Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing microphone performance of a voice-controlled smart home device is disclosed. The apparatus generally comprises a lower ring having a first diameter an upper ring having a second diameter and a reflective surface. The reflective surface is disposed along the perimeter of the apparatus so as to directionally alter incoming sound waves and focus them toward an array of microphones.

Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing microphone performance of a voice-controlled smart home device is disclosed. The apparatus generally comprises a lower ring having a first diameter an upper ring having a second diameter and a reflective surface. The reflective surface is disposed along the perimeter of the apparatus so as to directionally alter incoming sound waves and focus them toward an array of microphones.

Abstract: A visible light audio system is operable to enable free space optical communication of audio signals via transmission of modulated light intensity at a light source to a photo diode being operably engaged with a demodulator and audio output device. Embodiments of the visible light audio system may be utilized, for example, in commercial, residential, or church buildings to transmit audio signals to occupants via the overhead lighting of the building. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be utilized in any commercial application where line of sight transmission of an audio signal is required or beneficial for occupants of an interior structure to receive a location-specific audio message.

Abstract: An instrument for a health practitioner to use in the course of a neurological or physical examination includes: a cylindrical, battery-operated penlight device, a pin prick mechanism, a reflex hammer and/or measuring device, and/or a vibratory mechanism. The pin prick mechanism includes: (a) a removable cylindrical pin dispenser carousel which fits closely over one end of the instrument, and has adjacent pin compartments around the periphery of the pin dispenser carousel, each compartment being capable of loosely holding a straight pin; (b) a recessed band at one end of the instrument, which the pin dispenser carousel fits down over; and (c) a slide mechanism for pushing a portion of a single straight pin from the carousel compartment up through an aperture at the top of the pin dispenser carousel. The pin dispenser carousel is rotatable to a next pin position for repeated use.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for biopsying soft body tissue includes: (1) a distal barrel section, which includes: (a) a hollow barrel having an open, distal end and a proximal end; (b) a piston rod which movably extends substantially through the barrel; (c) a cutting mechanism coupled to the distal end of the barrel, which includes a movable surgical blade; (d) a trigger mechanism coupled to the cutting mechanism for releasing the movable blade; and (2) a proximal handle section coupled to the barrel and the piston rod. When the proximal handle section is compressed by a user, the piston rod retracts, and suction is created within the distal end of the barrel. When the trigger mechanism is pulled by the user, the movable blade moves from an open, ready position to a closed position, and the tissue sample is excised.