Abstract: An interface apparatus for providing video-enhanced communication for tip and ring-based communication systems. The apparatus interfaces with existing tip and ring communication lines to detect call initiation, collect dialed digits, and query a video-enabled database independent of the tip and ring system's directory to determine routing. Users register for video capability through a mobile application, creating an opt-in system maintaining backward compatibility for non-registered users. The apparatus comprises a telephone adapter for tip and ring interface and digit collection, a processor for determining call routing between video-enhanced and PSTN modes based on database query results, a video feed generator for streaming video, and a controller for directing audio and video streams to a media server. The apparatus passively monitors the pre-existing system without replacing it, allowing independent operation while adding video capability as an overlay for registered users.

Abstract: A decision support system for energy use demand management manages energy consumption and costs. A one way broadcast communications capability transmits energy management data to a population of energy consumers. A receiver-controller changes the energy consumption of an apparatus in response to receiving the energy management data. An energy consumption monitor determines energy consumption information related, at least in part, to the energy consumption of the apparatus, and provides energy consumption information through a feedback path that can be correlated with the energy management data. The receiver-controller changes the energy consumption of the apparatus in response to an analysis of the energy consumption information.

Abstract: A real estate point of sale system puts optical indicia on a sign, and allows capturing the indicia, e.g., using the camera on a portable phone. Information from the picture is sent to a server, and used to retrieve and return information about the property.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a multimedia distribution system and method. The system and method has a producer workstation, a delivery server, a high-bandwidth one-way satellite transmission system, a terrestrial two-way communication system (including use of the Internet), a plurality of satellite affiliate workstations, and a plurality of terrestrial client workstations. The delivery server receives digital information (envelopes and associates media files) from the producer workstations for delivery of the information to the affiliate and client workstations addressed in the envelope. The affiliate and client workstations provide the delivery server with confirmation of delivery of each received envelope and its associated files. In the absence of receipt of confirmation of delivery, the delivery server re-sends the unconfirmed envelope and associated files to the non-confirming affiliate or client workstation by a two-way terrestrial connection or by a manual system, such as a dub-and-ship service.

Abstract: A modular water treatment system includes a plurality of water treatment components including selected from a group of a particulate filter component, a taste and odor filter component, a lead and mercury filter component, a water softener component, and a water disinfection component. A plurality of interfaces are provided for coupling to the selected water treatment components. Plumbing lines provide flow communication between the selected water treatment components, and the plumbing lines include a system water inlet and a system water outlet. A controller is configured to control the flow of water through the system, and a sensor is configured to transmit a signal to the controller.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a multimedia distribution system and method. The system and method has a producer workstation, a delivery server, a high-bandwidth one-way satellite transmission system, a terrestrial two-way communication system (including use of the Internet), a plurality of satellite affiliate workstations, and a plurality of terrestrial client workstations. The delivery server receives digital information (envelopes and associated media files) from the producer workstations for delivery of the information to the affiliate and client workstations addressed in the envelope. The affiliate and client workstations provide the delivery server with confirmation of delivery of each received envelope and its associated files. In the absence of receipt of confirmation of delivery, the delivery server re-sends the unconfirmed envelope and associated files to the non-confirming affiliate or client workstation by a two-way terrestrial connection or by a manual system, such as a dub-and-ship service.

Abstract: An integrated receiver-decoder device for in-home use demodulates and decodes QPSK modulated MPEG-DVB formatted signals received via satellite transmission. The receiver-decoder is capable of simultaneously providing both IP data output and analog audio output for direct connection to a user's home entertainment equipment and/or PC. The receiver-decoder housing includes a front panel user-interface and is designed for connection to an external satellite receiver dish. An on-line upgradable software operating system controls all receiver-decoder operations including demodulating, DVB signal decoding, selecting and configuring audio and IP data channels for output.

Abstract: This specification discloses a satellite transmission system for transmission of TCP/IP compatible packets from a head end computer through a satellite uplink, an extraterrestrial satellite, a satellite downlink, and an integrated satellite receiver/router for outputting of the TCP/IP compatible packets through a port on the receiver/router onto a computer LAN or WAN. The system may include an Internet or telecommunications backchannel. The receiver becomes router enabled by means of a removable insertion Ethernet/Router insertion card inserted into a slot in the receiver, although the transmission system may be used to simultaneously transmit a variety of other services through the receiver by use of other service slots in the receiver. The Ethernet/Receiver supports the IGMPv2 Multicasting (querier and non querier modes), standard TCP/IP (including UDP and Telnet), and SNMP protocols.