Abstract: A method of comparing a test iris image with a candidate iris image comprises generating test and candidate lists representative of measured image values along respective curves around the pupils. Treating these list as periodic, a relative displacement is calculated at which one list best matches the other list. This determines the amount of rotation required for best match of the iris images. The method may be used either alone or in combination with other identity verification systems.

Abstract: An image projector comprises a plurality of flexible reflective analog modulators (FRAMs), an illumination optics for focusing at least one light source thereon, a conversion optics for converting the variations in divergence of the beams reflected therefrom into variations in intensity, and a scanning mechanism coupled to a projection optics for displaying an image, constructed of intensity modulated light dots or pixels, on a screen. FRAM curvatures, responsible for determining the divergence of the reflected beams, and ultimately the intensity of each pixel, are varied by an actuation voltage that can be modulated using waveforms that minimize the FRAM response times. For multicolor images, three laser light sources operating at different wavelengths are used in conjunction with three linear FRAM arrays.

Abstract: A merchandiser (10) is disclosed having a main body (20), top shelf (110) and bottom shelf (31). A slidable graphics panel (90) with a bumper (100) formed in the back thereof is positioned such that the interlocking channels (60,61) permit the graphics panel (90) to move between upper and lower positions relative to the main body (20). When the graphics panel (90) is in the upper position, the wares (200) on the bottom shelf (31) are viewable to potential purchasers and when the graphics panel (90) is in the lower position, the wares (200) on the upper shelf are viewable to potential purchasers. A sample opening (80) is also constructed in the body (20) wherein a product sample (200) may be conveniently removed, tested or demonstrated and returned to the merchandiser (10).

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for hinging or otherwise easily engaging and disengaging various members to each other include a spring-actuated pin element to selectively extend and retract a pin from one hinge leaf to engage an adjacent structure. A variety of spring elements may be used, and the hinge may be combined with other hinge elements in a variety of ways, including an articulated hinge. Methods of fabrication and assembly are disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for insulating an outer surface of a fluid conduit is provided. A portion of the circumference of the outer surface of a conduit is surrounded in a film, thereby forming a generally annular pocket between the outer surface of the conduit and the inner surface of the film. Insulation is deposited into this pocket between the outer surface of the conduit and an inner surface of the film, molded to a substantially uniform radial thickness, and cured to form a cast molded conduit.

Abstract: A method of improving the speed with which a sample such as a biometric sample can be fuzzily matched against records in a database, comprises extracting characteristics from the sample, and using those extracted characteristics as indexes (70) to address a lookup table (25). Each row within the lookup table points to an individual record occurrence list (28, 30, 32) which contain details of not only the stored records from which the given characteristic can be extracted, but also those records having an extracted characteristic which are within a defined proximity to the said characteristic. Characteristics are extracted from the sample record, and a given stored record is identified as being a possible match with the sample if it appears in a required number of record occurrence lists.

Abstract: A feeding bottle (10) comprises a container (16), a teat (12) and a collar (14) to screw the teat (12) onto and seal the container (16). A vent assembly (18) is mounted between the teat (12) and the container (16) and includes a vent tube (22) passing down to a position close to the base of the container (16) and having a one way valve (34) allowing air to pass into the container (16) on application of suction to the teat (12) but preventing liquid flowing into the vent tube (22), together with a valve flange (36) acting as an anti-choke member.

Abstract: A method of forming two-piece beverage can components is described. The method requires providing a plurality of pre-punched metallic disks. A disk feeder transfers at least one of the plurality of pre-punched metallic disks to a first process station in a plurality of processing stations. The first disk is deformed during a two-piece beverage can component manufacturing process is performed at the first station. The deformed disk is removed from the first station and transferred to each subsequent processing station in the plurality of processing stations. Further two-piece beverage can component manufacturing processes are performed in each subsequent processing station to produce a substantially finished two-piece beverage can component.

Abstract: A nestable crate or container for holding bottles. The crate has a floor portion substantially in a first plane having a plurality of bottle seating areas, with each bottle seating area being adapted to receive a lower portion of a bottle. The crate also includes a peripheral wall surrounding the floor portion and extending upward from the floor portion, a plurality of central columns extending upward from the floor portion and oriented proximate to a longitudinal centerline of the crate, and a plurality of pylons extending upward from the floor portion along the periphery of the crate. Each central column includes at least one first bottle-contacting surface and each pylon includes at least one second bottle-contacting surface. Both the first and second bottle contacting surfaces are substantially orthogonal to the first plane.

Abstract: A container for containing and transporting baked goods includes a front wall, left side wall, rear wall and a right side wall, wherein each of the walls is substantially orthogonal to a base. The base includes a substantially flat, smooth upper surface. Integrally formed as part of and rising from the base are a plurality of base projections, each with a plurality of sloped curved wall surfaces. There are at least two stacking feet per wall of the container. The container further includes 180° stacking recesses located on a rim that surrounds the container and that substantially prevent an upper container from shifting or sliding when stacked in a 180° stacking orientation, preferably for the transportation of baked goods. Each of the recesses further comprises a “U” or “[” shaped projection to interface and retain the stacking feet of an upper container when stacked in the 180° stacking orientation.

Abstract: In a method of knitting a garment having a defined axis (A), the knitting layers are formed in a direction parallel to the axis. Pathways (8) defined by distinctive yarns extending substantially parallel to the axis are incorporated in the knitting process seriatim, each distinctive yarn being knitted into its respective pathway using the same yarn feeder. The distinctive yarns are normally conductive, to provide connections to sensors (6) located on the garment, and such sensors may themselves be an integral part of the garment fabric.