Abstract: This invention relates to a method of lubricating an internal combustion engine comprising at least one of a crankcase, a gear and a wet-clutch, said method comprising supplying to said crankcase, gear and wet-clutch a lubricating composition comprising: (a) an oil of lubricating viscosity; and (b) a viscosity modifier with a number average molecular weight from 1000 to 75,000, wherein the lubricating composition has a SAE viscosity grade from XW—Y, wherein X is from 0 to 20 and Y is from 20 to 50; and wherein the lubricating composition has a phosphorus content from a metal hydrocarbyl dithiophosphate of 0.12 wt % or less.

Abstract: Before a transaction takes place between a plurality of agent-based devices (21-29), not all of which have previous experience of each other, a data file is created which identifies all the agents which are to take part in the transaction. The data file is circulated to all the agents, and each agent endorses the data file in respect of each other agent with a positive, negative, or conditional endorsement, based on stored data indicating whether that agent is capable of co-operation with the other agent. A negative endorsement is applied by an agent in respect of any agent with which it is not prepared to co-operate. Such a negative endorsement is fatal to the transaction. A positive endorsement is applied by an agent (21) in respect of any other agent (27) with which it is unconditionally prepared to co-operate.

Abstract: A vacuum system has a cabinet that can be mounted to a wall. The cabinet includes a hose connectable to a vacuum source. The hose is extendible from the cabinet between extended and retracted positions. A rotatable shaft drives the hose and a power source causes the rotatable shaft to rotate. A sensor measures the speed of rotation of the shaft and signals a controller to stop the power source when the speed falls below a predetermined threshold.