Abstract: A multifunction analog input/output interface for a sound processing system reduces the number of I/O pins and system components by using a speaker as an output device, an input device, and/or a control device. The system includes an integrated circuit containing a multifunction pin for connection to the speaker, an output circuit that drives the speaker, and an input circuit that receives a signal from the speaker when sound or touching the speaker moves a magnet in the speaker. An activation circuit coupled to the multifunction pin, activates an operation of the integrated circuit when the speaker provides a signal above a threshold level. Thus, a single pin serves three functions, sound signal input, sound signal output, and operation activation. The operation activated can be, for example, a playback or record operation. A delay element in the activation circuit prevents reactivation of an operation until vibrations in the speaker from a completed operation have died away.

Abstract: An apparatus for retaining a gold plated battery on a circuit board comprises a gold plated circular cover plate having a circumference, a plurality of support legs extending axially from the circumference of the gold plated circular cover plate, a plurality of prongs extending from each support leg wherein each prong is adapted to fit in respective prong holes on the circuit board, and a gold plated electrical conductor with at least first and second contacts, the first contact adapted for connection to the gold plated battery, and the second contact adapted for connection to an electrical circuit. The support legs extending from the circumference of the circular cover plate are rigid which insures alignment when inserted in to a circuit board. Accordingly, the apparatus is well suited for surface mount technology. The gold plated electrical contacts provide maximum conductivity to the electrical circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating an analog signal and methods of operating the same results in a cost effective solution for an audio sound generator. The apparatus for generating an analog signal comprises an I2C interface configured to provide programming data in response to write control signals, a non-volatile memory coupled to the I2C interface configured to store the programming data, a pulse width modulator coupled to the non-volatile memory configured to receive the programming data from the non-volatile memory and provide a pulse width modulated output in response to the programming data, and a d/a converter coupled to the non-volatile memory configured to receive the programming data from the non-volatile memory and provide an analog output in response to the programming data. The pulse width modulated output can be coupled to a piezoelectric speaker to produce audible sound. The analog output provides a line out signal that can be coupled to a dynamic speaker.

Abstract: The application of inkjet printing directly on lenticular lenses to create three-dimensional animated images that do not require film or complex interlacing techniques.

Abstract: An en route package apparatus and methods for operating the same comprise a reservoir having a fluid, a tilt indicator section having an X direction indicator including an X capillary coupled to the fluid in the reservoir, a Y direction indicator including a Y capillary coupled to the fluid in the reservoir, and a Z direction indicator including a Z capillary coupled to the fluid in the reservoir wherein the fluid from the reservoir flows through one of the X capillary, Y capillary, or Z capillary to a respective corresponding direction indicator in response to tilting the en route package sensing apparatus in a direction corresponding to the particular direction indicator.

Abstract: Designs and manufacturing methods provide flexibility in the manufacture and assembly of the communicating card of this invention. The communicating card includes a housing into which an electronic module is inserted. The housing is configured so that it can be manufactured independently of the electronic module. The electronic module is constructed to allow programming of the communication after the module has been manufactured, before or after insertion into the housing.

Abstract: A clock synchronized by date and time information taken from Caller ID information packets delivered with incoming calls on a telephone line provided with Caller ID service.