text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Feb 9, 1993
|Filing date
|Feb 5, 1992
|Priority date
|Jul 24, 1989
|Fee status
|Publication number
|John W. Van Horn, Ralph H. Carmen
|Original Assignee
|Duncan Industries Parking Control Systems Corp.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (5), Referenced by (33), Classifications (6), Legal Events (6)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This is a continuation, of application Ser. No. 384,781, filed July 24, 1989, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,109,972.
This invention relates to a coin operated timing mechanism. The mechanism is useful, for example, in the field of parking meters and like devices where, upon insertion of a coin, token or other device, a counting period or timing interval begins. The term "coin" as used hereinafter is intended to cover legal tender as well as tokens or similar devices.
The timing interval in such mechanisms is usually determined by the number and value of the coins inserted into the device. While the present invention is most specifically adapted for use as a parking meter for automobiles, it will be appreciated that the design is also intended for use in other environments. In general, the meter of the present invention can be used wherever it is desired to control a period of use depending upon the insertion of a number of coins.
Sollenberger U.S. Pat. No. 2,603,288 discloses an example of parking meters of the type which have been most widely used. Those meters employ primarily mechanical devices utilizing springs, gears, and like mechanical components to accomplish the desired purpose. A drawback in the use of solely mechanical components is the degree of servicing which is often required by such units. The parts wear and require lubrication and replacement at frequent intervals.
In the electronic field, devices for timing events have been known such as disclosed in Malott U.S. Pat. No. 4,031,991. Such meters may be more suitable for operation under severe temperature conditions, and an electronic design may increase servicing intervals. Other advantages include the ability to obtain a variety of options which are not easily implemented in mechanical meters. For example, by programming the electronics of the Malott system, each coin inserted by a user at a given time can be assigned a different value, i.e., the first quarter dollar inserted in the meter might correspond to two hours of parking time while a second quarter would correspond to one hour and a third quarter 30 minutes. Alternatively, if desired, a constant rate for each coin can be provided. An additional feature which is easily incorporated is what is referred to as MRP or "maximum revenue production" whereby when a motorist pulls into a parking space he is compelled to insert coins rather than to depend upon the time purchased by the previous user of the space.
The Malott disclosure recognizes that the rotatable handle and associated mechanism parts of a mechanical meter can be utilized for developing signals which function in an electronic system. Selby U.S. Pat. No. 3,757,916 and Shapiro U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,032 also utilize this general concept in connection with electronic parking control systems. Both the Malott and Shapiro disclosures also recognize that the traditional "flagging" functions of mechanical meters, i.e., visual displays indicating a violation or an expired time condition, are desirably incorporated in an electronic meter.
Rubenstein U.S. Pat. No. 3,930,363 and U.K. Patent Application No. 2,077,475, published Dec. 16, 1981, also disclose electronically controlled parking meters. In the latter instance, emphasis is placed on the use of CMOS (complementary metal oxide) integrated circuitry to achieve operation with low power consumption.
The electronic system utilized with the timing mechanism of this invention is particularly characterized by a power regulation sub-system which overcomes drawbacks found in prior art systems. In this connection, low power consumption is a highly desirable feature of an electronic timing mechanism for products such as parking meters since such products are typically located where no efficient access to electrical power lines is available. Accordingly, batteries or similar self-contained sources of power must be utilized, and the rate of power consumption must be kept to a minimum in order to avoid frequent and expensive servicing, and in order to avoid malfunctions due to inadequate power availability.
The power regulation sub-system of this invention permits efficient utilization of relatively low cost battery power, such as a 9-volt battery commonly used, for example, in a transistor radio. Such batteries are readily available, and they carry contacts which permit easy field changeovers when this is required.
Such batteries have the drawbacks, however, of somewhat limited capacity and of steep voltage characteristics. The power regulation sub-system of this invention addresses these drawbacks by minimizing power drain thereby maximizing the useful life of such batteries. Moreover, voltage regulation in the sub-system accommodates for the steep voltage characteristic.
More specifically, the power regulation sub-system is used in conjunction with low power consumption circuit technology such as a CMOS integrated circuit. Typically, such a circuit operates most efficiently at a regulated voltage of about 3 volts. In addition, a NOVRAM component for storing the system operational parameters is employed, and this component requires a regulated voltage of about 5 volts Communication with the microprocessor used in the operation, or auditing thereof, may demand a regulated voltage of about 3.5 volts. To accommodate these varying requirements, the power regulation sub-system of the invention operates to provide, on demand, either 3.5 volts or 5 volts, and the capability does not depend on continuous bias of a reference diode.
Additional saving of power consumption is provided by employing capacitors in conjunction with the switches actuated by coins inserted in the meter. The circuitry is designed so that a large amount of charge is transmitted in a very short interval (on the order of 130 microseconds) when a switch is actuated with this charge being stored on a capacitor associated with the switch. High resistance is interposed in the line which normally maintains the capacitor in a discharged state. When a switch is released, the capacitor discharges slowly allowing the microprocessor to scan the switches over a relatively long period (on the order of 10 milliseconds) thereby operating at a low clock rate with associated low consumption of power.
The mechanisms of the invention include switches selectively actuatable depending on the denominations of coins inserted in the meter. The switch actuation may be affected by employing pawls of the type normally employed for operating the winding ring of a meter with a mechanically operated clock mechanism. In such a system, the pawls include one which pivots outwardly in response to engagement of a coin with a cam surface, and this pivoting action can be used for switch actuation in the system of this invention.
The preferred switch actuators include means for adjustment so that each meter employing the invention can be accurately set for most reliable operation. In addition, the system involves the requirement for multiple switch operations within particular time intervals so as to avoid spurious operation which might otherwise by caused accidentally or by someone attempting to cheat the meter.
The particular switch structure also minimizes the likelihood of spurious coins being used by purchasers of time. Thus, this structure includes means for adjusting the distance between switch actuators and the opposed coin engaging surface. Accordingly, only coins of sufficient diameter will actuate switches for purposes of purchasing time.
FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a parking meter timing mechanism assembly characterized by the features of this invention;
FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional view of the assembly taken about the line 2--2 of FIG. 1;
FIG. 2A is a rear elevational view illustrating the PC board arrangement and wake-up switch utilized in the assembly;
FIG. 2B is a fragmentary, sectional view illustrating the "wake up" switch arrangement of the invention taken about the line 2B--2B of FIG. 2A;
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, horizontal sectional view of the assembly taken about the line 3--3 of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3A is a fragmentary, sectional view of a coin actuated switch and actuator structure;
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, horizontal sectional view of the assembly showing the coin carrier in a rotated position without a coin inserted therein;
FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, horizontal sectional view of the assembly showing the coin carrier in a rotated position while carrying a coin to a switch actuating position;
FIG. 6 is a fragmentary, elevational view of the coin carrier and switch elements of the assembly;
FIG. 7 is a fragmentary, elevational view of the coin carrier and switch elements of FIG. 6 moved to a switch actuating position;
FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the operating sequence of the timing mechanism assembly; and,
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating portions of the circuitry utilized in the assembly.
The instant invention will be specifically described with reference to a parking meter. In such meters there are usually a plurality of coin slots whereby coins of different denominations can be employed.
The meter 10 shown in FIG. 1 illustrates one type of meter which can be employed in combination with the timing mechanism of this invention. The meter includes a front panel 12 which carries a handle 14 adapted to be rotated for the setting of time on the meter. The time set on the meter is recorded on LCD digital display 16 or the like. Openings 20 are provided on the face of the meter for receiving coins of different denominations. It will be appreciated that the instant invention could apply to an apparatus employing a single coin, or any one of various combinations.
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, behind the front panel 12 there are provided support posts 22 for carrying a timing mechanism 24. Intermediate the timing mechanism and the front panel, there are provided the elements which are operated by the handle 14 for setting of the time on the meter. Although a description of the operation of these elements common to prior art meters will be provided herein in only general terms, reference can be made to U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,799,056, 2,070,445 and 3,262,540 for a more specific description.
