Abstract: A fabric is disclosed which is suitable for use in the manufacture of particulate filters for use in high heat environments, together with a method for making the high heat filter fabric. The filter fabric has a sliver knit pile construction, and may be manufactured on conventional knitting machines. Both the yarn used in the backing of the high heat filter fabric and the fibers used for the pile of the high heat filter fabric are made of aramid materials, and the high heat filter fabric is suitable for use in high temperatures such as those associated with coal-fired power plants.

Abstract: The present invention provides a rack including fingers which are pivotally mounted so that when an actuator is moved to an extended condition the fingers will simultaneously move to an extended position approximately perpendicular to the upper surface of the rack so that items may be placed thereon for uses such as drying. The fingers are pivotally attached to the actuator so that, upon movement to a retracted position, the fingers will pivot downward and to a retracted position below the upper surface providing a flat rack that is easily stored. The rack also includes a liquid indicator for identifying whether liquid is present within a base of the rack.

Abstract: An inventory storage and retrieval system and method are provided for a shipping or storage facility. In an embodiment, the system includes: (a) a mobile computer and radio on a load-handing vehicle; (b) sensors on the vehicle to determine the ground location and orientation of the vehicle; (c) encoders that determine the position of a lifting mechanism relative to a chassis of the vehicle; and (d) a base computer and radio that communicates with the vehicle. The system maintains an inventory database of items and their respective storage locations in three dimensions as a result of the loading activity of the vehicle. The data can be used to guide the vehicle for ground movement generally to a storage location, appropriately orient the vehicle, and then to move the lifting mechanism of the vehicle to deposit or retrieve the item at a particular storage location.

Abstract: The Invention is a container for holding a liquid, such as a single-use beverage bottle. Gas-filled annular rings appear on a portion of the surface of the bottle. The air-filled annular rings partially insulate the bottle and slow the rate of heat transfer to and from the contents of the bottle. The air-filled annular rings also serve to provide a gripping surface to aid in the handling to the bottle by a user.

Abstract: A tamper indicating closure according to the present invention includes a top wall and a skirt depending from the top wall. A tamper indicating band is connected to the skirt along a frangible line. The tamper indicating band includes a ring and at least one tab, the at least one tab having a bi-stable geometric shape. In particular, the tab includes a pair of extending members angled toward one another and connected by a transverse member. The shape of the tab allows it to be molded in a downward orientation and later folded to a stable, upward orientation without reheating or otherwise resetting the tab. The tab also includes a tab extension arranged on at least one of the transverse member and at least one extending member of at least one tab and extending in a direction of extension of the extending members from at least one tab, the tab extension configured to engage at least one container profile.

Abstract: A fluid supply assembly. The fluid supply assembly includes a disposable cup and lid, and a reusable cup holder and outer lid.

Abstract: A container assembly for packaging nonliquid material includes a can body that may be filled with nonliquid material and an end panel that is secured to the can body, preferably by seaming. A score line that is formed in the end panel defines a first removable portion and a second nonremovable portion. Structure such as a tab is provided for initiating separation of the first removable portion from the second nonremovable portion at a first location along the score line that defines an axis of symmetry about which separation of the first removable portion from the second nonremovable portion during opening will progress substantially symmetrically. The score line is shaped so that the second nonremovable portion defines a spoon leveling shelf that is shaped and sized to permit a consumer to level a spoonful of nonliquid material. Moreover, at least one exposed edge of the spoon leveling shelf is afforded cut protection by a safety fold.

Abstract: A fuel cap has a torque mechanism that transmits a rotational torque to a casing main body through engagement elements in response to rotation of a cover. When the rotational torque exceeds a predetermined level, the engagement is released to give a click. The first torque arm is constructed as a cantilever beam having a free end facing an arm support member across a preset gap. Under application of pressure, the first torque arm is deformed and transmits a rotational torque in the closing direction to the casing main body. This arrangement assures setting of the rotational torque of the torque mechanism to the predetermined level to apply a sufficient sealing stress to the fuel cap.

Abstract: A partition assembly comprising a partition matrix made up of intersecting first and second slotted partitions, each of the partitions having at least one slot. The slots of the partitions are engaged with each other at a plurality of intersections. The partitions are made by folding over a partition blank and securing a foam portion of the folded partition blank to itself. The foam may be heated with hot air before being cooled under pressure to secure opposed plies of the partition together.

