Abstract: An efficient method and apparatus for converting audio signals into mechanical vibrations is disclosed, the apparatus comprising a simple transducer. The transducer forms a dynamic magnetic field in response to an electronic signal. The dynamic field causes a mass positioned within the field to vibrate. When the mass is contacted to a surface of a structure, sound emanates from the structure.

Abstract: A device and method for transmitting sound waves between a signal source and a user's ears, wherein the sound waves bypass the air. The sound waves are conducted by the user's teeth and bones to the user's ears, where they are perceived as sound. Sound-transmitting toothbrushes and the like are described to transmit and/or conduct sound to the user's ear, while the user is brushing his or her teeth. The toothbrush head and a signal source are configured to produce sound waves for transmission through the toothbrush head to the user's mouth, and a tension controller is configured to control the volume of the sound waves based on the pressure applied by the toothbrush head. The signal source may produce sound waves directly or with the assistance of a transducer. The signal source may be replaceable, connect to a replaceable cartridge, or connect to an adaptor capable of downloading data to allow the signal source data to be replaceable.

Abstract: A video game system including a compact disc programmed with video and audio data and designed to continuously update a player device with informational data to facilitate dynamic sequencing of video tracks during video game play. A unique uncomplicated development methodology is disclosed for the format information on the disc and the programming of the player device providing advantages of achieving strategic video gaming and fast action gaming, exclusively from the manipulation of a user's input during play via six operable navigational buttons. The navigational buttons thus affect the player device selection of video tracks through format information added to image frames of the disc. Numerous benefits are provided including the use of high quality video images and DVD style gaming applications in a low cost system which utilizes inexpensive standard disc media, such game discs are developed at substantially reduced programming cost relative to other game programming technologies.

Abstract: The present invention, the Videophone, is a compact audio/video device that is capable of both sending and receiving audio and visual signals, and is designed to be compatible with standard telephone equipment. The Videophone includes a modified speakerphone, a camera, a viewing screen, and an imaging system based upon a revolving disk of film having a series of holographic apertures which divide the subject image into elements of light. The disk has two bands which are used to alternately scan and reproduce an image. The visual image is process by unique circuitry that can, for ease of manufacture, be contained on a single customized chip. The videophone has the capability to transmit a full motion picture of reasonably good quality. Moreover, audio transmission is not blocked during transmission of the video signal.

Abstract: An electro-optical technique for the efficient scanning of many different forms of transparent media. The method utilizes synchronous closed loop scanning (integrated scanning). The subject is illuminated with a predetermined light source level. The source is directed by a scanner to the transparent media. The illumination is then electro-optically processed and immediately fed back through the same scanner to the subject media. The resulting feedback creates an image signal that actively illuminates the media, providing only as much light as is required to detect the image. The signal thus created can be used to create a very high resolution reproduction of the subject image. The image can be reproduced immediately for viewing and transmission or stored as a video record. In addition, the image can be manipulated or integrated with other images for analysis, measurement, or presentation purposes.

Abstract: A scanning imaging system in which the viewing and reproduction functions are integrated into a single scanning head. The scanning system is economical in terms of cost and function, and is useful in many applications such as modem, photocopier and even photographic technologies.

Abstract: A circuit for processing the electrical signals from a phototransistor viewing objects through a scanning aperture. The circuit reduces the apparent size of the viewing aperture for increased resolution in a scanning system.