Abstract: A system tracks and identifies view-based representations of an object through a sequence of images. As the view of the object changes due to its motion or the motion of its recording device, the object is identified by matching an image region containing the object with a set of basis images represented by an eigenspace. The eigenspace is generated from a training set of images which records different views of the object. The system identifies the object in the image region by simultaneously computing a transformation that aligns the image region with the eigenspace, and computing coefficients of a combination of linear eigenvectors that reconstruct the image region. This identification and tracking system operates when views of the object in the image are deformed under some transformation with respect to the eigenspace. Matching between the image region and the eigenspace is performed using a robust regression formulation that uses a coarse to fine strategy with incremental refinement.

Abstract: A system tracks human head and facial features over time by analyzing a sequence of images. The system provides descriptions of motion of both head and facial features between two image frames. These descriptions of motion are further analyzed by the system to recognize facial movement and expression. The system analyzes motion between two images using parameterized models of image motion. Initially, a first image in a sequence of images is segmented into a face region and a plurality of facial feature regions. A planar model is used to recover motion parameters that estimate motion between the segmented face region in the first image and a second image in the sequence of images. The second image is warped or shifted back towards the first image using the estimated motion parameters of the planar model, in order to model the facial features relative to the first image.

Abstract: A system tracks human head and facial features over time by analyzing a sequence of images. The system provides descriptions of motion of both head and facial features between two image frames. These descriptions of motion are further analyzed by the system to recognize facial movement and expression. The system analyzes motion between two images using parameterized models of image motion. Initially, a first image in a sequence of images is segmented into a face region and a plurality of facial feature regions. A planar model is used to recover motion parameters that estimate motion between the segmented face region in the first image and a second image in the sequence of images. The second image is warped or shifted back towards the first image using the estimated motion parameters of the planar model, in order to model the facial features relative to the first image.

Abstract: A distribution network has an architecture that distributes data of any format over a wide serving area. An access subnetwork receives broadband data from a plurality of information providers, preferably at least some of which are received as compressed, digital signals using asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) transport. The access subnetwork combines the broadband data from different information providers, identifies the format of the data and outputs a consolidated MPEG encoded signal to a network interface module of an end user. The network interface module receives the consolidated MPEG encoded signal and converts the consolidated MPEG encoded signal into data packets in accordance with PID values identifying the format of the data. The network interface module performs MPEG and other processing on received packet data streams, and outputs information to a corresponding digital entertainment on the basis of corresponding PID values, resulting in efficient transport of data of any format.

Abstract: An apparatus for tufting yarn in a backing comprising a yarn applicator for penetrating the backing and implanting the yarn therein and an electric motor for supplying a predetermined length of the yarn to the yarn applicator. The electric motor is operable to selectively advance the predetermined length of yarn to the yarn applicator, and alternatively, hold the yarn or retract the yarn from the applicator. Desirably, the electric motor is a stepper motor, and more desirably, the apparatus comprises a plurality of stepper motors for selectively feeding yarns to a row of reciprocable hollow tufting needles for producing a patterned tufted product. According to one aspect, the tufting apparatus composes a modular supply system and a corresponding modular control system. Pattern information and timing signals are sent to modular yarn control units by a remote process control computer system.

Abstract: An environmentally sealed electronic test instrument having a three-part case enclosing an electronic testing circuit of conventional design. The three parts are open-ended top and bottom parts, and an end part covering the open ends of the top and bottom parts. The top and bottom parts have adjoining sidewalls between which is positioned a first resilient seal. Respective inwardly extending flanges are formed at the open ends of the top and bottom parts. The flanges are received by a second, U-shaped seal that is, in turn, received by a U-shaped channel formed along a marginal edge of the end plate. A pair of fingers integrally formed in the second gasket project into the U-shaped channel and are positioned between the first seal and top part of the case. The side marginal edge of the bottom part of the case are recessed within the sidewall of the top part of the case to enclose the first gasket.

Abstract: A zero insertion force receptacle for a battery powered device including a battery storage area having a pair of parallel battery cradles. A pair of stationary contacts are positioned at the first end of the cradles and a pivotable connector is positioned at the second end of the cradles. The pivotable connector includes a pair of actuator arms which are engaged by a shoulder on a removable cover as the cover is closed. The shoulder displaces the actuator arms and causes the pivotable connector to rotate about a pair of pivot pins to bring a pair of contact arms into engagement with the batteries. As the closing of the cover increases, the actuator arms are pivoted further about the pivot pins to increase the force between the contact arms and the batteries. In the preferred embodiment, the actuator arms are linked to the contact arms by spring sections.