Abstract:
Described herein are a system and methods for generating 3D models using imaging data obtained from an array of camera devices. In embodiments, a stochastic shape distribution may be applied upon an object to be modeled in invisible ink. The system activates a first lighting mode which causes the stochastic shape distribution to be visible and captures a first set of images that depict the stochastic shape distribution on the object. The system then activates a second lighting mode that causes the stochastic shape distribution to be hidden and captures images of the object as it would normally appear (without the stochastic shape distribution). The images having the stochastic shape distribution may be used to determine alignment information for the images within the set of images. That alignment information may then be attributed to the second set of images and used to generate the 3D model.
Abstract:
A flame simulator can include a light beam source, a range limiter, a light beam mover, a power supply, a power control circuit, and a flame screen. The light beam source can be adapted to project a movable beam of light with a circular, oval, elliptical, or otherwise round, cross-sectional shape and with an intensity, shape and/or color that mimics a flame (e.g., a candle flame) when the beam strikes the flame screen. The light beam mover can generate beam movement and the range limiter can limit the range of movement so that the beam stays mostly on the flame screen in a region bounded by the typical range of movement of a flame being simulated (e.g., a candle flame moving in response to ambient air currents). The light beam mover can cause the illumination provided by the beam to dance on the flame screen with variations in position and shape that mimic a dancing flame (e.g., a candle flame being blown about by air currents). One or more of the flame simulators can be incorporated into an imitation candle.
Abstract:
A connector includes a cable tray configured to receive and retain a cable in a stable position and couple with a top cap configured to create an electrical connection with the cable as the top cap is manipulated in a predetermined manner while coupled with the cable tray. An upper surface of the cable tray is configured to receive the cable. The cable tray also includes a finger extending beyond the first end for some distance longitudinally. The finger includes a protrusion that protrudes to some extent in a transverse direction so that a cable-accommodating gap is defined between the protrusion and the first end. The protrusion is configured to bear against the cable and retain the cable in the stable position when the cable is inserted between the protrusion and the first end (before, during and/or after an electrical connection is established).
Abstract:
Systems and indicators of cleaning effectiveness are provided for deployment in an environment where samples of different vacuum cleaners are displayed for consideration by potential purchasers or renters of such vacuum cleaners to facilitate comparisons of cleaning effectiveness between or among the different vacuum cleaners.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention provide improved storage options for push-sticks used in connection with rip fences on table saws and similar cutting devices where push-sticks might be used. The push-stick storage system may include a rip fence and a push-stick retention mechanism. The push-stick retention mechanism may be defined by upright side walls that define a channel or slot therebetween for receiving a push-stick. The retention mechanism may also include a stop (or a stop block) positioned at a first position within the channel, and a retainer positioned at a second position within the channel.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for mounting an electrically-powered device to a ceiling or other supporting structure. The electrically-powered device can be, for example, a ceiling fan, a ceiling fan with a lighting fixture, or a lighting fixture.
Abstract:
A bracket (12) for attachment to a support (16) for mounting a fixture (14), and method for installing the same are provided. The bracket (12) includes a base (18) having first and second sides (18a/b). The bracket (12) also includes first and second flanges (20a/b) extending from the first side of the base (18a), the first and second flanges (20a/b) defining an elongate aperture (40) therebetween. The elongate aperture (40) further extends from the first side of the base (18a) towards the second side of the base (18b). The elongate aperture (40) is adapted to movably receive one end of the fixture (14) so that the fixture (14) may be mounted to, and demounted from, the bracket (12) by sliding the end of the fixture (14) at least partially along the length of the elongate aperture (40) and wherein the first and second flanges (20a/b) are structured to contact the support (16) to provide lateral support to the base (18) and the fixture (14).
Abstract:
Described herein are techniques for receiving, from a device, at least one of image data or depth sensor data about one or more physical objects located in a physical space. The techniques further include determining whether an event occurred to the physical space where the one or more physical objects were located. The techniques further include identifying whether any of the one or more physical object were impacted by the event by comparing at least the image data or the depth sensor data to a catalog of objects storing object data about the one or more physical objects. The techniques further include assessing an impact of the event based at least in part on the one or more physical objects that are identified as having been impacted by the event. The techniques further include causing an output indicating the impact of the event.
Abstract:
An ergonomic manual driver includes a handle having ergonomic recesses. A manual driver includes an elongated shank and a handle. The elongated shank extends along a shank axis. The handle includes a handle body attached to the elongated shank. The handle body includes a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal portion. The middle portion includes middle portion pyramid-shaped recesses, distal portion faceted recesses, and/or proximal portion faceted recesses.