Abstract: A non-disassembling partition assembly comprising a partition matrix made up of intersecting first and second slotted partitions, each of the partitions having at least one slot. The slots of the partitions are engaged with each other at a plurality of intersections. The partitions may be made by folding over a partition blank and securing a foam portion of the folded partition blank to itself. The foam may be heated before being cooled under pressure to secure opposed plies of the partition together. The partition assembly is held together by a floor parent welded to the intersecting partitions. The floor has a lower outer skin and a foam layer to which the partitions are parent welded.

Abstract: A double-walled vacuum-insulated container for holding a cryogenic fluid comprises a support structure for supporting an inner vessel within an outer vessel. The container has an elongated horizontal axis. A conduit extending between the inner and outer vessels has a wall thickness that allows the conduit to carry a substantial portion of axial loads acting on the inner vessel in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis. The support structure further comprises a non-metallic support spanning between the inner and outer vessels, with the non-metallic support capable of transferring substantially all radial loads transverse to said horizontal axis. The non-metallic support is also fixedly attached to the inner and outer vessels so that it is capable of supporting a substantial portion of the axial loads so that the non-metallic support and the conduit cooperate to provide support in the axial direction.

Abstract: A spacerless double bottom apparatus for a storage tank having a metal bottom and upwardly extending metal sidewalls. The apparatus includes a first lining layer of flexible plastic on top of the metal bottom. A plastic grid having a plurality of openings therethrough is installed on top of the first lining layer. At least one layer of fiber insulation is installed and resides on top of the grid. An upper metal bottom on top of the fiber insulation is welded to the sidewalls to form a fluid tight secondary containment compartment.

Abstract: A mobile medicine storage unit for individuals under a doctor's care. The unit is programmable and preferably fully automatic, but also manual, in dispensing any number of medications up to four times per day at preselected times. Audible and visible indicators alert patients of proper dosages and timings of these doses. An optional integral water reservoir and cup dispenser makes it possible to properly take all medications with minimal effort at the unit. Patients not in close proximity to the unit will be alerted remotely via a pager. The unit will contact programmable emergency phone numbers when no patient response is received. Programmability allows customizing to accommodate individual medication needs. Mobility is aided by an optional wheeled cart.

Abstract: A dispensing device is described that comprises a base, a chip attaching member which is provided movably with respect to the base and to which a dispensing chip is attached removably, a first elastic member for suppressing a movement of the chip attaching member with respect to the base, a second elastic member serving to suppress the movement of the chip attaching member with respect to the base and having a greater elastic constant than an elastic constant of the first elastic member and a detector for detecting that the chip attaching member is moved with respect to the base. An analyzing apparatus is also described.

Abstract: An automated method for dispensing pharmaceuticals, particularly tablets and capsules, and other small discrete objects, includes: receiving prescription information, selecting a container, labeling the container, dispensing the tablets or capsules into the labeled container, applying a closure to the filled, labeled container, and offloading the container to a designated location. Preferably, the tablets are dispensed with high speed dispensing bins that employ forced air to agitate and singulate the tablets. The other functions within the system are typically carried out at stations designed to offer speed, flexibility and precision to the dispensing operation.

Abstract: A distribution installation for products (11) arranged in compartments (10, 10?) with transport means (13) for transferring the products (11) from said compartments (10, 10?) to a dispensing hatch (5). Said transport means (13) comprise a deformable reception means (29) which are connected to at least a first and a second attachment element (30, 31). The attachment elements (30, 31) can move relative to each so that the reception means (29) have at least a reception position in which said products (11) are transferred from said compartments (10, 10?) to the reception means (29), and a delivery position in which products (11) are transferred from the receiving means (29) to said dispensing hatch (5).

Abstract: A flexible marker holding and dispensing device. An elongate shaft includes a proximal end and a distal end extending away from the proximal end. A handle is connected to the proximal end of the elongate shaft. A trigger component protrudes from the elongate shaft at the proximal end near the handle. A flexible marker engaging mechanism is housed within a portion of the elongate shaft and is in communication with the trigger component.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing and dispensing liquids which is made up of a rectangular container having a collapsible inner shell and a rigid outer shell, a fill neck mounted on the collapsible inner shell, the fill neck being designed to extend through an opening in the outer shell and being rigidly secured and supported to the outer shell. The fill neck includes a spout which may form a primary quick release connection with the fill neck or a secondary non-releasable connection with the fill neck to allow for single use.

