Abstract: A novel system and method are disclosed for associating computer-implemented features, functionalities, and/or digital asset rights with the consumption of consumable items using blockchain-based crypto-tokens. A new model of access authorization and licensing is achieved by linking the expenditure of crypto token transactions to the calculated expenditure of consumable items using the special features and functions of technology-enabled computer-implemented processes and methods performing these expenditures and controlling the access authorization and licensing as a function of blockchain immutable Smart Contract transactions. In addition, linking these same expenditures with the expenditure of digital asset rights, such as artwork printing, extends the value participation model to include manufacturers of consumable items, software developers, and digital rights creators such as artists.

Abstract: An apparatus includes processing hardware, storage hardware, and serial communication hardware. The processing hardware receives selection of a serial communication protocol. The serial communication protocol is selected amongst multiple serial communication protocols to control operation of a power converter. Via the processing hardware or other suitable entity, the storage hardware is populated with a set of command decode functions (a.k.a., command descriptors) assigned to the selected serial communication protocol. During operation, the serial communication hardware receives commands over a serial communication interface and executes the received commands via the set of command decode functions in the storage hardware. Each of the multiple commands communicated over the serial communication interface is encoded in accordance with the selected serial communication protocol. The serial communication hardware uses the set of command decode functions to execute the received commands.

Abstract: An apparatus includes processing hardware, storage hardware, and serial communication hardware. The processing hardware receives selection of a serial communication protocol. The serial communication protocol is selected amongst multiple serial communication protocols to control operation of a power converter. Via the processing hardware or other suitable entity, the storage hardware is populated with a set of command decode functions (a.k.a., command descriptors) assigned to the selected serial communication protocol. During operation, the serial communication hardware receives commands over a serial communication interface and executes the received commands via the set of command decode functions in the storage hardware. Each of the multiple commands communicated over the serial communication interface is encoded in accordance with the selected serial communication protocol. The serial communication hardware uses the set of command decode functions to execute the received commands.

Abstract: A method of facilitating printing of a digital image based on image splitting is disclosed. The method may include receiving, using a communication device, the digital image from a user device. Further, the method may include analyzing, using a processing device, the digital image. Further, the method may include determining, using the processing device, at least one image characteristic based on the analyzing of the digital image. Further, the method may include generating, using the processing device, a plurality of image segments based on the at least one image characteristic. Further, the method may include storing, using a storage device, the plurality of image segments. Further, the method may include transmitting, using the communication device, the plurality of image segments to the user device.

Abstract: A method of facilitating printing of a digital image based on image splitting is disclosed. The method may include receiving, using a communication device, the digital image from a user device. Further, the method may include analyzing, using a processing device, the digital image. Further, the method may include determining, using the processing device, at least one image characteristic based on the analyzing of the digital image. Further, the method may include generating, using the processing device, a plurality of image segments based on the at least one image characteristic. Further, the method may include storing, using a storage device, the plurality of image segments. Further, the method may include transmitting, using the communication device, the plurality of image segments to the user device.

Abstract: A highway guardrail system comprises a plurality of posts; a plurality of spacers attached to respective posts; and a rail attached to the spacers. The post comprises a tube formed from sheet material, including overlapping portions facing toward the highway when installed; and a plurality of connectors to join said overlapping portions together. The spacer comprises a member formed from sheet metal blank including a rail attachment portion, a post attachment portion and a bridge portion connecting said rail and post attachment portions. The rail attachment portions and the bridge portion form an acute angle in plan view; and the bridge portion is tapered from wide to narrow toward the post attachment portion. The rail is tubular formed from sheet metal, including a U-shaped member and a sheet metal plate both having overlapping portions; and a plurality of connectors to join said overlapping portions together.

Abstract: A highway guardrail system comprises a plurality of posts; a plurality of spacers attached to respective posts; and a rail attached to the spacers. The post comprises a tube formed from sheet material, including overlapping portions facing toward the highway when installed; and a plurality of connectors to join said overlapping portions together. The spacer comprises a member formed from sheet metal blank including a rail attachment portion, a post attachment portion and a bridge portion connecting said rail and post attachment portions. The rail attachment portions and the bridge portion form an acute angle in plan view; and the bridge portion is tapered from wide to narrow toward the post attachment portion. The rail is tubular formed from sheet metal, including a U-shaped member and a sheet metal plate both having overlapping portions; and a plurality of connectors to join said overlapping portions together.

Abstract: A pay-per-view CATV system which is interfaced with the switched public telephone system is described. A subscriber selects a specific scheduled television event by dialing a telephone number which uniquely identifies the selected event. The called and originating numbers are identified, digitized and combined to form a digital word. The digital word is then transmitted to the CATV supplier.