Abstract: A hand shield may be installed onto an ultrasound probe to protect the operator from needle sticks. The transparent shield may be a disposable, sterilized film attachable to a frame which, when securely attached to the frame, blocks the needle from accidentally contacting and sticking the operator's hand during needle insertion. The shape and size of the frame avoids interference with the operator's hand and maintains normal operation of the ultrasound probe, thus recognizing the need for the angle of insonation (i.e., angle of the ultrasound beam relative to the tissue or organ of interest) to be adjusted and the ultrasound probe to be pressed into the tissue.

Abstract: Disclosed is a trigger valve methods, use and apparatus. The valve has a housing enclosing, at least in part, a cavity. There is a trigger poppet including a poppet sealing portion at least in part within the cavity, the trigger poppet configured to receive an external input at, or toward, a receiving end thereof. A trigger piston including a primary sealing portion and a major face at least in part within the cavity, the trigger piston configured to receive high pressure fluid therethrough, the trigger piston having a minor face opposite the major surface and a secondary sealing portion. The trigger poppet and trigger piston are biased towards each other at least by the high-pressure fluid acting on the minor face, such that the high-pressure fluid is sealed from the cavity by the poppet sealing portion and primary sealing portion in sealing engagement on each other. The secondary sealing portion sealing against the housing, or part thereof, preventing release of the high-pressure fluid therefrom.

Abstract: A system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to multiple databases and, specifically, related to a system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to real estate information related databases using a portable, voice interactive computing device with GPS capabilities and “smart” computer features. The system combines access to search engines configured to retrieve real estate listings, publicly available statistics about a specific geographic area, and retrieval of stored forms specific to completing an offer for real estate. The device can have several components in various combinations including a touch sensitive screen, a keyboard, a processor, GPS circuitry, a microphone, an audio device, wireless circuitry, cellular circuitry, a data jack, a wireless remote, and a camera. Software utilizing those components maximizes efficiency for a real estate agent in the field.

Abstract: A system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to multiple databases and, specifically, related to a system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to real estate information related databases using a portable, voice interactive computing device with GPS capabilities and “smart” computer features. The system combines access to search engines configured to retrieve real estate listings, publicly available statistics about a specific geographic area, and retrieval of stored forms specific to completing an offer for real estate. The device can have several components in various combinations including a touch sensitive screen, a keyboard, a processor, GPS circuitry, a microphone, an audio device, wireless circuitry, cellular circuitry, a data jack, a wireless remote, and a camera. Software utilizing those components maximizes efficiency for a real estate agent in the field.

Abstract: A system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to multiple databases and, specifically, related to a system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to real estate information related databases using a portable, voice interactive computing device with GPS capabilities and “smart” computer features. The system combines access to search engines configured to retrieve real estate listings, publicly available statistics about a specific geographic area, and retrieval of stored forms specific to completing an offer for real estate. The device can have several components in various combinations including a touch sensitive screen, a keyboard, a processor, GPS circuitry, a microphone, an audio device, wireless circuitry, cellular circuitry, a data jack, a wireless remote, and a camera. Software utilizing those components maximizes efficiency for a real estate agent in the field.

Abstract: A cuff fitting around an ultrasonic probe provides a shelf that may receive forces from the sonographer's fingers without requiring increased gripping by the sonographer.

Abstract: A subsea tubing hanger assembly is disclosed which comprises a tubing hanger (12) having a plurality of conduits (14). A pup joint (16) is connected to the hanger (12) and a shroud (20) surrounds the pup joint (16). A plurality of extension capillary tubings (30) are connected to respective conduits (14) and extend between the shroud (20) and pup joint (16) to a position exterior of the shroud (20). The tubings (30) are provided with a connector (40) at their ends to facilitate connection of the tubings (30) to capillary tubings (50) of a well.

Abstract: A ring connection system and method are provided for distributing signals in an optical-to-electrical interface. The method electrically connects a plurality of nodes in a series-connected ring, and receives an optical signal at a first node from a service provider. The method converts the optical signal to an electrical signal, and distributes the electrical signal via the ring. At each node, the electrical signal is supplied from a customer interface. Typically, each node has a plurality of customer interfaces. In one aspect, ITU-T G.984.3 Giagbit-capable Passive Optical Network (GPON) optical signals are received converted to a customer interface electrical signal such as an Ethernet, asynchronous transfer mode, or time division multiplexed signal. Electrically connecting the plurality of nodes in the series-connected ring includes: series connecting the nodes in a North ring; and, series connecting the nodes in a South ring, opposite in direction from the North ring.

Abstract: A subsea tubing hanger assembly is disclosed which comprises a tubing hanger (12) having a plurality of conduits (14). A pup joint (16) is connected to the hanger (12) and a shroud (20) surrounds the pup joint (16). A plurality of extension capillary tubings (30) are connected to respective conduits (14) and extend between the shroud (20) and pup joint (16) to a position exterior of the shroud (20). The tubings (30) are provided with a connector (40) at their ends to facilitate connection of the tubings (30) to capillary tubings (50) of a well.

Abstract: Systems, methods, processes, and devices are disclosed for measuring and matching the color and appearance of decorative artifacts to facilitate product selection, such as in a retail store or other commercial environment.

Abstract: A method for adjusting a color measurement of a secondary color measurement instrument. The method includes generating a profile for the secondary color measurement instrument based on color measurements of a master color measurement instrument, and applying the profile to adjust the color measurement of the secondary color measurement instrument.

Abstract: A protective cast cover is provided which inhibits damage to other objects, such as furniture and clothing, resulting from collisions between the cast and the object. The cast cover may be made in a skin tone which also makes the cast less obtrusive visually. The covers may be washable, and aid in keeping the cast clean.

Abstract: An auto-tracking spectrophotometer has a moveable look-ahead sensor for scanning at least a portion of a color matrix. The look-ahead sensor finds a portion of the color matrix for measurement by an optical system. The optical system for measuring the color matrix is then guided using the information provided by the look-ahead sensor.

Abstract: An auto-tracking spectrophotometer has a moveable look-ahead sensor for scanning at least a portion of a color matrix. The look-ahead sensor finds a portion of the color matrix for measurement by an optical system. The optical system for measuring the color matrix is then guided using the information provided by the look-ahead sensor.

Abstract: An on-line system for approving credit applications is described. The system includes a qualification module for determining which bank should receive a particular consumer's credit application. If the bank denies the credit application, the system automatically analyzes the reason for the rejection and attempts to find a suitable product substitute for the consumer that will be approved by the original bank, or another lender.

Abstract: A curriculum planning and publishing method and system is provided in which large quantities of information may be rearranged to produce a customized learning tool. This learning tool may embody a variety of formats ranging from a simple book to a computer and video multisensory presentation. Providing a customized learning experience maximizes effective learning time, places the teacher in better control of the classroom, and allows a school or school district to cater to the needs of the community while maintaining a uniform curriculum.