Abstract: A sustained duration non-aerosol mechanical sprayer includes a spray head which is screwed onto the top of a bottle. The spray head includes a spring biased piston in a cylinder, a lever which is coupled to the piston via a flexible cable. A thumb support is provided to facilitate movement of the lever. A load bearing surface is provided to absorb force exerted by moving the lever. Anti-rotation structure is provided to locate the spray head relative to the bottle. A window in the spray head allows the contents of the cylinder to be viewed. According to some embodiments, the nozzle is located at one end of the spray head and the end of the accumulator to which the inlet and outlet are connected is located at an opposite end of the spray head.

Abstract: A power tool includes a hook portion having a hook holding portion, which is provided in a housing and has engaging teeth provided in the housing. A hook having a shaft portion is inserted into the hook holding portion and provided with fitting teeth meshing with the engaging teeth An elastic body is adapted to push the hook against a handle portion at all times, and a slip-off preventing part holding portion is adapted to move the hook in a direction of an axis thereof against a force of the elastic body and to cancel the mesh between the teeth to thereby enable the hook to turn.

Abstract: A pivoting wheelchair backpack holder is provided. The pivoting wheelchair backpack includes a lever rod and a swing-out handle to move the lever rod, a frame moved by the lever rod, and a backpack attached to the frame. In its closed position, the backpack rests behind the user sitting in the wheelchair with the handle positioned flush to the side of the wheelchair. The user grabs the handle from its resting position, locks the handle into place against the lever rod, and pulls the handle to move the lever rod. The lever rod opens the frame, which then moves from the back of the wheelchair to the side of the wheelchair. A second hinged joint between the lever rod and frame allows the user to pull the backpack down toward the user. The user can access the backpack now at his or her side. The user can close the frame by pushing the frame back up, moving the handle in the opposite direction and replacing the handle to its resting position.

Abstract: The present invention provides a collapsible container holder assembly for a vehicle having a floor tray. The container holder assembly comprises a carrier portion adapted to be selectably fastened to the floor tray of the vehicle and includes at least one recessed opening formed therein for receiving a beverage container. At least one container receptor portion is adapted to be telescopically engaged and retained within the at least one opening formed in the carrier portion wherein the at least one container receptor portion is adjustable between an extended and collapsed position relative to the carrier portion as desired by the user.

Abstract: The nailer comprises a main body, an elongated nail ejection channel in the main body for receiving a nail to be ejected and including a nail outlet leading out of the main body, and a plunger carried within and movable along the nail ejection channel. The nailer also includes an actuator capable of moving the plunger along an ejection axis in the nail ejection channel for selectively ejecting the nail out through the nail outlet. A first guide member is carried by and movable relative to the main body, for engaging a first reference surface outboard of the nailer, and a first adjuster mechanism capable of adjusting the position of the first guide member relative to the main body is also provided. The position of the nail ejection channel can be adjusted relative to the first reference surface with the first adjuster mechanism when the nailer engages the first reference surface with the first guide member.

Abstract: An automatic washer feeder for an automatic nail gun comprises a washer storage container that stores a coil of washers interconnected together edge-to-edge and a feeding mechanism that uncoils the washers and feeds them one at a time into a position wherein the washers are in alignment with nails being driven by the nail gun. The feeding mechanism is synchronized with the nail in driver such that one washer is placed in line with each nail before it is driven. The washers are attached together edge-to-edge by a breakable linkage which is broken or cut whet a washer is driven into contact with a substrate surface being nailed by the action of the nail gun. The linkage can be an adhesive tape that breaks when the tape is pierced by a nail and the washer is driven into a substrate. Alternatively, the linkage can be formed by integrally molding the washers with an interconnecting link or by string collation.

Abstract: An electrical connector is soldered or affixed to a conductive element of a glass sheet of a vehicular window via radiation heating of a layer of solder with an infrared radiative heating device. The heating device may include an infrared lamp and a reflector, which functions to direct the radiant energy from the lamp to a target region generally corresponding with the location of the solder layer between the electrical connector and the conductive element. The heating device is operable to rapidly and substantially heat the solder layer to a desired temperature to melt the solder layer, while substantially limiting directing of heat to the glass sheet. The electrical connector may be affixed at a vehicular or modular window assembly plant, such that the glass sheet may be transported from a glass manufacturing plant to the vehicular or modular window assembly plant without the electrical connector.

