Abstract: A wireless vehicle passenger information system, storing information downloaded from a wireless server that can be retrieved by a vehicle passenger according to hierarchically ordered information categories. A touch screen display securely fixed within a passenger compartment provides a passenger interface to the system. The system optionally includes a global positioning system sender unit and driver and passenger compartment digital cameras, each interconnected to the information system for uploading position and image information to the wireless server for auxiliary monitoring.

Abstract: A chromogenic receptor comprises a self-assembled chromogenic compound having at least one intrinsic binding site. The chromogenic compound is characterized by the property of producing a reversible color change responsive to binding a target substrate to the receptor. The chromogenic compound has a transition metal ion and at least one ligand bound to the transition metal ion. The ligand is selected from the group consisting of substituted phenanthroline, substituted 2,2'-bipyridine and substituted 2,2':6',2"-terpyridine. The transition metal is selected from the group consisting of Cu(I), Cu(II), Ag(I), Ni(II), Fe(II), Fe(III), Ru(II), Co(III), and Os(II). Self-assembly can be effected in the presence of Cu(I) to form receptors for dicarboxylic acids, carbohydrate, amino acids, steroids and pyrophosphates. The receptors are characterized by the formation of a 2:1 complex of the target substrate with the receptor producing a visible color change from orange to red and a measurable change in its luminescence.

Abstract: Various means designed to protect an in-line skate frame from direct impact with damaging and/or abrasive surfaces are disclosed. Such protective means mount to the skate frame and may be manufactured from various materials, including metals, plastics, composites, and ceramics. Also disclosed are methods of preventing direct impacts to or abrasions of a skate frame using the disclosed protective means.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting angular displacement of an object. The sensor comprises a substrate for attachment to the object whose angular displacement is to be sensed and a sensing means attached to the substrate and connectable into an electric circuit. The electric circuit measures the resistance of the sensing means, which changes as a function of the angular displacement. Several embodiments are disclosed, including a conductive elastomer sensor, a conductive ink sensor, a sliding resistor sensor, a force sensitive resistor sensor and a conductive fluid sensor.