Abstract: A system and method for improving the uniformity in exposure and tone of a digital image using a locally adapted histogram equalization approach. This approach involves first segmenting the digital image into a plurality of image patches. For each of these patches, a pixel brightness level histogram is created. The histogram for each patch is then optionally averaged with the histograms associated with a prescribed number of neighboring image patches. A normalized cumulative distribution function is generated for each patch based on the associated averaged histogram. This normalized-cumulative distribution function identifies a respective new pixel brightness level for each of the original pixel brightness levels. For each of the original pixel brightness levels, the 1s associated new pixel brightness levels from one or more of the image patches are blended. Preferably, this blending is accomplished using either a bilinear or biquadratic interpolator function.

Abstract: A disposable container according to present invention is embodied in a thin-walled container having an integral sealing flap. Such containers include cups or other vessels for holding beverages, food or other substances. The disposable container preferably has a truncated conical shape. One example of such a shape is a typical beverage cup commonly dispensed at fast food restaurants and convenience stores. However, any shape or size of disposable container may be used, so long as the container is sealed using an integral sealing flap in accordance with the present invention. Once the container has been filled, it is closed by squeezing or folding the top of the container together. The container is then sealed by folding the integral sealing flap over one side of the top of the closed container. The sealing flap is then secured using conventional adhesives, such as, for example, glue, rubber cement, or tape, that are integral to either or both the surface of the container, or the surface of the sealing flap.

Abstract: Correction of errors and losses in a receiver-driven layered multicast (RLM) of real-time media over a network is augmented using one or more layers of error correction information. Each receiver separately optimizes the quality of received information by subscribing to at least one error correction layer. Ideally, each source layer in a RLM has one or more associated multicasted error correction data streams. Each error correction layer contains information for replacing lost packets from the associated source layer. More than one error correction layer is proposed to correct for lost packets in other error correction layers. Error correction streams are preferably generated using a pseudo-Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) wherein a broadcaster sends both the source packets in a primary stream and delayed versions thereof in one or more redundant streams. A hybrid technique combines the psuedo-ARQ method with an adaptation of Forward Error Correction (FEC) techniques.

Abstract: A container according to the present invention involves a thin lightweight case, or receptacle of any desired size or shape for holding or storing objects such as, eyeglasses, handheld electronic devices, pagers, cell phones, etc. The container is manufactured from any conventional material such as, a cloth, fabric, soft leather, rubber, plastic, or polymer material, or some combination thereof, and is preferably thin enough to be easily inserted into a user's pocket. The outer surface of the container is designed to provide a friction force when in a user's pocket, or in contact with a surface such as a car dash or a boat deck, for preventing the container from slipping out of the user's pocket, or from sliding along or falling off of the surface. Additionally, in one embodiment, the container is configured to prevent or reduce shock and vibration from being transmitted to objects within the container.

Abstract: “Correction of errors and losses occurring during a receiver-driven layered multicast (RLM) of real-time media over a heterogeneous packet network such as the Internet is accomplished by augmenting RLM with one or more layers of error correction information. Each receiver separately optimizes the quality of received audio and video information by subscribing to at least one error correction layer. Ideally, each source layer in a RLM would have one or more associated multicasted error correction data streams (i.e., layers). Each error correction layer contains information that can be used to replace lost packets from the associated source layer. More than one error correction layer is proposed as some of the error correction packets contained in the data stream needed to replace the packets lost in the associated source stream may themselves be lost in transmission.

Abstract: The present invention is embodied in a system and method for training a statistical model, such as a Bayesian network, to effectively capture probabilistic dependencies between the true state of an object being tracked and evidence from various tracking modalities to achieve robust digital vision tracking. The model can be trained and structured offline using data collected from sensors, that may be either vision or non-vision-based, in conjunction with position estimates from the sensing modalities. Both the individual reports about targets provided by visual processing modalities and inferences about the context-sensitive accuracies of the reports are considered. Dependencies among variables considered in the model can be restructured with Bayesian learning methods that revise the dependencies considered in the model.

Abstract: An adjustable multi-position biscuit cutting guide according to present invention is embodied in an elongated rectangular member, or body, having a plurality of slidably adjustable guide members disposed along its length. A graduated scale is disposed along one surface of the body of the biscuit cutting guide for use in positioning one or more of the adjustable guide members along the length of the body. Further, slidably adjustable stop blocks or clamping members are disposed along either end of the body for securely holding a work piece in position relative to the slidably adjustable guide members. A plate joiner tool or the like is then used for cutting one or more plate or biscuit slots into the work piece in alignment with centering marks which are disposed on the surface of each of the slidably adjustable guide members.

Abstract: The drain plunger preferably is of one-piece preferably plastic construction, with an upstanding, preferably vertical, rigid upper handle, the lower end of which is connected integrally to a depending multi-pleated, flexible, resilient bellows having an elastic memory. The bellows includes a small diameter upper end and downwardly diverging, frusto-conical sidewalls, the latter incorporating generally horizontally extending generally vertically stacked pleats and an open lower end terminating in a sealing rim of greater diameter than the top of the bellows. The bellows defines a central space.