Abstract: Systems and methods for deriving data from television signals received by a connected television system, the derived data being indicative of a subject related to a video segment being displayed on said screen. The systems and methods may further provide contextually targeted content to the television system, the contextually targeted content being a function of the derived data.

Abstract: A book or other digital content is represented as a set of objects in a relational database schema format called IBF (Interactive Book Format) and the controlling system software. This design provides for viewing books in a manner that coordinates additional information and provides interaction with the original book, while not disturbing the original publication and copyrighted material and even protecting that copyrighted material from piracy by supporting industry standard digital rights management security features. The inventive technique includes the use of conversion engines which will aid publishers in converting existing books into IBF format. The inventive technology further provides the ability to read any book in IBF format on a computer using refreshable Braille display, allowing the reader the advantage of reading all books in this format without having to purchase expensive, specially made Braille books.

Abstract: A weapons training range provides a simulated weapons use scenario including return fire. A microprocessor selects branches from a multi-branch program and causes an image projector to project subscenarios on a display screen visible to a participant. In response to the subscenarios, the participant fires at projected threats. Return fire simulators positioned behind the display screen return fire toward the participant. Obstructions are placed in the weapons range to provide cover for the participant. A video camera and X-Y position sensor identify the X-Y location of the participant and try to detect exposed portions of the participant. Based upon the identified X-Y location and any detected exposed portions, the microprocessor aims the return fire simulators to provide simulated return fire. To simulate real world aiming, the microprocessor induces time-based and response-based aiming errors.

Abstract: A simulated weapon includes a pressure switch within the simulated weapon's barrel. The pressure switch responds to pressure changes within the weapon barrel to activate a light emitter. In response, the light emitter emits a beam of light that simulates weapon fire by indicating the aim of the simulated weapon. Pressure changes within the barrel are induced by a conventional air cartridge that emits a blast of air when struck by the firing pin of the simulated weapon. The user can thus produce the simulated fire by activating the simulated weapon's trigger to trip the hammer and drive the firing pin into the air cartridge. In another embodiment, the simulated weapon activates a nonlethal pyrotechnic round. Simulated fire is produced in response to detection of the recoil, force, or pressure change produced by the pyrotechnic round. The simulated weapon may be a pistol, rifle or any other conventional hand held weapon.

Abstract: A weapons training range provides a simulated weapons use scenario including return fire. A microprocessor selects branches from a multi-branch program and causes an image projector to project subscenarios on a display screen visible to a participant. In response to the subscenarios, the participant fires at projected threats. Return fire simulators positioned behind the display screen return fire toward the participant. Obstructions are placed in the weapons range to provide cover for the participant. A video camera and X-Y position sensor identify the X-Y location of the participant and try to detect exposed portions of the participant. Based upon the identified X-Y location and any detected exposed portions, the microprocessor aims the return fire simulators to provide simulated return fire. To simulate real world aiming, the microprocessor induces time-based and response-based aiming errors.

Abstract: Touch mapping method and apparatus locate a touch to an unpatterned and continuous layer of selected electrical conductivity in response to the incremental electrical charge which the conductive layer draws at one or more known positions, in response to electrical excitation, and relative to the charge which layer draws in the absence of the touch condition. The measurement of electrical charge provides touch location for a variety of touch impedances and other impedences coupled with the selectively conductive layer.

Abstract: An improved touch-panel and method of increasing the percentage of useful area of a touch-sensitive panel include electrode elements in electrical communication with an electrically conductive layer of known spatial impedance characteristics. The touch-panel structure incorporates improved electrode structure and electrode to impedance layer interfacing elements which impart a more linear mapping function within an expanded touch-sensitive region of the resistive layer. The touch-panel can be utilized in a general touch-mapping system without resort to extensive mapping coordinate correction apparatus of earlier systems.

Abstract: A display device locates a touch anywhere on a conductive display faceplate by measuring plural electrical impedances of the faceplate conductive coating. The impedances are at electrodes located on different edges of the faceplate. A touch locating circuit determines the location of a touch using known pulsed signals and, in another embodiment, using a tuned measuring signal.

Abstract: A touch terminal identifies a single user-selectable, touch-responsive pad element on the display screen for user communication with a data processing system. The terminal makes the identification in response to the durations of pulse signals which vary according to the touch-selection condition of the pad elements. A multiple-step technique of repetitively measuring the signal durations relative to reference values attains essentially error-free pad selection. The operation includes the updating of the reference values of the pulse-signal durations.

Abstract: A computer system consists of a central station and a plurality of remote terminals, some having a relatively low data acceptance and/or transmission rate and others having a higher data rate. The communication link between the central station of the terminals consists of a low speed channel and a high speed channel. The terminals are permanently connected to receive signals over the low speed channel and a control signal, sent by the central station, to a particular addressed terminal over the low speed channel connects an associated terminal to the high speed channel.