Abstract: A mechanical puppet show apparatus provides a base unit supporting on its upper surface (stage) one or more mechanical puppets. The puppets are interconnected with a circuit for motion actuation in accordance with a stage play that is programmed into a memory device and controlled by a digital control unit. Manual, remote control and verbal signals may be received for interactive action of the puppets with the audience. A method for use of materials downloaded by packet data transfer from the Internet may be employed in programming.

Abstract: A method for controlling physical security of a computer removably coupled to a network wherein a security administrator associated with a server invokes a timer in a client computer and disables the client computer if the computer is not operated within the network with a frequency preset by the security administrator. Techniques are provided in the client computer to inhibit breach of the security of the timer.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method and apparatus for simulated training in physical movement using processing system images. Said images may be demonstrative images representing examples of any physical movement, user images that are idiosyncratically controlled by individual users, and/or any combination or separate display of both such images. Simulated training is directed to the personal, interactive control of displayed user controllable images such that the user acquires a level of know-how related to the physical movement of any particular image. Embodiments of the invention could include the physical movement of animals, bacteria, viruses, objects, living, mechanical and electromechanical or other systems and images from live video taping, or animated or computer generated images or live or robots real time images from any other source.

Abstract: A creativity center includes a base portion that is connected by a hinge to a board that has opposed drawing/design surfaces on which artistic designs and markings can be made. The board can rotate with respect to the base via the hinge and can be slid with respect to the hinge such that the board can be repeatedly flipped over and slid between two opposed "use" positions with respect to the base. Thus, an opposed drawing/design surface configured in a "use" position is presented to a user each time the board is flipped over. An eraser can be located on either the base or on the hinge to automatically remove designs or markings located on the board when the board is slid through the hinge. In addition, the base can include a storage compartment for storing art supplies.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and systems for reenacting historical scenarios in a computer controlled data base and operating system wherein roles are segregated and processed to permit intervention of interactive role players for modifying the reenacted scenarios in accordance with their reactions and decisions on line as they view the scenarios. In this way, the role players get involved personally in the historical events reenacted to make the action and results more memorable, interesting and understandable. Different roles may be chosen to match the skills, capabilities and interest of the role players. The role players input decisions are substituted in the reenactment to conform with or change the course of history and feedback is provided to inform the role player of the impact introduced. Thus, grading or evaluation records for role players may be produced.

Abstract: An educational doll or action figure comprises the professional attire, tools and safety gear of a particular profession so as to give a child a hands-on learning experience regarding the requirements, responsibility and hazards involved in carrying out the profession. The educational doll or action figure preferably also includes a written, schematic and/or multimedia description of the attire, tools and safety gear of the profession so as to further the general knowledge of the child about the particular profession. The clothing, tools, safety gear and written description may be sold separately from the doll figure so as to allow the child to dress a single doll in a variety of professions.

Abstract: A method of developing processing system software media to provide at least one user with a display of at least one user controllable image such that the user causes the user controllable image to perform interactive, idiosyncratic, simulated, physical, movements on a display means. The invention includes the display of demonstrative image movements to which users cause interactive, idiosyncratic, simulated, physical, responsive movements to be made by user controllable images. Demonstrative image movements may be made by images of any previously or presently living things, objects and systems. The user controllable images are customized by the user with respect to its on-screen proportional dimensions and characteristics and its movements may be idiosyncratically controlled by the user and/or by pre-programmed, pre-stored, maintained means.

Abstract: A method of incorporating small graphs on to pages of text or calculations by using small adhesive-backed appliques or labels which have been pre-printed with a graphical coordinate grid. These appliques eliminate the necessity of a separate piece of graph paper or the tedium of drawing or gluing a coordinate grid directly on the report or calculation page.

Abstract: An apparatus to educate a special needs child about shapes and hardware includes a working platform having three boards that each have one of three faces. A first face has colored areas with shaped openings in the colored areas, including round openings, square openings and triangular openings in respective ones of the colored areas. A second face has threaded openings, including openings equipped with bolts and openings to receive screws, and also including openings to receive pegs. A third face has an assortment of locks. The apparatus includes collections of pegs, threaded shafts, nuts, elastic bands and an internal box with internal compartments. The collections of items can be placed in the compartments or on the faces, as appropriate to assist a special needs child in learning skills needed in life.

