Abstract: There is provided method comprising: in response to receiving a request for providing an encoded payload; encoding a first payload using at least three different data rates; outputting the encoded first payloads to respective buffers; and transmitting at least two of the encoded first payloads in respective frames, wherein the later transmitted encoded first payload is encoded at a data rate that is equal to or less than the data rate used to encode the first transmission of the first payload.

Abstract: The detection of double-talk in audio communication is provided. A communication device may receive an echo signal mixed with a speech signal at a near end location. The echo signal may be generated by speech transmitted by a remote party at a far end location to a local party at the near end location. The speech signal may be received from the local party for transmission to the remote party. The communication device may then filter the echo signal and the speech signal. The communication device may then analyze the speech signal to identify speech characteristics which indicate the presence of double-talk. The communication device may then set a flag upon identifying the speech characteristics which indicate the presence of the double-talk. The communication device may then process the filtered signals to further suppress remaining echo prior to transmission of the speech signal to the remote party.

Abstract: A continuous comfort noise is provided that is overlaid for the entire duration of a conference call scenario. The comfort noise may be adapted to match the levels of the actual background noise detected on one or more of the conference call participant's devices on the transmitting end(s) of a conference call as well as the participants' speech levels. The comfort noise may also be adapted to the type of listening device employed on the receiving end of a conference call. The comfort noise level may be customized to an appropriate and comfortable level for the type of listening device being used, and the system may continuously mix the comfort noise with incoming audio signals for the entire duration of a conference call, lowering the comfort noise level gradually during speaking periods for additional user experience improvement.

Abstract: A continuous comfort noise is provided that is overlaid for the entire duration of a conference call scenario. The comfort noise may be adapted to match the levels of the actual background noise detected on one or more of the conference call participant's devices on the transmitting end(s) of a conference call as well as the participants' speech levels. The comfort noise may also be adapted to the type of listening device employed on the receiving end of a conference call. The comfort noise level may be customized to an appropriate and comfortable level for the type of listening device being used, and the system may continuously mix the comfort noise with incoming audio signals for the entire duration of a conference call, lowering the comfort noise level gradually during speaking periods for additional user experience improvement.

Abstract: A screw and bolt clamp drive has an extension tube with a pair of block jaws adapted to hold different kinds of bolts and screws with a linked chain or metal strap. The screw and bolt clamp drive is used to drive the bolt or screw into a high ceiling beam without a ladder or lift. After the screw has been driven into the ceiling beam, the user pulls down on the extension tube thereby causing the block jaws to slide off the base frame to release the screw and chain. In an alternative embodiment, the block jaws may be replaced with a socket adapt or a screw drive tip. The clamp jaws are made to fit the base frame to clamp a bolt for fastening a metal strap to the ceiling beam.

Abstract: A combination bicycle and boat has a frame; a buoyant rear wheel; and a buoyant front wheel driven by a pair of pedals. The frame is a rigid construction that supports the user on the front and rear wheels for mobility. The frame has a seat and rotatably mounted handle bars, and is preferably shaped to resemble an animal having a head and a tail. The combination preferably further includes a water gun powered by a water pump; and the water gun works in conjunction with a water sensing fan to facilitate a game of water tag. The invention further includes a manually propelled animal boat. The animal boat has a frame having an animal shape having a head and a tail. The animal boat has a crank is located near the head operably engages with a propeller shaped like an animal flipper located near the tail.