Abstract: A method of adapting a connection structure forming part of a dictionary in a computer memory device is provided. The structure includes a plurality of interface connections and a plurality of non-interface connections, with each interface connection representing a symbol, and the presence or absence of a chain of non-interface connections in which the symbol is represented, and each non-interface connection representing a relationship between two symbols, two non-interface connections, a symbol and a non-interface connection, or a non-interface connection and a symbol. The method includes determining alternative relationships between pairs of symbols, non-interface connections, and symbols and non-interface connections within the structure, and removing existing non-interface connections from the structure and inserting new non-interface connections into the structure according to relative numbers of occurrences of the alternative relationships within the dictionary.

Abstract: A generalized system for compression of data such as text or images. Compression is achieved by identifying new connections between consecutive data units, existing connections or both. A representation of each new connection is then used to replace the consecutive items throughout the data, which are typically considered in pairs. A hierarchical connection structure resembling a tree is built up as data is received, so that the effectiveness of compression increases with time. After each session of data reception, the initially compressed data may be reorganized with new connections being identified and stored in an index for future use, while also further compressing the existing data.

Abstract: An infusion pump for regulating fluid flow through the flow path of an IV tubing set for intravenous administration to a patient. The pumping mechanism of the infusion pump comprises a reversible motor having a drive shaft with a wheel mounted thereon. A valve is provided which is adapted for reversibly closing the flow path through the IV tubing set, and a swing arm is provided. The swing arm has a wheel-engaging portion adapted for engaging the wheel, and an actuator portion operatively linked with the valve to actuate the valve. The arrangement is such that, when the motor is turning the drive shaft in a first direction, the swing arm is moved towards a first position where the actuator portion allows the valve to move to its open position to open the flow path. When the motor is reversed to turn the drive shaft in a second direction opposite the first direction, the swing arm is moved to a second position where the actuator portion moves the valve to its closed position to close the flow path.

Abstract: An infusion pump for regulating the administration of intravenous fluids to a patient. The infusion pump includes a pump housing for holding the pumping mechanism, and a door for holding the IV tubing set in operably position relative to the pumping mechanism. The upper surface of the pump housing has a notch formed therein, and the upper surface of the door is positioned under the notch when the door is closed. The notch is sized and shaped so as to closely grip the IV tubing assembly around a portion of its circumference, so that liquid dripping down along the exterior of the IV tubing set from above the notch tends to be shunted away from the IV tubing. Liquid dripping through the notch tends is diverted onto the upper surface of the door and away from the pumping mechanism.