Abstract: Methods, devices, and system for controlling communication between set top boxes and remote controls are presented. A set top box communication module may be configured to receive remote control data transmissions from a plurality of set top boxes. A first amplifier may be configured to receive the remote control data transmissions from the set top box communication module and amplify the remote control data transmissions on a plurality of remote control communication channels. The first amplifier may be configured to output the amplifier remote control data transmissions to one or more antennas. A jamming module may be configured to transmit a jamming signal to the plurality of set top boxes when the communication control device is receiving a remote control data transmission from a set top box of the plurality of set top boxes.

Abstract: Isolated bacteria are disclosed. The isolated bacteria are aerotolerant and can produced butanol. Methods are disclosed to produce generated chemicals. Methods are disclosed to isolate aerotolerant bacteria.

Abstract: A protective cover for an insertion probe of a medical instrument. The cover contains a flexible tubular body that compliments the probe geometry and a radially disposed flange that surrounds the proximal end of the body. A series of snap-on fasteners removably connect the cover to the instrument. A camming surface is located on the outer face of the flange which coacts with a cam follower that is movably mounted upon the instrument to flex the cover sufficiently to open the fastener and release the cover from the instrument and move the cover axially toward the distal end of the tip.

Abstract: A system and method enables animators to efficiently pose character models' feet. An initial foot model position is received. The initial foot model position specifies a foot model contact point. One or more foot roll parameters are specified that change the relative angle between at least a portion of the foot model and an initial orientation of an alignment plane. Foot roll parameters specify the rotation of the foot model around foot model contact points. Foot roll parameters can include heel roll, ball roll, and toe roll, which specify the rotation of the foot model around contact points on the heel, ball, and toe, respectively, of a foot model. To maintain the position of the foot model contact point, the foot model position is adjusted based on the foot roll parameter. The repositioned foot model is realigned with alignment plane, which restores contact at the foot model contact point.

Abstract: A method for a computer system includes displaying a toolbar region with user selectable icons on a display, positioning a cursor on the display over the toolbar region, and receiving a first command from the user while the cursor is positioned over the toolbar region, wherein the first command from the user comprises pressing and holding of a button on a user input device, displaying additional user selectable icons on the display in response to the first command, positioning the cursor on the display over one user selectable icon, and receiving a second command from the user while the cursor is positioned on the one user selectable icon, wherein the second command from the user comprises releasing the button on the user input device, wherein the one user icon and the user selectable icons are then displayed in the toolbar region in response to the second command.

Abstract: A graphical user interface for a computer system includes a display portion configured to display a representation of a first three-dimensional object, wherein the first three-dimensional object has an associated first volume, and a control icon associated with the first three-dimensional object, wherein the control icon is configured to allow a user to specify a bend amount to the first three-dimensional object in a first dimension, wherein the display portion is also configured to display a representation of a bent first three-dimensional object, wherein the bent first three-dimensional object comprises the first three-dimensional object that is bent lengthwise in response to the bend amount, and that may have an adjusted thickness in response to the bend amount.

Abstract: A graphical user interface for a computer system includes a display portion configured to display a representation of a first three-dimensional object and a second three-dimensional object, wherein the first three-dimensional object has an associated first volume, and wherein the second three-dimensional object has an associated second volume, and a control icon associated with the first three-dimensional object, wherein a user can specify a modification to the first three-dimensional object in a first dimension via the control icon, wherein the display portion is also configured to display a representation of a modified first three-dimensional object, wherein the modified first three-dimensional object comprises the first three-dimensional object that is modified in the first dimension in response to the modification and that is modified in a second dimension in response to the modification and to a volume preservation value.

Abstract: A method of initiating a continuous casting mold includes steps of positioning a plug inside a continuous casting mold, sealing the plug with respect to inner walls of the mold, positioning a prefabricated chill member on a top surface of the plug; and introducing molten metal into the mold. By prefabricating the chill member, valuable time is saved during the mold startup phase. The prefabricated chill member may have a compressible metallic sealing strip secured thereto to enhance sealing against the mold wall without abrading or scratching the mold wall. Another aspect of the invention involves sealing the gaps that exist between the mold surfaces and the mold plug by use of a an elongated body that defines in cross-section a broadened upper portion and a tapered lower portion that narrows into a leading edge. This construction permits the sealing element to be quickly inserted into a gap without being caught on the mold plug.

Abstract: A multi-segment filter system is provided for continuous filtration of high viscosity materials, such as polymer melts. In particular, each segment comprises a filter screen positioned between a bottom breaker plate and a top cover plate. The filter screen has a fixed alignment in relation to the breaker plate and cover plate, to prevent the formation of undesirable gaps. In one example, the alignment is fixed through positioning of pins extending from the breaker plate and passing through apertures in the filter screen and cover plate. Two pins are preferably positioned on the breaker plate in a nonsymmetric manner to ensure that a multilayered filter screen is positioned adjacent the breaker plate in a desired orientation. Successive segments are positioned on end and preferably include overlapped filter screen portions, thus eliminating any gaps between each segment. Overlapping coupling connections may also be provided in adjacent breaker plates.