Abstract: A method and apparatus for printing an image on a large surface area or walkway provides for imagewise marking of the surface with a color marking solution, to form a visible image on the surface during an image recording mode of a marking engine. The marking engine includes a scanner and the marking engine moves along the surface and operates the scanner to sense a crude image upon the surface and generates data signals representing the crude image or boundaries defined by the crude image scanned. In response to data signals the marking engine is operated to print an enhanced image of the crude image and/or to color the crude image so that the printing overlies the crude image.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for printing an image on a large surface area or walkway provides for imagewise marking of the surface with a color marking solution, to form a visible image on the surface during an image recording mode of a marking engine. The marking engine includes a scanner and the marking engine moves along the surface and operates the scanner to sense a crude image upon the surface and generates data signals representing the crude image or boundaries defined by the crude image scanned. In response to data signals the marking engine is operated to print an enhanced image of the crude image and/or to color the crude image so that the printing overlies the crude image.

Abstract: A method for securely purchasing goods and services over the Internet, the method includes receiving an online form that was completed over the Internet for the purchase of goods or services; wherein the received completed document included a signature that was encrypted by a private key; sending the completed form with the attached signature to a charge clearinghouse which verifies the signature via the public key and authorizes a purchase with a unique authorization code; receiving the unique authorization code embedded and inseparable from the completed document from the charge clearinghouse; and issuing the goods or performing the service.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for printing an image on a large surface area or walkway provides for imagewise marking of the surface with a color marking solution, to form a visible image on the surface during an image recording mode of a marking engine. A vehicle supports the marking engine and includes a drive that engages the surface at plural locations and moves the marking engine relative to the surface. The marking engine is located outboard of an area defined by lines connecting the plural locations so that during operation of the marking engine during the image recording mode the drive does not engage areas of the surface that have been previously imagewise marked.

Abstract: A method of producing an animated electronic message in which at least a portion of a fee associated with producing the animated electronic message is paid for by a sponsor. The method comprises the steps of a user accessing a database which includes at least one sponsor message and software for producing the animated electronic message; the user using the software to produce the animated electronic message; the user agreeing to use the sponsor message which will provide a credit for some of the fee for producing the animated electronic message; and attaching the sponsor message and the animated electronic message which is sent to one or more recipients. In a further embodiment, a sponsor coupon is distributed with the sponsor message and the animated message. In a still further embodiment, the sponsor message is animated. In yet a further embodiment, the credit for some of the fee is paid by the sponsor to a service provider or to the user.