The handle 14 is tied to shaft 26 whereby rotation of the handle will provide for rotation of this shaft. Also tied to the shaft on the inside of the front wall is a member 28 which comprises a coin carrier 30 extending in one direction from the shaft, and an arm 33 extending in the opposite direction. The coin carrier defines a plurality of coin slots 32 which are aligned with the openings 20 when the coin carrier is in its coin-receiving position. A spring 34 is secured at one end to the panel 12, while the other end is attached at 36 to the member 28 whereby the coin carrier is normally at the coin-receiving position shown in FIG. 1.
Referring also to FIGS. 4-7, a ratchet pawl 38, a coin pawl 40, and a switch pawl 42 are pivotally attached to the member 28 by means of a pivot pin 44. The pawl 38 includes an end portion 46 which is provided for engagement with the teeth 48 of a stationary ratchet 50 carried by wall 51.
The pawl 38 is adapted to be pivoted about the pin 44 to move the pawl 38 from the position shown in FIG. 4 to the position shown in FIG. 5. Recesses 52, 54 and 56 are defined by the pawl member 38 to void interference of the pawl with coins inserted into the meter. It will be noted that the recesses 52, 54 and 56 are located at different depths with respect to the member 38 to accommodate for the different diameters of coins inserted.
The pawl member 42 includes an engaging end 64 which is adapted to engage the switch actuators 128 as will be explained in greater detail. This pawl member includes recesses 70, 72 and 74, which correspond generally to the recesses 52, 54 and 56 on the pawl member 38.
Element 40 functions as a means for controlling the positions of the pawl members during the meter operation. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a spring 58 associated with the element 40 includes spring ends 80 and 81 which engage the pawls 38 and 42, respectively. The spring normally urges the pawls upwardly relative to the element 40. A detent 60 is formed in the pawl member 38, and this detent normally engages the under side of the element 40. The pawl member 42 also includes a detent 76 which is also adapted to be positioned opposite the underside of the element 40. These detents, in combination with spring 58, enable the position of the pawls to be controlled by the element 40.
The element 40 is adapted to be engaged by an inserted coin, and the pawls 38 and 42 are adapted to move when the element 40 is so engaged. Specifically, the ends 80 and 81 of the spring 58 tend to force the respective detents 60 and 76 into bearing engagement with the element 40 whereby upward movement of the element 40 will enable the pawls 38 and 42 to follow in the upward direction. The element 40 is normally urged downwardly by a compression spring 41 which has one end located in the seat 43 defined in the arm 33, while the other end fits around protuberance 45 formed in the element 40. When a coin is inserted, the element 40 is moved upwardly in opposition to the spring 41.
In the normal meter operation, a coin is inserted and the handle 14 is then rotated. During this rotation, the end portion 46 of pawl member 38 rides over the teeth 48, and this pawl member is urged against these teeth by means of the end 80 of the spring 58 (see FIG. 5). The teeth 48 are designed whereby they will hold the handle against return movement due to action of the spring 34 as long as the pawl 38 is forced into engagement with these teeth.
As the rotation of the handle continues, the coin remains in the coin carrier while riding on the inner surface 82 of the panel 12. Cam segments 84, 86 and 88 are formed on this inner surface in alignment with each of the coin slots. Accordingly, each coin will engage one of these cam segments during movement of the coin carrier, and it will be appreciated that the coins are forced further into the coin carrier due to this action. This further movement of a coin will move the element 40 a corresponding distance to permit movement of the pawl 42 whereby the pawl engaging portion 64 will engage switch actuators 128 as will be explained. As previously explained, the mechanisms described, with the exception of the particular switch actuating functions, have been used before, and their operation is disclosed in the particular patents previously mentioned in that regard.
The drawings also illustrate a slug detector element 100 with protruding sensing ends 101 located in association with the pawl members and the element 40. In the embodiment disclosed, the detector element is positioned between the element 40 and the pawl member 42. A complete description of this function is found in the aforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,262,540.
The member 28 including coin carrier 30 is normally urged against bumper 90 by means of spring 34. This bumper is mounted on rotatable shaft 92, and the shaft carries a pin 94 engageable by extension 96 formed integrally with the coin carrier. An additional spring 102 is attached at one end to pin 104 shown in FIG. 2B and at the other end to wake-up switch actuating means 93 supported on the shaft 92. As best shown in FIG. 2B, the shaft 92 includes an extension 106 which carries wake-up switch actuating means 93. This actuating means includes engaging arm 97 for contact with extension 99 of actuating lever 101 which is engagable with button 105 of wake-up switch 110. As will be apparent, when the coin carrier is moved away from bumper 90, the shaft 92 rotates in response to the action of spring 102 which causes arm 97 to engage lever extension 99 thereby operating switch 110 as shown in dotted lines in FIG. 2B. The switch automatically reopens when the carrier is returned to its normal position.
Coin-actuated switches 112, 114, 116 and 130 are positioned on an interior wall comprising printed circuit board 109 which is positioned adjacent wall 111. Switch actuators 128 are exposed on wall 111 within the confines of the stationary ratchet 50, and these switch actuators are thereby located opposite cam segments 84, 86 and 88. FIG. 3A illustrates switch 112 and an associated actuating means, and this structure is the same for each of the other coin-actuated switches. The switch 112 includes a plunger 120 engageable by a sensor button 122. This button is positioned within a bore 124 defined by the wall 51, and a light spring 126 is positioned within the bore for normally urging the button 122 into engagement with the switch plunger 120. The spring 126 is lighter than an internal spring (not shown) for the switch 112 so that the button 122 will not normally depress the plunger for closing of the switch.
The button 122 includes a threaded bore for receiving the threaded shaft of actuator 128. It will be apparent that rotation of the actuator will result in adjustment of the distance between the actuator head and the oppositely-disposed cam segments. Accordingly, the position of the actuator head can be accurately set to insure engagement by the end 64 of pawl 42 when a coin or token of proper diameter has been inserted. On the other hand, a coin of lesser diameter will not operate to move the end 64 into engagement with the actuator screw 128. With this arrangement, for example, foreign coins which are close to the diameter of a U.S. coin but not quite large enough, will not be useful for purchasing time. Coins of too great a diameter cannot be inserted in coin slots 20.
In a typical operation, the switches 112, 114 and 116 will be employed for nickels, dimes and quarters, respectively. As will be explained in more detail, the fourth switch 130 is employed for actuation by the pawl end 64 near the completion of handle rotation and just prior to release of the coin for collection in the meter coin box. This release occurs when the coin carrier has been rotated beyond the end 132 of the segment tracks. Thus, at this point, there is a drop-off which releases the coin from the pressure exerted by spring 41.
The illustrated coin actuated-switches and related structure may be utilized in conjunction with a variety of means for recording the amount of time purchased, displaying the time remaining, and counting down the time remaining. Reference is made to the aforementioned Malott patent for an example of a system which could be utilized in conjunction with the switches and mechanical features described herein.
FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a preferred operating sequence for utilization of the features of this invention. Various conditions encountered during meter operation are described, and it will be appreciated that appropriate software can be readily obtained for achieving the sequence of operations as set forth therein.
FIG. 9 illustrates in block diagram form an LCD, LED controller and display 134, 135 which may be of any conventional design and which are continuously run by a power source such as a conventional battery typically used for transistor radio operation and similar applications (nine volt nominal). The power supply is shown as battery input 150 with system ground 167, 168.
In a normal sequence of operation, the "wake-up" switch 110 is first closed as the coin carrier moves away from its normal position. This results in a signal to microprocessor 164 (COPS 344 CN, for example) which may be used to cause LCD, LED controller, display 134, 135 to "blank out" the time display and to display a red or "violation" indicator.
FIG. 8 breaks down the operating conditions into the following activity groups:
Normal time rundown
Wake-up event processing
Coin switch event detection
Manipulation event detection
Transaction completion
Each of these activity groups contain a small number of actions specific to the larger activity purpose.
In the normal time rundown activity, time is deducted from the parking time clock 138 in the normal clock fashion. As will be explained in connection with the coin switch event detection activity, the LCD display 16 will be turned off and a red violation flag turned on if any of the coin switches 112, 114 or 116, or complete switch 130, or wake-up switch 110, remain closed. The LCD display will remain blank with the red flag on but time is still deducted from the internal clock 138 (after a 30-second delay as will be explained) to prevent fraudulent jamming from stopping the clock (block 140). A blank display thus indicates a trouble condition, e.g., a stuck switch or a jammed coin carrier. Once the coin and complete switches have returned to the open condition, the wake-up switch is tested (block 142). If it has changed, that is, if the coin carrier has been moved away, the wake-up event processing activity is entered.
The purpose of the wake-up event processing activity is two-fold. If the wake-up switch 110 is open ("N" or "no" condition of block 143), the display is turned back on (block 141) indicating that all switches have returned to the open condition. If the wake-up switch is closed ("Y" or "yes" condition of block 143), control passes to the coin switch event detection activity.
