Abstract: A method and system for searching at least one data source using a query is described. In a first step one or more query templates are generated in which each query template can be used to define at least a part of the query. Several of the query templates are joined logically to create a query representation and input variables are selected or inputted into data entry fields. Subsequently, those data elements which will be returned by the query are selected and finally a query generated which is sent to at least one data source.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for coating a device comprising a coating chamber and a device rotator having at least one device mount wherein the apparatus allows insertion and retraction of the device on the device mount into and out of the coating chamber. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of applying a substantially uniform coating on a device comprising the steps of providing an apparatus for coating a device, mounting the device onto the device mount, purging the coating chamber to reduce humidity in the coating chamber, maintaining a reduced humidity content in the coating chamber, inserting the device into the coating chamber, disposing a coating material on the device and rotating the device mounts about the device axis.

Abstract: A system and a method selectively switch between two different voltage supplies supplying a common node. A first of the voltage supplies is coupled to the common node by a first switch and a second of the voltage supplies is coupled to the common node by a second switch. The switching device comprises: a feedback network comprising a high-pass filter for filtering a signal at the common node and outputting the filtered signal as a feedback signal; a timing controller coupled to at least one of the first and second voltages supplies for determining when to switch between said first and second power supplies; a ring switch controller for applying a first control signal to the first switch for selectively enabling and disabling the first switch in response to the timing controller and the feedback signal; and a battery switch controller for applying a second control signal to the second switch for selective enabling and disabling the second switch in response to the timing controller and the feedback signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hub assembly and a hub fastener anti-rotate apparatus for securing a wheel of vehicle (e.g., a zero-radius-turning lawn mower) to a vehicle drive axle. The anti-rotate apparatus may assist in preventing or substantially limiting loosening of a hub fastener used to secure the hub assembly to the drive axle.

Abstract: A light guide panel is disclosed. The panel comprises a plate for dispersing light and at least one light-emitting diode (LED) coupled to the plate for providing the dispersed light. When the panel is coupled to a keyboard, the at least one LED is under a portion of the keyboard such that when the at least one LED is illuminated, the light from the LED does not distract a user. Accordingly, by strategically placing LEDs within the panel and providing the LEDs under appropriate portions of the keyboard, the device utilizing the keyboard can be smaller than when a conventional light guide panel is utilized. In addition, a further improvement in illumination is provided when a mechanism is provided which reflects light escaping from the edges of the panel back into the panel.

Abstract: A system and a method selectively switch between two different voltage supplies supplying a common node. A first of the voltage supplies is coupled to the common node by a first switch and a second of the voltage supplies is coupled to the common node by a second switch. The switching device comprises: a feedback network comprising a high-pass filter for filtering a signal at the common node and outputting the filtered signal as a feedback signal; a timing controller coupled to at least one of the first and second voltages supplies for determining when to switch between said first and second power supplies; a ring switch controller for applying a first control signal to the first switch for selectively enabling and disabling the first switch in response to the timing controller and the feedback signal; and a battery switch controller for applying a second control signal to the second switch for selective enabling and disabling the second switch in response to the timing controller and the feedback signal.

Abstract: An object oriented framework provides a set of objects that perform general ledger functioning and permits a framework user to add extensions to the framework for specific processing features, thereby producing a general ledger application program for managing business financial data of a company. The framework includes an Application category of classes that contains company information for general ledger processing, a Posting Combinations category of classes that define valid posting combinations for the general ledger, a Journals category of classes that create, process, validate, and post general ledger journals, a Bank Transactions category of classes that process bank statements, a Bank Statements and Reconciliation category of classes that reconcile bank statements with bank accounts, and a Closing category of classes that validate and close the current accounting period. These classes provide the base framework upon which a general ledger application program is developed by the framework user.

Abstract: A timing device for tracking the length of time a user is absent from a particular location comprises a base member that includes a housing, a timer mounted to the housing, a display connected to the timer, and a timing-key receiver attached to the housing and in communication with the timer and utilized in starting and stopping the timer. Provided is a visually prominent timing-key releasably mountable to the timing-key receiver that comprises a key body and a coupler attached to the key body which releasably mates with the timing-key receiver. The device is commonly employed in tracking how long a student is temporarily absent from a classroom.

Abstract: An object oriented framework provides a set of objects that perform account management functioning and permits a framework user to add extensions to the framework for specific processing features, thereby producing an account management application program for managing the financial accounts of a company, including accounts receivable and accounts payable. The framework includes an Application category of classes that contains company information for general ledger processing, a Posting Combinations category of classes that define valid posting combinations for the general ledger, a Journals category of classes that create, process, validate, and post general ledger journals, a Bank Transactions category of classes that process bank statements, a Bank Statements and Reconciliation category of classes that reconcile bank statements with bank accounts, and a Closing category of classes that validate and close the current accounting period.

Abstract: Pointing apparatus and method provide for control of cursor movement and selection of elements on a computer screen. Gyroscopic elements within the pointing apparatus indicate yaw and pitch movements in free space, and a mouse ball and mouse ball encoders indicate movement on a surface. Data indicative of the distance and direction the cursor is to be moved is generated from outputs of the gyroscopic elements and the mouse ball encoders. Certain amounts of movement are deemed unintentional, and, if necessary, the pointing apparatus adjusts the data so as not to indicate movement of such amounts. By doing so, the pointing apparatus minimizes unintentional cursor movement caused by instability of the gyroscopes and the inability of a person to hold the pointing apparatus absolutely motionless.

Abstract: Indicator valve unit for providing a change in fluid pressure as a remote indication of whether an object occupies a desired position. Particularly useful for indicating whether a component, such as a multiple string tubing hanger, has been properly oriented and landed in an underwater well installation, the indicator valve unit provides for automatic separation of the sensing element of the unit from the sensed object as soon as the valve has been actuated.

Abstract: Bit for drilling wood or the like consisting of a spade from which extends a centrally-located point, the point being provided with a groove defined by two plane surfaces extending at an obtuse angle.

Abstract: Drill bit of the type having a shank, a spade cutter, and a lead point with concave sides.