Abstract: A device for orienting an integrated lead suspension tail during a head gimbal assembly soldering operation of a head stack assembly process is disclosed. The device includes a body portion and at least one pin extending from the body portion. The pin(s) is configured to position the integrated lead suspension tail proximate to a main flex cable such that electrical coupling between the integrated lead suspension tail and the main flex cable is established upon completion of said head gimbal assembly soldering operation. The pin(s) has sufficient length to extend past a terminal end of the main flex cable.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide solder compositions which include two different fluxing agents. One of the fluxing agents promotes melting of a metal of the solder at a first activation temperature and the other fluxing agent promotes melting of the metal at a second activation temperature that is higher than the first activation temperature. This dual-flux solder may be used in manufacturing microelectronic components and microelectronic component assemblies. In one specific application, the solder may be used to manufacture a flip chip or other microelectronic component which includes self-fluxing solder balls. This can obviate the need to apply another flux composition to the solder balls prior to a subsequent component attach reflow operation.

Abstract: A system for processing presentation instruments that includes a presentation instrument reservoir, a presentation instrument reader, a distribution stock holder, a distribution stock reader, two or more motor systems for advancing distribution stock and presentation instruments, and attaching the presentation instruments to the distribution stock when codes printed on the instruments and stock match each other. In some cases, the motor systems can interface to an interface controller via a serial interface, and the interface controller can be coupled to a process control computer via an Ethernet connection. In some cases, distribution stock is blank and has no readable code, in which case the blank stock is automatically advanced to a reject bin without interrupting the operation of system.

Abstract: A waste disposal system comprises a waste disposal unit, including a processor, a scanner, a network interface coupled to a network, and a remote processing system coupled to the waste disposal unit via the network. The remote processing system includes a database storing user sample preferences, wherein the sample preferences are used to select samples to be provided to the user, and instructions configured to receive scanned information from the waste disposal unit for a first item, determine from the received scanned information that the first item is a sample, receive an indication via the waste disposal unit whether the user wants to order a replacement for the sample, locate replacement options for the sample, transmit the replacement options to the waste disposal unit, and receive from the waste disposal unit an option selection by the user.

Abstract: A method of processing a check prior to electronically depositing the check includes receiving the check, determining a number of existing check submission indicating marks, if any, that are present on the check, determining whether the number is less than a pre-set maximum number, discontinuing the processing of the check if it is determined that the number is not less than the pre-set maximum number, and printing a new check submission indicating mark onto the check and continuing the processing of the check if it is determined that the number is less than the pre-set maximum number. The existing check submission indicating marks may be printed with an energy emitting ink, such as, without limitation, a luminescent ink. Also provided is an apparatus adapted to implement the method just described.

Abstract: An automated banking machine operates to dispense cash to authorized users. The machine includes at least one processor which controls various banking machine devices and operates the machine in response to inputs by customers. A sensor is in operative connection with a gate that controls access through a currency dispensing opening. The at least one processor operates to analyze signals from the sensor and to determine if the gate movement corresponds to a suspect condition. If the at least one processor determines that there is a suspect condition, the machine executes one or more protective actions to minimize the risk of improper activity.

Abstract: A customer phone has a programmable memory which includes checking account data. The memory also includes electronic signature data representative of a user-identifying written signature. A merchant transaction system includes a checkout terminal which can receive the checking account data and the electronic written signature from the phone via wireless communication. The merchant transaction system also includes an electronic check template. The check template includes software that can use the checking account data and electronic signature data to generate an electronic check as payment for a purchase. The check template can include the current date, the purchase amount, and the merchant as payee in the generated check.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a system and method for distributing an open transaction instrument. The system includes the steps of: accessibly offering for sale, in a retail environment, the open transaction instrument; selling a selected open transaction instrument; and enabling the use of the open transaction instrument. The transaction instrument may be, for example, an open pre-paid card. Furthermore, accessibly offering the open pre-paid card for sale, in one exemplary embodiment, is performed by hanging the pre-paid card on a rack. The distribution of the open transaction instrument may also comprise the step of sending a message, in substantially real time, causing the pre-paid open transaction instrument to be funded but not activated. Also, in accordance with further exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an issuer system is suitably configured to leverage existing infrastructure for inventory and related processes.