Abstract: An electronic health monitoring system. A multimedia processor is a modified CD-ROM multimedia interactive television video game console which comprises a microprocessor, hardware, and software. One or more physiological data monitors are coupled to provide a signal representative of a user's physiological parameter to the multimedia processor through an isolated interface circuit. A hand-held program controller with directional buttons is operated by the user to control the various functions of the multimedia processor. A television is coupled to the multimedia processor to provide sound and a video display based upon output signals from the multimedia processor. Interchangeable compact disks (CD-ROM) comprise additional software. The software contained in the interchangeable compact disks enables the system to execute a variety of health related functions, to display high quality moving or still video images and to produce high quality sound accompaniment.

Abstract: A new and improved learning system that contains a highly interactive environment rich with educational information. The new and improved learning system contains an interactive educational software program with a companion hands-on educational activities kit. The learning system includes software which guides the user through activities, instructions, and educational material. The program's virtual expert explains material. The program also consists of several virtual machines that the user interacts with. One virtual machine holds readily accessible entertaining and scientific facts; another holds a readily accessible glossary of scientific terms. There is also a virtual machine that functions as a laboratory journal for user input of desired observations and measurements. At the completion of the project, the software compiles the user's information into an accessible final report for reading and printing.

Abstract: A developed film is illuminated to project its image onto a rear projection screen. A transparent case with a clear liquid filled therein is arranged, and the film is accommodated in the case. A writable transparent or translucent sheet is arranged over a front side of the rear projection screen.

Abstract: An apparatus for educating children with special educational needs about how to set a table includes a mat having emblems thereon indicative of the locations for proper placement of a napkin, a plate, flatware and a drinking vessel. The emblems are each filled-in outlines of the item to be placed thereon and colored a distinctive primary color. Also included is a set of napkin, plate, flatware and a drinking vessel for a child with special educational needs to place on the mat. The napkin, plate, flatware and drinking vessel have colors that match the corresponding color of the emblem therefor on the mat. A teaching criteria manual has instruction for a teacher to guide the student in the process of setting the table by using the matching colors and shapes to appropriately place the napkin, plate, flatware and drinking vessel on the mat.

Abstract: For checking the operating reliability of a turbine during load shedding, input values having simulated time profiles are fed to a regulating circuit regulating a turbine. The reaction of the regulating circuit to the input values simulating load shedding conditions is subsequently measured. Changes in the regulating circuit are then detected by comparison with an earlier measurement.

Abstract: The present invention is an integrated system for authoring, operating, maintaining, and administering a computer-based training program. The system includes integrated hardware and software that allows an author to create computer-based training modules that include audio, video, and textual content without requiring any programming. The invention uses a virtual training center metaphor that serves as the basis of the interface between the users and the system. The virtual training center provides a nonintimidating visual environment that is open and relaxing, thereby preparing the student to learn rapidly. To create a non-intimidating environment and to fix more of the student's attention on the subject matter to be learned, rather than on the learning tools themselves, the interface maintains as much as possible the illusion of being in a real training center.

Abstract: A device for automatically locking a power button in a computer is to prevent a power button from operating by someone when the user uses a mouse. The device has a power button blocking part 100 installed between a power button 420, which moves forward and backward through a button receiving hole 410 of a computer main body 400, and a power switch 430, which is selectively turning on or off the power switch 420 depending on the pressing operation of the power button 420. The power button blocking part 100 blocks between the power button 420 and the power switch 430 when the cover 510 of the mouse 500 connected to the computer main body 400 is loaded thereon. The power button blocking part 400 is driven by a driving part installed in the mouse 500. The driving part provides power obtained from the power circuit 300 to the power button blocking part 100 when the cover of the mouse is loaded thereon. Therefore, the power button blocking part blocks between the power button and the power switch.

