Abstract: A method includes identifying multiple communication paths extending from a source device and for each path, determining a data rate, a power level used to communicate over at least a portion of the path and a power per data rate value by dividing the power level by the data rate. One of the multiple communication paths is selected such that the selected communication path has the lowest power per data rate value given quality of service requirements of an application. The power per data rate can be optimized from the device perspective as well as an overall network perspective. A message is then sent over the selected communication path.

Abstract: A method includes identifying multiple communication paths extending from a source device and for each path, determining a data rate, a power level used to communicate over at least a portion of the path and a power per data rate value by dividing the power level by the data rate. One of the multiple communication paths is selected such that the selected communication path has the lowest power per data rate value given quality of service requirements of an application. The power per data rate can be optimized from the device perspective as well as an overall network perspective. A message is then sent over the selected communication path.

Abstract: A system and method for call routing among multiple service providers is disclosed. In one aspect, a call dialed by the user is directed to a call routing broker for determination of a cost effective or otherwise best call option for the user. If an option to place a call through a service provider that does not incur extra charge and does not accrue data or minutes against a plan quota, the call will be placed through that service provider. If only an option to place the call through a service provider that does not incur extra charge but does accrue data and/or minutes is identified, the call will be placed through that service provider. If only an option to place the call through a service provider that does incur extra charge, the call will be placed through a service provider selected based in part on the best rates.

Abstract: A method is provided for enabling or enhancing a use of voice control in a voice controlled application (VCA) via a development framework. The method includes providing in the framework a plurality of action-context pairs usable in a memory of an application development device, which includes a processor. The action-context pairs serve to direct execution of the VCA, wherein the framework context defines a list of parameters related to the action and their respective value types. At least one of a voice recognition engine (VRE) and a natural language library is provided to match each action-context pair with a semantically related vocabulary. A registration mechanism is provided in the framework, which permits an association to be formed between an action-context pair and a handler in the voice controlled application. An associated development system for developing the VCA and user equipment that executes the VCA are provided as well.

Abstract: A system and associated method are provided for using a voice activated voice personal assistant (VPA) for a first user equipment, comprising: detecting establishment of a voice communication with a second user equipment; monitoring the voice communications using the VPA for commands relevant to the VPA; identifying, by the VPA, the commands within the voice communication; and implementing an action related to the commands during the ongoing voice communication.

Abstract: A method is provided for enabling or enhancing a use of voice control in a voice controlled application (VCA) via a development framework. The method includes: providing in the framework a plurality of action-context pairs—also called framework action-context pairs—usable in a memory of an application development device, which includes a processor, that serve to direct execution of the VCA, wherein the framework context defines a list of parameters related to the action and their respective value types; providing at least one of a voice recognition engine (VRE) and a natural language library to match each action-context pair with semantically related vocabulary; providing in the framework a registration mechanism that permits an association to be formed between an action-context pair and a handler in the voice controlled application. An associated development system for developing the VCA and user equipment that executes the VCA are provided as well.

Abstract: A method and system for modulating a signal includes providing a carrier including periodic waves, peaks of the periodic waves defining a carrier shape of the carrier; changing a plurality of the periodic waves so that peaks of the changed waves form a shaped signal having a signal shape which is different from the carrier shape; and detecting the shaped signal.

Abstract: A cart includes a projecting load receiving platform mounted on a slide frame in turn mounted for vertical movement on a main frame. A spring mechanism urges the slide frame and platform to an elevated position so that objects may be stacked on the platform without placing them on the floor. As the weight of the stack on the platform increases the platform starts to descend until the cart is full. Conversely as items are removed from the top of the stack the platform elevates so the operator doesn't have to pick up an object from the floor. The spring mechanism uses a plurality of air springs each with a different load rating and operating in a cascading fashion. A pivoting weight operated latch holds the platform in its bottom position until released by a kick plate.

Abstract: A mezzanine safety gate for a mezzanine staging area maintains a clear aisle along the edge of the mezzanine and is supported at the edge by two minimal depth posts. Swing gates are provided between the posts at the edge. The posts include a roller guide track supporting a three sided cage or railing adapted to enclose the staging area when down. They also support two vertically spaced guide tubes for vertically elongated counterweights connected to the cage by cable pulleys at the top. The swing gates include guide tubes aligned with the counterweight guide tubes when closed. Spring loaded gate hinges are offset from the gate guide tubes. When the counterweights enter the gate guide tubes the gates are locked shut. Linear cams on the cage swing the gate open after being unlocked.

Abstract: A new bowling game has as its objective, to knock down sets of predetermined pin fall objectives. Each pin fall objective may comprise first and second pin fall counts. Score grids may be used to keep track of game objectives and results. Computer control and coordination may be used to achieve higher efficiencies and degrees of automation. The family of bowling games provided by this invention are games of skill that are fun and exciting to play, provide frequent winners, allow less experienced bowlers to win even when they play against more experienced bowlers, and provide strategic decisions and interest. The games are compatible with bowling lane equipment operating based on standard bowling 2-ball frames.