Upon entry of the coin switch event detection activity, the LCD display 16 is blanked (block 144), the red violation flag is turned on, and a maximum event duration timer included in microcontroller 164 is set for a sufficiently long process time limit of at least about five seconds, and preferably for about 30 seconds (block 145). This timer is decremented during coin transaction processing allowing only up to a set time, e.g., 30 seconds for processing of any single coin. If coin processing were allowed to persist indefinitely, the parking clock 138 would not run down allowing for potential fraud by engaging handle 14 away from the home (switch open) position.
The primary task performed during the coin switch event detection activity is to detect the first coin switch closed (any of switches 112, 114 or 116.) If any coin switch is detected closed (block 146), control passes to the manipulation event detection activity.
The condition for manipulation event detection is that more than one of the switches 112, 114, 116 or 130 becomes closed in a four millisecond interval (block 147). This feature is desirable since in normal operation, an interval of about 15 milliseconds is required to close any two switches in sequence. On the other hand, if a baseball bat, hammer or the like is used to strike the meter housing, it is highly likely that two or more switches will be closed simultaneously or at least within a four millisecond interval. The purpose of this activity then is to prevent granting of parking time to fraudulent use of force against the meter. If, as in legitimate operation, not more than one switch is closed in a four millisecond interval, control passes to the transaction completion activity.
The transaction completion activity scans the complete switch 130 to verify that a coin has traversed the full shuttle cycle (block 149). This feature avoids cheating which might be attempted because the coin slots make the front of the meter open to a thin probe and therefore switch 112 could be closed with such a probe. If the complete switch were not used, fraudulent time could be gained by turning the coin carrier off home and probing switch 112. The system therefore provides that only if closure of the complete switch is detected within the 30 second or other allowable time limit, then time is added to the parking clock as a function of the first coin switch closed (block 151).
Typically, the meter may be operated with a nickel, dime, or quarter wherein time is typically granted in a 1,2,5 ratio. Many other programmable features of a meter may enter into the actual time granted, e.g. deferred time, multiple split rates, time limit, free time, etc.
It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that software can be readily designed for performing functions as described in FIG. 8. Thus, the microcontroller 164 of FIG. 9 may include a register which will be decremented within 30 seconds to provide the 30 second clock function described. Similarly, the software may simply test repeatedly for an additional closed switch to perform the four millisecond function described. Finally, such software embodies the timeclock functions contemplated for block 138 of FIG. 8.
The circuitry illustrated in FIG. 9 permits low power consumption and otherwise highly efficient operation of the parking meter or like system employing the features of the invention. In this drawing and in the following description component values and other identification are provided for illustration purposes only. It will be apparent that alternatives are available which will achieve the particular function contemplated by this invention.
More specifically, the arrangement shown in FIG. 9 particularly includes a reference diode 140 (for example, LM 385 or equivalent) which is used to provide a terminal breakdown voltage at the emitter of transistor 142 of either 3.5 volts or 5 volts depending on the voltage at the input 144. (3.5 volts with 144 at ground and 5 volts with input 144 connected to the supply output.) A 220 microfarad capacitor 146, for example, is provided across the supply terminals of the system components and at the emitter of transistor 148. The bases of transistors 142 and 148 are tied together with the collector of 148 returned to the 9-volt supply 150 through a current limiting resistor 152 (62 ohms, for example). If current is supplied through the 1k ohm resistor 154, or equivalent, connected to the bases of 142 and 148, current will flow onto the capacitor 146 until such time as it reaches the programmed breakdown voltage of the reference diode 140, at which time the base current will be shunted through the reference diode inhibiting further increase in the voltage across the capacitor 146.
Upon breakdown of the reference diode 140, the collector of transistor 142 will begin to draw current through the resistor 156 (5.1k, for example) and from the base of transistor 158 causing the collector of 158 to rise rapidly to the 9 volt supply voltage. (This signal can be used to determine that regulation has been achieved.) The control element, which is a set-reset latch 160 formed, for example, by cross connecting the NOR elements of a CD4001 integrated circuit, can be set by activation of the input 162 from the microcontroller 164 through a level shifting transistor 166. The output of this latch provides current through the resistor 154 to the regulator. The latch will remain set until regulation is achieved at which time the signal from the collector of transistor 158 resets the latch.
In normal operation, the microcontroller 164 will provide pulses to the regulation sub-system control input 162 at a rate of about 1 per second. Typically, the regulator latch 160 will remain set for only about 0.5 milliseconds. This results in a net current drain into the voltage reference which is reduced by a factor of about 2000, while achieving sufficient regulation for operation of the CMOS system components.
An output 169 from the regulation sub-system is provided for signalling the microcontroller at 169 so that the duration of the latch set period can be monitored. If this output remains activated for a time exceeding 2 milliseconds, for example, this indicates an end of service life for the battery, and a display, such as decimal points, may be provided at 16 to alert maintenance personnel that a battery change is needed.
In an alternate mode, with control input 162 held by the microcontroller at a high level, and with input 144 likewise held high, the regulation system acts as a continuous duty 5 volt series pass regulator. By thus holding input 162 high, the regulator latch 160 is prevented from resetting thereby maintaining continuous regulation. This mode is used during reading of the NOVRAM device 170. In this instance, the high power consumption of a series regulator occurs only during the short interval (for example, a few milliseconds) needed to store the NOVRAM data in the microcontroller 164. A normally off switch 165 is used to prevent draining of power to NOVRAM 170 during periods when reading is not taking place.
A communications input/output function is provided at 175 for purposes of changing the operating program, e.g., if it is desired to change the amount of time allotted for a given coin or coins, or to switch to a maximum revenue production mode where time is erased if additional purchase is attempted after a given time interval. In addition, the communication function may include an audit of the meter. During communication mode, the microcontroller utilizes the power sub-system in a 3.5 volt series regulation mode, e.g., with control input 162 held high and input 144 held low.
A manually engageable reset switch 171 is accessible upon unlocking and opening mechanism housing, since, in the usual fashion, the timing mechanism is removably attached to posts 22. The reset switch 171 is operated, for example, when the mechanism is first installed in an existing meter, or when a battery is changed. Referring to FIG. 9, the reset switch 171 bypasses the action of control input 162 through transistor 166 to the regulation system thereby forcing the regulation system to enter the series pass regulation mode. Further, output 173 signals the microprocessor that there is a reset condition.
FIG. 9 illustrates additional means for achieving power conservation during operation of the described mechanism. Specifically, the switches 112, 114, 116 and 130 are connected through resistors 180 to capacitors 182. The resistors 180 are of low resistance, and the capacitors are rapidly charged upon closing of switches. Accordingly, only a short interval of power application is required for charging the capacitors.
The capacitors are discharged through resistors 184 which are of substantially higher resistance, for example 100K. The result is that the discharge of the capacitors at a substantially slower rate (on the order of 10 milliseconds) whereby the microprocessor 164 has substantial time to factor in the switch closing event. The microprocessor, therefore, does not need to operate at a high rate with proportionally higher power consumption in order to perform the functions contemplated by the invention. This "pulse stretching" feature is particularly advantageous where, as here, a coin switch may be closed for less than 500 microseconds, and the microcontroller would be required to operate with higher power consumption if only this short duration signal were being processed.
The clock function 138 more particularly may involve conventional use of a crystal controlled time base oscillator 177 (32.76 KHZ, e.g.) to perform the timing function. In a form of operation, a supplemental timing function may be performed using oscillator 179 operated at a higher rate (e.g., 500 KHZ). This oscillator is used during performance of coin processing function 151, allowing the meter to achieve a high response rate for coin processing.
It will be understood that various changes and modifications may be made in the above described invention without departing from the spirit thereof particularly as defined in the following claims.
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|U.S. Classification
|194/204, 194/219, 194/217
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Sep 17, 1996
|Maintenance fee reminder mailed
|Feb 9, 1997
|Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
|Apr 22, 1997
|Expired due to failure to pay maintenance fee
Effective date: 19970212
|Jun 24, 2003
Owner name: DUNCAN PARKING TECHNOLOGIES, INC., MASSACHUSETTS
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DUNCAN INDUSTRIES PARKING CONTROL SYSTEMS CORP.;REEL/FRAME:014235/0176
Effective date: 20030620
|Jul 28, 2003
Owner name: COMERICA BANK, MICHIGAN
Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DUNCAN PARKING TECHNOLOGIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:014321/0452
Effective date: 20030620
|Jul 1, 2015
Owner name: DUNCAN PARKING TECHNOLOGIES, INC., ARKANSAS
Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:COMERICA BANK;REEL/FRAME:035999/0954
Effective date: 20150701