Abstract: A firefighting training apparatus is provided for simulating the pumping of water through various long lengths of hose to train firefighters to deliver a proper amount of water through the fire hose. The apparatus includes a disk having one or more apertures therethrough. The one or more apertures permit the passage of water through the disk while providing resistance to the water to simulate the resistance encounted by water flowing through a long length of fire hose. The firefighting training apparatus is used by placing the disk within the flow of water through the fire hose. A firefighter can practice delivering a proper amount of water through a fire hose to a nozzle without the need of using a long length of fire hose.

Abstract: Disclosed is an input device and method for interacting with motion pictures incorporating content-based haptic response. Content data relating to the motion picture is stored in a content data storage device while motion picture data is stored in a prerecorded image data storage device. A viewer input device is provided so that a viewer (end-user) can advance and reverse the frames on a display screen while substantially simultaneously, the content data is accessed and braking commands are sent to the viewer input device. The result is that the viewer is provided with haptic responses to the viewer's input through the viewer input device.

Abstract: In a system and method for tailoring information presented to a user and for tailoring the manner of information selection and presentation, an information station accepts user interchangeable information cards and system cards, the user having selected one information card from a series of information cards and having selected one system card from a series of system cards for determining the information presented to the user and for determining the manner of information selection and presentation.

Abstract: An educational interaction device is provided with a housing having a handle and a phone handset. A numeric keypad representative of a telephone keypad is situated on the front face of the housing below the liquid crystal display. A plurality of lamps are situated on the front face of the housing for illuminating upon the actuation thereof. A tape player mechanism is situated within the interior space of the housing for playing back a plurality of audio and information signals. The tape player mechanism is connected to the speakers for transmitting the audio signals to the speakers. A speech synthesizer with associated memory means is connected to the speakers for emitting therefrom a plurality of audio signals representative of various instructions. A sound generation device is also connected to the speakers for emitting therefrom a plurality of audio signals representative of various sounds.

Abstract: A realistic roller coaster simulator is disclosed having one or more passenger seats equipped with a safety harness and mounted for 360 degree rotational movement along at least two axes for simulating the motion of a roller coaster. A controller is provided for controlling and coordinating the motion of the simulator with a simulation controller which generates to the passenger synchronized audio and visual effects which would be experienced by a passenger on a roller coaster of a predetermined design. Linked to the simulator is a design station where a passenger can design his or her own roller coaster. Upon entering the simulator station, the passenger's design can be accessed from memory and selected for simulation on the simulator vehicle. Upon initiation of the simulation, the passenger can experience in real time the visual, motive, audible and other effects (such as wind, heat, cold, water, etc.) of the simulated roller coaster ride which the passenger has designed.

Abstract: A display system is shown which comprises, in combination, a display panel and a modular multi-layer three dimensional figure which can be readily disassembled and re-assembled in different forms. The display panel has a structural member with a first and second outer covering member, at least one of which is a hook or loop material, and which outer coverings are joined at their lateral edges in a narrow, unobtrusive seam. The figure is comprised of a plurality of first flexible elements, flat in relaxed state, and having hook or loop fabric on at least one facial surface, and a plurality of second flexible elements, also flat in relaxed state, with hook or loop material on both facial surfaces which are releasably secured to the first flexible elements. A method of making the panel and a finger or hand puppet constructed from the flexible elements are also shown.

Abstract: Described herein is a collaborative drawing device having a support surface configured to support a drawing medium for drawing thereupon by a human user. The drawing device includes a printer that prints prepared graphics on the drawing medium and a scanner that scans documents that have been printed, drawn by hand, and annotated by hand.

Abstract: A fixed or portable multi-functional enclosure that is card-operated, climate controlled, and provides a quiet work place for use by students or businessmen. The enclosure has a generally semi-oval shaped housing comprising a front portion including a front cowling, a central portion with a curved door, and a rear portion with a lower section and a rear lid. The enclosure housing includes three magnetic card readers located on the opaque front cowling, the curved door, and the rear lid. The central portion includes an ergonomically designed seat or chair and a curved console containing a computer monitor. The ergonomically designed seat or chair is tiltable and is dimensionally adjustable up, down, forward, and backward. The console includes a fiber optic camera, a computer monitor, a computer printer, a modem, a facsimile machine, and a phone speaker. Positioned on the console are connection ports for a VOX head phone set and a virtual reality head set.

