Abstract: A convenient and secure system and method for access to any number of password-protected computer applications, web sites and forms without adding to the user cognitive load and without circumventing the inherent security of such password-protection schemes. An existing password field on a device display is overlaid with password wallet pop-up field which allows a wallet “master” key to unlock the wallet. An application-specific and/or user-specific password is automatically retrieved from the wallet and entered into the password field with no other user action required.

Abstract: An improved methodology and implementing system are provided in which a docking station is arranged to receive and dock a number of individual wireless personal information management (IM) units. In an exemplary embodiment, the personal IM units include touch-sensitive flat display screens. One or more of the personal wireless IM units may be individually removed from the docking station and operated to selectively and individually communicate with the docking station to access and retrieve more detailed information related to a presentation being made in another medium such as a TV or even an associated live presentation. In one example, the docking station is arranged to receive input from a TV system relative to which channel is being presented on the TV and is enabled to access and retrieve detailed information from a server which is related to the content of the current TV presentation.

Abstract: A method and implementing computerized system are provided for enabling point-specific temperature control for a given airspace. In an exemplary embodiment, infrared sensing devices are positioned in a vehicle to sense and record temperatures at various points within the vehicle airspace. This temperature profile is mapped relative to points within the vehicle and compared to a preferred temperature database to provide temperature control signals. The temperature control signals are, in turn, applied to temperature control air vent devices which are effective to direct appropriate air flows to specific areas such that actual measured temperatures at control points in the vehicle airspace approach the preferred temperatures for the respective control points. In another example, when sensed temperatures are above or below predetermined emergency condition limits for a predetermined period of time, various alarm systems are activated until the sensed emergency condition is corrected.

Abstract: An improved methodology and implementing system are provided in which a docking station is arranged to receive and dock a number of individual wireless personal information management (IM) units. In an exemplary embodiment, the personal IM units include touch-sensitive flat display screens. One or more of the personal wireless IM units may be individually removed from the docking station and operated to selectively and individually communicate with the docking station to access and retrieve more detailed information related to a presentation being made in another medium such as a TV or even an associated live presentation. In one example, the docking station is arranged to receive input from a TV system relative to which channel is being presented on the TV and is enabled to access and retrieve detailed information from a server which is related to the content of the current TV presentation.

Abstract: In the consumer care management system and method of the present invention, a system and method is provided for evaluating the needs of the visually impaired as well as providing a uniform service quality to the consumer through uniform assessments and analyses regardless of the extent of the consumer's impairment. Several series of standardized questions are asked which assess the needs of the consumer. To evaluate every consumer equally regardless of the locale of the consumer seeks assistance; the system is divided into several different uniform processes. The answers to the standardized questions during the processes determine the extent of help the consumer requires. The processes that the consumer will go through include registration and crisis identification, triage, payment, assessment, incremental record of activity, outcomes and quality assurance.

Abstract: The claims of the present application recite a method and system for accessing information in an otherwise inaccessible application database of a DBMS using view definitions that implement a security protocol.

Abstract: An improved methodology and implementing system are provided in which a docking station is arranged to receive and dock a number of individual wireless personal information management (IM) units. In an exemplary embodiment, the personal IM units include touch-sensitive flat display screens. One or more of the personal wireless IM units may be individually removed from the docking station and operated to selectively and individually communicate with the docking station to access and retrieve more detailed information related to a presentation being made in another medium such as a TV or even an associated live presentation. In one example, the docking station is arranged to receive input from a TV system relative to which channel is being presented on the TV and is enabled to access and retrieve detailed information from a server which is related to the content of the current TV presentation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for remotely monitoring the status of a variety of illumination devices. A fiber optic cable coupled to a light fixture transmits a light display. Based on the light received, the status of the light is determined. The status is determined without the use of elegant and expensive electronics that are more subject to failure and with minimal power consumption.

Abstract: Methods for generating an aggregate report to provide a certification of controls associated with a data set include identifying sources that generate information to be included in the data set. A plurality of controls associated with the identified sources are identified. At least one of the controls is selected as a key control. The key control is tested to assess its efficacy as a control for its identified source. The key control is modified to adjust its efficacy based on the testing of the key control when the efficacy fails to satisfy a criterion. An aggregate report is generated on the plurality of controls based on the testing of the key control to provide a certification of the controls associated with the data set.

Abstract: A new class of solar selective absorption coatings are disclosed. These coatings comprise a structured metallic overlayer such that the overlayer has a sub-micron structure designed to efficiently absorb solar radiation, while retaining low thermal emissivity for infrared thermal radiation. A sol-gel layer protects the structured metallic overlayer from mechanical, thermal, and environmental degradation. Processes for producing such solar selective absorption coatings are also disclosed.

