Abstract: A method of targeting an advertisement to users of scheduled transportation operating at a transportation facility having a set of programmable signs at distinct locations in the facility includes in a first computer process determining a dynamic profile of users proximate to the location of a selected programmable sign of the set for a relevant time window. The method further includes in a second computer process selecting from an advertisement database an advertisement having a set of selection criteria that are compatible with the dynamic profile for the relevant time window and in a third computer process causing display of the advertisement on the selected programmable sign during at least a portion of the relevant time window.

Abstract: A computer-based method of displaying real time flight information for aircraft. includes retrieving data previously stored for which there is real time flight information and causing display, on a screen of a client computing device, automatically and repetitively of a plurality of views of a geographic map. Such views collectively display all viewable flights in a pre-specified category. The embodiment additionally includes causing display simultaneously on the screen of the client computing device, with the geographic map, of a list of flights in the pre-specified category. The list scrolls automatically at least to the extent necessary to cause repetitive display of the entire list. Additionally, contents of the list are coordinated with each of the views.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention relates to a method for creating a supplier-rating matrix for rating services of a supplier. The method includes defining a plurality of job attributes each including a plurality of sub-attributes, each sub-attribute representing a range of job attribute values and defining a job attribute vector associated with the supplier, the job attribute vector including a plurality of dimensions each corresponding to a sub-attribute. The method further includes defining a plurality of performance metrics and defining a performance vector associated with the supplier, the performance vector including a plurality of dimensions each corresponding to a performance metric. The method further includes defining a initial values for the job attribute vector and the performance vector and generating a supplier rating matrix for the supplier by mathematically combining the job attribute vector and the performance vector.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention relates to a method for creating a supplier-rating matrix for rating services of a supplier. The method includes defining a plurality of job attributes each including a plurality of sub-attributes, each sub-attribute representing a range of job attribute values and defining a job attribute vector associated with the supplier, the job attribute vector including a plurality of dimensions each corresponding to a sub-attribute. The method further includes defining a plurality of performance metrics and defining a performance vector associated with the supplier, the performance vector including a plurality of dimensions each corresponding to a performance metric. The method further includes defining a initial values for the job attribute vector and the performance vector and generating a supplier rating matrix for the supplier by mathematically combining the job attribute vector and the performance vector.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises an exercise mechanism and a steering mechanism for manipulation by the user to achieve exercise and to indicate a direction of motion. The exercise mechanism can be, for example, the steps of a stair climbing simulator or the pedals of a bicycle, preferably a recumbent bicycle. A simulated environment (e.g., an interactive simulated three-dimensional environment or an interactive simulated three-dimensional fluid environment) is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system for the user. The user manipulates. the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to travel substantially unrestricted throughout the simulated environment. The computer controls the exercise mechanism and monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated environment. The display provides a visual display of the user's position in the simulated environment.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises an exercise mechanism and a steering mechanism for manipulation by the user to achieve exercise and to indicate a direction of motion. A simulated environment is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system for the user. The user manipulates the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to freely navigate through the simulated environment. The computer monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated environment. The display is periodically updated by the computer to provide a continuous visual display of the user's position as the user travels through the simulated environment. A plurality of the interactive exercise apparatus can be networked together to allow group participation in the simulated environment.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises a support structure for supporting a user. An exercise mechanism and a steering mechanism are proximal to the support structure. A simulated environment is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system. The user manipulates the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to freely navigate through the simulated environment. The computer monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated environment. The display is periodically updated by the computer to provide a continuous visual display of the user's position as the user travels through the simulated environment.

Abstract: A force and pressure sensor is provided having two sets of parallel electrodes which are positioned facing one another and arranged so that electrodes of one set cross the electrodes of the second set at an angle to create a plurality of electrode intersections. Pressure-sensitive resistive material lies between the electrodes at each intersection. An adhesive layer is applied to at least one of the electrode sets in areas between electrode intersections to secure the first and second electrode sets in facing relationship, the adhesive layer preferably being applied in a pattern which provides passages where the adhesive layer does not exist to allow air to escape from interior areas of the electrode set. The thickness of the adhesive layer may be adjusted to permit preloading or to provide a threshold level for the sensor.

Abstract: A contact sensor for detecting points on a grid where the sensor is being contacted on opposing sides by teeth surfaces or other contacting points. The sensor is especially useful for measuring dental occlusion. The contact sensor includes two sets of parallel electrodes which are each formed on a thin, flexible supporting sheet. The electrodes are separated by a thin, pressure-sensitive resistive coating such as molydenum disulphide. Two such electrode structures are oriented at approximately right angles to create a grid where the intersecting electrodes cross separated by the resistive coatings. Several arrangements of resistive coating over electrodes as disclosed. In the absence of an external force, the material between the electrodes sets provides a high resistance between intersecting electrodes. The resistance between electrode intersections changes as pressure on opposite sides of the intersection changes.

Abstract: A contact sensor for detecting points on a grid where the sensor is being contacted on opposing sides by teeth surfaces or other contacting points. The contact sensor includes two sets of parallel electrodes which are each formed of a thin, flexible supporting sheet. The electrodes are coated with a thin, resistive coating. Two such electrode structures are oriented at approximately right angles to create a grid where the intersecting electrodes cross separated by the resistive coatings. The resistive coatings may be made from conventional resisitive inks and are optionally separated by a separation material, such as talcum or mesh. In the absence of an external force, the material between the electrodes sets provides a high resistance between intersecting electrodes.