Abstract: Securing and accessing digital data by encrypting the digital data with a digital key. The encrypted data is striped across a plurality of physical data storage devices. A key is required to access the digital data. This is done by applying the digital key access the encrypted data across all of the physical data storage devices when all of the physical data storage devices are simultaneously present.

Abstract: In a water-bearing household appliance with a liquid container filled through a valve in a liquid feed line, and in which a liquid filling level is detected for monitoring at least one safety level of a safety device, the safety device includes an optical light guidance system for reflecting a light beam by which the filling level is detected with the aid of a change in the reflection response on at least one reflecting site and is used to monitor the safety level. As an optical light guidance system, the safety device offers the advantage of dispensing with moving mechanical components—for example, a float, a level switch, an operating lever, an operating rod, etc.—to reduce the risk of mechanical defects that are associated with a substantial outlay on repair time and costs to a minimum or to completely eliminate the risk.

Abstract: Systems and methods consistent with the present invention facilitate a transaction between a user and a party represented by a server on a network. When the user agrees to enter a transaction with the party, the party's server informs a profile server. The profile server stores a user profile tag corresponding to the user, including a unique user identification code, instructions, and user data. Using information in the user profile tag, the profile server confirms that the user wishes to engage in the transaction. After this confirmation, the profile server may complete the transaction.