Abstract: Dot templates are used for detecting objects within images. A computer-implemented method is performed for each of a number of dot templates corresponding to the object to be detected within an image. Each dot template is defined as a collection of points. At each position within the image, a value of the image is determined at each point of the dot template. The dot template is effectively overlaid at the given position within the image. A score of the dot template at this position is determined, based on the values of the image determined at the points of the dot template. Where the score is greater than a predetermined threshold, it can be concluded that the object is at least potentially located within the image at the position in question at which the dot template has been effectively overlaid.

Abstract: An entertainment machine using biometric information is disclosed. In one embodiment, the entertainment machine detects biometric information of a customer. The biometric information of the customer is compared against a database of biometric information of a number of predetermined people other than the customer, to yield one or more people having biometric information that most closely match the biometric information of the customer. These predetermined people may be famous people, such as sports stars, movie stars, public figures, and so on. The entertainment machine indicates to the customer the identities of the people having biometric information that most closely match the biometric information of the customer.