Abstract: A robot comprises a first part and a second part moveable relative to the first part. The robot operates in an audio output mode in which the first and second parts are in a first configuration relative to each other and in which the robot outputs audio from an array of speakers using an audio output technique. The robot operates in a user interaction mode in which the first and second parts are in a second, different configuration relative to each other and in which the robot interacts with a user. The robot is configured to change from the audio output mode to the user interaction mode in response to the robot detecting a trigger event. Changing from the audio output mode to the user interaction mode comprises causing the first part to lift up relative to the second part.

Abstract: A robot comprises a first part and a second part moveable relative to the first part. The robot operates in an audio output mode in which the first and second parts are in a first configuration relative to each other and in which the robot outputs audio from an array of speakers using an audio output technique. The robot operates in a user interaction mode in which the first and second parts are in a second, different configuration relative to each other and in which the robot interacts with a user. The robot is configured to change from the audio output mode to the user interaction mode in response to the robot detecting a trigger event. Changing from the audio output mode to the user interaction mode comprises causing the first part to lift up relative to the second part.

Abstract: An automatic ball launcher includes a base unit and a feed tube coupled to the base unit. The base unit includes an enclosure defining a forward opening where the balls eject and a top opening for receiving the feed tube. A pair of counter-rotating flywheels are disposed in a common plane and located inside of the enclosure. The feed tube includes an elongated tubular body with an open top end covered by a removable cap and an open bottom end configured to be securely inserted into the top opening of the enclosure. The feed tube can include a heating element to heat the balls to a desired temperature prior to launch. The feed tube can be used to collect balls from the ground without the user needing to bend over.

Abstract: Desuperheaters having vortex suppression are described herein. An example desuperheater includes a body portion having a passageway to provide cooling water to a fluid flow path and vortex suppression device adjacent an end of the body. The vortex suppression device is disposed within the fluid flow path to attenuate or suppress vortex shedding or flow induced vibrations imparted on the desuperheater by a fluid in the fluid flow path.