Abstract: A computer restraint collar provides a rigid arm which extends around the base of a computer monitor or all-in-one computer to secure the same. The arm is attached to a base which is bolted or otherwise secured to a table or desk. The restraint collar better secures the computer against theft, and secures the computer against falling over.

Abstract: A mattress and coil-in-coil assembly. The mattress includes a cover, a frame, a plurality of spacing coils, and a plurality of coil-in-coil assemblies. The coil-in-coil assembly includes a first coil and a second coil positioned substantially within the first coil. The second coil is pocketed and projects out of a first end of the first coil.

Abstract: An entertainment and/or information network including a CD-ROM player at each of a number of user stations. The network can be installed in a multi-passengervehicle (such as an aircraft), an auditorium, a stadium, or the like. Audio and video and application software (such as interactive multimedia software) stored on CD-ROM disks can be accessed by playing the disks in a CD-ROM player at each user station. Each user station includes a display device, headphones (or another audio output device), and preferably circuitry for interfacing the CD-ROM player with the network. Typically, large volumes of data are transferred within each user station (e.g., from CD-ROM disk to display device) during execution of interactive applications software, but little or no data is transferred over the network to or from each user station to support such software execution. Thus, the network can have a simple, inexpensive, low bandwidth implementation.

Abstract: An entertainment and/or information network including a CD-ROM player at each of a number of user stations. The network can be installed in a multi-passenger vehicle (such as an aircraft), an auditorium, a stadium, or the like. Audio and video and application software (such as interactive multimedia software) stored on CD-ROM disks can be accessed by playing the disks in a CD-ROM player at each user station. Each user station includes a display device, headphones (or another audio output device), and preferably circuitry for interfacing the CD-ROM player with the network. Typically, large volumes of data are transferred within each user station (e.g., from CD-ROM disk to display device) during execution of interactive applications software, but little or no data is transferred over the network to or from each user station to support such software execution. Thus, the network can have a simple, inexpensive, low bandwidth implementation.

Abstract: A vending apparatus and system for storing and automatically dispensing magnetic or optical disks. A user interface means allows a user to enter a dispensing request corresponding to the selection of a desired disk and includes means for receiving user identification information, such as credit or debit card information, or other information stored magnetically on a bank card, driver's license, school identification card, or library card. Once a disk selection has been entered and user identification information received and verified, the selected disk is dispensed from the vending unit. The disks to be dispensed by the vending unit may be provided to have a region of magnetic recording media formed on one surface, and the vending unit may be equipped to write information relevant to the transaction onto the region of magnetic media.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the flow of vehicle traffic. The system of the invention includes a grid of one-way streets, and a one-way ramp near each street intersection. Each ramp allows only a right-turn at an intersection. Preferably, each intersection is an overpass intersection, so that each street directs vehicles not making a right-turn at an intersection over or under the intersecting street. Preferably, the system also includes a traffic monitoring subsystem, including one or more velocity sensor stations positioned along the streets, and a processor for processing the output of each velocity sensor station to determine the average speed of vehicles translating past the velocity sensor station. Preferably, each velocity sensor station includes at least two magnetic sensors embedded in the street surface. Each magnetic sensor outputs a signal in response to proximity of a passing vehicle.

Abstract: A vending apparatus and system for storing and automatically dispensing magnetic or optical disks. A user interface means allows a user to enter a dispensing request corresponding to the selection of a desired disk and includes means for receiving user identification information, such as credit or debit card information, or other information stored magnetically on a bank card, driver's license, school identification card, or library card. Once a disk selection has been entered and user identification information received and verified, the selected disk is dispensed from the vending unit. The disks to be dispensed by the vending unit may be provided to have a region of magnetic recording media formed on one surface, and the vending unit may be equipped to write information relevant to the transaction onto the region of magnetic media.

Abstract: A tape having a first portion (preferably a magnetic tape portion for recording video, audio, or computer data), and a cleaning leader attached to the first portion, and a tape cartridge including such a tape. The leader includes one or more cleaning solvent modules, each of which is preferably a thin pouch containing cleaning solvent designed to rupture when squeezed between rollers of a tape player transport mechanism (or in the tape cartridge). Preferably, several cleaning solvent modules are evenly spaced along the leader, to expose tape player heads to periodic bursts of solvent during cleaning. A leader control mechanism prevents translation of the leader through the player's tape transport mechanism following the first play of the leader therethrough (or the first play therethrough in a particular direction). The leader control mechanism can include a nodule mounted to the leader so that during rewinding of the tape, the nodule will lock into depressions in the reel on which the leader is wound.

Abstract: A vending apparatus and system for storing and automatically dispensing magnetic or optical disks. A user interface means allows a user to enter a dispensing request corresponding to the selection of a desired disk and includes means for receiving user identification information, such as credit or debit card information, or other information stored magnetically on a bank card, driver's license, school identification card, or library card. Once a disk selection has been entered and user identification information received and verified, the selected disk is dispensed from the vending unit. The disks to be dispensed by the vending unit may be provided to have a region of magnetic recording media formed on one surface, and the vending unit may be equipped to write information relevant to the transaction onto the region of magnetic media.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for entering alphanumeric or other text to a computer system using an input device having a small number of keys. The computer system includes a processor programmed to display a character selection menu (including displayed groups of characters), to move a displayed cursor from one group to another in response to actuation of at least one cursor movement key on the input device, and to select a character within a group in response to actuation of one of at least two selection keys on the input device. The invention reduces the maximum number of keystrokes required conventionally to select a character from a character set, and enables character selection from a larger set of displayed characters using no more keystrokes than required conventionally to select the same character from a smaller set.

Abstract: A carrying case especially suitable for use in carrying compact disks comprises a pair of circular faces connected to each other in spaced relationship by a circumferential wall having an opening. A cover is positioned over the opening, and is slidable between a closed position in which the opening is covered by the cover and an open position wherein the opening is at least partially exposed for insertion of disks into, or removal of disks from, the carrying case. Each disk to be inserted in the carrying case may be provided with a lint-free, scratch-free sleeve which protects the disk against scratching when it is in the case and also once it has been removed from the case.

Abstract: A vending apparatus and system for storing and automatically dispensing magnetic or optical disks. A user interface allows a user to enter a dispensing request corresponding to the selection of a desired disk and includes for receiving user identification information, such as credit or debit card information, or other information stored magnetically on a bank card, driver's license, school identification card, or library card. Once a disk selection has been entered and user identification information has been received and verified, the selected disk is dispensed from the vending unit. The disks to be dispensed by the vending unit may have a region of magnetic recording media formed on one surface, and the vending unit may be equipped to write information relevant to the transaction onto the region of magnetic media.