Abstract: A computer software system is provided, namely an Object Process Graph Relational Database Interface (OPGRDI) system. The OPGRDI defines and updates relational database tables based on an OPG and stores and retrieves data in the tables as an OPG-defined application is run. The OPGRDI also defines and updates OPG persistent data object elements based on relational database table schemas. The OPGRDI functions can be enabled by users who want to store and retrieve application information in a relational database system, such as Oracle, Sybase, SQL Server, etc. The OPGRDI alters relational database tables as a user changes the structure of an OPG-defined application.

Abstract: The invention relates to a guide frame for use in high wall mining to be located between a launching apparatus and the entrance of a shaft (3) in a high wall (22) and adapted to guide conveyor segments (4) between the launch unit and the shaft, comprising a substantial horizontal supporting guide (5) for supporting the conveyor segments (4). The invention also relates to a method for high wall mining comprising the steps: arranging a launch unit opposite a location of a high wall wherein a shaft is to be excavated, excavating the shaft by a cutter head; and inserting conveyor segments as the cutter head progresses into the high wall.

Abstract: A single or multi-bowl wellhead may be positioned in a diverter housing over the wellbore. Protrusions on the wellhead may be installed after the diverter housing is removed. The wellhead accommodates the direct connection of hydraulic lines to a hanger seated therein. An overshot running tool protects the wellhead during placement and certain operations.

Abstract: A compression cap is provided with a first connector and a fitting is provided with a second connector. The first connector locks onto the second connector to hold the cap to the fitting before the clamp is crimped. The first connector is a hook that extends outwardly from a first end of the compression cap, and the second connector is a protrusion on the fitting. The first and second connectors can be secured with a bayonet connection before the cap is compressed. The cap may also include at least one inward deformation that engages the outer surface of the pipe as the cap is slid onto the pipe, creating friction between the pipe and the cap and thereby preventing the cap from falling off the pipe prematurely.

Abstract: Techniques for forming enhanced electrical connections are provided. In one aspect, an electrical connecting device comprises an electrically insulating carrier having one or more contact structures traversing a plane thereof. Each contact structure comprises an elastomeric material having an electrically conductive layer running along at least one surface thereof continuously through the plane of the carrier.

Abstract: The invention relates to a conveyor segment (1) for use in a train (10) of such conveyor segments in high wall mining, provided with at least one hook (2, 22, 46) located and at least one coupling element (3, 26), wherein the hook and the coupling element are suited for coupling, wherein the hook is moveable between an open position and a closed position, and the conveyor segment is provided with locking means (7, 24, 47) for securing the hook in a closed position. The invention further relates to an assembly of at least two such conveyor segments. Moreover, the invention relates to a method of coupling of such conveyor segments. Finally, the invention relates to a method of releasing such conveyor segments.

Abstract: A system includes an electronic device coupled over a network to first and second computing devices. The electronic device is configured to serve to the first computing device a first web page displayable on a display device. The displayed first web page includes a user interface operable to solicit from an individual of a plurality of individuals a current prediction of a plurality of current predictions of market prices of a product. The electronic device is further configured to determine an accuracy rating for each individual of the plurality based on a correlation between previous predictions provided by each said individual and actual market prices of the product. The electronic device is further configured to assign to the product a price estimate associated with a first predetermined time interval, the price estimate being a function of the accuracy ratings and current predictions. The electronic device is further configured to determine a current sale price based on the assigned price estimate.

Abstract: A method of detecting objects in water, comprises the steps of capturing a plurality of images of a region of interest, extracting voxel data from the images, and processing the voxel data to detect items of interest in the region of interest. An apparatus that performs the method is also included.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for at least partially retracting from a substantial horizontal shaft (4) a train of parts (5) of a high wall mining apparatus which are located within said shaft (4), the apparatus comprising: a connection element (8) connectable to the train of parts (5), and a pulling device (6) located outside the shaft (4) and connected to the connection element (8) for retracting the connecting element (8). The invention also relates to a method for at least partially retracting from a substantial horizontal shaft (4) a train of parts (5) of a high wall mining apparatus which are located within said shaft (4).

Abstract: A system and method are provided for direct connecting downhole control hydraulics through an oil field hanger, where the hanger is coupled to a wellhead, to hydraulic lines extending outside the wellhead. Further, the direct connection allows hydraulic system integrity with reduced contamination and leakage. Hydraulic tool ports, formed on the hanger, are coupled with hydraulic lines extending downward to a hydraulic tool. Side ports, formed in the hanger, are fluidicly coupled to the hydraulic tool ports. Hydraulic lines extending outside the wellhead are directly coupled with the side ports by accessing the side ports through access openings in the wellhead when the ports are aligned with the access openings. The system can still maintain pressure within internal spaces of the wellhead after the connection by sealing the access openings with flanges, where the hydraulic lines extend through openings in the flanges that are also sealed around the lines.

Abstract: The invention relates to an anchoring device (1) for fixation of a launching unit (50) for highwall mining. The invention also relates to a cylindrical body (2) for use in such an anchoring device. Moreover, the invention relates to a launching unit (50) provided with at least one anchoring device (1) and to methods of fixation and relocation of a launching unit (50). The invention provides an increased stability of launching units (50) for highwall mining.

