Abstract: Automated food delivery methods and systems using computer-managed delivery to an array of food delivery enclosures and computer-enabled customer access to the food delivered to the enclosures. Customers using the methods and systems may utilize their personal communication device such as a cell phone or tablet to order food and subsequently open an enclosure containing their food order.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for sharpening a cutting edge of a cutting tool, such as a kitchen knife. In some embodiments, an abrasive assembly has a frame, a handle, and a cartridge that supports a plurality of abrasive members each having an associated abrasive surface. A rod affixes the abrasive assembly to a base assembly to facilitate movement of the abrasive assembly along the cutting edge of the tool responsive to engagement, by a user, of the user handle. Each abrasive member is configured to be moved, by the user, with respect to the handle to present each abrasive surface in turn. In some cases, the cartridge is rotatable about a cartridge axis that may be parallel or non-parallel to a central axis of the rod.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for removing heat from subcutaneously disposed lipid-rich cells are disclosed. In selected embodiments, suction and/or heat removal sources are coupled to an applicator. The applicator includes a flexible portion and a rigid portion. The rigid portion includes a thermally conductive plate and a frame coupling the thermally conductive plate and the flexible portion. An interior cavity of the applicator is in fluid communication with the suction source, and the frame maintains contiguous engagement between the heat removal source and the thermally conductive plate.

Abstract: A noise reduction sleeve that fits over a printing sleeve while the printing sleeve is being slid onto or off of a respective cylindrical with the aid of compressed air exiting from holes in the outer surface of the cylinder. The noise reduction sleeve is an open-ended cylinder of felted fibrous material of a length equal to or slightly longer than the printing sleeve, with an axial wall. The noise reduction cylinder has a long section, slightly shorter than the printing sleeve, with an inside diameter slightly larger than the outside diameter of the printing sleeve. The remaining length of the noise reduction sleeve is crimped down to an inside diameter slightly less than the outside diameter of the printing sleeve.

Abstract: A charging device assembly used within a reprographic machine having a hollow shell containing the charging device, an attachment mechanism that retains the charging device relative to the hollow shell in a predetermined position, a pair of end covers at either end of the hollow shell and an electrical connector on the shell coupled to the charging device. The hollow shell can be conductive or insulative and is formed with features that facilitate easy mounting and removing of the elements of the charging device assembly.

Abstract: A charging device assembly used within a reprographic machine having a hollow shell containing the charging device, an attachment mechanism that fastens the charging device to the hollow shell in a predetermined position, a pair of end covers at either end of the hollow shell and an electrical connector on the shell that is coupled to the charging device. The shell can be conductive or insulative and is formed with features that facilitate easy mounting and removing of the charging device assembly.

Abstract: A device and method for the oral transmucosal delivery of active substances to the oral cavity utilizing an unplasticized polyvinyl pyrrolidone polymer (PVP) as the primary mucoadhesive. The device is applied and adheres to the mucosa of the oral cavity without causing side effects or leaving an unpleasant taste. Preferably the device is a bilayer tablet having a mucoadhesive layer and an overlying active substance containing layer. The mucoadhesive layer may contain PVP as the only adhesive or may be combined with other hydrophilic polymeric substances. The active layer also contains a hydrophilic polymer carrier. The layers in the device dissolve and release the active substance to the oral cavity and is particularly adapted for the delivery of substances active in the oral cavity such as breath fresheners and substances to combat dry mouth. It is also useful for the delivery of ionic drugs such as peptides.

Abstract: An illuminator for a digital camera includes a body of transparent material defining a cone shaped cavity with an opening at the apex of the cone for a taking lens of the camera and an opening at the base of the cone for locating an object to be photographed with the digital camera. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are uniformly distributed throughout the body of transparent material with respect to the surface of the cone. A power supply applies power to the LEDs so that their brightness' are equal.

Abstract: A device and method for the oral transmucosal delivery of active substances to the oral cavity utilizing an unplasticized polyvinyl pyrrolidone polymer (PVP) as the primary mucoadhesive. The device is applied and adheres to the mucosa of the oral cavity without causing side effects or leaving an unpleasant taste. Preferably the device is a bilayer tablet having a mucoadhesive layer and an overlying active substance containing layer. The mucoadhesive layer may contain PVP as the only adhesive or may be combined with other hydrophilic polymeric substances. The active layer also contains a hydrophilic polymer carrier. The layers in the device dissolve and release the active substance to the oral cavity and is particularly adapted for the delivery of substances active in the oral cavity such as breath fresheners and substances to combat dry mouth. It is also useful for the delivery of ionic drugs such as peptides.

Abstract: A self-defense weapon in the form of a glove having retractable blades proximal the fingertips in which the retractable blades are activated by a trigger mechanism remote from the fingertips. The blades are retractable so that the weapon may be safely worn on a wearer's hand while occupying a minimal space and permitting continuation of normal activities. The weapon may be rapidly converted from its reposed condition to its activated position when required.