Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system, method, and apparatus for managing a packaging article secured via a locking unit alterable between a locked state and an unlocked state. An indication that a user desires to handle the article may be received and an authorization of the user to handle the article may be performed. An actuator may cause the locking unit to alter from the locked state to the unlocked state, for example, based on the user being authorized to handle the article. Based on the user desiring to purchase the article, inventory information of the article may be updated by decreasing the number of articles in inventory by the article purchased. An account of the user may be charged a cost of the article. An indication may be provided to the user that the article has been purchased.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal storage system that is easily integrated with a wide range of electric power systems. In particular, the principles of the present invention are easily implemented at a very large scale to integrate with larger scale grid systems. The thermal storage aspects of the present invention are cost effective to implement. Also, the manner in which the systems operate allow thinner, less expensive wiring to be used effectively. Because heavy wiring can be a significant part of startup expenses, the ability to use thinner gauge wiring provides significant cost savings. Further, the systems are quickly responsive to grid conditions and not only modulate energy storage but also modulate energy storage fast enough to respond to grid conditions in real time.

Abstract: A user-friendly method for filtering LED products in order to identify a matching design ideal for a specific lighting application described by a user. The method includes first displaying a plurality of filter question, each associated with a plurality of answers. Next, a desired answer is received from a user account and is used to update an aggregate set of desired specifications with an at least one technical specification. The aggregate set of desired specifications is then compared against each of a plurality of LED designs in order to identify an at least one matching LED design. The aforementioned process is repeated as a plurality of iterations, with each iteration being associated with a filter question. Resultantly, the matching LED design of a last iteration is graphically displayed through a user computing device.

Abstract: In illustrative modes of practice, heliostat devices integrate light reflecting panels with a composite supporting structure that helps to provide the resultant assembly with structural integrity and stiffness. Light reflecting panels are coupled to the supporting, composite structure by a plurality of flexible connecting elements. Advantageously, the composite approach of the present invention effectively separates structural and thermal compensation functions. Specifically, the composite support structure helps to provide desired structural properties. In the meantime, the flexible connecting elements couple the top, light reflecting panel to the support structure in a manner that helps to isolate the top, light reflecting panel from thermal stresses that otherwise could cause undue slope errors.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal storage system that is easily integrated with a wide range of electric power systems. In particular, the principles of the present invention are easily implemented at a very large scale to integrate with larger scale grid systems. The thermal storage aspects of the present invention are cost effective to implement. Also, the manner in which the systems operate allow thinner, less expensive wiring to be used effectively. Because heavy wiring can be a significant part of startup expenses, the ability to use thinner gauge wiring provides significant cost savings. Further, the systems are quickly responsive to grid conditions and not only modulate energy storage but also modulate energy storage fast enough to respond to grid conditions in real time.