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For sale by AR RAZAAQ PROPERTIES VERIFIED18 Feb 2:28 pmOyo, Oyo
This block of 3 bedroom flat at Akinrin. Idi ose area is now available for sale. It has 2 toilets and 2 bathrooms, source of water is a well with pumping machine, well fenced with gated compound on a easy access way. Suitable for residents. Title document Red copy.
Please call for more details and inspection of this property.
Stay safe!
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subset: commoncrawl


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It only takes a minute to get started. Fill out our simple sign up form and login to the website.
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Vintage TOMY 1985 Sylvanian Families Troy Hoppinset Mint in Box Bunny Crib NIB
- Sold for: Start Free Trial or Sign In to see what it's worth.
- Item Category: Toys, Dolls, Games & Puzzles
- Source: eBay
- Sold Date: Nov 01, 2014
- Channel: Auction House
Up for Auction is a Vintage 1985 Sylvanian Families Toy. It is Troy Hoppinset who is a baby bunny with bottle and crib. It is Mint in Box .Box has a small tear on side. Original tape is still in place sealing the boxShipping in the Continental US as calculated


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Pop star Madonna may be in her 50s, but she is showing that she still has loads of sex appeal in the seductive cover shoot from Interview Magazine's December/January 2015 issue. Photographed by Mert & Marcus, the blonde turns up the heat in lingerie looks paired with coats and sweaters styled by Arianne Phillips.
Anja, Edita V, Daria, Andreea + Lily Get "Pretty Wasted" for Interview Magazine
Pretty Wasted–Top models Anja Rubik, Edita Vilkeviciute, Daria Strokous, Andreea Diaconu and Lily Donaldson show that they like to party a little too much in this editorial featured in Interview Magazine's November issue. The girls pose for Fabien Baron while seemingly passed out drunk on the ground. Surrounded by empty bottles and the like, the… [Read More]
Jessica Chastain Poses in Lingerie for Interview October 2014 Shoot
Celebrating its 45th anniversary issue, the October 2014 edition of Interview taps actress Jessica Chastain as the cover star. Photographed by Craig McDean and styled by Karl Templer, the redhead seduces in a mix of ready-to-wear and lingerie styles from the likes of Givenchy, Burberry and Louis Vuitton. She reveals to Mindy Kaling in the… [Read More]
Katy O'Kane Wears David Koma for Interview by Brian Higbee
Koma's Corset Style–Captured for Interview Magazine online, model Katy O'Kane tries on the looks of David Koma's sleek and modern fall-winter 2014 collection. Brian Higbee captures the brunette in a mix of seductive styles inspired by corsetry including cut-outs, leather pants and fit-and-flare shapes for the looks styled by Lizette Pena.
Keira Knightley Goes Topless, Models Messy Hair for Interview Shoot by Patrick Demarchelier
Last week, the six covers were revealed for Interview Magazine's September issue which also pays tribute to photographers. One of the stories features actress Keira Knightley photographed by Patrick Demarchelier. Keira posed for the French photographer and also interviewed him for the article. In the images, Keira looks stunning, wearing looks from Chanel, Hugo Boss… [Read More]


