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 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 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: The present invention provides a composite heating element suitable for heating an article when activated by a power source. The composite heating element comprises first and second dielectric layers each having an inner surface and an outer surface. The composite heating element further comprises a conductive layer formed from at least one conductive ink composition comprising a plastisol component and a conductive component. The conductive layer is disposed between the inner surfaces of the first and second dielectric layers and defines a circuit. The composite heating element further comprises an adhesive layer coupled at least one of the outer surfaces of the first and second dielectric layers opposite the conductive layer.

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: 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.