Abstract: A voice recognition system which controls industrial equipment or machinery. A proximity detector is attached to automatically adjust microphone sensitivity and to control automatic shutdown when the machine operator is not present. An enhanced barge-in feature uses a data switch that includes an input audio delay storage. The delay storage prevents loss of initial input data by delaying the input until the data switch switches from output to input modes. A variety of audio/video responses are provided to vary output and enhance attention span. Rules based input data handling provides a flexible response to user input.

Abstract: The invention is a photonic home area network for interfacing an external communications data network with a plurality of buildings, residential or commercial, in a neighborhood. The external communications network has a plurality of user data bandwidth segments with at least television programming data, audio programming data and telephony service data provided to the network. The photonic home area network has a photonic multiaccess channel, a head-end communications circuit, a plurality of set-top box circuits, and an executable program for demultiplexing and distributing the data segments in the set-top box circuits and acquiring user data for incorporation into a subsequent multiplexed signal.

Abstract: A customizable data acquisition device (DA) and a data collection system (DCS). The DA is remotely located for attachment to a variety of I/O devices, and uses an RF transceiver with a primary cache. A centrally located or mobile DCS with a secondary cache communicates with one or more DA's and stores DA data in the secondary cache. The DA has a programmable controller and an I/O interface capable of attaching to a variety of I/O devices. The DA primary cache holds data for bulk transfers to the DCS to minimize DA/DCS data transmission traffic. The DCS secondary cache accumulates data from the DA and allows data queries by multiple independent application programs (which may be located on the DCS, other DCSs, or remote host systems) without requiring retransmission of data from the DA for each query. Applications can query cached data in the secondary cache, and optionally query the primary cache or query the I/O device via the DA.

Abstract: A system for use with a database selects keywords from a restricted keyword list for both updating and searching (i.e. bi-directional keyword translation). A keyword translator accepts a user entered keyword and selects a restricted keyword for use (e.g., entry or search) with a database. The keyword entered may be chosen by the user based on the user's preference. The system compares the user-entered keyword with a list of restricted keywords to determine whether there exists in the list of restricted keywords a matching restricted keyword corresponding to the user-entered keyword. If there is a restricted keyword in the list of restricted keywords that corresponds to the user-entered keyword, the system selects the matching restricted keyword for use with the database.

Abstract: A multiple media storage device for attachment to a conventional book leaf. The device includes a two dimensional storage compartment and/or a three dimensional storage compartment which has an optional data entry area associated with the storage compartments. The data entry area is a writing area provided for entry of printed information on the device. The device is attached to a conventional book leaf via a substrate that holds the integral storage compartments and data entry areas and adheres to the surface of the book leaf. An alternative embodiment integrates the device into a book leaf structure. The book leaf structure may have multiple devices on a single page, each of which may hold two and/or three dimensional items in combination with data entry areas for printed information related to objects in the storage compartments. The storage compartments may be transparent to allow viewing of the contents without opening the storage compartment.

Abstract: A wing structure for hang gliders, ultralites, gliders, heavy aircraft, ornithopters and sailsoaring flying boats which has a first wing set that pivots on two axis, and a second wing set that remains substantially immobile relative to the fuselage or keel. The wing pivots on the lateral axis of the fuselage or keel by moving along a slider assembly that allows it to move from a swept position to a more perpendicular position relative to the keel to control the amount of lift. The wing also pivots on the longitudinal axis of the fuselage or keel to control banking. On hang glider versions of the device, optional ducted fan, propeller, or jet propulsion units provide power to maintain flight. An optional bungee launch assembly assists takeoff from relatively flat surfaces. An optional "telepresence" wing controller allows the pilot to control wing motion with minimal physical exertion.

Abstract: A very light weight high pressure coiled retractable hose kit for marine vehicles and outdoor use which uses a helical structure to automatically retract when not used. The helical structure allows the hose to extend substantially the length of a typical fishing boat. A UV and thermal resistant material is used to withstand damage from prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat or cold. The material is also corrosion resistant to withstand damage from salt water. A high pressure rating allows a narrow diameter hose which occupies a small storage area to be attached to a conventional spigot and provide an increase in water velocity when the nozzle is activated. Input and output fittings and a nozzle retention bracket hold the hose structure in a tight helical spring configuration for storage. The light weight allows easy manipulation of the hose kit and provides improved safety by enhancing the ability to move the hose kit from underfoot during periods of intense activity such as when gaffing fish onboard a boat.