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Disclaimer: I don't own the characters or anything from Ed Edd n' Eddy. I only am writing this for personal enjoyment and benefit.
Some Demons are Worse Than Others
Chapter 1
It was finally starting to feel like the fall season in Peach Creek. It had been an above average temperatures in summer and to be honest nobody enjoyed being cooked alive under the suns rays over the heat soaking pavement of the cul-de-sac.
"Fricking took long enough for it to cool down! Like an oven, even through out September! I mean come on thats messed up." Said Eddy
"I do agree. Though you must admire the power that a constantly changing biosphere has, even if it takes it several lifetimes to show any significant change in its functions." Replied Double Dee
As he was talking Ed and Eddy just looked at him, Eddy with his "whatever, I don't care" look; and Ed with elevator music going through his head.
"Whatever sock head, all I know is it was way to hot this summer, couldn't leave home unless it was night and even then couldn't go because of my stupid parents and their 'you don't want to work in school so there will be no play in summer,' Eddy said as he mocked voiced his father. "I mean jeez dad I'm 20 years old, and its community college for crying out loud.
"You should try harder in school Eddy, just coasting through and passing by the skin of your teeth does not look promising on an application for a 4 year university." Said Double Dee
"Double Dee you and I both know there is no more college coming my way, I'm just not the type, and neither is lumpy here." Eddy said directing towards Ed who was currently digging in his yard like a dog, intent on burying his favorite collectible space mutant from Planet 66, for safe keeping of course.
"Maybe, but I think you could if you truly wanted to Eddy."
"Maybe, but I could also be miserable and not feel right if I went to more school, I'll be working in my uncles garage here pretty soon, already set up to start soon, maybe Ed too. We'll have to see about that though."
"I knew that you were passionate about automobiles but make a career out of fixing and selling them?" said Double Dee questionable
"Yea! Don't you know how much doh you rake in working on cars? Everybody's car breaks and its always something more than the single reason they brought it in, and best of all its always so expensive." Eddy said with obvious hints of greed in his voice
Edd just shook his head knowing that yes a good living can be made working in a work garage but it was a living that had to be earned and wouldn't be handed to anyone. It was ok though, Edd knew Eddy was a survivor and he'd be ok, just had to learn it the hard way on his own that almost no one had an easy life right away, but had to earn their good life through years of hard work, dedication, and discipline.
It was during these thoughts that Ed came over from his 'mission of safe keeping' to hang with his friends. Like this they stayed just laying around on the sidewalk in-between Eddy's house and Jimmy's. Then then the escape from the world ended for the trio, but especially for Double Dee.
"Well, guys mom just texted me saying to come eat so I'll be tak––" Eddy was saying before the vicious scream of Sarah boomed over him.
"EEEEEDDDD COME HOME NOW!" shouted Sarah
"I mean no dis respect toward you and your families choice of communication Ed but Sarah does realize we are no more than 25-30 feet from your front door, the obnoxious yelling is really not necessary." Double Dee directed toward Ed
"Oh no guys I have to go now, but my mom made me extra gravy to put on my mashed potatoes tonight because I is a good boy!" Ed said as he was about to run off to go home but stopped abruptly and turned and ran back to his friends and with a goofy smile said.
"You guys are welcome to come have the joy that will be dinner tonight, it always looks like happy and makes me feel like magic." Said Ed
Double Dee couldn't help but give a small smile at his friends excitement about something as simple sounding as extra gravy at dinner, its something he was envious of Ed, he didn't let things bother him, or better stated as he didn't understand things enough to be bothered, at least not yet anyway. Ed always compared Ed to Forrest Gump, slow and not exactly smart, but he did understand things, things that a book can't teach you.
"As appreciative of your offer as I am Ed I'm afraid I must decline for I have chores to finish at home at the request of mother and father."
"Yea thanks anyway lumpy but I'm just going to go home and eat, not feeling it tonight." Said Eddy
Ed just smiled and before taking off he went and said to Double Dee "Don't be said Double Dee, things will get better, just one day at a time." And then he was off.
It was times like that when Edd really did appreciate Ed for who he was.
"Well, I'll see ya later sock head." Said Eddy as he started walking up his drive way
"Hey, if you don't want to be by your lonesome tonight you can come chill at my house, just don't be expecting any hugs or cuddling." Eddy laughed at his own joke
Double Dee smiled but assured his friend that he'd be all right, and some chores will be a good way to take his mind off of things.
"Change your mind you know where to find me." Eddy said with his back turned walking away from his hat wearing friend
Edd really did appreciate his friends, and how in their own ways they were trying to help, he knew Eddy knew what this was like, to a degree he is still recovering from it, but it was a year ago now and the wound had more time to heal for him. For Double Dee however its been 4 months. Long enough to finally leave his room and go outside and stop listening to the same sad songs on replay. Not long enough for it to not bother him, after all, even an elderly wise old man has trouble when he has no closure, let alone a 21 year old.
Author's note:
So I know that the characters aren't the best at being "in-character" but I made them older and the idea for this is a more depressing part of life, especially for growing up so I am making them as I think best, plus I could see them like this at least somewhat so whatever. I am happy with the way this chapter turned out, I know its a little confusing on what exactly is going on but no worries it'll be explained and the next few parts will be pretty awesome. (hopefully)