Abstract: The security clearance card, system, and method include a card that stores data to verify the identity of an owner of the card. In addition to other types of information, the card stores biometric data of the owner and other identity data. Different portions of the data may be encrypted with different encryption techniques based upon a predetermined level of security assigned to the portions of the stored data. Reader elements are then capable of reading at least a portion of the encrypted data stored on the security clearance card, and receiving at least one biometric from an individual. The biometric stored in the card is then compared with the biometric of the individual presenting the security clearance card to verify that the holder of the card is the owner of the card.

Abstract: A POS system comprising a host unit and a plurality of POS terminal units connected thereto via a predetermined communication line for data transfer/receipt between each POS terminal unit and the host unit is disclosed. Execution programs of the POS system are stored in the host unit, and each POS terminal unit is not provided with any POS system execution program, and has at least a transmission data generating function and a communication function for data exchange with the host unit.

Abstract: A POS system and method having a POS terminal, at least one input device for providing input data such as product sale information to said POS terminal, a POS server to enable the POS terminal to complete a POS transaction based upon such product sale information, a display device and a printing device further including an input/output control apparatus 12 and at least one function adding server 50 to enable the POS system to perform at least one new functional application without requiring any change in the POS system terminal or server. At least one of connection ports 21b to 23b of an input/output control apparatus 12 is connected to at least one the connection ports 21a to 23a of an existing POS terminal 30 having at least a POS printer 34, a input device 32, or a display 33 connected thereto. The input devices 32 to 34 conventionally connected to the ports 21a to 23a of the POS terminal 30 are connected to the corresponding ports of the I/O control apparatus 12.

Abstract: A voting system for storing voter input data on a voter selection card, which is capable of storing data for a plurality of candidates, and the system, subsequently, prints a ballot marked in accordance with data on the voter selection card. A voter-assist terminal receives a blank voter selection card, and then presents candidate selection options to the voter visually by means of an LCD touch screen menu and aurally by means of a synthesized speech menu. Candidate selections entered by means of the touch screen menu or by means of the audio menu are stored on the voter selection card, and the voter selection card is returned to the voter to take to a reader terminal. The reader terminal sends the stored data on the voter selection card to an attached printer which prints a marked ballot corresponding to the voter's selections. The ballot is inserted in a ballot scanning device, wherein the ballot is tallied and deposited in a locked ballot box.

Abstract: A flash memory mass storage drive stores user files in a convenient credit card sized drive. Embodiments function as both a credit card and a mass storage drive. Communication may be through a host interface connector such as a USB connector, a magnetic interface, a smart card interface, and/or a near field communication interface. In certain embodiments the drive comprises a portion that is sufficiently thin to be swiped through a standard credit card, ATM, or point of sale device. The USB connector of the drive can easily be plugged into even a crowded receptacle of a host computing device.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a magnetic recording medium comprised by sequentially layering a magnetic recording layer, intermediate layer and concealment layer on a non-magnetic substrate made from a thermoplastic resin, wherein the surface of the intermediate layer forms a single smooth surface with the surface of the non-magnetic substrate as a result of embedding the magnetic recording layer and the intermediate layer within a portion of the non-magnetic substrate, and the concealment layer conceals the surface of the intermediate layer and the surface of the non-magnetic substrate. This magnetic recording medium has superior concealment and adhesion of the concealment layer for the magnetic recording layer as well as a high level of design properties regardless of the type of magnetic particles used in the magnetic recording layer.

Abstract: A method for activating a user interface of a mobile terminal or device having an ISO14443 smart card attached in a ISO7816 reader, where the mobile device monitors the state of the inactive ISO7816 interface, the ISO14443 smart card changes the state of one or more of the ISO7816 contacts when it needs user interaction during contactless communication, and when a state change occurs that did not originate in the mobile device, an interrupt is generated that communicates to the mobile device that smart card requires its services.

Abstract: A scanning apparatus comprises a light-pervious plate, an optical device, and a guiding mechanism. The light-pervious plate provides a plane for placing an object to be scanned. The optical device is disposed under the light-pervious plate for capturing the image of the object and transforms the image into the corresponding signal. The guiding mechanism further comprises a guide bar, a loading frame, and an elastic element. The guide bar is disposed in the scanning apparatus and provides a scanning path. The loading frame, including a guide slot, is assembled with the optical device. Since the guide slot coordinates the guide bar, the optical device is mounted to move along the scanning path. The elastic element, disposed within the guide slot, exerts an elastic force toward the guide bar to reduce the gap between the guide slot and the guide bar so that the optical device can get better image of the document.

