Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a user interface of editing video through a multi-stage editing process. The user interface selects a particular stage in the editing process. A particular editing operation is performed on a set of video images during the particular stage. After the selection of the particular stage, the user interface uses a background rendering process to render the result of the particular editing operation on the particular set of video images. The background rendering process is a process that the user interface performs separately from the multi-stage video editing process, so that a user may continue editing the video sequence while the rendering occurs. Some embodiments provide a preview of the rendering process in a preview window. Some of these embodiments update the preview in real time. In some embodiments, the rendering occurs to a temporary location and then stores to a persistent storage.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a user interface of editing video through a multi-stage editing process. The user interface selects a particular stage in the editing process. A particular editing operation is performed on a set of video images during the particular stage. After the selection of the particular stage, the user interface uses a background rendering process to render the result of the particular editing operation on the particular set of video images. The background rendering process is a process that the user interface performs separately from the multi-stage video editing process, so that a user may continue editing the video sequence while the rendering occurs. Some embodiments provide a preview of the rendering process in a preview window. Some of these embodiments update the preview in real time. In some embodiments, the rendering occurs to a temporary location and then stores to a persistent storage.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a method for locking in a mathematical relationship between a set of at least two parameters in a computer program. The method selects a first parameter. The method defines a mathematical relationship that ties the value of the first parameter to the value of a second parameter. In some embodiments, the mathematical relationship can be a mathematical function, a Boolean function, or a lookup table. The relationship could be directly entered by the user, or the computer program itself could derive it from the user's actions. In some embodiments, the first parameter can be locked to the mathematical relationship. The lock prevents the value of that parameter from being changed, except by changing the value of the second parameter. Some embodiments implement this method by using a GUI with an intuitive set of controls.

Abstract: Real-time simulation of liquids is disclosed. A liquid may be modeled as a collection of particles. Particles separated from one or more nearest neighbor particles by a distance greater than a threshold distance may be separated out as droplets. An iso-surface may then be determined and rendered for the particles not separated out as droplets. The droplets may be rendered as sprites.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a method for locking in a mathematical relationship between a set of at least two parameters in a computer program. The method selects a first parameter. The method defines a mathematical relationship that ties the value of the first parameter to the value of a second parameter. In some embodiments, the mathematical relationship can be a mathematical function, a Boolean function, or a lookup table. The relationship could be directly entered by the user, or the computer program itself could derive it from the user's actions. In some embodiments, the first parameter can be locked to the mathematical relationship. The lock prevents the value of that parameter from being changed, except by changing the value of the second parameter. Some embodiments implement this method by using a GUI with an intuitive set of controls.

Abstract: To calibrate a tracking system, a computing device receives positional data of a tracked object from an optical sensor as the object is pointed approximately toward the optical sensor. The computing device computes a first angle of the object with respect to an optical axis of the optical sensor using the received positional data. The computing device receives inertial data corresponding to the object, wherein a second angle of the object with respect to a plane normal to gravity can be computed from the inertial data. The computing device determines a pitch of the optical sensor using the first angle and the second angle.

Abstract: To calibrate an positional sensor, a plurality of image locations and image sizes of a tracked object are received as the tracked object is moved through a rich motion path. Inertial data is received from the tracked object as the tracked object is moved through the rich motion path. Each of the plurality of image locations is converted to a three-dimensional coordinate system of the positional sensor based on the corresponding image sizes and a field of view of the positional sensor. An acceleration of the tracked object is computed in the three-dimensional coordinate system of the positional sensor. The inertial data is reconciled with the computed acceleration, calibrating the positional sensor.

Abstract: To correct an angle error, acceleration data is received corresponding to a tracked object in a reference frame of the tracked object. Positional data of the tracked object is received from a positional sensor, and positional sensor acceleration data is computed from the received positional data. The acceleration data is transformed into a positional sensor reference frame using a rotation estimate. An amount of error between the transformed acceleration data and the positional sensor acceleration data is determined. The rotation estimate is updated responsive to the determined amount of error.

Abstract: A number of brightness samples are taken outside a shape to compensate for blooming of the shape in an image generated by a digital camera. The brightness of each of the samples is determined and averaged, and the size of the shape is adjusted based on the difference between the brightness of the shape and the average of the brightness samples.

