Abstract: The invention provides, in some aspects, a digital ticketing system, comprising first and second digital data devices (e.g., cell phones, PDAs, etc.) that are coupled, at least intermittently, with a server via a network. The server responds to a request, e.g., from the first digital data device, by electronically issuing to it a ticket (or option therefor) for use by a holder thereof in gaining a seating (or other selected attendance) at an event. The server responds to a subsequent request, e.g., by the second digital data device, by (re)issuing the ticket (and/or option) to it for use by a holder of that second device in gaining the aforesaid seating (or other selected attendance) at the event in lieu of that by the holder of the first digital data device.

Abstract: The invention provides improved devices, systems and methods for skateboarding (and other sporting activities) that monitor motion of a skateboard to identify tricks performed on it by a user. A system according to one aspect of the invention includes (i) a sensing device that is attached (or otherwise coupled) to the skateboard and that measures a physical characteristic of it, and (ii) a data processor that identifies the feat or trick (or other action) performed by or on the skateboard based, at least in part, on correspondence between physical characteristics of motion and/or of the environment measured by the sensing device(s) and a unique signature associated with each of one or more possible tricks.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods according to one such aspect of the invention comprises (i) a sensing device that is attached (or otherwise coupled) to a skateboard and that measures a physical characteristic of it and/or of its environment, (ii) an audio output device, and (iii) a digital data processor that is communicatively coupled to the audio output device and the sensor. The digital data processor drives the audio output device to effect one or more selected sounds (e.g., to prompt the user to perform a selected action). The digital data processor, further, and monitors the sensing device to identify user actions in response to those sounds and drives the audio output device to effect still further sounds based on those actions.

Abstract: Systems and methods for social and other sporting activities. A system according to one such aspect of the invention comprises a sensing device that is attached to an object, such as a skateboard (by way of non-limiting example), for measuring characteristics thereof. It communicates those characteristics wirelessly, e.g., via bluetooth, to a mobile device, such as a cell phone, personal digital assistant, or the like (by way of non-limiting example). That device can log and/or display those characteristics, graphically, for study or analysis by the operator (e.g., the skateboard enthusiast) or others.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and apparatus for electronic commerce. By way of example, in one embodiment such methods and apparatus enable a buyer's digital data processor to make requests to an on-line store to view purchase options for a selected product/service as well as to view benefits for consummating those transactions. Further, a store's electronic display/register or a handheld computing device may enable a shopper in a physical store to view such information and earn benefits. Those benefits may differ by item and seller and may include money and/or points. With such money and/or points having been accumulated through on-line and brick and mortar store purchases, e.g. in buyer's account, a buyer's digital data processor can facilitate redemption of the money and/or points at the same or other stores, for example to purchase additional items or for other purposes.