Abstract: In an embodiment, a kiosk mounting apparatus includes a chassis, payment module, and enclosure. The chassis is configured to mount a tablet computing device. The tablet computing device includes a touch screen display and is configured to execute an interactive application. The payment module is mounted to the chassis and is configured to be communicatively coupled to the tablet computing device. The payment module is configured to detect payment data specifying an account from a user's payment device. The payment module is configured to encrypt the payment data and to communicate the encrypted payment information to the tablet computing device for processing by a payment gateway. The enclosure is mounted to the chassis and has an opening for the touch screen display. The enclosure encloses the payment module. By enclosing the payment module, the kiosk mounting apparatus encapsulates the payment module into the kiosk.

Abstract: Embodiments position a barcode reader, or other optical detector, to scan upright barcodes when the user hand is in the neutral position. To do this, embodiments rest the body of the ring scanner device on top of the index finger, with the palm facing inward toward the users body. Embodiments have integrated interactivity, including a touchscreen display and separate buttons that can be used to operate the optical detector and input data into an integrated computing device. The integrated computing device can run software applications on board the ring scanner device. Finally, the integrated computing device can be remotely managed.

Abstract: An ergonomic cosmetics brush with separable handle body and brush head is provided. The handle body has a curved, tear-drop shape that is comfortable to hold. The handle body curves from a wider firs tend to a narrower opposite end. A flat surface is also provided for attachment of the brush head. The flat surface includes a hold that receives a corresponding part of the brush head. The brush head is securely attached to the handle body by magnets. The brush head is interchangeable, and different brush heads may be provided with different shapes which are ideal for specific cosmetic applications and artistic effects. Examples of shapes include circles, rectangles, and diamonds, while an applicator surface of the brush can be flat, inclined, or domed.

Abstract: An audiovisual-capturing system for a lighted mirror is used to illuminate a user's face and aid in capturing images or video of the user through a one-way mirror. The system includes a support structure, a one-way mirror, and a plurality of lights. The support structure includes a bordering frame which attached around the one-way mirror. The plurality of lights is connected to the bordering frame and is distributed about the bordering frame. The plurality of lights is used to illuminate the user's face. The support structure also includes a device stand which is used to support an audiovisual-capturing device. The one-way mirror is positioned in between the device stand and the plurality of lights. This allows the audiovisual-capturing device to capture images or record video through the one-way mirror, while the user is able to see their reflection through the one-way mirror.

Abstract: A method is disclosed. The method includes receiving a request for paper properties needed to perform page raster image processing (RIP) of a page and prompting an operator to load a virtual paper without inserting a physical medium.

Abstract: An ergonomic cosmetics brush with separable handle body and brush head is provided. The handle body has a curved, tear-drop shape that is comfortable to hold. The handle body curves from a wider firs tend to a narrower opposite end. A flat surface is also provided for attachment of the brush head. The flat surface includes a hold that receives a corresponding part of the brush head. The brush head is securely attached to the handle body by magnets. The brush head is interchangeable, and different brush heads may be provided with different shapes which are ideal for specific cosmetic applications and artistic effects. Examples of shapes include circles, rectangles, and diamonds, while an applicator surface of the brush can be flat, inclined, or domed.

Abstract: An audiovisual-capturing system for a lighted mirror is used to illuminate a user's face and aid in capturing images or video of the user through a one-way mirror. The system includes a support structure, a one-way mirror, and a plurality of lights. The support structure includes a bordering frame which attached around the one-way mirror. The plurality of lights is connected to the bordering frame and is distributed about the bordering frame. The plurality of lights is used to illuminate the user's face. The support structure also includes a device stand which is used to support an audiovisual-capturing device. The one-way mirror is positioned in between the device stand and the plurality of lights. This allows the audiovisual-capturing device to capture images or record video through the one-way mirror, while the user is able to see their reflection through the one-way mirror.

Abstract: A method is disclosed. The method includes receiving a request for paper properties needed to perform page raster image processing (RIP) of a page and prompting an operator to load a virtual paper without inserting a physical medium.

Abstract: A storage apparatus and method capable of storing energy as heat for subsequent utilization. The storage apparatus is capable of operation with a fluid phase heat transfer medium to both supply and extract heat energy at the storage apparatus. Additionally, the present storage apparatus may form an integral part of an electricity generation plant powered by any renewable energy source and in particular a solar thermal energy source. The storage apparatus comprises an internal chamber containing a plurality of columns of a construction aggregate that are arranged to provide a plurality of fluid flow passageways such that a fluid is configured to flow between the columns from an inlet to an outlet to transfer heat energy to the construction aggregate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for treating scleroderma by administering a therapeutically effective amount of a toll like receptor 4 inhibitor to a subject in need of such a treatment.

Abstract: Solar energy concentrating apparatus having an array of lenses to receive and concentrate the solar radiation towards a plurality of stationary targets. The lenses are supported on a moveable structure to enable the lenses to move laterally in the east-west and north-south directions. Each lens of the array is also configured to rotate about an axis extending in the north-south direction. Drive means is coupled to a plurality of lateral and rotational movements mechanisms to orientate the lenses towards the target as the sun moves throughout the day and year.

Abstract: A method is disclosed. The method includes identifying a received object to be cached, calculating a time to rasterize the object, determining if the rasterize time is greater than a time to reuse a rasterized image of the object, caching the object if the reuse time is greater than the rasterize time and caching the rasterized image of the object if the rasterize time is greater than the reuse time.

Abstract: Apparatus to collect solar radiation using a series of lenses or mirrors that concentrate the solar energy onto targets. A gaseous working fluid flowing through the targets is heated and optionally supplied to a heat store having an internal walled labyrinth of a suitable material to store heat energy. A heat exchanger, turbine and electricity generator are coupled to the collection and storage apparatus so as to provide a power plant for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.