Abstract: The invention relates to a conveyor segment for use in a train of conveyor segments for high wall mining, comprising: conveyor means for transporting mined material from and to opposite adjacent conveyor segments in a train of conveyor segments (1), and a transmission for transmitting power from and to opposite adjacent conveyor segments in a train of conveyor segments. The invention further relates to driving means (31). Moreover, the invention relates to an assembly of a conveyor segment and driving means, and to a train of conveyor segments. Further, the invention relates to a launching platform (30), and to a method for high wall mining.

Abstract: A one-piece unitary compression clamp for securing a pipe or tube on a fitting. The clamp may include at least one inward deformation that provides an interference fit between the clamp and the pipe or tube. Consequently, the clamp cannot fall off the pipe or tube before being permanently crimped, and the fitting is prevented from falling out of the tube. In a second embodiment, the clamp includes an ear for crimping the clamp to the tube, and a tongue within the clamp and overlying the mouth of the ear to provide uniform compression around the entire tube.

Abstract: A computer software system is provided, namely, An Object Process Graph Application Controller-Viewer (OPGACV) system. The OPGACV controls a running Object Process Graph (OPG) application by inducing a Dynamic Graph Interpreter (DGI) to transition applications from one state to another, and using application designer/user defined properties, it renders application state, structure, and data on display mediums and validates data inputs to applications. The OPGACV also controls the import and export of OPG applications.

Abstract: A holster assembly for integral attachment to a garment of the type typically worn by individuals engaged in law enforcement and related activities. The holster assembly comprising a flexible backing member having an outer mountable surface for sewningly attaching thereto an intermediate backing member, which is capable of supporting and mounting thereon a pocket for receiving and accepting therein a rigid sleeve fitted interiorly with a Taser® device. The pocket is fabricated from a unified piece of material and shaped accordingly to distinctly define a frontal tapered member bounded by a right side member and a left side member integrally incorporating an outer extending flange. The pocket is further supported by and fitted with a base member connected along its leading edge to a bottom end of each side member, along a leading edge of the frontal tapered member, and to a lowermost portion of the intermediate backing member.

Abstract: Now, according to the present invention, dichroic filters are provided that incorporate a flexible polymer film substrate, such as poly(ethylene naphthalate), onto which a dielectric and/or reflective metal stack has been formed. Filters of the present invention are durable, flexible, and lightweight, and can be advantageously used in many specialty lighting applications.

Abstract: A software system is provided including an Object Process Graph for defining applications and a Dynamic Graph Interpreter that interprets Object Process Graphs. An Object Process Graph defines all of an application's manipulations and processing steps and all of the application's data. An Object Process Graph is dynamic, making it possible to change any aspect of an application's data entry, processing or information display at any time. When an Object Process Graph is interpreted, it functions to accept data, process the data and produce information output. Modifications made to an Object Process Graph while it is being interpreted take affect immediately and can be saved. Object Process Graphs and Dynamic Graph Interpreters can be deployed on single user workstation computers or on distributed processing environments where central servers store Object Process Graphs and run Dynamic Graph Interpreters, and workstation computers access the servers via the intranet or local intranets.

Abstract: Now, according to the present invention, multiple band optical reflectors are provided that utilize a stack of metal and dielectric layers to create a reflection curve in the visible spectrum that has multiple peak intensities. Reflectors of the present invention comprise at least two dielectric layers that have differing thicknesses, with metal layers disposed therebetween. The use of metal layers in the present invention, as opposed to using alternating layers of dielectric materials, results in a reflector that is substantially thinner than a conventional two dielectric reflector.

Abstract: Provided are systems for storing and generating hydrogen comprising a solution that comprises a reaction product of (a) a photosensitized oxidation product of methanol; and (b) a reduction product of oxygen and a photoreduced photosensitizer, wherein the system generates hydrogen gas when a basic material is added to the solution. Preferably, the photosensitizer is an anthraquinone. The photosensitizer may be dissolved in the liquid solution or may be in a solid phase in the solution. Preferably, the solid phase is a porous membrane, most preferably an inorganic oxide xerogel membrane, and the photosensitizer is complexed to an inorganic oxide xerogel material. Also provided are methods for storing hydrogen by providing methanol, an oxidative photosensitizer, oxygen, and light that is absorbed by the photosensitizer. Hydrogen gas is generated by the addition of a basic material.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to electrochemical cells which comprise (a) an anode; (b) a cathode; (c) a solid porous separator, such as a polyolefin, xerogel, or inorganic oxide separator; and (d) a nonaqueous electrolyte, wherein the separator comprises a porous membrane having a microporous coating comprising polymer particles which have not coalesced to form a continuous film. This microporous coating on the separator acts as a safety shutdown layer that rapidly increases the internal resistivity and shuts the cell down upon heating to an elevated temperature, such as 110° C. Also provided are methods for increasing the safety of an electrochemical cell by utilizing such separators with a safety shutdown layer.