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*UK tampon test in 2015 with 242 women who tested both TAMPAX Compak Pearl Super and the leading non applicator brand variant Super. Women recorded for every tampon change whether product leaked (total tampon changes >3600). During the test, TAMPAX Compak Pearl showed up to 25% less leaks than the leading non applicator brand.
**compared to Tampax Cardboard
*** Do not use for longer than 8 hours


text: I've come over from vB and have set my forum up so guests can not see attachments in the hope it will motivate guests to join and be an active part of the community. I've had a sitemap on vB and I now have one on my converted vb to XF forum and I've noticed that google is complaining about attachments not being viewable, mainly image files. It never did this on vb so I'm guessing xF handles it differently. So my question is what would you do? deny access to attachments folder via robots.txt? allow attachments to public? or an alternative?


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These Things Cause The Most Stress Between Couples Over The Holidays
There is a new survey out that that highlights the top things that cause stress between couples over the Holidays. See if these have ever played a part in your relationship.
There is a new survey out that that highlights the top things that cause stress between couples over the Holidays. See if these have ever played a part in your relationship.
Gotta love your kids. Mine posted this on my Facebook timeline.
Families in America are in crisis. The problems are obvious, but could the solution could be as easy as pulling your head out of technology and talking with each other. How much time does your family spend together?
If you're dreading Valentine's Day, because you will have to declare your single status to all of your friends and relatives once again, I have found the cure. Create your own boyfriend (or girlfriend) with the Invisible Boyfriend app.
Lovers' quarrels can go from 0 to 100 real quick, but it seems like this one started at 100. Ladies, don't do this and guys get ready to cringe.
Things weren't going well for this Chinese couple and the scorned woman decided to take matters into her own hands.
According to a new survey, the number one thing women wish men were better at is cleaning up around the house. Men wish women were better at is sex. Here is the complete list...
My wife and I just celebrated our eight anniversary, so you would think by now we would have moved past our little food hang-ups. Evidently not.
Guys, if you don't know what women want, you probably weren't listening when you were 10 years old.
Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones have decided to put their marriage 'On Hold' indefinitely, reports People Magazine.


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EyeGraffiti is a blog where two make up junkies can be creative and crazy about make up.
We're not sponsred by any brand and all the make up we use in our blog is purchased by us, unless stated otherwise.
We also might use products differently from their intended use and advise you to use your own discretion for your safetly! We do not take responsibility if any problems or any unwanted reation occur due to a improper use of make up products.
Please don't use our pictures without our permission and respect our copyright.
If anything is unclear, feel free to email us.


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Explore the Tweets They Didn't Want You to See
Politwoops tracks deleted tweets by public officials, including people currently in office and candidates for office.
Politwoops tracks deleted tweets by public officials, including people currently in office and candidates for office. If you think we're missing someone, please email us with their name, state, political party, office they hold or are seeking and, of course, their Twitter handle.
Are your deleted tweets displayed here but you think they shouldn't be? Here's how to let us know.
Search Deleted Tweets
Thank you for all the feedback on #SOPA. Please keep your comments coming -- I'm listening.
Watch my House speech today on the Keystone XL pipeline, also supported by @AFLCIO Building Trades Council. http://t.co/xg3Rok6B
Tim Holden (D-Pa.)
RT @DentPressShop: Stop Online Piracy Act denounced by local congressmen | http://t.co/HEKePzHI http://t.co/uHHgrbLm
Check out my the slideshow on my website - #SOPAblackout http://t.co/D5F0LFcP
I posted 12 photos to my #Facebook album "Spruce Up at AG Gaston Boys & Girls Club" #MLK Service Project. Take a look! http://t.co/zrrmMnEV
RT @JIMWICh: Props to my Congressperson, Rep. Anna Eshoo ( @RepAnnaEshoo ) for fighting against SOPA! http://t.co/8YJO2N3v
Rep. Hansen Clarke (D-Mich.)
Tune in at 7:35am to the First Shift w/ @tonytrupiano on 1310AM. I'm discussing last nights #MISOTS Address
Today, Im excited to visit @UN & meet SecGeneral Moon, @UNICEF, @UNAIDS etc. RT if you support great work of the UN. http://t.co/ZerDQRe2
Perry drops out. Cowboy swagger just didn't cut it
While I believe that online piracy and copyright infringement are serious problems that must be addressed, I have... http://t.co/5yRZiJu4
Here is a video on the importance #mentors in the lives of young girls that is headed by @MichelleObama. Take a look! http://t.co/PRAU3czq
Online piracy must end, but I oppose SOPA & PIPA because they hinder our tech industry. See my full statement here: http://t.co/5yRZiJu4
Here is a video on the importance of #mentors in young girls' lives. Program is headed by @MichelleObama. Take a look! http://t.co/PRAU3czq
Check out this @msnbctv interview with MORE Mag's @pradagirl47 hightlighting @MichelleObama's new #mentoring program. http://t.co/PRAU3czq
RT @NinahSamoana: #visitUS MIAMI: Sunny place,beautiful&nice ppl. A great football&basketball team. One of the best Universities! Miami! http://t.co/K7BNFsk0
RT @Jen9400: @whitehouse #visitUS Port Jefferson, NY. Quaint little town on the North Shore of LI. Good food shopping views of the water & near beaches.
RT @MarthaGSA: Thank you @EleanorNorton for joining @USGSA's Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration ceremony
RT @anitakumar01: Bipartisanship! Va Gov @bobmcdonnell and Sen @MarkWarner talk about new digital education program in Va schools
1) DC-Mahalo to President Obama for bringing tourism and #visa_reform to the forefront http://t.co/C7v0fGWp
Rep. Dennis Cardoza (D-Calif.)
Stephen Colbert is right on the money! Read more from my latest blog entry:http://t.co/hFpK8sEG
Rep. Dennis Cardoza (D-Calif.)
Stephen Colbert is right on the money! Read more from my latest blog entry: http://t.co/aGUXX8qG
RT @kitchengirl: Seriously? Anna Eshoo is speaking at the FB small business event today. Cool.
@chrismurphyct You do live in
Today is a difficult day for the Kodak family. I want the employees to know that I stand with them through this... http://t.co/eITQcZnV
If you're a Kodak employee or retiree, please make sure to visit Kodak's website or call 888-249-2721 to find out... http://t.co/otyVI7P1
President Obama understands visa reforms like the Visit USA Act will help us compete globally and attract more visitors http://t.co/bmZWskdE
Had a great meeting tonight re: #SOPA. After speaking w/ industry experts all week, I will not oppose the legislation. http://t.co/ULdqHnlG
@agodlywidow Alice, please excuse the earlier typo. I announced tonight that I will OPPOSE SOPA.
@CivilBeat: @maziehirono and @RepHanabusa laud President Obama's Tourism Announcement http://t.co/k15aA2dt
GOP debate again shortchanges Ron Paul while Romney mouthed every cliche. Gingrich and Santorum seemed strong
Are your deleted tweets displayed here but you think they shouldn't be? Here's how to let us know.