Abstract: A multiple door bulkhead which can be partially opened to accommodate a small discharge or completely opened to accommodate a wide discharge port. In addition, a single standard liner provides multiple discharge ports which can be selectively opened at the user's discretion. Alternative embodiments provide a single standard liner to which multiple liner discharge can be attached. A discharge port is also shown which can be attached directly to the bulkhead. Optional quick attachment methods are provided in which reusable discharge ports can be attached to the standard liner or the multiple door bulkhead. The end of the liner is opened for unloading by cutting the section of the end wall which is encircled by the desired port. The liner and ports are optionally provided in kit form with pre-attached tape on the liner and ports. The ports do not have to be attached to the liner until required.

Abstract: An adjustable frame for simultaneously aligning and installing multiple tiles. The adjustable frame contains a plurality of tile apertures. Each tile aperture is sized to accept a particular tile size. Tiles are inserted into each of the tile apertures to allow multiple tiles to be installed and automatically be aligned with one another during the installation process. The width of the grout area between the tiles is thus automatically set by the width of the adjustable frame segments. The adjustable frame is fabricated from independent frame segments which have internal adjustment rod channels. Adjustment rods are adjustably secured to two frame segments such that the distance between the frame segments can be selectably varied. By varying the distance between frame segments, the size of the tile aperture is varied, and therefore the tile size can be varied. The size of the tile apertures can be independently varied in a lateral direction or in a longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A hands free square and level which includes a self holding square that has central channels formed by opposing inner and outer walls. The central channels include mounting holes in its outer wall to allow it to be mounted on a work piece via screws. An inner wall, opposing the outer wall, has corresponding screw driver apertures to allow access to the screws by a screwdriver. The central channel also has transverse bolt apertures which allow the square to be face mounted on a work surface by inserting a bolt through a transverse bolt aperture and then into a work surface. A separate detachable level is sized to slidably fit within a central channel. Hands free operation is achieved by attaching the self holding square to a work surface and then inserting the level into a central channel. An alternative embodiment uses one or more levels which are integrally mounted on the square.

Abstract: A permanently attached identification device which is a button sized RFID tag having a unique number. The RFID tag is applied to the garment on the first visit and the identification number is then read. Information related to the garment (such as owner name, dates, reason for cleaning, etc.) is input to a computer along with the identification number. Each time the garment is deposited with a dry cleaner the RFID tag is automatically read by a tag reader near the garment conveyor, and information related to the current visit is input to the computer. The computer maintains a history record related to each garment that is keyed to the identification number in the RFID tag.

Abstract: A data transmission dictionary is provided, which is adapted for use by a computer system for encoding, storing, or retrieving hierarchically related data transmission information. The dictionary is comprised of a group of one or more computer searchable definition trees relating to transmission information of the computer system. The trees are derived from a first definition group which includes characteristics of commands, replies or data usable by the computer system. The characteristics include structure and value properties and restrictions, if any, applying to the commands, replies or data. Each tree represents, respectively, a definition of a the command, reply or data to which it relates. Each tree includes a root node identified by name, e.g., a codepoint. The root node includes information describing the type of definition tree concerned (i.e., whether it relates to a command, reply or data), and may include one or more internal or terminal descendant nodes.

Abstract: A premixed ultra-light sandless mortar for use with clay and concrete tiles. The mortar uses ASTM standard C-332 aggregate, vermiculite or perlite aggregate in place of heavy aggregates such as sand. The mortar cement is made from portland cement, lime, air entraining agents, and water repelling agents. The resulting compound retains large amounts of moisture which increases hydration time resulting in improved bonding strength, and increased tile uplift strength. The light weight of the mortar also allows a full bed of mortar to be laid on the roof with the resulting benefit of an addition insulating layer for the building. The mortar is suitable for roofing or floor tile applications.

Abstract: A medication delivery straw which delivers medication held within the straw tube. When the patient drinks fluid through the straw, the medication is dissolved and ingested by the patient. A particle barrier at one end of the straw prevents viscous or powdered medicines, or crushed tablets, from falling out of the straw. The particle barrier has apertures which allow fluid to enter the straw during use. The fluid dissolves the medication in the straw while the patient is drinking. Optional features include disposable funnels (which may be preloaded with medicine) for filling the straw with the correct dosage of medication, funnels which are capable of attaching to pill crushers, removable caps for straws with premeasured doses of medication that prevent medicine loss during handling or storage, flexible necks for ease of use, and flexible straw walls to allow crushing medicine tablets within the straw. In the alternative, a medicine sack holds the medication much like a teabag holds tea.