Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an automated scheme for identifying high/low value content. Playback data from users in a social network may be periodically submitted by users of the social network. The playback data indicates segments of content, such as audio or video that the user has skipped over or tagged as low value. The playback data may also indicate segments of content that the user has repeated or tagged as high value. The playback data is then analyzed in aggregate and various clips are identified. In addition, the playback data may be compiled and organized among the users for future use. The playback data may be used to indicate segments of high/low interest to peers in the social network or to arbitrary users.

Abstract: An embodiment relates generally to a method for playing for a file. The method includes initiating a playback for a selected file on a reserved server, where the selected file is also distributed in segments across a peer-to-peer network. The method also includes initiating a retrieval of the selected file from the peer-to-peer network or reserved server and ordering the retrieved segments of the selected file for playback. The method further includes switching playback of the selected file between the peer-to-peer network and reserved server according to the real-time performance and availability of the peer-to-peer network and reserved server.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a mechanism for automatically creating a playlist for a user. In particular, data indicating music played by other users in the user's social network is collected. Music is then selected from this data and gathered from a music service in which the user subscribes, such as iTunes, Yahoo Music, etc. The service then builds the playlist with the gathered music.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and system for dynamically sharing multimedia content information. In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide a “live social context” in which users can share multimedia content information, such as a website, a stream, a music file, and the like. Upon finding multimedia content that a user would like to share with others, the user may select a “share” function, for example, by selecting a button on their browser that initiates a dialog window and permits the user to invite other users into a discussion. The invitations may then be sent to these users across different services. In addition, the invitation may include content, such as a text comment or file that the user has added. The recipient users receive a live notification of the invitation and may then participate in an online discussion with the user.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and systems that allow users to share information about their recent activities with other users. In particular, as users receive and/or share multimedia content with other users, information that indicates the locations of this content, such as a website, playlist, or file, is passively tracked and logged. This information may be formatted into a viewable form, such as a web site or web log, and cooperatively shared with other users. Users may then incorporate the multimedia content played by other users into their own library. Users may also elect to synchronize their multimedia content with other users. For convenience, multiple locations for the same multimedia content may be determined when it is logged and tracked. Users may obtain the multimedia content using one or more of their existing accounts with a provider at their own discretion.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and systems for managing the multiple identities used by a user. The user's existing contact lists, website accounts, buddy lists, and the like are analyzed to determine the identities used by the user. A graph is then constructed in order to track and integrate the multiple identities of the user in a social network. The social network graph may then be used by a social network overlay so that the user can share information across their different identities with different users that only know some of the user's multiple identities.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and system for allowing an open overlay service for a social network to interface with other online services. In particular, the open overlay service configures its clients to make requests on behalf of the social network. Responses to the requests are routed back to the open overlay service and the information is then provided to the social network. Since the requests come from the client the online services will simply treat them as normal requests, and thus, the open overlay service can seamlessly integrate with a user's online services.

Abstract: Embodiments of the-present invention provide methods and systems that allow users to share information about their recent activities with other users. In particular, as users receive and/or share multimedia content with other users, information that indicates the locations of this content, such as a website, playlist, or file, is passively tracked and logged. This information may be formatted into a viewable form, such as a web site or web log, and cooperatively shared with other users. Users may then incorporate the multimedia content played by other users into their own library. Users may also elect to synchronize their multimedia content with other users. For convenience, multiple locations for the same multimedia content may be determined when it is logged and tracked. Users may obtain the multimedia content using one or more of their existing accounts with a provider at their own discretion.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a platform for an open overlay for online services, such as social networking sites, that permit users to share and leverage information within a single context. In some embodiments, the single context is implemented as a web site that is accessible to a social network of users that are known to each other. Systems and methods are provided that share and forward information for the users' online services within the single context. Client applications are provided that serve as an open overlay for the user and permit the user to seamlessly utilize the services of multiple online services within a single context. In some embodiments, the users' existing account identities and security information are utilized alone or in combination, and thus, the users are not required to establish a separate or new account for accessing the open overlay service.

Abstract: An update service is provided for maintaining software of one or more users, or an enterprise. On behalf of users or enterprises, the update service collects information from various software vendors about the certification and updates for their software. Dependencies or issues between the software are determined based on the information collected from the software vendors. A set of applicable updates for particular users or enterprises may then be determined based on the dependencies or issues. The update service may then broker various aspects of the delivery and installation of these updates.

Abstract: A reverse air flow oven for symmetrically heating product inserted within a heating chamber in the oven. The oven includes duct work configured symmetrically about the heating chamber, and a fan provides continuous circulation through the duct work and the heating chamber. The duct work also includes a pair of doors having complimentary configurations so that in one configuration, the air flow is in a first direction, and in the complimentary configuration, the doors cause air flow in the opposite direction. Further, a perforated plate regulates and equalizes air flow across the heating chamber and includes valve plates for controlling a build up of static pressure within the heating chamber.

Abstract: The invention provides a nut and cap assembly, wherein the nut has relatively flat external side faces symmetrically located about a central axis, the side faces being symmetrical on opposite sides of a central plane perpendicular to the axis of the nut. Each of the side faces has two axially extending slots formed therein on opposite sides of the central plane. The slots are separated at their inner ends by a bridge portion in the respective side face of the nut. The assembly also includes a cap formed of relatively stiff resilient plastic material with a socket formed therein, corresponding generally to the shape of the nut. Each interior side wall of the socket of the cap has a projection extending radially inward and having a ramp portion facing toward the socket opening.

Abstract: A drill and thread forming threaded fastener having a roll threaded shank constructed at one end for selective engagement with a driving tool, a forged drill point at the other end of the shank comprising a generally cylindrical section adjacent to said threaded shank and terminating in a generally paraboloidal tip section, a pair of diametrically opposed flutes occupying substantially entire diametrically opposed quadrants and having longitudinally extending generally planar surfaces located substantially in a diametric plane containing the axis of the fastener, the radially outer margins of which form cutting edges.

Abstract: A machine for forging the leading end of a metal screw blank comprising two pairs of complementary dies, one die of each pair of which is stationary and the other movable to and from the stationary die. The stationary dies are supported on opposite sides of a stationary die support and the movable dies on discrete movable die supports at opposite sides of the stationary die support. The movable die supports are connected to form a movable die assembly, are supported by linear ball bearings on cylindrical ways and are reciprocated as a unit by a pitman connected to a crankshaft by roller bearings, thus providing for the production of a forged blank upon each 180.degree. rotation of the crankshaft. The movable die supports are adjustable relative to the stationary die support and the roller bearings have preload adjustments that make it possible to maintain a precise clearance between the respective dies of each pair in their closed position within one hundred twenty seven thousandths of a millimeter (0.