Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for communicating information comprised of an electronic display device, a touch sensitive input device positioned to substantially cover said display device, a computerized device in electronic communication with the display and the input device, and an algorithm executing on the computerized device. The algorithm causes a two-dimensional array of three-dimensional shapes to appear on said display and rotate about an axis and undulate in a wave-like manner without interaction from a viewer during an attract mode. After the touch sensitive input device is contacted by a user, the algorithm may display an interaction mode wherein the shapes may be caused to rotate about an axis by a user's contacting the touch sensitive input device at a point on the display device corresponding to a three-dimensional shape and moving such a contact point in the direction of rotation to expose information displayed on the surface of the three-dimensional shape.

Abstract: A temperature control system and method for a heat sink in an integrated display computer. Temperature sensing and throttling capabilities of ICs are used to prevent a passive heat sink from rising above a maximum temperature. An algorithm for controlling power usage of the ICs limits the maximum heat sink temperature. The maximum temperature is adjustable with an option in the BIOS. The heat sink temperature is controlled by throttling down the ICs when the temperature rises. An ACPI/OSPM passive cooling mechanism for the CPU defines a thermal feedback equation that operates once a thermal trip point is reached. The higher the actual temperature is above the trip point, the faster the CPU throttles down. Likewise, the CPU throttles up as the actual temperature drops below the trip point. The reported CPU temperature is adjusted higher or lower depending on how close the actual temperature is to the specified heat sink operating temperature.

Abstract: A self-service shopper ordering guide system and method for use by retailers to customize product ordering promotions. An ordering guide database is synchronized with the retailer's product and inventory databases so that current product data is available to the system. The self-service ordering guide system comprises tools for developing and deploying screens to self-service terminals located throughout a store. A screen flow editor prompts a user to define screens for an order flow and to specify products from the ordering guide database to include on screens. The user's selections populate screen templates that comprise an order flow. Photographs and files for use in the screens and subscreens allow a retailer to create a customized look. A shopper using an in-store terminal is prompted to make selections from the screens to create an in-store order. The ordering guide system is further integrated with the retailer's fulfillment system for processing online orders.

Abstract: A housing unit for attaching a telephone switch cradle peripheral to an integrated display computer, and an integrated display computer with a telephone switch cradle peripheral attached thereto. Telephone switch cradle componentry is enclosed in a peripheral housing unit that is attached to a side of the computer. The housing unit comprises an end cap, shroud, and holster for holding telephone switch cradle componentry. The housing unit accepts a handset. In addition to accessing information using the computer's touch screen, users may use the handset to interact with the computer or with a person who can provide the user with additional information of interest. Additional information requested via the handset may be accessible using the computer's touch screen or the handset. A single network connection at the computer supports data and voice communications so that information from remote sources and software operational at the computer distinguishes voice and data communications.

Abstract: A stand with integrated peripherals for an integrated display computer. The peripherals are enclosed in a stand housing unit. Only the portion of the peripheral or peripheral interface with which a user interacts is accessible through the stand housing unit. The remaining components are hidden within the housing unit. Various types of peripherals such a CD-ROM or DVD drive may be installed in the base of the stand. Other types of peripherals such as a printer may be installed in the tower of the stand. The base and tower may be combined to form a complete stand. Power cords and cables may extend through the back or bottom of the stand and are protected by the stand base. The complete stand, which can accommodate an integrated display computer, gives each integrated display computer a similar, finished appearance regardless of which peripherals, if any, are enclosed in the stand.

Abstract: A housing unit for attaching a peripheral device to an integrated display computer, and an integrated display computer with peripherals attached thereto. The peripherals are enclosed in a peripheral housing unit that is attached to a side of the computer that is adapted to accept the housing unit. The housing unit comprises an end cap and a shroud as well as internal components including an assembly bracket that are assembled to complete the unit. Only the portion of the peripheral or peripheral interface with which a user interacts is accessible through the housing unit. The remaining components are hidden within the housing unit. Various types of peripherals such as media card readers, bar code scanners, and magnetic card readers may be installed in the housing unit. Additionally, a housing unit that has an end cap and shroud but does not contain a peripheral may be attached to the computer.

Abstract: An adjustable bracket assembly for mounting an electronic display device to a shelf, such as, for example, a shelf of a retail store. The adjustable bracket assembly allows for the mounting of an electronic display device to shelving of different width and does not require any alteration of the shelving. The electronic display device may be mounted at different locations with respect to the shelf. The design of the adjustable bracket assembly preferably allows for useable shelf space to exist behind the electronic display device once it is installed to the shelf. The adjustable bracket assembly may also allow for attachment of a printer, or a printer housing.

Abstract: The present invention is a fanless computer with an integrated display. Passive cooling design features, including a heat sink, are incorporated into the device so that it is fanless. The heat sink supports the entire computer enclosure and causes heat in the device to dissipate through vents. The PCB assembly may be attached directly to the heat sink to facilitate thermal transfer characteristics so that components are cooled without the need for a fan. A pressure plate may be attached to the back of the PCB provides a tight coupling between the processor and heat sink. The computer is fanless, silent, and compact and therefore, suitable for many applications, including for use in locations where the availability of space is a concern. For example, the computer may be mounted on a retail store shelf to provide product information to consumers shopping at the retail establishment.

Abstract: The present invention is a virtual product designer that allows a user to provide specifications for a custom board level product and receive an instantaneous cost quotation and feasibility assessment of the product. The user may connect through the Internet to a virtual product designer to obtain a cost quotation and design feasibility assessment for a specified product. Functional modules that serve as building blocks for a custom design are defined and stored in a library. Attributes and design parameters associated with the functional modules are used to calculate a cost quotation and evaluate design feasibility. As the user changes design requirements while interacting with the virtual product designer, the user is continually updated on the relevant functional, electrical, mechanical and cost parameters.

Abstract: The present invention includes a table-driven system for guiding a user through the design of an electronic component. The system utilizes data tables that are adapted to house data relating an electronic component. A modular program is used to extract data from these tables. The modular program contains system logic to utilize this data in guiding the user through the process. A terminal is then used to allow a user to make selections from the choices prompted by the modular program and complete the design process.