Abstract: A method and apparatus for damping an input device, utilizes a damping element attached between a support and an input element of the input device. The damping element includes a cavity forming element and a magnetizable element. The cavity forming element defines one or more cavities containing a magnetorheological (MR) fluid. The magnetizable element is disposed at a position adjacent the MR fluid for impressing a magnetic field on the MR fluid, to thereby alter the viscosity of the MR fluid and damp the movement of the input element generated by the input. In some embodiments, the damper includes a compliant element with a porous segment having one of the one or more cavities therein containing the MR fluid, with the compliant member having a stiffness. Application of the magnetic field to the MR fluid changes the stiffness of the compliant member.

Abstract: A system, method, and storage medium for determining packaging design for one or more containers are provided. The method includes selecting at least one 3-D CAD model of a manufactured part. The method further includes selecting a first 3-D CAD model of a first container defining a first receiving region. The method further includes automatically generating a first plurality of 3-D part packaging designs for the first receiving region wherein each 3-D part packaging design comprises a distinct orientation or positioning of at least the 3-D CAD model of the manufactured part and a second 3-D CAD model and selecting a first 3-D part packaging design from the first plurality of 3-D part packaging designs. The method further includes generating a first dunnage design based on the first 3-D part packaging design and the first receiving region, wherein a first volume defined by the first 3-D part packaging design and the first dunnage design can be held within the first receiving region.

Abstract: An information and redemption system that actively uses targeted and highly personalized e-mail messages to develop and strengthen the affinity between a merchant and the merchant's patrons and potential patrons. Unlike other computer-based marketing systems which passively wait for patrons to visit a web site, the present invention uses an active “push” approach to allow merchants to affirmatively approach those patrons interested in goods, services, or information relating to the merchant. Unlike other direct marketing systems, only patrons who “opt in” to the system participate, and all patrons are free to “opt out” any time. The present invention relies on providing patrons value with each e-mail such that the relationship between merchant and patron is strengthened. The present invention anticipates that the existence of information clearinghouses that can be separate and distinct from merchants.