Abstract: An imaging system that uses a directed-energy device can include a directed-energy device configured to generate an excitation signal to impinge a region of interest of a target and excite elements therein and receive resonance signals emitted from the region of interest of the target after the excitation signal is terminated. The directed-energy device can include a charged particle generator configured to generate plural energized particles and a charge transformer configured to receive the plural energized particles that include charged particles from the charged particle generator and to output a wavefront including energized particles that include particles having substantially zero charge. The imaging system can also include plural gradient coils positioned about a bore of a magnet and configured to impress a polarizing magnetic field on a target and a communications interface.

Abstract: Games and devices for playing games based on market simulations are described. The games may use real market data or may simulate markets using real data. Other games may use guesses from a large number of other players to simulate the market. One embodiment is described where real estate markets are the basis for a game. The value of the real estate may be determined by actual sales prices or valuations, by automated valuation models of the sales or valuation of similar items, or from a “wisdom of the crowd” algorithm. In one embodiment, the wisdom of the crowd algorithm uses a segmented authority model to make the pricing algorithm more robust.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the realistic three-dimensional presentation of images in scenes, and is particularly useful for easily illustrating how artwork would appear on a surface in a scene, such as on a billboard. In one embodiment, image files are provided for use in an imaging application, such as ADOBE® PHOTOSHOP® CS2. The files permit the placement of artwork on scene background, and include embedded surface data that instructs the imaging application to alter the appearance of the artwork according to its placement within the scene. Also described are methods of generating image files for use as templates, and the use of the image files.

Abstract: An inventory management, and a shipping/returns management system can be analyzed to determine various performance characteristics of an e-commerce operator, such as whether the latter maintains sufficient items to meet demand, whether distribution is occurring in a timely fashion, etc. The systems are analyzed using one or more anonymous proxy accounts.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the realistic three-dimensional presentation of images in scenes, and is particularly useful for easily illustrating how artwork would appear on a surface in a scene, such as on a billboard. In one embodiment, image files are provided for use in an imaging application, such as ADOBE® PHOTOSHOP® CS2. The files permit the placement of artwork on scene background, and include embedded surface data that instructs the imaging application to alter the appearance of the artwork according to its placement within the scene. Also described are methods of generating image files for use as templates, and the use of the image files.

Abstract: An exercise device having a door anchor is described. The anchor is fixed to a pair of elongated members each having a grip. The anchor stands off from the door by 1 to 18 inches before attaching to the elongated members. In one embodiment, the exercise device is sewn together. In another embodiment, a ring holds the various components together.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for the continuous treatment of the flow of a mixture containing liquids and solids. A pump provides the mixture to tube that includes a woven material. The liquid is filtered from the mixture, leaving a solids-enriched mixture in the tube. The tube may be flexed during the process, freeing solids trapped in the tube to flow through the center of the tube. A valve may be provided to the tube to generate a back-pressure in the system.

Abstract: An exercise device having an anchor with multiple components is described. In one embodiment, the anchor includes one or more interlocking components, such as rigid or flexible loops. Rigid loops such as gated rings may advantageously be used to connect the different components. Embodiments permit for replacing, interchanging, or adding components to an exercise device anchor.

Abstract: A reusable stair cover is described having a length of washable material for covering a number of stair treads and intervening risers. At least one tread-covering portion of the cover includes a non-slip finish for contacting with the stair tread. Alternatively, each tread-covering portion further includes means for accepting a rigid insert. In another alternative embodiment, the length of the tread-covering portion is approximately a minimum tread length, and the portions between the tread-covering portions is long enough so that the stair cover can cover a range of staircase geometries.

Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a combination of grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having a combination grip that includes hand grips and a loop. The hand grip and loop may be used as a foot grip, or alternatively, just the hand grip can be used by the hand. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises.

Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a combination of grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having a combination grip that includes hand grips and a loop. The hand grip and loop may be used as a foot grip, or alternatively, just the hand grip can be used by the hand. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises.