the same time as, or following the oxidation step. Preferred conditions for performing the reduction step involve contacting the keratin-containing material with a solution of an alkali metal sulfide reducing agent at a temperature of between 25 C and 50 C for a time of between 30 and 90 minutes, assuming atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for a mobile tail support control system. An apparatus comprises a data processing system, an output device, a set of load sensors, a set of position sensors, and a computer program product executing on the data processing system. The output device is capable of generating signals for managing movement of a mobile tail support apparatus. The set of load sensors may be coupled to the data processing system and may be capable of detecting loads associated with a swing tail cargo door. The set of position sensors are coupled to the data processing system and detect a position of the mobile tail support apparatus relative to the swing tail cargo door. The computer program product may receive information from the set of load sensors and the set of position sensors and generate signals to manage the mobile tail support apparatus.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a mobile tail support vehicle moving a swing tail cargo door of a swing tail aircraft. A mobile tail support apparatus is engaged to the swing tail cargo door on the swing tail aircraft. The swing tail cargo door is moved from a first position to a second position using the mobile tail support apparatus. Vertical reaction occurs to vertical loads on the swing tail cargo door during movement of the swing tail aircraft by the mobile tail support apparatus. Loads on a hinge and/or swing tail cargo door are reduced during the movement of the swing tail cargo door using the mobile tail support apparatus.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for improved routing of repair calls in a call center. A call routing system receives a repair call from a calling party and determines if the calling party is a first time caller or a repeat caller based on identification data associated with the calling party. If it is determined that the calling party is a first time caller, the repair call is routed to a first group of customer service assistants. If it is determined that the calling party is a repeat caller, the repair call is routed to a second group of customer service assistants. The calls may be routed based on an input entered into the system by a calling party. The input may be a voice command or a predetermined key on a telephone keypad.

Abstract: Operation of a multi-variable process involves multidimensional representation of the value (p1-p12) of the process variables (P1-P12) according to individual coordinate axes, and an operational envelope (UB,LB) derived from a group of sets of values for the process and quality variables (P1-P12,Q1-Q2) accumulated from multiple, earlier operations of the process, defines an operating zone for the process and quality variables of the process. If the current value (p7) of any process variable (P7) goes outside the envelope, an envelope (UO,LB) for a different, wider grouping of the stored data-sets is displayed at least for the quality variables (Q1-Q2). A series of nested envelopes to provide stepwise enlargement of the operating zone may be provided, but non-nested envelopes can be used where there is clustering of acceptable values of process variables of the stored data-sets. The changes to control variables to bring the values of dependent variables within a best operating range can be determined.

Abstract: Controlling a multi-variable process involves multi-dimensional representation of the values (Qa-Qh) of the process variables (a-h) according to individual coordinate axes (Xa-Xh), and response based on historical values for the process-variables accumulated from multiple, earlier processes. An envelope (UL-LL) showing the best operating zone (‘BOZ’) for each process variable based on current values of the other variables is calculated from the accumulated historical values, and alarm conditions in which the current value of a variable lies outside the BOZ is rectified by changing the values (Qa-Qc) of manipulatable variables (a-c). Variable targets are achieved, alarms rectified and value optimisation realised using an inner envelope (UI-LI) derived from a subset of the BOZ-defining set of historical values. Where the alarm rate is low, operation is improved by narrowing the BOZ set to tighten the BOZ envelope (UL-LL) reducing an inner envelope where alarm rate remains acceptable, as a new BOZ.

Abstract: Control of a multi-variable process involves multi-dimensional representation of the values (Qa-Qh) of the process variables according to individual coordinate axes (Xa-Xh), and response based on sets of values for the process-variables accumulated from multiple, earlier operations of the process. An acceptable range (UL-LL) for each process variable due to the current values of the other variables is defined from the accumulated values, and the existence of an alarm condition in which the current value (Qg) of a variable lies outside the range defined for it, is detected and displayed (UC) on the relevant axis (Xg). The change of the values (Qa,Qb) of one or more of the manipulatable variables (a-c) required to rectify the alarm condition is determined iteratively, and implemented by operator or automated response.

Abstract: A probe (10) for a machine tool has a switch (32) or other sensor for connecting its battery power supply in response to movement of the probe. In a preferred embodiment, the switch responds to rotation of the probe in the machine tool spindle. The switch (32) is responsive to linear accelerations, but is mounted in the probe so as to respond also to the rotation. A circuit is provid to discriminate between the rotation and linear movements.

Abstract: Operation of a multi-variable drilling-rig is carried out within an envelope defined by convex hulls (TC,BC) that are derived from sets of historical values for the variables accumulated in a store (3) from previous operations. A display unit (5) shows the real-time values (Q01–Q10) of the variables on parallel axes (X01–X10) together with upper and lower limits (Up01–Up10, Lp01–Lp10) of the viable ranges for each variable to remain within the envelope, taking into account the current value of each other variable. The adjustment of the value of a variable (Q03) required to correct for a variable (Q08) found to be outside its viable range, is determined tentatively before implementation, by adjusting that value in the display to bring about re-calculation and display of the changes in viable ranges that would result from such adjustment.

Abstract: Control and output-quality variables of a process plant (1) are plotted against parallel axes in a display unit (7). Convex hulls between pairs of variables are calculated from sets of the variable-values accumulated historically in stores (7, 9) during successive runs of the process, and hulls (HH; TC, BC) between successive axis-pairs are displayed. New variable-values for process optimization are fixed for the variables taken in turn, each selection being made within displayed ranges (Rn—Rn) derived from the hulls effective between the respective variable and the variables already fixed. A display unit (13) provides on-line parallel-axis display of variable-values from the plant (1), showing alarm carets (DC, UC) where values violate limits (UL, LL) determined by the convex hulls, and allowing variation in the displayed-value for observing the resultant effect in avoiding alarm situation and towards optimization.

Abstract: A portable tool box, including a container, an electrically operated air compressor, a vent for providing an ample supply of air, a pneumatic tool for dispensing dense materials, a pneumatic hose, and an electrical connection box.

Abstract: A scalable content management system manages searches from a local content manager and a plurality of remote content managers. A single scalable content manager manages data in a content repository or file system and its associated metadata in the same content repository or in a database, which will greatly simplify both content management logic and client application logic. The system architecture enables users to add scalable content managers as needed, which allows users to easily scale up the scalable content manager system, in both data size and user connection, as business grows. With the present scalable system architecture, a multi-node content management system will appear to be a single content management system to users, providing location transparency.

Abstract: A flood barrier for blocking the flow of water into a building opening comprises a frame and a panel mutually-engageable therewith. The frame has a base element and a pair of spaced upright elements and is permanently sealed to a building around an opening thereof. The panel is releasably attachable to the frame such as to extend between the upright elements. The frame may also comprise an upper element such that the frame surrounds the building opening. The base element has a hook element which urges the panel into sealing contact with the frame.

Abstract: Control of a multi-variable process involves multi-dimensional representation of the values (Qa-Qh) of the process variables according to individual coordinate axes (Xa-Xh), and response based on sets of values for the process-variables accumulated from multiple, earlier operations of the process. An acceptable range (UL-LL) for each process variable due to the current values of the other variables is defined from the accumulated values, and the existence of an alarm condition in which the current value (Qg) of a variable lies outside the range defined for it, is detected and displayed (UC) on the relevant axis (Xg). The change of the values (Qa,Qb) of one or more of the manipulatable variables (a-c) required to rectify the alarm condition is determined iteratively, and implemented by operator or automated response.