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|Message view
|« Date » · « Thread »
|« Date » · « Thread »
|DO NOT REPLY [Bug 22656] New: - SMTP won't work under non-ASCII platforms
|Fri, 22 Aug 2003 13:24:09 GMT
DO NOT REPLY TO THIS EMAIL, BUT PLEASE POST YOUR BUG RELATED COMMENTS THROUGH THE WEB INTERFACE AVAILABLE AT <http://nagoya.apache.org/bugzilla/show_bug.cgi?id=22656>. ANY REPLY MADE TO THIS MESSAGE WILL NOT BE COLLECTED AND INSERTED IN THE BUG DATABASE. http://nagoya.apache.org/bugzilla/show_bug.cgi?id=22656 SMTP won't work under non-ASCII platforms Summary: SMTP won't work under non-ASCII platforms Product: Commons Version: unspecified Platform: Other OS/Version: Other Status: NEW Severity: Blocker Priority: Other Component: Net AssignedTo: firstname.lastname@example.com ReportedBy: firstname.lastname@example.com The SMTP code doesn't work on EBCDIC platforms (like IBM os/390) because it sends the commands in the default platform encoding instead of forcing it to be ASCII. I've tested it with an application running on OS/390 trying to do SMTP with a Domino server also running on OS/390 and it doesn't work because the server expects ASCII encoding even if it is running on an EBCDIC platform. It is specified in the SMTP protocol that the commands/responses must be encoded in ASCII. I've made it work locally by changing the calls to open the input/output streams in the com.oroinc.net.smtp.SMTP._connectAction_() method by using the respective constructors accepting an encoding as the second parameter and by specifying this encoding to be "Cp850". The code changes still works on a Win2K platform. I suspect there might be other platforms and/or other protocols that are affected.
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What is your username? KiriBlade.
Please link to the wiki here: http://cardinal-quest-2.wikia.com/wiki/Cardinal_Quest_2_Wiki
How many edits have you made on that wiki? 369.
How many days/months have you been editing there? 205 days, since April 7th, 2015, as a named user. Somewhat earlier as an anonymous user.
On the Special Pages → Special:ListAdmins when was the last time an admin edited, and who was it? Evilstreak, on July 13th, 2013.
Any other information: I've gotten in touch with the other currently active users on the wiki and they're on board with me making this request; since the original creator of the wiki started it and then left immediately, there's been no one around to delete pages, update the navigation, or any of that other useful stuff. If I and several of the other users can obtain administrator abilities, we'll be able easily to get rid of the large number of old, superfluous pages currently weighing down the wiki and hopefully increase its popularity. Thanks! KiriBlade (talk) 03:36, October 31, 2015 (UTC)


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As I mentioned last week, I found a playlist on spotify called 'Singer Songwriter Christmas'. There's still a few I didn't get through, so I'm forging on with more Christmas tunes this week. If you click on the link above, you'll be able to listen to the full list on Spotify online, even if you don't have spotify downloaded.
901. Future of Forestry - 'The Earth Stood Still'
902. Lisa Hannigan - 'Silent Night'
903. Cary Brothers - 'Christmas Tree'
904. Relient K - 'I Celebrate the Day'
905. The Boy Least Likely To - 'Christmas Isn't Christmas'
906. Justin McRoberts - 'O Come All Ye Faithful'
907. Sufjan Stevens - 'Joy to the World'
908. Bahamas - 'Christmas Must Be Tonight'
909. Josh Rouse - 'Christmas with Jesus'
910. Luke - 'Mele Kelikimaka' - National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation anyone?
911. Jack Johnson - 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer'
912. Camera Obscura - 'The Blizzard'
913. Summer Fiction - 'Christmas Eve for Two'
And some extras, not on the playlist.
914. Jack Johnson - 'Someday at Christmas'
915. Coldplay - 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas'
Including a few anti-Christmas songs for the scrooges. Lovely Husband, I'm looking at you. xx
916. Barenaked Ladies - 'Elf's Lament'
917. Ren & Stimpy - 'I Hate Christmas'
918. Stephen Colbert - 'Another Christmas Song'
919. Weezer - 'Christmas Celebration'
920. Joss Stone - 'The Anti-Christmas Carol'


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No matter the plan... we all Blog to Lose!
So, it's been awhile....in the past that would have meant that I fell completely off the wagon, wasn't living a healthy life, and so I was avoiding this place. Not this time! Life is just busy with 2 kids, working, and trying to spend some time with my husband. Life is also kinda boring at maintenance. In the past, I loved posting about weekly progress, sharing pictures, or talking about challenges. Now it just kinda seems like the same old boring talk all the time. However, I will try and share some things I learned along the way and what I am still learning in maintenance.
When I set out to lose weight (this time) I promised myself I would not do anything to lose weight that I wasn't willing to do to maintain weight because I had been super strict in the past and then gained all that weight back. I needed something sustainable that didn't leave me longing for "the end" of the diet so that I could eat all the things I had deprived myself of. Now, that's not to say that I always eat all the things I want because that's how I got overweight in the first place! My motto became "I can have what I want, but I can't have it all" I make choices every day about what is most important to me for that week--spoiler alert, most of the time it's a cheeseburger and fries but this week it was pizza! And this isn't just "maintenance food" I ate that way all the way through losing 68 pounds. My friends jokingly referred to it as my cheeseburger diet because I often said that a life without cheeseburgers isn't worth living.
All that said, I have had a bit of a scale creep over the past few months. I am still well under my official goal weight, but I'm about 4 pounds over my "ideal weight" This means back to strict tracking/measuring for a bit until I get back to where I want to be. This is key for me to maintain. In the past, I would put on 3-4 pounds. Stay that weight for a long time and get comfortable--and then put on another couple pounds. Stay at that weight for awhile and then get comfortable--you get the idea. No more! If I get more than 3 lbs above my goal weight, I go back to basics. Measuring, weighing, tracking every bite. I don't plan to do those things every day for the rest of my life, so that's incentive to stay close to my ideal weight!
Paula mentioned that my kids must be getting big and she's right! So just because you know I'm kinda obsessed with them, here are a couple of cutie pictures to show how much they have grown!
Views: 29
@Erica--thank you for the kind words. That is super sweet of you. You are a champ for hanging in there through it all and I look forward to hearing all about your success!
@Paula--thanks! I appreciate you always checking on me. That's great that you have been able to keep that weight off and that you keep on trekking. I think in some ways maintenance is harder than losing--so you already have that part figured out! I know you can do it. My son will be 5 in May, but as he says he's "the size of a 7 year old" Haha. And the 'baby' will be 2 next month!!
© 2017 Created by Roni. Powered by


