Abstract: Methods for operating the user interfaces (UIs) of a device such as an MFP device while the device is under simultaneous user operations from different access points.

Abstract: A waterproof touch screen user interface panel constructed in such a way that readily available LCD displays and touch screen switches can be used in a wet environment. A thin plastic film is placed over the top of a touch screen/LCD assembly using moisture resistant adhesive to protect the assembly from the panel's top side and a specially constructed housing allows the use of silicon gel to protect the panel from the bottom side. The plastic film, typically a polycarbonate film, is thin enough to allow activation of the touch screen switches with a soft touch, yet rigid enough to prevent false activations of the switches until touched.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and system for electronic gift giving. The method includes providing an internet site for access by a giver via a giver device, prompting the giver to enter giver identification information, and storing the giver identification information in a data store. The giver is prompted to enter recipient information, and the recipient information is stored in the data store. The giver is prompted to select from a plurality of composition templates, and create a composition based on the selected composition template. The giver is prompted to enter a value of a monetary gift, and the entered value is stored in association with the created composition for delivery to a recipient. An embodiment of the invention may include interest being accrued based on the value of the monetary gift. In another embodiment, at least one sponsor pays a fee for an advertising message to appear in the composition.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of an inductive electrical sensor assembly includes a hollow housing structure defining an open space within the housing structure and a circuit board mounted in the open space. The circuit board includes an inductive sense area. A flexible metal domed spring structure is mounted over the inductive sensor area. A stem portion extends from a actuator area of the housing structure and having a distal end disposed adjacent to or in contact with the spring structure. The domed spring structure is adapted to be flexed toward the inductive sensor area by force exerted by the stem portion when a user exerts force on the actuator area, the flexing of the domed spring structure resulting in a change of inductance of the inductive sensor area which may be sensed to indicate an actuator push.

Abstract: A retractable wind deflector for a vehicle is configured to deploy a deflector body from a stowed position to a deployed position extending outside the vehicle compartment when a window is opened, and to return the deflector body from the deployed position to the stowed position when the window is closed.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a system and method provides a determination of when a file/document format native to a device such as a multifunction peripheral (MFP) device should be handled natively by the MFP (default behavior) or preprocessed by an external service.

Abstract: A suction fitting assembly for a bathing installation includes a cover with a pattern of orifices, a wall fitting, and an adapter structure. The wall fitting is configured for insertion through a hole in a wall of a bathing water receptacle, and may be secured in place with a locking nut. The cover is fastened to the wall fitting on the bather side of the wall. A suction adapter structure is connected to the wall fitting. A function of the suction adaptor structure is to admit air through an air tube from the atmosphere to the suction line during a blocked condition, rendering pump operation ineffective.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of an air blower includes an electrically powered motor including a motor housing. A blower housing has first and second housing structures, each having inwardly facing, spaced ribs, and configured to surround the motor assembly in an assembled configuration. The ribs on the first and second housing structures register the radial and axial position of the motor housing inside the housing.

Abstract: The present invention is a calibration and measurement system designed primarily for use in the rapid evaluation and characterization of open or visible wounds in patients. The invention in a preferred embodiment comprises a set of colored concentric rings, constructed of paper or synthetic material. The practitioner removes only as many rings, from the center outward, until the entire wound is visible within the open aperture at the center of the remaining rings. The area dimensions of the wound are then read out from the size of the inner remaining ring. Photography optionally records the wound appearance and size. A related system is developed for linear dimensioning of wounds. This invention is also designed to standardize the color scheme for accurate photography wound description. This color scheme is also applicable to a linear device to accurately describe wound size. The invention is also useful in forensic and accident investigations.

Abstract: A spa control system designed to reduce maintenance cost by providing modular construction for major control functions, with built-in diagnostic capabilities for isolating defective spa components. Multi-colored LEDs on the spaside panel constantly report the status of each component of the spa as well as the status of the functional modules themselves. Each time a component is activated, measurements of operational parameters, such as load currents, are instantly made and evaluated so that the proper LED color can be presented at the spaside. Since major functions such as audio, LED control, wireless, and spa logic are separated into removable modules, repair of the control system requires less time and less skilled personnel. Other design improvements, such as direct monitoring of heater element temperature and the purging of pumps on an as-required-basis, enhance the spa's overall reliability and thus reduce the need for maintenance.

Abstract: An integrated water treatment system for sanitizing the water in a water system and reducing scaling includes an electrolytic cell through which water is passed. An electronic control system is coupled to the electrolytic cell, to provide a drive current to the cell to generate a sanitizer by electrolysis. The control system applies a variable frequency alternating voltage drive to said cell to reduce scaling build-up in the system.

Abstract: An impedance tuner may include a transmission media for propagating RF signals, a reflection magnitude control device mounted in a fixed position relative to a direction of signal propagation along said transmission media, and a phase shifter to control a reflection phase. A multi-section probe for an impedance tuner system may include a plurality of probe sections and a holder structure for mechanically supporting the plurality of probe sections.