Abstract: A device includes: a panel and an electromagnetic actuator mechanically coupled to a rear side of the panel to form a panel audio loudspeaker, the electromagnetic actuator comprising a coil attached to the rear side of the panel and a magnet suspended with respect to the coil via one or more spring elements, the coil defining an axis, wherein during operation of the device an electric current through the coil varies a relative displacement of the magnet with respect to the coil along the axis. The device includes: a chassis supporting the panel, the chassis comprising a housing for the device, the housing comprising a rear panel on an opposite side of the device from the panel; and a grounding assembly positioned along the axis between the magnet and the rear panel of the device, wherein the grounding assembly mechanically grounds the magnet to the chassis.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein include a photonics module and methods of forming photonics modules. In an embodiment, the photonics module comprises a waveguide, and a modulator adjacent to the waveguide. In an embodiment, the modulator comprises a PN junction with a P-doped region and an N-doped region, where the PN junction is vertically oriented so that the P-doped region is over the N-doped region.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein include through silicon waveguides and methods of forming such waveguides. In an embodiment, a through silicon waveguide comprises a substrate, where the substrate comprises silicon. In an embodiment, a waveguide is provided through the substrate. In an embodiment, the waveguide comprises a waveguide structure. and a cladding around the waveguide structure.

Abstract: This invention consists of 2 main parts: 1. a smoke detector or fire/smoke alarm detection unit which includes a wireless transmitter. The wireless transmitter communicates with an electronic locking mechanism which is incorporated into each security bar assembly unit found at all the doors and windows in a building. The locking mechanism includes a receiver and actuator incorporated into the bar assembly unit. The wireless transmitter communicates with the receiver. The security bar assembly also includes spring hinges as well as a battery back up and low battery warning system featuring both a flashing light (for the hearing impaired) and a buzzer (for the visually impaired. There is also a manual release button. In the event that the smoke detection unit is activated, the wireless transmitter sends a signal to the receiver which in turn activates the electronic lock to the open position.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclose for auto-steering of an auto-guided vehicle. A sensor coupled to a steering shaft detects when an operator requests control of the vehicle. The sensor then transmits information indicative of the request to one or more controllers of an auto-guidance system, which initiates a shutdown of auto-steering functions. In this way, the system quickly reverts to manual steering in an automatically guided and steered vehicle.

Abstract: Disclosed is a material delivery system and method for applying material to one or more crops. A sensor, or crop sensing head, moves over or near the crops and obtains crop data. An applicator is configured to apply the material onto the crop(s). An applicator controller can control the applicator. A material delivery vehicle has a delivery vehicle controller configured to control the material delivery vehicle and an agriculture controller in communication with the delivery vehicle controller, applicator controller, and sensor. The agriculture controller can determine the needs of the crops and adjust the movement of the delivery vehicle based on the needs of the crops.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclose for auto-steering of an auto-guided vehicle. A sensor coupled to a steering shaft detects when an operator requests control of the vehicle. The sensor then transmits information indicative of the request to one or more controllers of an auto-guidance system, which initiates a shutdown of auto-steering functions. In this way, the system quickly reverts to manual steering in an automatically guided and steered vehicle.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for on-board memories for use in vehicle auto-guidance. An on-board memory of a vehicle is capable of storing information used in auto-guidance specific to that particular vehicle and/or a class of vehicles and passing the information through a vehicle communication network. The information is then transferred to a removable master controller and/or removable satellite positioning receiver to aid in auto-guidance of the vehicle. In this way, the master controller and/or the GPS unit may be removed and/or re-installed on a vehicle without having to store the vehicle specific information.

Abstract: Disclosed is a material delivery system and method for applying material to one or more crops. A sensor, or crop sensing head, moves over or near the crops and obtains crop data. An applicator is configured to apply the material onto the crop(s). An applicator controller can control the applicator. A material delivery vehicle has a delivery vehicle controller configured to control the material delivery vehicle and an agriculture controller in communication with the delivery vehicle controller, applicator controller, and sensor. The agriculture controller can determine the needs of the crops and adjust the movement of the delivery vehicle based on the needs of the crops.

Abstract: A network resource access system having a network resource coupled with a network behind a network firewall. The system includes a web services router coupled with a network accessible outside of a firewall protecting the network, and a web services request generator external to the firewall of the network configured to communicate with the web services router, wherein the web services request generator is configured to generate a web services request containing content and send the web services request to the web services router for access to the network resource.

Abstract: A spacer comprises a handle (2) which is extended according to a certain angle by a spatula-shaped flat part (3). A removable cap (4) made of hard, transparent plastic material, containing an electric bulb (5) and electric contacts (6), is plugged in the extremity of the spatula (3). The electric supply of the bulb (4), by operation of a switch (9), is provided by means of batteries (8) housed inside the handle (2). The cap (4) and the spatula (3) are housed into a sleeve (20) made of flexible transparent plastic material, and disposable after use. The apparatus is particularly usable for lowering and holding the tongue and as optical inspection instrument for dentists.