Abstract: A method of operating a mobile cleaning robot can include navigating the mobile cleaning robot within an environment. A vacuum system of the mobile cleaning robot can be operated to ingest debris from the environment Whether a dispense condition is satisfied can be determined. Fluid can be dispensed from the mobile cleaning robot when the dispense condition is satisfied.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for automatically providing remote self service facilities administration over an Internet protocol (IP) network or over a direct circuit (DC) network. To such ends, a system provides self service use of services of a provider network remotely from the provider network. A remote site kiosk is places in a remote site network with an Internet connection, the remote site kiosk having encryption support via a remote site tunneling endpoint for communications with the Internet and self service applications which communicate through the remote site tunneling endpoint. A data center with an Internet connection to a provider network and to the remote site kiosk, with encryption support via a data center tunneling endpoint to securely receive and forward communications over the Internet between the remote site kiosk and the provider network.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for selecting accounts to be used for purchases. A consumer's financial information, including status, terms, and reward programs of various credit card accounts associated with the consumer is stored and examined to determine the relative value of the use of each card account for purchases in each of various categories, with the determination including consideration of the rewards available for a purchase with the card account compared to the costs for use of the card account. Recommendations are provided to a consumer based on the determination of the relative value of the use of each card account, including one or more of specification of a selection of preferred card accounts for use during a specified period, specification of preferred card accounts for each of one or more purchase categories, or specification of a recommended card account to be used for a purchase based on purchase details.

Abstract: A flue connection system for an appliance provides a flue connection member. The flue connection member defines an aperture and includes an extending member. The flue connection member is configured to be coupled to a flue duct and an appliance, including a fireplace. An appliance connection member may also be provided for attachment to the appliance. The flue connection member and the appliance connection member are configured to be coupled to one another with the flue connection member positioned in contact with the appliance connection member.

Abstract: A flat board has a top side and a distal and proximal end. Mounted on the flat board top side at the distal end is a target area defined by a goal element. Mounted on the flat board top side at the proximal end is a launching mechanism. A base member of the launching mechanism has first and second channels formed therein. The second channel receives a handle portion of a launch spoon. The first channel receives a first end of a string. A second end of the string attaches to a projectile. A spoon portion is provided with the launch spoon for holding the projectile therewithin. The game is played by first bending the launch spoon in a direction opposed from that of the goal element and thereafter releasing the launch spoon so that the projectile is propelled toward the goal element in hopes of having the projectile cross through the target area.