Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling windows with variable light transmission are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system includes a sensor adapted to receive a light intensity, a user input device adapted to receive a user input value, a window having a variable transmissivity portion, and a control system. The control system is operatively coupled to the sensor, the user input device, and the window, and is adapted to receive the light intensity and user input value and to adjust a transmission level of the variable transmissivity portion of the window based on at least one of the light intensity and the user input value. The sensor includes a sensor adapted to receive a light intensity, a temperature, a humidity, or other environmental variables. In other embodiments, the system also includes a ventilation system, an air conditioning system, or a humidity control system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for case hardening a work piece by inductive heating is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a ring of conductive material having an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and opposing planar sides. In one embodiment, dielectric material fixed to the planar sides of the ring prevents the electrical power passing through the conductive material from short circuiting. In another embodiment of the invention, a plurality of conductive teeth extend radially from at least one of the inner diameter and the outer diameter of the ring, wherein a valley having a vertex is formed between adjacent conductive teeth, and conductive material is removed from the ring proximal the vertex to prevent overheating gear teeth of the work piece being hardened.