Abstract: An improved method for monitoring stack quality in a finisher of a printer includes examining the net displacement of a compiling tray after each set has been ejected. A deviation from the normal increments of displacement for each set triggers a “tray full” condition which alerts a user to empty the tray.

Abstract: A line producing system includes an input beam of radiant energy that enters a side of a low cost, radiant energy altering device. The radiant energy emerges from the light altering device radiating in a nearly 360 degree disc pattern forming a ring of ever expanding light.

Abstract: A FreeTherm thermal energy storage system includes an ice-water shallow pool used for storing and extracting thermal energy cyclically, by thawing the ice and freezing water intra-seasonally. A series of heat extractors positioned within the shallow pool are adapted to extract heat during the formation of ice. Bladders are connected to the heat extractors and also connected to a conventional heat pump and have an anti-freeze mix that is maintained at sub-freezing temperatures flowing through their interiors to remove heat from the heat extractors. The extractors have concave-downward surfaces for extracting heat from water to produce ice. The heat extractors are made of flexible material that can be expanded to release ice from their surfaces, and are adapted to pivot up and out of the way to allow the released ice to float to the top of the reservoir.