Abstract: An addressable light strand having a controller and a plurality of light modules, with a further plurality of lights. The control module includes a rectifier configured to provide the power output; and a control circuit configured to provide a data output. The plurality of light modules are connected in series. Each of the plural light modules has a zener diode that has an anode and a cathode, the anode is coupled to the power output of the control module and the cathode is coupled to an anode of a next serially connected light module. The light module also includes a semiconductor device having at least a power connection and a ground connection. The power connection is connected to the cathode of the zener diode and the ground connection is coupled to the anode of the zener diode.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for evaluating the tonal characteristics of an object with respect to a nominal tone which comprises a striker for causing the object to generate an audio signal and a microphone for inputting the audio signal. A reference signal generator generates plural reference signals in accordance with the nominal tone, and those signals are mixed with the audio signal by a mixing circuit. The accuracy of the audio signal with respect to the nominal tone is evaluated in accordance with the audio signal mixed by the mixing circuit.

Abstract: The present invention is a Christmas display (10) resembling a ski-lift and ski-slope, for use in conjunction with a Christmas tree (92). The display (10) comprises a track (12) having a first end (14) and a second end (16), wherein the first end is at a higher elevation than the second end, and a lift (18) disposed between the first end (14) and the second end (16). The device also comprises a plurality of figurines (30) having a base configured for slidable movement along track (12) from the first end of track (12) to the second end of track (12) whereby the lift (18) transports the figurine (30) back to the first end (14) of the track (12) in a continuous manner. In the preferred embodiment, the display also comprises a support mechanism (90) for supporting the display on a Christmas tree.

Abstract: An improved noise making device (10) particularly suited for use in stadiums, arenas and the like comprises a flexible, planar member of "whooping plate" (12), and a handle (14), both preferably comprised of plastic, the ends of the handle (14) being joined to the ends of the planar member (12) with the central section of the handle bowed outwardly from the planar member, such that when the handle is gripped and thrust forward and backward, the planar member bows inwardly and outwardly, thereby generating a loud noise. Suitable indicia, such as a team logo or advertising message, may be imprinted on the outer surface of the planar member.

Abstract: A multi-vehicle interactive combat type game is disclosed. The game includes first and second controllers each of which communicates with at least one vehicle. Each controller is capable of selectively generating control signals comprising at least a first command signal and a movement command signal and for conveying the control signal to the vehicle controlled thereby. Each vehicle includes a receiver for receiving the control signals, a transmitter for transmitting an electromagnetic signal in a substantially straight line path when the fire command signal is present, a motor for moving the vehicle when the movement command signal is present, a sensor for detecting impingement of an electromagnetic signal fired by another vehicle, and an indicator for providing an indication that the sensor has detected the impingement of the electromagnetic signal.