Abstract: A machine learning system implements a machine learning model. The system includes at least one layer of processing nodes, each processing node comprising a processor that executes computer readable instructions to perform at least one operation based on one or more inputs received at the processing node. The operation is scaled by a first scaling factor which has been calculated to cause a variance of an output of the at least one operation to have a target variance, for example unit variance or a variance that matches the variance of the input.

Abstract: An adjustable cane includes a grasping mechanism, an actuator, an adjustable length inelastic linkage, a magnetic pickup, hanging tip and self-standing base. Pivotally mounted to the distal end of the cane, the grasping mechanism includes a pair of fingers defining a narrow valley for grasping small objects and a wide valley for grasping large objects. The adjustable length inelastic linkage transmits force from the actuator to the grasping mechanism. The magnetic pickup is mounted to the grasping mechanism to facilitate retrieval of ferrous objects. The hanging tip supports the cane from horizontal surfaces. The self-standing base allows the cane to stand upright on any flat surface.

Abstract: An adjustable cane includes a grasping mechanism, an actuator, an adjustable length inelastic linkage, a magnetic pickup, hanging tip and self-standing base. Pivotally mounted to the distal end of the cane, the grasping mechanism includes a pair of fingers defining a narrow valley for grasping small objects and a wide valley for grasping large objects. The adjustable length inelastic linkage transmits force from the actuator to the grasping mechanism. The magnetic pickup is mounted to the grasping mechanism to facilitate retrieval of ferrous objects. The hanging tip supports the cane from horizontal surfaces. The self-standing base allows the cane to stand upright on any flat surface.

Abstract: A vent bag for a clothes dryer is provided and consists of a pouch with an air filter at its distal end that is releasably secured on a vent pipe of the clothes dryer so that the air filter can catch lint coming out of the vent pipe and recirculate the warm moist exhausted air from the vent pipe for energy conservation.