Abstract: Various implementations include wearable audio devices and related methods for controlling such devices. In some particular implementations, a computer-implemented method of controlling a wearable audio device configured to provide an audio output includes: receiving data indicating the wearable audio device is proximate a geographic location associated with a localized audio message; inserting audio content associated with a brand into an identified portion of the localized audio message; and initiating playback of the localized audio message including the inserted audio content associated with the brand at the wearable audio device.

Abstract: An apparatus for heating a liquid is described. The apparatus includes a housing. A liquid reservoir is contained within the housing. A fluid circuit conveys liquid from the reservoir to a dispenser. A thermal energy storage unit is contained within the housing and disposed to be in thermal contact with the fluid circuit. The thermal energy storage unit is constructed and arranged to heat liquid as it passes through the fluid circuit. The thermal energy storage unit can include a phase change material or a combination of a phase change material and a high thermal conductivity material.

Abstract: A variable valve actuation mechanism includes a control shaft assembly and a body. The control shaft assembly is pivotable relative to a pivot axis. The body is pivotally disposed on the control shaft assembly, and includes an input cam follower and at least one output cam surface. The input cam follower engages an input cam lobe, and the output cam surface engages a corresponding output cam follower. A spring engages the body and biases the input cam follower into engagement with the input cam lobe.

Abstract: A variable valve actuation mechanism includes a control shaft and a rocker arm. A second end of the rocker arm is connected to the control shaft. The rocker arm carries a roller for engaging a cam lobe of an engine camshaft. A link arm is pivotally coupled at a first end thereof to the first end of the rocker arm. An output cam is pivotally coupled to the second end of the link arm, and engages a corresponding cam follower of the engine. A spring biases the roller into contact with the cam lobe and biases the output cam toward a starting angular orientation.

Abstract: A variable valve actuation mechanism includes a control shaft assembly and a body. The control shaft assembly is pivotable relative to a pivot axis. The body is pivotally disposed on the control shaft assembly, and includes an input cam follower and at least one output cam surface. The input cam follower engages an input cam lobe, and the output cam surface engages a corresponding output cam follower. A spring engages the body and biases the input cam follower into engagement with the input cam lobe.

Abstract: A variable valve actuation mechanism includes a control shaft and a rocker arm. A second end of the rocker arm is connected to the control shaft. The rocker arm carries a roller for engaging a cam lobe of an engine camshaft. A link arm is pivotally coupled at a first end thereof to the first end of the rocker arm. An output cam is pivotally coupled to the second end of the link arm, and engages a corresponding cam follower of the engine. A spring biases the roller into contact with the cam lobe and biases the output cam toward a starting angular orientation.