Abstract: A self-contained wireless interactive speech recognition control device and system that integrates with automated systems and appliances to provide totally hands-free speech control capabilities for a given space. Preferably, each device comprises a programmable microcontroller having embedded speech recognition and audio output capabilities, a microphone, a speaker and a wireless communication system through which a plurality of devices can communicate with each other and with one or more system controllers or automated mechanisms. The device may be enclosed in a stand-alone housing or within a standard electrical wall box. Several devices may be installed in close proximity to one another to ensure hands-free coverage throughout the space. When two or more devices are triggered simultaneously by the same speech command, real time coordination ensures that only one device will respond to the command.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing man-made snow without using either compressed air or high-speed fans. The method makes use of a special water nozzle that is designed to provide a high volume spray of water particles that, owing to their size distribution (having a median size of between about 100 and 200 microns) in the spray, are readily susceptible to conversion to ice crystals as they settle to earth under favorable ambient conditions. Preferably, water applied to the nozzle is seeded with artificial nucleation sites so that water particles in a spray containing such sites are more susceptible to conversion to ice crystals as the particles settle to earth.

Abstract: A motorized water hydrant of the type operated by a bi-directional electric motor assembly is provided with a mechanism for operating the hydrant in the event of electric power failure. A motor drive shaft rigidly coupled to a valve stem on the hydrant has first and second portions of circular and hexagonal cross-section, respectively. A handle member having a hexagonal aperture therein is slidably mounted on the drive shaft for movement between a first position in which the first portion of the shaft may rotate freely within the handle aperture, and a second position in which the second portion of the shaft mates with the handle aperture and prevents the motor drive shaft from rotating in the motor assembly. The motor assembly is rotatably mounted on the hydrant housing for movement about the valve stem axis. When the handle is moved to its second position and the motor assembly is manually rotated about the valve stem axis, the hydrant operates manually.