Abstract: Books with internal mechanization have rotary and linear drive mechanisms which displace objects along linear, non-linear, rotary and three-dimensional paths relative to the book pages are described. Spatially arranged cut-outs in the pages which correspond to the range of motion of the displaced and translated objects allow different moving objects to be viewed at different areas of the book from page to page. Battery powered drive mechanisms with push-button operation accessible from the front of the book enables easy, selective activation of the moving objects, independent of the position of the front cover and pages relative to the back cover. Belt-driven wheels provide inherent clutching action to prevent damage to the drive mechanism. Manually operated embodiments of the various drive mechanisms which produce each of the described motions are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electronic book is provided including a plurality of PCMIA cards each with read only memory having a unique text permanently stored therein. Further provided is a portable unit comprising at least one speaker for allowing the transmission of audio signals upon the receipt thereof, a PCMCIA interface slot formed in the housing for allowing the downloading of the text of the PCMCIA card, and a speech processor/synthesizer connected to the speaker for transmitting audio signals thereto upon the receipt of text stored in the PCMCIA card. Such audio signals are representative of speech corresponding with the text. Further provided is a control mechanism adapted to download the text located within the PCMCIA card via the PCMCIA interface and further transmit the same to the speakers and the display whereby the audio signals are continuously transmitted and a user may view the text via the display.

Abstract: The invention provides a motion simulating device which provides the user with full freedom of motion. Ideally, the motion is coordinated with the user's senses. The motion simulating device may include a generally spherical capsule supported by a number of rollers, at least one of which is a multi-directional active roller which frictionally engages the spherical capsule. This causes the spherical capsule to rotate in any desired direction. The capsule may have mounted within it an interactive solid, which may take the form of an omni-directional treadmill for supporting the user.

Abstract: A computer-assisted instruction system used in a method of instructing a group of students broadly includes a suite (12,14,16,18) configured to accommodate the group of students and a computer system (36) for delivery of instruction relating to an instruction curriculum to the suite (12,14,16,18). The suite (12,14,16,18) includes a group assembly area and a plurality of harbors (24). The harbors (24) are each configured to accommodate a pair of the students. The computer system (36) includes a computer (38) positioned at each harbor coupled with a network computer (40). The computers (38) are linked to permit electronic transfer of information between the harbors (24).

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: An interactive sand box or sand table for use in tactical training includes an automated control system and image generator so that infinitely variable visual images may be projected onto the contoured surface of the sand for training and preparation for action in the military field and disaster control, industrial planning, environmental protection, and similar situations.

Abstract: A children's book including a front cover, a back cover, and at least one leaf positioned between the front cover and the back cover. A spine portion of the book connects the front cover, the leaf and the back cover. The book further includes at least one attachment arrangement and at least one rotation member. The front cover, the leaf, and/or the back cover has at least one cut-out portion. The rotating member is rotatably connected to a respective front cover, back cover and/or leaf by positioned within the cut-out portion using the attachment arrangement so that the rotating member is rotatable about an axis extending along a plane of the book.

Abstract: A behavior tracking board provides for the recording and monitoring of the general behavior of individuals. The board is particularly well suited for use in families having one or more small children, where it may be used to monitor their behavior over a predetermined period of time (e.g., one week) for the determination of rewards or punishment based upon the behavior for that period. The present tracking board is also adaptable to school and day care environments, and is capable of providing separate behavior monitoring tracks for a large group of children or individuals. Another embodiment is directed to the monitoring of allowance and monetary reward, and is particularly suited for tracking the behavior of teens. The board basically comprises one or more horizontal rows, with each row corresponding to a single individual or child. Each of the rows includes a movable marker captured in a track therealong, with the markers initially each being placed to the extreme right end of their respective tracks.

Abstract: An improved karaoke network system that allows a user to select and obtain desired information through an interface while a message is displayed between intermissions of karaoke performances. Data files for karaoke performance, displaying messages, and displaying data selection menus are written in a common structure. Each of the data files includes an action region that contains link data. The data files are associated with one another by the link data contained in the action regions of the data files. A chain of related data files are executed by a menu selection operation or a key input operation by the user for performing karaoke performance and displaying messages and data selection menus.

