Abstract: A system can include a processor and a computer-readable storage device storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations can include receiving an identification of a local device having a control module that manages a reader component and a locking mechanism and transmitting an authorized list to the local device that identifies authorized users that can gain access to the local device via the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader component. The control module on the local device can manage multiple functions of the local device including management of the reader component and the locking mechanism.

Abstract: A system can include a processor and a computer-readable storage device storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations can include receiving an identification of a local device having a control module that manages a reader component and a locking mechanism and transmitting an authorized list to the local device that identifies authorized users that can gain access to the local device via the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader component. The control module on the local device can manage multiple functions of the local device including management of the reader component and the locking mechanism.

Abstract: An example system can include a battery-powered trash compactor or storage device that performs operations including receiving identification information via an external entity from a reader component. The reader component is connected to a control module that manages sensor components or other functions of the battery-powered storage device. The control module also controls a locking mechanism and reader component. Based on the identification information, via the control module, the battery-powered storage device unlocks the locking mechanism.

Abstract: A system can include a processor and a computer-readable storage device storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations can include receiving an identification of a local device having a control module that manages a reader component and a locking mechanism and transmitting an authorized list to the local device that identifies authorized users that can gain access to the local device via the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader component. The control module on the local device can manage multiple functions of the local device including management of the reader component and the locking mechanism.

Abstract: A pair of devices includes a first device and a second device that communicate lock control signals. The first device can have both a reader component and a control module that controls both (1) a first operation of the first device (such as a sensor control) and (2) a first locking component of the first device for accessing a first door of the first device. A second device can be in communication with the first device. The second device can have a second locking component for the second device for accessing a second door of the second device. The second device in one aspect does not having a reader component or a control module that independently controls the second locking component.

Abstract: In an embodiment of the invention, a non-rotating wind energy generator uses the fluid flow principles of vortex shedding and transverse galloping to generate oscillatory motion of a beam, and alternators, optionally located near both ends of the beam, generate electrical power when the beam is in motion.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention relate to a control system for a non-rotating wind energy generator. The control system can comprise a sensor that senses at least one of: an amplitude of oscillation of a bluff body of the non-rotating wind energy generator, a power output of a linear alternator system of the non-rotating wind energy generator, a voltage output of the linear alternator system of the non-rotating wind energy generator, and a current output of the linear alternator system of the non-rotating wind energy generator. Additionally, the control system can comprise a damper that applies a damping force to the bluff body based in part on at least one of the amplitude, the voltage output, the current output, and the power output.

Abstract: Disclosed is an alignment tool. A body of the alignment tool fits into a turret block, while a head holds a machine-tool. During the alignment process, the head and body are allowed to move relative to one another in two dimensions perpendicular to an axis of rotation of a spindle. To align the alignment tool, a workpiece is inserted into the spindle. As the workpiece spins, a machine-tool cuts a taper in it. An “empty” alignment tool is brought to bear against the tapered workpiece. The axis of the head of the empty alignment tool, and thus the axis of any machine-tool held by the head, is aligned with the axis of the tapered workpiece and, thus, with the axis of the spindle. Once the machine-tool is aligned with the spindle, the head and body are tightly fastened together to preserve the alignment.

Abstract: Disclosed is an alignment tool. A body of the alignment tool fits into a turret block, while a head holds a machine-tool. During the alignment process, the head and body are allowed to move relative to one another in two dimensions perpendicular to an axis of rotation of a spindle. To align the alignment tool, a workpiece is inserted into the spindle. As the workpiece spins, a machine-tool cuts a taper in it. An “empty” alignment tool is brought to bear against the tapered workpiece. The axis of the head of the empty alignment tool, and thus the axis of any machine-tool held by the head, is aligned with the axis of the tapered workpiece and, thus, with the axis of the spindle. Once the machine-tool is aligned with the spindle, the head and body are tightly fastened together to preserve the alignment.