Abstract: An electromechanical Smart Lock is unlocked by the Smart Lock timely receiving a time sensitive access-code that solves a cryptographic hash algorithm (e.g., SHA-3 or the like) running on that Smart Lock. To enable this functionality, the Smart Lock knows at least three items of information: status of a countdown timer, its cryptographic hash algorithm, and its unique identifier. Further, the Smart Lock may have various means for receiving the time sensitive access-code, such as, but not limited to, a QR code camera, a barcode scanner, a camera, a microphone, a keypad, and/or optionally, an antenna(s)/radio(s) for RFID/NFC inputs to the Smart Lock. Server(s) may also know the same three items of information for each given Smart Lock; and the Server(s) may provide time sensitive access-codes to (authorized) user(s) and/or to their devices. Users may request, receive, and/or send the time sensitive access-codes via text messaging (or other means).

Abstract: The invention includes electronic monitoring-device for monitoring controlled spaces, as well as systems and methods for such monitoring. The monitoring-devices may be battery powered devices, with various sensors and capable of wireless communications. Installation of the monitoring-device may not require any wiring. These monitoring-devices may be installed at a given controlled space to monitor that given controlled space and to electronically communicate occurrences of that given controlled space to various interested stakeholders, such as, but not limited to, a tenant of the given controlled space, facility operators of the given controlled space, the provider of the electronic monitoring-device, and/or third-parties (e.g., insurance companies, first responders, and/or law enforcement). The monitoring-device may provide details, information, alerts, reminders, notices, notifications, alarms, and/or the like to various authorized stakeholders of the occurrences within that given controlled space.

Abstract: A belt drive system for rotatably coupling an internal combustion engine to an electric machine is described. The belt drive system includes a serpentine belt and a hydraulic strut tensioner, wherein the hydraulic strut tensioner is disposed to exert a tension force on the serpentine belt. A controller is operatively connected to the electric machine and includes an instruction set that is executable to periodically induce a reduction in torque output of the electric machine.

Abstract: A belt drive system for rotatably coupling an internal combustion engine to an electric machine is described. The belt drive system includes a serpentine belt and a hydraulic strut tensioner, wherein the hydraulic strut tensioner is disposed to exert a tension force on the serpentine belt. A controller is operatively connected to the electric machine and includes an instruction set that is executable to periodically induce a reduction in torque output of the electric machine.

Abstract: An image-forming apparatus includes one or more shutters that selectively permit passage of light.

Abstract: A relative position derivation, sensing and indicator system primarily adapted for conventional elevators. The system displays elevator position and travel direction at each floor with a relatively old fashioned appearing indicator apparatus including an "antique" faceplate and a simple rotatable pointer arm driven by a stepper motor assembly. Electronic solid state digital circuitry is employed to derive suitable control signals for driving the associated stepper motors which rotate the pointer arms associated with each position displayed. A plurality of vanes vertically aligned within the hoistway are provided with parallel, offset rows of perforations. A generally U-shaped vane reader traveling with the elevator car establishes a pair of rapidly pulsed, oppositely directed infrared light beams across a void-like channel formed between its sides.