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Technology Class sampler: Real-Time Architectures: Past, Present, and Future
Among scores of classes presented at ESC Boston was a two-part session on ''Real-Time Architectures: Past, Present, and Future'' by Dr. C. Douglass Locke, VP of Technology at TimeSys Corp. (Pittsburgh, PA).
Among scores of classes presented at ESC Boston was a two-part session on ''Real-Time Architectures: Past, Present, and Future'' by Dr. C. Douglass Locke, VP of Technology at TimeSys Corp . (Pittsburgh, PA).
Only four fundamental real-time architectural styles have been used in more than 40 years of experience with response-time critical embedded systems, explains Locke:
Timeline (aka cyclic executive)—is conceptually simple, but quite a costly architecture to integrate over a product lifecycle. Positive characteristic include low overhead and no need to use concurrency or synchronization. Yet, the need for every frame (or non-recurring minor cycle) to have spare capacity is a disadvantage.
Event-driven—has periodic and aperiodic activities and is triggered by low-end events. Advantages include capacity to spread space across all threads, making it a good fit for a real-time operating system (RTOS). One downside is difficulty to define thread priorities if overloads occur. Priority inversion must be controlled.
Pipeline—uses interprocess messages in addition to I/O completion and timer(s) to trigger tasks. Good for distributed systems, highly scalable for complex applications, and compatible with a full-featured RTOS are among its advantages. However it is difficult to analyze a time-line approach for predictable response. It also can result in non-preemptive delays. A bidirectional pipeline is particularly unpredictable.
Client-server—is a form of the pipeline, usually implemented via some parallel processing. It's easier to debug and application design is familiar to many developers. Disadvantages are similar to that of the pipeline, but concurrency can be much more limited.
The bottom line is that none of the approaches is problem-free. Since architecture must typically be chosen early in the embedded system's lifecycle, the decision has major impact on performance, safety, fault tolerance, and lifecycle cost, Locke concludes.
—Frank J. Bartos, executive editor, Control Engineering, email@example.com
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Father of Dublin man found dismembered in skip offers 'substantial reward' to find killers
Noel Burke has appealed for information to find the killers of his son Mark, whose body was found chopped up in a skip in July last year.
Noel Burke was on Today with Sean O'Rourke on RTE Radio 1 as he launched a fresh appeal, and offered a reward, for new information into how his son died.
The dismembered remains of Mark Burke (37) were found in Thortons recycling centre in Ballyfermot, West Dublin, last July.
Workers at the waste facility discovered a lower leg and the foot part of an upper leg was found the following day.
Mark's body was only identified months later, after he was reported missing by Noel when the family hadn't seen or heard from him.
Dad-of-seven Mark was last seen in Dun Laoghaire, coming out of the courthouse, on July 28 at about 2pm.
At the time he had been staying in a hostel in the seaside town but aside from that the Gardai, and the family, are completely in the dark as to what happened.
Noel ruled out one possible motive for the horrific murder saying it was 'definitely not a drug debt'. Mark did have an alcohol problem and had just 30 per cent liver function due to years of alcohol abuse.
Mark had no known enemies and the family are both heart broken and baffled as to how Mark's life ended. Noel floated the possibility it was perhaps a robbery that went too far. Noel also believes Mark was killed in Dun Laoghaire and then dumped in the skip which was then transported to Ballyfermot where the grim discovery was made.
They have printed leaflets to distribute in the Dun Laoghaire/Blackrock area to try and dig up some extra information on what happened to Mark and a 'substantial reward' is offered if information provided leads to an arrest or conviction of Mark's murderer or murderers.


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Olivia Devine – Sweet Olivia
Released: December 8, 2014
Olivia is a hot blonde and she catches her guy looking at We Like to Suck on his laptop. Instead of freaking out, this turns her on so much that she takes out his big dick, licks his balls and uses her mouth to work his shaft! She gives him a handjob and continues to suck him off while he licks her delicious little pussy. This cute blonde loves dick and she works him into a frenzy that he cums all over her gorgeous face!


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Against 'Audio Architecture'
What if no music blared from airports, supermarkets, bars, department stores or restaurants? Imagine being able to sit down in your neighborhood cafe and hear your friend talk without having to parse her words through the strains of "Sweet Child o' Mine." On Nov. 21, a surprisingly wide swath of Britain honored "No Music Day." Radio stations, stores, recording studios and scores of music lovers took a laudable vow of musical silence. Should No Music Day come to America tomorrow, it wouldn't be soon enough.
Not being able to hear yourself think, or feel, or escape "Hotel California," is indeed what makes music in public places a nightmare. Your poor senses are crushed every time you step out of the house. By hammering you with pop tunes before a movie, Cineplexes manage to kill your appetite for a film. And can't we just daydream in a market's fluorescent aisles, ruminate over whether we want to prepare salmon or ravioli tonight, without having to hear "once, twice, three times a lady"?
Why do bars insist on pummeling us with their songs at the decibel levels of NHRA drag races? Bars are supposed to be an oasis from work and noise, places to sort out life in conversations with friends and lovers. These days, I gauge the sound level before deciding to sit down and have a drink.
In the '90s, Muzak reinvented itself with a new philosophy called audio architecture. The company sold music in public places not as a tranquilizer but as a means to enhance the shopping experience, as the marketing jargon goes. As Alvin Collins, a founder of the concept, explained to Owen, he was creating "retail theater." Muzak wasn't about soothing music anymore.
That leads to a deeper reason that music in public places gets under your skin. You hear songs that once lifted your spirits employed to sell you a computer. The offensive philosophy that music can condition consumer behavior or create a psychic soundscape shows up in all kinds of public places.
What [No Music Day] is really about is not escaping the incessant and unwanted drone of music in public. It's about learning how to listen again.