Abstract: The system and method described herein may validate and trace currency serial numbers, which may be extracted from the currency with a mobile telephone camera. The mobile telephone may use a messaging service to transmit the extracted serial numbers to a data processing facility, which may then compare the serial numbers transmitted from the mobile telephone to a list that includes information identifying currencies that are invalid, counterfeit, or known to be associated with criminal activities. In response to the extracted serial numbers matching any of the identifying information in the list, the currency may be deemed invalid. Furthermore, biometric information or information read from identification documents associated with an individual using the invalid or wanted currency may be obtained to help later identify the individual, and triangulation techniques may be used to track the mobile telephone and apprehend the individual.

Abstract: A method and device is provided for tapping an existing primary pipeline (e.g., a water supply line) without cutting the existing primary pipeline. A secondary supply line may be installed by coupling the device to a valve of the existing pipeline. In various implementations, the device may have a single port serving as both an input (i.e., an inlet) and an output (i.e., an outlet). Among other advantages, the invention may be used to avoid costly procedures of cutting supply lines, to prevent water spillage, to integrate with existing alarm and home improvement systems, and to communicate wirelessly with utility companies for billing purposes.

Abstract: A device and method for reading and authenticating currency serial numbers to prevent counterfeiting and other money-related crime is provided. The device may be retrofitted to be installed in an existing money counting machine, and may read serial numbers of currency that passes through the counting machine. The serial numbers can be captured from stationary currency prior to entering the counting machine, and the serial numbers may be authenticated by comparing the number against various databases.

Abstract: Currency is validated by comparing identifying information extracted from the currency, such as a serial number associated with the currency, to identifying information in a list corresponding to invalid currency, such as counterfeit currency. If the extracted identifying information matches identifying information on the list, the currency is deemed invalid. A photograph or thumbprint image can be obtained by a person using the invalid currency to help in later identification of that individual. Optical character recognition techniques can be used to extract the identifying information.

Abstract: Currency is validated by comparing identifying information extracted from the currency, such as a serial number associated with the currency, to identifying information in a list corresponding to invalid currency, such as counterfeit currency. If the extracted identifying information matches identifying information on the list, the currency is deemed invalid. A photograph or thumbprint image can be obtained by a person using the invalid currency to help in later identification of that individual. Optical character recognition techniques can be used to extract the identifying information.

Abstract: An archery practice/exercise device for use with a bow including a handleriser portion and a bow string. The practice/exercise device includes a cylinder having a closure member for partially closing a forward end of the cylinder so as to delimit an orifice through which air may be expelled from the cylinder. A piston is mounted for movement within the cylinder and an arrow-like shaft having a forward end is coupled to the piston and extends outwardly from a rear end of the cylinder. A fastening arrangement is disposed proximate to the rear end of the cylinder and secured thereto for enabling rigid attachment of the cylinder to the handleriser of the bow whereupon attachment to the handleriser, the cylinder extends forwardly of the handleriser for stabilizing the bow.

Abstract: An archery practice/exercise device for use with a bow including a handleriser portion and a bow string. The practice/exercise device includes a cylinder having a closure member for partially closing a forward end of the cylinder so as to delimit an orifice through which air may be expelled from the cylinder. A piston is mounted for movement within the cylinder and an arrow-like shaft having a forward end is coupled to the piston and extends outwardly from a rear end of the cylinder. A fastening arrangement is disposed proximate to the rear end of the cylinder and secured thereto for enabling rigid attachment of the cylinder to the handleriser of the bow whereupon attachment to the handleriser, the cylinder extends forwardly of the handleriser for stabilizing the bow.