Abstract: An exemplary aspect comprises an air conditioning apparatus comprising: (a) a controller comprising a microprocessor; (b) a wireless transceiver in communication with the microprocessor and operable to communicate over a wireless network with an application on a mobile device; (c) a compressor controlled by the controller; (d) a fan controlled by the controller; and (e) a front panel that allows a user to interface with the controller. Another exemplary aspect comprises a mobile device comprising a processor and a memory, the memory storing an application that enables a user of the mobile device to adjust settings for an air conditioning apparatus operable to communicate via a wireless network with the mobile device.

Abstract: Improved distance estimation of a selected transmitter. An improved distance estimate from a target transmitter to a receiver is produced by assessing the target transmitter to determine transmit power, and combining this information with a propagation model, received signal strength, and reference signal strength indications. Target transmit power may be assessed through knowledge of the target device or device class, and/or transmit power reporting features of target wireless networks. The assessment may be made through looking up reported target device characteristics in a database, making inferences based on target device characteristics, or through standards-based diagnostic and/or reporting mechanisms.

Abstract: A protective case for an electronic device includes a main housing and a lid. The main housing and lid are removably joined to define an air and water tight volume receiving an electronic device. Air trapped within the protective case transfers acoustic energy from a sound source within the case to at least one membrane wherein the membrane vibrates in response to an air pressure differential transmitting sound to an exterior of the case.

Abstract: Improved distance estimation of a selected transmitter. An improved distance estimate from a target transmitter to a receiver is produced by assessing the target transmitter to determine transmit power, and combining this information with a propagation model, received signal strength, and reference signal strength indications. Target transmit power may be assessed through knowledge of the target device or device class, and/or transmit power reporting features of target wireless networks. The assessment may be made through looking up reported target device characteristics in a database, making inferences based on target device characteristics, or through standards-based diagnostic and/or reporting mechanisms.

Abstract: A method, computer program product, and client electronic device for rendering a radio media data file on a client electronic device. An indication of the user's desire to add the radio media data file to a media library file is received from the user of the client electronic device. In response to receiving the indication, the media library file is amended to define the radio media data file.

Abstract: A media distribution system, method, and computer program product for storing a plurality of media data files within a media repository. One or more of the plurality of media data files are identified within a file catalog. A data request is received, using a standardized protocol, from a client electronic device. Data is provided, in response to the received data request, to the client electronic device in a third party usable format. A user of the client electronic device is enabled to browse/search the file catalog and identify one or more media data files chosen from the plurality of media data files.

Abstract: A media distribution system and method for storing a plurality of media data files within a media repository. A user of a client electronic device is enabled to access one or more media data files chosen from the plurality of media data files. The user of the client electronic device is enabled to manage one or more subscription accounts associated with the media distribution system.

Abstract: A thermally insulative sleeve is provided. The sleeve is fabricated from a cork-based material. The sleeve is removable and, optionally, reusable. The sleeve is used on the outer surface of a beverage container to insulate the user's hand from a beverage container and the hot or cold contents therein. A method for insulating a beverage container using a cork sleeve is also provided.

Abstract: A system is presented. The system includes detection circuitry configured to detect occurrence of a zero crossing of an alternating source voltage or an alternating load current. The system also includes switching circuitry coupled to the detection circuitry and comprising a micro-electromechanical system switch. Additionally, the system includes control circuitry coupled to the detection circuitry and the switching circuitry and configured to perform arc-less switching of the micro-electromechanical system switch responsive to a detected zero crossing of an alternating source voltage or alternating load current.

Abstract: A system is presented. The system includes a first micro-electromechanical system switch. Further, the system includes arc suppression circuitry coupled to the first micro-electromechanical system switch, wherein the arc suppression circuitry comprises a balanced diode bridge and is configured to facilitate suppression of an arc formation between contacts of the first micro-electromechanical system switch.

Abstract: A lantern (20) that utilizes a portion (24) of a storage case as part of the base for the lantern during use of the lantern. An outer shell or cover (24) of the storage case extends around a globe assembly (50) for the lantern (20) when the lantern is being stored. This cover (24) is then attached to the bottom of the globe assembly (50) to support the globe assembly during use of the lantern. A quick release assembly (94) is provided for simple release of a globe assembly from the lantern so that mantles (68) for the lantern may be easily accessed. Actuation of the quick release assembly (94, 76) releases the globe assembly (50). The globe assembly (50) may then be lifted from a base, such as a collar (48) for the lantern (20).

Abstract: A camp stove is provided having a convertible baffle and shelf. In an embodiment, a convertible baffle and shelf is hinged to one side of a firebox of the camp stove. The convertible baffle and shelf is folded upward and attached to a lid for the camp stove to serve as a baffle. The convertible baffle and shelf is folded downward, to a position horizontal with the ground, so that it may be used as a shelf. In an embodiment, the baffle extends outward away from the camping stove when it serves the shelf function. However, in an alternate embodiment, the baffle may fold inward relative to the stove surface to serve the shelf function.

Abstract: An expandable merchandising bag having an expansion section that permits a manufacturer to ship a product in the bag with the bag in a collapsed, smaller state, and a user to enlarge the bag via the expansion section to an expanded state. The expandable merchandising bag in the expanded state provides more ample room for receiving the product after used, thus providing the consumer with a reusable storage bag.

Abstract: A folding camping stove. The folding camping stove may be formed in a clamshell configuration, having two clamshells that fold outward to expose at least two cooking surfaces. Two pivot points are provided on the folding camping stove. Each of the clamshells folds about a separate pivot point. Fuel trains for the clamshells are positioned at the pivot points. A regulator and manifold assembly is provided for providing gas from a canister to the folding stove. The manifold splits the gas coming from the regulator and directs it to opposite sides of the folding stove. Each of the clamshells includes a cooking grate. The cooking grates appear symmetrical from a top view, but are slightly offset relative to one another so that the clamshells may be folded inward relative to each other and the grates may nest together.