Abstract: An installable wireless communications module for a media processing device includes: a body configured for placement into a chamber of the media processing device, the body including an alignment feature configured to engage with a mating feature within the chamber; an electrical interface supported on the body and configured to engage with a connector of the media processing device disposed within the chamber; a communications controller supported on the body and connected with the electrical interface; an antenna support extending from the body and configured for receipt in a channel extending from the chamber of the media processing device; and an antenna affixed to the antenna support and electrically connected to the controller.

Abstract: A media processing device includes a platen roller opposing spaced from a printhead to form a nip. The platen roller rotates at a platen speed to pull media from a media roll in a downstream direction along a media path. A media supply spindle configured to support the media roll and to rotate at a payout speed to dispense media from the media roll. A dancer arm includes a roller configured to engage the media along the media path and a sensor detect a position of the dancer arm. A logic circuit receives an output signal from the sensor, determines that the position of the dancer arm has changed based on the signal, and adjusts the payout speed of the media supply spindle.

Abstract: An installable wireless communications module for a media processing device includes: a body configured for placement into a chamber of the media processing device, the body including an alignment feature configured to engage with a mating feature within the chamber; an electrical interface supported on the body and configured to engage with a connector of the media processing device disposed within the chamber; a communications controller supported on the body and connected with the electrical interface; an antenna support extending from the body and configured for receipt in a channel extending from the chamber of the media processing device; and an antenna affixed to the antenna support and electrically connected to the controller.

Abstract: Described is a multi-legged instrument stand that is specifically designed to increase stability and resistance to tipping. The stand can be used with any suitable instrument, such as guitars (via a guitar hanger), microphones, etc. The stand includes a base with a body pole. A leg connector is slidably attached with the body pole, with three legs and two stabilizers being pivotally connected with the leg connector. Thus, the legs and stabilizers can collapse for storage or rotate outward to allow the stand to be positioned upon a ground surface with increased stability.

Abstract: A ball-throwing apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a receptacle for holding at least one ball-shaped projectile, the receptacle having an opening. A feeder is also included in the apparatus, the feeder having a track associated with the opening in the receptacle. The track has a first section positioned adjacent the opening and a second section spaced apart from the first section. The apparatus also includes a holder for holding the at least one ball-shaped projectile in a stationary position, and a launching assembly for launching the at least one projectile in a direction extending away from the ball-throwing apparatus. The ball-throwing apparatus may be sized so that a variety of different pets are able to drop the at least one ball-shaped projectile into the receptacle. Methods of using the apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A fresh food shipping Vessel is described. The food shipping Vessel includes an outer protective shell, an internal insulation cage with a closing lid and a plurality of drawers. The drawers and other components are specifically designed to provide for conductive and/or convective properties within the Vessel to assist in maintaining food items at a desired temperature. Further, the food containers and ice packs are also designed to assist in the conductive and/or convective properties of the food shipping Vessel, thereby allowing for shipment of fresh food products for extended periods of time.

Abstract: Described is a multi-legged instrument stand that is specifically designed to increase stability and resistance to tipping. The stand can be used with any suitable instrument, such as guitars (via a guitar hanger), microphones, etc. The stand includes a base with a body pole. A leg connector is slidably attached with the body pole, with three legs and two stabilizers being pivotally connected with the leg connector. Thus, the legs and stabilizers can collapse for storage or rotate outward to allow the stand to be positioned upon a ground surface with increased stability.