Abstract: A power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered multichannel streaming audio amplifier includes a plurality of Ethernet ports each configured to be coupled to an Ethernet cable and capable of receiving power and audio data transmitted over the Ethernet cables. Power supply circuitry connected to the Ethernet ports is configured to combine and manage the power received at the Ethernet ports. A microprocessor subsystem powered by the power supply circuitry is configured to receive and process the audio data to generate output audio signals. A digital audio amplifier powered by the power supply circuitry amplifies the output audio signals received from the microprocessor system. A plurality of audio outputs connected to the digital audio amplifier are each configured to be connected to a different one of a plurality of speaker devices to transmit the audio output signals amplified by the digital audio amplifier to the plurality of speaker devices.

Abstract: A networked speaker device includes a sealed housing and an Ethernet port in the housing for receiving power and audio data from a network router via an Ethernet cable. A power supply subsystem in the housing manages the power received at the Ethernet port. A microprocessor subsystem, powered by the power supply subsystem, receives and processes the audio data to generate output audio signals. A digital audio amplifier, powered by the power supply subsystem, amplifies the output audio signals to drive a speaker driver to render an audio output. The device also includes at least one heater resistor in the housing powered by the power supply subsystem. The at least one heater resistor is controlled by the microprocessor subsystem to automatically heat the interior of the housing when temperature inside the housing falls below a given temperature.

Abstract: Buyer, vendor and third party computer systems are disclosed together with a related method for enabling a prospective Buyer to browse a Vendor's website purchase goods or services. The Buyer's computer system automatically extracts purchase information from which the Vendor can identify the Buyer's purchase. The Buyer's computer system may transmit, under control of the Buyer, confirmation to the Vendor that a third party has been instructed to pay the Vendor for the Buyer's purchase. A third party's computer system may transmit to the Vendor confirmation of receipt of an instruction from a Buyer to pay a Vendor for goods or services.

Abstract: Buyer, vendor and third party computer systems are disclosed together with a related method for enabling a prospective Buyer to browse a Vendor's website to purchase goods or services. According to one aspect of the present invention, the Buyer's computer system automatically extracts purchase information from the Vendor's website from which the Vendor can identify the Buyer's purchase. According to a further aspect of the present invention, the Buyer's computer system transmits, under control of the Buyer, confirmation to the Vendor that a third party has been instructed to pay the Vendor for the Buyer's purchase. In a yet further aspect of the present invention, a third party's computer system transmits to the Vendor confirmation of receipt of an instruction from a Buyer to pay a Vendor for goods or services.

Abstract: Buyer, vendor and third party computer systems are disclosed together with a related method for enabling a prospective Buyer to browse a Vendor's website purchase goods or services. The Buyer's computer system automatically extracts purchase information from which the Vendor can identify the Buyer's purchase. The Buyer's computer system may transmit, under control of the Buyer, confirmation to the Vendor that a third party has been instructed to pay the Vendor for the Buyer's purchase. A third party's computer system may transmit to the Vendor confirmation of receipt of an instruction from a Buyer to pay a Vendor for goods or services.

Abstract: An illumination device comprising a display unit (1), and a display driver (3) adapted to receive a video signal (4) and to control a video output of said display unit based on said video signal, comprising an illuminator unit (2) comprising a plurality of additional light emitting elements, and a controller (5), adapted to control an additional light output from said illuminator unit (2) in accordance with the video signal (4) and a set point (6) representing a desired total light output, such that said video output in combination with said additional light output approximates said desired total light output. By enabling control of the total light output, an illumination device is achieved that can provide a desired illumination while at the same time displaying video content on the display unit. Therefore, video content can be displayed without interfering with the overall ambiance.

Abstract: An automatic door closer for a sliding door. The closer mechanism includes a base mounted onto one of a sliding door and a door frame, a spring-biased block and tackle mechanism mounted within the base and a cable that is connected to the other of the sliding door and door frame. The closer includes a selectively activated locking mechanism that engages the cable and prevents its movement into or out of the base, thereby preventing the closer from automatically shutting the door.

Abstract: A hollow plastic burial vault having a base and a cover moulded as an integral unit and having a peripheral flange extending about the vault. The flange includes a first sealing surface portion, a first joint portion, a second sealing surface portion, and a second joint portion. The first sealing portion is formed to seat and seal against the second sealing surface, and the first joint portion is formed to join releasably with the second joint portion when the flange is severed along its length to separate the cover and the first sealing surface and joint portions from the base and the second sealing surface and joint portions. A method of manufacturing such a vault is also provided.