Abstract: A kit provides one or more replicas of dinosaur skeletons (typically significantly reduced in size), in combination with one or more replicas of paleontology tools (again typically significantly reduced in size) such as those that might be used in the actual exploration for and excavation of dinosaur skeletons by paleontologists in the field. The dinosaur skeleton and tool replicas may be carried in a pail or backpack with the tools organized in separate compartments or pockets.

Abstract: A universal design of a handy rotary keystrokes guide that simplifies the tasks of personal computer users who prepare spreadsheets, documents, graphs, presentations, reports, etc. It reduces the requirement to remember a multitude of keystrokes and mouse clicks needed to perform hundreds of computer operations and tasks. It provides a convenient display of keystrokes and mouse clicks in a unique, compact, shorthand symbology form and format that is always in the field of view of the computer operator. A one piece cradle supports the rotary guide and enables quick, simple interchange of the rotary keystrokes guides unique to various software programs. Line registration or line magnifier is accomplished by simple attachment to the cradle.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive reusable writing board is provided which includes a backing member that includes an upper section that folds down over the lower section that accommodates the wax layer and polyester writing sheet. As a result, the upper section provides a protective cover for the lower section. A distal edge of one of the upper or lower sections includes a loop which is in registry with a slot disposed in the distal edge of the other of the upper or lower sections. As a result, when the board is folded together to assume a closed position, the loop may be folded forward through the slot disposed in the opposing section or panel and the stylus may be inserted through the loop to lock the board into a closed position. As a result, any writing or artwork made on the reusable writing surface can be preserved while the board is being transported or handled.

Abstract: The creation of computer generated lenticular images involves the computer manipulation of at least a first and second image. The images can be sequential in time of the same object or sequential in spatial perspective, or completely unrelated. The images are scanned into a computer memory and then digitally interlaced. The input can be any source of image. Likewise, the output can be manipulated to any resolution. The output interlaced image is then printed onto a substrate, such as the back surface of a lenticular lens. The resolution of the interlaced image can be matched to the geometry of the lenticules. Thus, the viewer will see the first image from a first viewing perspective and the second image from a second viewing perspective.

Abstract: A hazard perception test system comprising a CRT screen for displaying a sequence of images of a scene to be viewed by a test subject and in which at least one hazard appears, the images establishing a state of relative movement between the at least one hazard and the test subject, a computer for generating a select signal in response to an action by the subject, the select signal representing an image in the sequence selected by the subject as a point in the sequence at which to change the state, and for determining the ability of the subject to satisfactorily perceive hazards on the basis of the select signal.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: A method for developing cognitive and motor skills in students comprising the steps of providing a thinking-learning-creating cubicle having a plurality of walls forming an enclosed space. The walls are operative to substantially prevent visual and auditory stimuli from sources disposed exteriorly of the walls from penetrating the enclosed space, thereby reducing distractions to a student positioned within the enclosed space. A learning interface in electrical communication with an interactive teaching apparatus is disposed within the enclosed space which is configured to direct the student's attention toward the learning interface. Communication means are provided which permit communication between an individual positioned within the enclosed space and an individual positioned exteriorly of the enclosed space. The method also includes the step of selecting a learning task for a student to execute within the enclosed space.

Abstract: An universal multimedia book interfacing device is disclosed in this invention. This device is used for operation with a multimedia book. The interfacing device includes a first adapting connector provided with connection compatibility for electrically connecting to several different multimedia books. Each multimedia book is provided with user interfaces for accepting user input signals therein and delivering user output signals therefrom. The universal interfacing device further includes a second adapting device provided with connection compatibility for electrically connecting to a data storage containing data relating to the multimedia books. The universal interfacing device is provided for electrically transmitting the user input signals received from one of the multimedia books to pre-designated locations in the data storage for generating user output signals and for electrically transmitting the user output signals to the multimedia books.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method of instruction and simulated training and competitive play or entertainment in an activity that couples cognitive and motor functions, in particular, the playing of the game of hockey. The invention includes a computer used to view and to control images of hockey players on a computer screen. An image of a hockey player controlled by the user is juxtaposed to or superimposed upon the image of an instructive, ideal or master hockey player(s). The user manipulates the controlled image of a hockey player in an effort to approximate the movements of the instructive or ideal player via an input device such as a keyboard, joystick, or virtual reality device. The invention also includes means by which the user's performance in approximating the instructive or ideal player may be measured.

