Abstract: A neural processing module is disclosed which combines a weighted synapse array that performs “primitive arithmetic” (products and sums) in parallel with a weight change architecture and a data input architecture that collectively maximize the use of the weighted synapse array by providing it with signal permutations as frequently as possible. The neural processing module is used independently, or in combination with other modules in a planar or stacked arrangement.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of correcting quadrature error in a dynamically decoupled micro-gyro (100, 200) having a drive mass (110, 210) that is vibrated relative to a drive axis (Y, Z) and a sense mass (111, 211) that responds to the drive mass (110, 210) in the presence of an angular rate and associated coriolis force by vibrating relative to a sense axis (X, Y). The method includes the steps of providing a first static force element (121, 221) for applying a first steady-state force to a first region of the drive mass (110, 210); providing a second static force element (122, 222) for applying a second steady-state force to a second region of the drive mass (210), and applying a corrective steady-state force to the drive mass (110, 210) with the first and second static force elements (121, 122; 221, 222), the corrective steady-state force making the drive axis (Y, Z) of the drive mass (110, 210) orthogonal to the sense axis (X, Y) of the sense mass (111, 211).

Abstract: A foot retention device includes a rigid vertical strut and a springy band disposed adjacent to an exterior side of the strut and configured to flex over the strut to form a non-drooping asymmetric arc that conforms to the profile of a human foot. A releasable securing mechanism allows the band to be easily secured and released. The foot retention device provides a fixed right angle between a base plate and the vertical strut allowing the user's foot to be inserted straight in. The foot retention device includes a non-sloping design for athletic applications, and a sloping design for footwear. Methods of assembling and manufacturing the foot retention device are also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for laminating a decorative lamination film to an extruded substrate is disclosed. The decorative lamination film may be clear, translucent, pearlescent, or opaque and it is compressed against the extruded substrate between a pair of rollers. In the context of vertical blind louvers, the rollers and the decorative lamination film are wider than the extruded substrate, the side edges of the extruded substrate being temporarily pressed upward in contact with the lamination film. The roller in contact with the lamination film is heated to a temperature sufficient to melt a central length of the lamination film that is contact with the extruded substrate, and thereby under increased pressure, but not so hot as to melt the unused side lengths of the lamination film. The unused side lengths, therefore, do not melt and naturally separate from the central length.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and composition for cosmetically repairing a surface void in polyolefin objects. The method involves inserting a repair composition into the void and then applying heat thereto to fuse the repair composition with a surrounding portion of the polyolefin object. The repair composition is a physical mixture of a thermoplastic powder, a resin binder, and a solvent, having a paste-like consistency. The repair composition may be neutral in color, or may contain a colorant to closely match the underlying object. The heating step can be performed with an open flame or with a heat gun.