Abstract: Multiple secure transactions are provided through use of a method that uses customer one-time unique purchase order numbers (“Coupons”) generated by an algorithm that uses a permutated user key and a user insertion key as input variables. A user key (such as a Personal Identification Number, or “PIN”) is combined with a permutation variable that is correlated with a customer sequence number to create the permutated user key. A random number generator is used to generate the user insertion key correlated with the customer sequence number. The algorithm can insert the permutated user key into a user account number through use of the user insertion key. A Coupon is validated by confirming that it is contained in a set of money source Coupons generated by a money source using the user key and a random number generator that is synchronized with the random number used to generate Coupons.

Abstract: A method for providing secure transactions generates a Secure Card Number (“SCN”) for a first entity that is transferred with a first entity identifier to a second entity and then to a money source that verifies that the transaction is valid by use of the first entity identifier and the SCN. The SCN includes a Transaction Information Block (“TIB”) used for invoking one or more restrictions on use of the SCN, a Counter Block, and an encrypted Personal Identification Number (“PIN”) Block. The SCN is transferred to the money source in an account number or a non-account data field. The TIB can be used by the money source to determine which of multiple account numbers associated with the first entity should be used for the first transaction. The money source can also use the TIB to determine whether the device which generated the SCN has a changed status condition, such as a low battery condition or an invalid user entry status.

Abstract: Provided is a novel method of dyeing a corespun yarn which comprises an inorganic fiber core and at least a first sheath. The method comprises: (a) contacting the corespun yarn with a dye liquor; (b) heating the dye liquor to a dyeing temperature for a time effective to dye the yarn; (c) cooling the dye liquor at a controlled rate; and (d) rinsing the yarn with water or with a mixture comprising the dye liquor and water. The dyed corespun yarn has a strength retention of about 80% or more based on the undyed yarn. The methods in accordance with the invention allow for the formation of uniformly dyed, high strength corespun yarns. Also provided is a dyed, corespun yarn which can be made by the inventive method, a fabric formed from the corespun yarn, as well as a product upholstered with the fabric. The dyed yarns exhibit substantially no “grin through” and little to no yarn strength loss after dyeing.

Abstract: A user can customize use of a payment card, which can be an electronic card, by selecting either a first or a second user key as a selected user key. The selected user key is entered into a card number generator that uses it and a user sequence number to generate a user payment card number that differs for each transaction through use of an algorithm. Multiple payment card transactions can be handled differently depending upon which user key is chosen as the selected user key. Different user keys can be used for different accounts, different types of transactions, or to classify the transactions. A user can receive one bill, or multiple bills. Different levels of privacy can be accorded to transactions that use different user keys. A user may pay the issuer for increased security, or the user may be paid by the issuer to allow transaction data to be distributed to third parties.

Abstract: A method for providing secure transactions generates a Secure Card Number (“SCN”) for a first entity that is transferred with a first entity identifier to a second entity and then to a money source that verifies that the transaction is valid by use of the first entity identifier and the SCN. The SCN includes a Transaction Information Block (“TIB”) used for invoking one or more restrictions on use of the SCN, a Counter Block, and an encrypted Personal Identification Number (“PIN”) Block. The SCN is transferred to the money source in an account number or a non-account data field. The TIB can be used by the money source to determine which of multiple account numbers associated with the first entity should be used for the first transaction. The money source can also use the TIB to determine whether the device which generated the SCN has a changed status condition, such as a low battery condition or an invalid user entry status.

Abstract: Process and apparatus are provided for production of novel fused fabrics by treating a feed fabric comprising a substantial portion of thermoplastic fibers with wetting agent then subjecting the wetting fabric to conditions of temperature and pressure suitable to cause fusing together of at least some fibers of the fabric.

Abstract: Process and apparatus are provided for production of novel fused fabrics by treating a feed fabric comprising a substantial portion of thermoplastic fibers with wetting agent then subjecting the wetted fabric to conditions of temperature and pressure suitable to cause fusing together of at least some fibers of the fabric.