Abstract: A drive-in interactive performance system including a parking space in which at least a car can be parked and an interactive performance apparatus associated with the parking space and operable from within the car. The drive-in interactive performance system allows a user in the car to enjoy a variety of interactive performances, such as, for example, a karaoke performance, an interactive game and the like. For example, in a karaoke interactive system, the user operates a command device in the car to select a karaoke song and send a karaoke request signal for the karaoke song to the karaoke apparatus. A wireless microphone picks up the voice of the user who is sitting and singing in the car and sends a voice signal of the user's voice to the karaoke apparatus. The karaoke apparatus generates a karaoke performance signal based on the karaoke request signal and the voice signal and also generates an image signal for an image associated with the selected song.

Abstract: A method for teaching and entertaining infants while lying on their back in a stroller, the stroller including a stroller hood, including first, attaching a planar member suitable for displaying visual images to an infant while the infant is lying on his back in a stroller and for mounting on an inside cover of a stroller hood, to the stroller hood in such a way as to be within the visual field of the infant while the infant is lying on his back in the stroller. And second, using a means of attaching the planar member to the inside of the stroller hood.

Abstract: A compensatory assistive device for students with cognitive impairment (including but not limited to traumatic brain injury, stroke, electrocution, anoxia, mental retardation, dementia, amnesia, and learning disabilities) and/or physical disabilities (such as cerebral palsy) is provided via an interactive computer system that provides an easy-to-use, multi-subject, school planner using a graphical user interface configured with particular color associations, pointer travel limitations, simplified option selections and active view-screen limitations.

Abstract: A cooperative, interactive computer logic instruction system is disclosed in which students participate by performing individual gate and component functions. These functions are linked together by connections carrying power, ground, and signals to form a cooperative logic system distributed over the entire class. Individual components range from gates and other low-level electronics up through larger scale devices and computer components. An important aspect of this invention is that each student linked in the system must actually perform the assigned function themselves in order to generate the proper output which then feeds as input to other students in the system. In this manner, entire logic circuits, computers, and networks may be modeled and understood. In addition to the manual mode described above, each component also supports an automatic mode for demonstration, error checking, and completion of circuits not exactly suited to the particular number of students in a given classroom situation.

Abstract: An intermodal transportation simulation system comprising a ground transportation simulation node, a rail transportation simulation node, a maritime transportation simulation node and an air transportation simulation node. Each of these simulation nodes are interactive, interconnected and designed to provide a manned multi-sensory, e.g. visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile simulation.

Abstract: A medicine container providing audible dosage instructions in a voice recognizable to the user, so that a user, even with a sight or like disability, can rely on voice recognition as providing verification of the accuracy and particular appropriateness of the dosage instructions to the user of the medicine container.

Abstract: In an apparatus and method for teaching motor skills to a human subject, learning by a student is based upon imitation of a teacher's motion. The teacher's motion is sensed by a motion sensing device, is digitized by a computer, and is then recorded in memory. The computer generates a virtual image sequence of the teacher on the computer display of the teacher interacting in the computer-generated virtual environment for the student to view and imitate. The same motion sensing device used to record the teacher's movement tracks the student's movement and the computer creates a virtual image sequence on the display corresponding to the student's movement and its interaction with the virtual environment in real-time, simultaneously providing an image sequence of the teacher's movement. The student's task is to imitate the teacher's movement. This process is repeated until the teacher's and student's trajectories match well in space and time.

Abstract: A method of browsing geometrical databases through touch or haptic feedback is disclosed which presents a tactile virtual reality to a user, facilitating the simultaneous browsing, or viewing, touching, attaching to, or manipulation of object descriptions contained within files both visually and haptically. The files may be local to a computer system or located across a network on one or more computer systems. In a preferred embodiment, the invention preferably renders haptic features using a layered architecture to support multiple axes per device, multiple devices per servo layer, multiple servo layers per communications layer, and multiple applications accessing common or different force-feedback devices.