Abstract: Protection is provided for optically readable media. Data may be scrambled, encrypted, or otherwise obscured by apportioning the data across multiple layers of a disc in a secret pattern. Pattern information may be supplied in the form of a key to authorized devices or users. The data can only be read by an optical drive with the proper hardware having access to this key. Switchable mirrored regions are provided on the optical medium to selectively block and unblock an optical reader head from reading the data. To read the data back, an authorized/licensed device may use the key to selectively switch the electrochromic regions so that the reader head may access the data while alternately focusing on different data layers, as needed, to obtain the data in the proper order.

Abstract: Systems and methods for maintaining and servicing a data processing system or “computer system,” including rack enclosures housing multiple servers, desktop computers, and controllers for industrial automation. According to one aspect, touch-activated circuitry is configured with a computer system to control power and data flow to a component port and facilitate hot-swapping of components, such as PCI cards, fans, and hard drives. The component port, such as a PCI slot, electronically interfaces with a removable electronic component, such as a PCI card. A user activates the touch-activated circuitry by touching one or more contact points. Touching the contact points thereby initiate a shut-down sequence of a component driver or other software and then powers down the electronic port so that the electronic component may be safely removed.

Abstract: Protection is provided for optically readable media. Data may be scrambled, encrypted, or otherwise obscured by apportioning the data across multiple layers of a disc in a secret pattern. Pattern information may be supplied in the form of a key to authorized devices or users. The data can only be read by an optical drive with the proper hardware having access to this key. Switchable mirrored regions are provided on the optical medium to selectively block and unblock an optical reader head from reading the data. To read the data back, an authorized/licensed device may use the key to selectively switch the electrochromic regions so that the reader head may access the data while alternately focusing on different data layers, as needed, to obtain the data in the proper order.

Abstract: Regulating the temperature of a heat-generating device within a desired range using shape memory materials disposed on a heat sink. According to one embodiment, cooling fins are placed upon a heat-generating device. Fluid flows through the cooling fins to remove heat from the device. A shape memory material is placed within the path of fluid flow to regulate the amount of fluid flow in response to stimuli at desired low and high operating temperatures of the heat-generating device. At the low desired device operating temperature, the shape memory material restricts the amount of fluid flow through the cooling fins. At the high desired device operating temperature, the shape memory material does not restrict fluid flow through the cooling fins.

Abstract: Systems and methods for maintaining and servicing a data processing system or “computer system,” including rack enclosures housing multiple servers, desktop computers, and controllers for industrial automation. According to one aspect, touch-activated circuitry is configured with a computer system to control power and data flow to a component port and facilitate hot-swapping of components, such as PCI cards, fans, and hard drives. The component port, such as a PCI slot, electronically interfaces with a removable electronic component, such as a PCI card. A user activates the touch-activated circuitry by touching one or more contact points. Touching the contact points thereby initiate a shut-down sequence of a component driver or other software and then powers down the electronic port so that the electronic component may be safely removed.