Abstract: There is disclosed a laser processing device, comprising: a laser light source for emitting laser light; an irradiating optical system for irradiating laser light emitted from the laser light source substantially perpendicularly onto a processing surface of an object to be processed; a reflected light monitoring unit for monitoring the intensity of light reflected from the processing surface which is being irradiated with the laser light from the irradiating optical system; a thermal radiation monitoring unit for monitoring the intensity of thermal radiation generated at the processing surface which is being irradiated with the laser light from the irradiating optical system; and a controller for controlling output of laser light from the laser light source, wherein the controller determines abnormality and either one of reduces and stops output of laser light from the laser light source when the intensity of reflected light monitored by the reflected light monitoring unit drops below a first prescribed value

Abstract: The present invention has been made to adequately and quickly adjust the spherical aberration and focus bias in an optical pickup. In the present invention, evaluation values are measured on a plurality of respective measurement points each determined by a combination of a spherical aberration correction value and focus bias value and a two-variable function having the spherical aberration correction value and focus bias value as variables is approximated to the evaluation values. Based on the two-variable function obtained by the approximation, the optimal value of the spherical aberration correction value and focus bias value on which the evaluation value becomes optimal is calculated. As a result, it is possible to adequately and quickly adjust the spherical aberration and focus bias in an optical pickup.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for scanning and/or printing barcodes is described. In one embodiment, the method includes scanning a barcode at a first location with a device, storing the scanned barcode in a memory in the device, and printing the barcode at a second location with the device, where the second location and first location are not the same.

Abstract: A system is described for managing data and information in a healthcare environment, such as a hospital. A handheld code scanner reads codes and either accepts data, or performs instructions based on the read code. The code scanner wirelessly transmits the codes or data to a central server which acts on the read code to carry out necessary functions. The system is useful for tracking patient data, such as for delivery of medicine. In addition, since the system can carry out instructions, it is useful for allowing healthcare workers to quickly and conveniently perform their duties without the necessity of sitting at a computer terminal.

Abstract: An imaging-based bar code reader that includes an item guide to guide movement of an item including a target bar code such that target bar code passes through a field of view of the reader in a straight line. The reader further includes an imaging and decoding system to: 1) capture a series of images which include at least a part of the target bar code as the bar code is moved through the field of view of the reader; 2) sequentially analyze the series of captured images, for each captured image, identifying areas of the captured image representative of an image of the target bar code and decode decodable portions of the imaged target bar code; and 3) combining the decoded portions of the imaged target bar code using a sequence stitching method to obtain a full decode of the target bar code.

Abstract: A method of automatically detecting a test result of a probe zone of a test strip Is provided. In one embodiment, he method comprises capturing an image of a bar code and an image of at least one test strip from a scanning object, determining a setting value for the at least one test strip based, at least in part, on said captured image of said bar code, determining a color response of the at least one test strip, based at least in part on the captured image of said at least one test strip, and determining a test result for the at least one test strip, based at least in part on the determined color response and the determined setting value.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system, in which an omni-directional holographic scanning tunnel is used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathematical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol thereon. The mathematical models are analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogeneous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: A clip is described for securing a strap to a housing having a slot for receiving the clip and a feature near the slot. The clip comprises a tab, a loop and a cover. The tab is shaped to fit in the slot on the housing. The loop defines an opening to receive a strap, at least a portion of the loop extending away from the housing to provide clearance for the strap. The cover is shaped to fit over the feature when the tab is inserted in the slot, the cover extending at an angle to the tab. In another embodiment, a clip is described as comprising a loop and tab. The loop defines an opening to receive a strap.

Abstract: A method for providing portable delivery of television programs to a portable wireless device (PWD) consistent with certain embodiments involves transmitting a request from the PWD to a television receiver system, the request comprising a request for electronic program guide (EPG) information relating to a television program currently being received by the television receiver system; receiving a response from the television receiver system, wherein the response delivers EPG information to the PWD; identifying a source compatible with the PWD for receipt of the television program using identifying information from the EPG; transmitting an order for the television program from the PWD to the identified source; and receiving a wireless transmission of the television program from the source to the PWD. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments deviate from the features described in this abstract.