Abstract: Input devices for interfacing with a game console to interact with a computer program are disclosed. In one example, the input device includes a controller with a handle and a spherical object that is connected to a first end of the handle. The controller further includes a circuit that identifies the position of the handle. The circuit further includes communication logic to communicate the identified position to the game console during interaction with the computer program. The controller further includes control inputs connected to a second end of the handle, wherein the spherical object is placed in contact with a surface when held by the handle and the circuit updates the identified position of the handle as the handle is pivoted on the surface. The control inputs providing commands that are exchanged with the game console to further interact with the computer program.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a method of editing video through a multi-stage editing process. The method selects a particular stage in the editing process. A particular editing operation is performed on a set of video images during the particular stage. After the selection of the particular stage, the method uses a background rendering process to render the result of the particular editing operation on the particular set of video images. The background rendering process is a process that the method performs separately from the multi-stage video editing process, so that a user may continue editing the video sequence while the rendering occurs. Some embodiments provide a preview of the rendering process in a preview window. Some of these embodiments update the preview in real time. In some embodiments, the rendering occurs to a temporary location and then stores to a persistent storage.

Abstract: A treatment device which uses a light radiation of multiple wavelengths and pulse-shaped electromagnetic fields for the photodynamic stimulation of cells, especially cells of human tissue, and also for the activation and stimulation of light sensitive substances (PTD). The device produces energy radiation by the use of semiconductor and/or laser diodes, which emit light in several separate wavelengths due to a special operation mode and the use of tuneable diodes. The equipment consists of a stand, with which machine applicators are connected via a jointed arm. The stand is freely moveable on wheels and includes a control mechanism whereby the various parameters for therapy can be adjusted and switched on and off. The stand is also connected to a hand applicator for treatment of small tissue-areas, e.g., acupuncture points. Photodynamic substances are introduced into the tissue with a special hand applicator.

Abstract: A spreader system may include a hopper formed substantially of plastic for use in holding solid agents and a conveyor system formed substantially of non-corrosive metal for use in conveying solid agents. The spreader system may also include a compartment formed integral with a wall of the hopper for use in holding liquid agents.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a method for locking in a mathematical relationship between a set of at least two parameters in a computer program. The method selects a first parameter. The method defines a mathematical relationship that ties the value of the first parameter to the value of a second parameter. In some embodiments, the mathematical relationship can be a mathematical function, a Boolean function, or a lookup table. The relationship could be directly entered by the user, or the computer program itself could derive it from the user's actions. In some embodiments, the first parameter can be locked to the mathematical relationship. The lock prevents the value of that parameter from being changed, except by changing the value of the second parameter. Some embodiments implement this method by using a GUI with an intuitive set of controls.

Abstract: A system and method of displaying content to a user depending on whether the user's speech indicates the user is sufficiently mature to view the content.

Abstract: Consumer electronic devices have been developed with enormous information processing capabilities, high quality audio and video outputs, large amounts of memory, and may also include wired and/or wireless networking capabilities. Additionally, relatively unsophisticated and inexpensive sensors, such as microphones, video camera, GPS or other position sensors, when coupled with devices having these enhanced capabilities, can be used to detect subtle features about users and their environments. A variety of audio, video, simulation and user interface paradigms have been developed to utilize the enhanced capabilities of these devices. These paradigms can be used separately or together in any combination. One paradigm automatically creating user identities using speaker identification. Another paradigm includes a control button with 3-axis pressure sensitivity for use with game controllers and other input devices.

Abstract: A modular system of interconnecting track members for use on a flat shelf or on an inclined gravity-feed shelf, wherein each individual track member includes an overhang on a first sidewall extending in a direction opposite the second sidewall of that track member, the overhang defining a channel to receive a portion of a second sidewall of an adjacent track member. The track members are provided in a variety of configurations, including different widths and different wall heights. The track members may also be provided with such features as friction-reducing hip slide rails, a groove to facilitate removal of the overhang, drainage openings, permanent dividers, and removable dividers.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a user interface of editing video through a multi-stage editing process. The user interface selects a particular stage in the editing process. A particular editing operation is performed on a set of video images during the particular stage. After the selection of the particular stage, the user interface uses a background rendering process to render the result of the particular editing operation on the particular set of video images. The background rendering process is a process that the user interface performs separately from the multi-stage video editing process, so that a user may continue editing the video sequence while the rendering occurs. Some embodiments provide a preview of the rendering process in a preview window. Some of these embodiments update the preview in real time. In some embodiments, the rendering occurs to a temporary location and then stores to a persistent storage.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for sealing a container is described and which includes multiple work stations which are positioned on a moveable carousel, and wherein the individual work stations are operable to form a seal on a container which encloses hazardous waste and wherein the seal can be readily inspected and repaired, if a defective seal has been formed.