Abstract: A computer implemented method of allocating a set of communications network resources to resource consumers in a digital communications system can include generating a set of multiple allocation schemes; iteratively applying a genetic algorithm to the set of allocation schemes to generate, at each iteration, a new set of allocation schemes as a generation of allocation schemes based on a preceding generation; and, responsive to a predetermined stopping condition for the iteration, assigning resource consumers to resources in the communications system in accordance with an allocation scheme in a most recent generation determined to satisfy a ranking condition.

Abstract: A computer implemented method of allocating a set of communications network resources to resource consumers in a digital communications system can include generating a set of multiple allocation schemes; iteratively applying a genetic algorithm to the set of allocation schemes to generate, at each iteration, a new set of allocation schemes as a generation of allocation schemes based on a preceding generation; and, responsive to a predetermined stopping condition for the iteration, assigning resource consumers to resources in the communications system in accordance with an allocation scheme in a most recent generation determined to satisfy a ranking condition.

Abstract: A computer implemented method of allocating a set of communications network resources to resource consumers in a digital communications system can include generating a set of multiple allocation schemes; iteratively applying a genetic algorithm to the set of allocation schemes to generate, at each iteration, a new set of allocation schemes as a generation of allocation schemes based on a preceding generation; and, responsive to a predetermined stopping condition for the iteration, assigning resource consumers to resources in the communications system in accordance with an allocation scheme in a most recent generation determined to satisfy a ranking condition.

Abstract: In order to overcome the problems arising from network latency in haptic transmission systems a local PC (23, 24) attempts to build a force/position model of a remote haptic device (22, 21) so that when packetised position data is received through the network 5 signals controlling the motors of the local haptic device (21, 22) may be adjusted to reflect a predicted position still to be received. By using a local data model of the remote environment, the prediction may take account of reaction forces from objects/textures being simulated locally.

Abstract: A haptic output device in combination with a network has its effective inertia increased by a controlling computer algorithm whereby potential latency effects of the network are damped out.

Abstract: Sensory output devices such as wearable items, three dimensional objects such as pebbles, ornaments, toy characters and the like, include controls responsive to the content of SMS messages or to recognition of spoken words or phrases in a telephone conversation to provide a response such as a thermal change, vibrational or other tactile response, colour change or olfactory output. The output may be intensified in dependence upon the number of times at which a particular word, phrase or emoticon is identified, the control means learning from identity information to associate a current call with an historic personality trait to maintain or adapt the response provided by the sensory output device.

Abstract: Apparatus for an interactive video system comprising a transmissive projection screen (8) from which an image projected on to the rear surface is visible from the front side but not visible from the rear side, a projector (20) to project display images on to the rear surface of the screen (8); and a video camera (22) positioned to video a user (2) in front of the screen (8). The user (2) effects a writing action on the screen (8) using a dry pen (24) comprising infrared LEDs (64) which operate when the dry pen (24) is pressed against the screen (8). These emissions are detected and position decoded, and a corresponding image projected on the screen (8) so it appears as direct writing to the user (2). The videoed image of the user and the input written data may be combined and transmitted during a videoconference to corresponding apparatus used by a further user (4) who thereby sees interaction between the first user (2) and the written data.

Abstract: A manually operated suction device for collecting samples of solid particles from cracks and crevices in stream beds and the like is disclosed. The device includes a squeeze bulb, a transparent collection chamber, and a narrow collecting nozzle for insertion into small openings. The device includes a plurality of curved baffles which direct collected material into the chamber and deter the material from escape back out of the collection chamber.