Abstract: A computer system causes output of audio information from a first application to a set of one or more audio output devices in accordance with a first audio output mode previously selected for the first application using a system audio output setting control. After, the computer system receives a request to play audio from a second application different from the first application. In response, the computer system causes output of audio information from the second application to the set of one or more audio output devices, including, in accordance with a determination that a second audio output mode, different from the first audio output mode, was previously selected for the second application using the system audio output setting control, causing output of the audio information from the second application via the set of one or more audio output devices in accordance with the second audio output mode.

Abstract: A wearable audio output device includes a first portion configured to be inserted in a user's ear and a second portion that extends from the first portion and includes one or more input devices. The wearable audio output device detects an input via the one or more input devices. In response to detecting the input, and in accordance with a determination that the input is a swipe gesture along the second portion of the wearable audio output device, the wearable audio output device adjusts an output volume for the wearable audio output device based on movement of the swipe gesture along the second portion of the wearable audio output device.

Abstract: A capacitive transducer for measuring the rotation of a shaft including relatively movable rotor and stator elements. A unique arrangement of capacitive plates is mounted on the stator and rotor for producing a signal indicative of shaft rotation using direct current excitation but without requiring brushes, commutators or slip rings. A preferred embodiment may further include co-planar first, second and third stator plates or alternatively, cylindrically shaped stator and rotor plates. The number of stator plate segments included in each of the first and second stator plates, of the embodiment employing co-planar plates, may be an even multiple less than the number of rotor plate segments. By this arrangement, a circumferential gap may be provided in the first and second plates through which an extension of the third stator plate may be located to reach an output signal terminal located adjacent to but beyond the radial extent of the first and second stator plates.

Abstract: An accelerometer comprising a ferrofluid coated permanent magnet as a proof mass mounted for substantially friction-free movement in a hollow vessel on which vessel are mounted three coils that are used with an electrical circuit to detect and measure movement of the proof mass in response to an outside force and to return the proof mass to a null position.

Abstract: A portable electrically-powered space heater includes an electrically-powered boiler generating steam at subatmospheric pressure from a mixture of water and ethylene glycol that is circulated through a closed loop heat exchanger, portions of which comprise fin-tube radiators. The boiler is thermostatically controlled by a thermostat located in a chimney into which a downdraft of ambient air is drawn by a fan creating a forced-flow of air over the fin tubes. An automatic temperature-responsive time delay mechanism allows the boiler to get up to its operating temperature before the fan is actuated to draw air across the thermostat. The heater is further characterized by a novel design wherein a pair of upstanding heat exchangers are each housed in branches of a generally Y-shaped housing with a fan located in the stem-forming portion thereof effective to cooperate with the heat exchangers and the double-walled side panels alongside thereof to distribute a curtain of warm air over a 90.degree. or better swath.

Abstract: The specification discloses a magnetic liquid core toroidal transformer having four secondary windings spaced 90.degree. apart. When the toroid is deviated from the horizontal plane, the magnetic liquid causes the secondary winding voltages to correspondingly change.