Abstract: Heating or maintaining the temperature of a cathode ray tube that is waiting to undergo frit knocking has been discovered to substantially reduce the dangerous and harmful tendency of electrical arcing between the high-voltage probe and grounded band used in the frit knocking process. Any means or method of heating such a cathode ray tube including, but not limited to, placing the cathode ray tube in an oven or heating unit, or in a heated room or chamber produces beneficial results. Placing the cathode ray tube in an insulated envelope or blanket can also help. In particular, one or more heat packs that are heated in an oven and then brought into thermal contact with the cathode ray tube can be used to heat or maintain the temperature of the cathode ray tube.

Abstract: A method, program, and system for communicating between a host computer and a pointing device is provided. The program receives a control signal from a toggle-actuated mechanism operably connected to the pointing device. The program initiates data transfer between the pointing device and the host computer in response to the control signal. The program transfers data between the pointing device and the host computer via an infrared data link.

Abstract: During manufacture, the components of a cathode ray tube must be protected against contaminants, such as dust, that will degrade performance of the completed tube. A protective tunnel, in which a contaminant-free environment can more easily be maintained, protects open cathode ray tube funnels that are moved between a coating station and a drying oven. Access doors may be provided to allow for cleaning and maintenance of the tunnel, as well as access to cathode ray tube funnels in the tunnel. A vacuum system may also be provided to clean airborne contaminants from the protective tunnel.

Abstract: An insulating member is used on or with a high-voltage probe that applies a voltage to the anode of a cathode ray tube during manufacture of the tube. If there are flaws in the frit seal of the tube, the probe produces arcing through the flaw into a grounded, conductive band disposed around the exterior of the frit seal. The insulating member is placed between the high-voltage probe tip and the grounded band around the frit seal. Consequently, the insulating member prevents electrical arcing external to the cathode ray tube between the high-voltage probe and the grounded band. Such arcing would otherwise interfere with the testing of the frit seal and could possibly damage the test equipment.

Abstract: A new class of solar selective absorption coatings are disclosed. These coatings comprise a structured metallic overlayer such that the overlayer has a sub-micron structure designed to efficiently absorb solar radiation, while retaining low thermal emissivity for infrared thermal radiation. A sol-gel layer protects the structured metallic overlayer from mechanical, thermal, and environmental degradation. Processes for producing such solar selective absorption coatings are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention, which meets the needs identified above, is an improved computer display device which is capable of displaying more computer desktop space than traditional display devices. The invention comprises a display monitor and at least one display module. The display monitor and the display module each contain their own desktop real estate. When the display module and the display monitor are connected together, the two desktops merge and create the improved desktop.

Abstract: An improved methodology and implementing system are provided in which a display device is selectively converted by a user to change its processing configuration from a first mode which suitable for use in a first computer environment, to a second mode which is suitable for use in a second computer environment. In an exemplary embodiment, a display device is configured to also act as a touch-sensitive input unit to provide user input in a hand-held computing system. The display device is further enabled to be converted for use as the display in a laptop computer system with a keyboard and/or mouse input. Each configuration has a separate bus and includes a separate CPU. A common display device and palm unit non-volatile memory are accessible from either configuration. A user is enabled to input a selected mode of operation and configuration for the display device through a selection switch on the display device.

Abstract: A system and method for skill proficiencies acquisitions is presented. Job roles are compared with employee skill profiles to determine which skills a corresponding employee needs developed. A skill map is generated which includes skill development activity options. Skill development activity options may include attending a seminar, reading a book, or participating in a mentoring program. An employee selects a skill development activity that is suitable to his work routine and learning style. A skill proficiency rating is determined after the conclusion of the skill development activity. The new skill and proficiency rating are recorded in the employee's skill profile.

Abstract: A system and method for improved capacity planning and deployment is presented. Codified skills are used to generate job roles and employee skill profiles. Job roles include codified skills corresponding to the type of skills an employee needs to effectively perform a job assignment corresponding to his job role. An employee skill profile includes codified skills corresponding to the employees' capabilities. Job roles and employee skill profiles may be compared in various ways that allows an organization to effectively hire, develop, and manage employees.

Abstract: A new class of solar selective absorption coatings are disclosed. These coatings comprise a structured metallic overlayer such that the overlayer has a sub-micron structure designed to efficiently absorb solar radiation, while retaining low thermal emissivity for infrared thermal radiation. A sol-gel layer protects the structured metallic overlayer from mechanical, thermal, and environmental degradation. Processes for producing such solar selective absorption coatings are also disclosed.