Abstract: Content preparation systems and methods are disclosed that generate scenes used by an interactive role performance system for inserting a user image as a character in the scene. Original media content from a variety of sources, such as movies, television, and commercials, can provide participants with a wide variety of scenes and roles. In some examples, the content preparation system removes an original character from the selected media content and recreates the background to enable an image of a user to be inserted therein. By recreating the background after removing the character, the user is given greater freedom to perform, as the image of the user can perform anywhere within the scene. Moreover, systems and methods can generate and store metadata associated with the modified media content that facilitates the combining of the modified media content and the user image to replace the removed character image.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a sensor includes a fibrous region contacting at least two electrodes. The fibrous region has an electrically conductive coating. The fibrous region has a resistance and when the fibrous region is compressed, the resistance changes. In another embodiment, a method of making a pressure responsive sensor includes providing a compressible material, applying a conductive coating to the compressible material to provide a coated compressible material having a resistance, and placing the coated compressible material in contact with at least two electrodes, wherein when the compressible material is compressed, the resistance changes.

Abstract: An electronic switch system comprising a circuit path that includes a first path that is formed by a substantially nonconductive composition and a second path that includes a nonconductive composition. The first and second paths are dispersed relative to each other to provide a continuous design circuit path having trigger points or open circuit areas.

Abstract: A process of producing a container closure by molding a gob of elastomeric material in a mold cavity

Abstract: A proximity sensor for controlling a component that may be installed on a window, on an interior or exterior pillar of a vehicle, on a control panel or any suitable location on a vehicle or any other structure. The sensor includes a substrate and a conductive layer disposed on the substrate. The conductive layer is formed from a conductive ink composition with the conductive layer defining at least one circuit for controlling the component when a user is in proximity to the conductive layer. A protective layer is disposed over the conductive layer. At least one of the conductive layer and the protective layer defines a graphic formed through the layer for visual identification to the user.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of heating an article, and, more specifically, provides a method of heating an article having a plurality of heating elements separated into a plurality of heating zones utilizing a controller. The method comprises the step of providing power to the heating elements of a first heating zone to heat a portion of the article. The method further comprises the step of monitoring at least one parameter associated with the heating elements to determine when a predetermined event occurs. The method yet further comprises the step of simultaneously discontinuing power to the heating elements of the first heating zone and providing power to the heating elements of a second heating zone upon occurrence of the predetermined event. The predetermined event may be, for example, a period of time and/or a temperature.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composite heating element suitable for heating an article when activated by a power source. The composite heating element comprises a first backing layer and a discontinuous circuit formed of a conductive material disposed on the first backing layer. The discontinuous circuit has terminal ends for electrical connection with the power source and defines at least one gap between the terminal ends. The composite article further comprises a second backing layer spaced from the first backing layer. A trace formed of a conductive material is disposed on the second backing layer. The trace is aligned with the at least one gap for forming a complete circuit when the first and second backing layers at least partially abut each other with the trace extending across the gap and contacting the discontinuous circuit.

Abstract: A credit card comprises a plastic layer, a processor, and a keypad. The keypad provides the ability to input a code (e.g., a personal identification number (PIN) code) to the processor as a part of validating the transaction. Illustratively, the entry of a valid PIN code may cause the processor to trigger an alerting device as an indicator to the merchant that the holder of the credit card is authorized for its use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for cell separation. In particular, the invention relates to separation of a particular cell type from a mixture of different cell types based on the differential rolling property of the particular cell type on a substrate coated with molecules that exhibits adhesive property with the particular cell type. This technology is adaptable for use in implantable shunts and devices for cell trafficking or tumor neutralization.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a sensor includes a fibrous region contacting at least two electrodes. The fibrous region has an electrically conductive coating. The fibrous region has a resistance and when the fibrous region is compressed, the resistance changes. In another embodiment, a method of making a pressure responsive sensor includes providing a compressible material, applying a conductive coating to the compressible material to provide a coated compressible material having a resistance, and placing the coated compressible material in contact with at least two electrodes, wherein when the compressible material is compressed, the resistance changes.

Abstract: A system for broadcasting a sound and/or visual concerning a subject to a person upon detecting a presence in the vicinity of a design indicative of the subject. The system includes a sensor proximal to the design. When the sensor detects a person or object proximal the design, a sound or visual concerning the subject of the design is broadcast. In one implementation, the design is a floor advertisement for a product, and when a person steps on the floor advertisement an audible promotional message concerning the product is broadcast within earshot of the person.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for cell separation. In particular, the invention relates to separation of a particular cell type from a mixture of different cell types based on the differential rolling property of the particular cell type on a substrate coated with molecules that exhibits adhesive property with the particular cell type. This technology is adaptable for use in implantable shunts and devices for cell trafficking or tumor neutralization.

Abstract: An electronic switch system comprising a circuit path that includes a first path that is formed by a substantially nonconductive composition and a second path that includes a nonconductive composition. The first and second paths are dispersed relative to each other to provide a continuous design circuit path having trigger points or open circuit areas.

Abstract: A credit card comprises a plastic layer, a processor, and a keypad. The keypad provides the ability to input a code (e.g., a personal identification number (PIN) code) to the processor as a part of validating the transaction. Illustratively, the entry of a valid PIN code may cause the processor to trigger an alerting device as an indicator to the merchant that the holder of the credit card is authorized for its use.

Abstract: A credit card comprises a plastic layer, an integrated circuit (IC) holder for holding a removable electronic device (e.g., processor), and a means for providing power (e.g., a battery). The removable electronic device provides the ability to, at least temporarily, associate status, or promotional, information with the credit card for use in subsequent transactions. The status information is representative of, e.g., eligibility for a discount, preferred buyer status, etc.

Abstract: A launchable figurine device includes a figurine having wings capable of providing aerodynamic lift upon rotation of the figurine. A rotation imparting mechanism is releasably mated with the figurine to provide the requisite rotational velocity for launching the figurine into the air.

Abstract: A pyroelectric detector is provided to measure the energy of pulsed light. To measure the power of continuous wave light (CW light), the pyroelectric detector is releasably attached to optical sampling apparatus which divides the CW light into pulsed light. Means are included to inform processor circuitry in the read-out electronics that the detector is attached to the optical chopper. The processor circuitry then calculates the power of the CW light given the energy of the pulsed light by the pyroelectric detector and the exposure time which is fixed by a crystal clock.