Abstract: Microwave cooking packages suitable for use as microwave popcorn packages include at least one panel (e.g., first and second panels) formed of a vertically rigid material. A flexible portion is attached to the panels. The flexible portion may be formed of a polyester film material such as a biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, which may be at least partially transparent. The flexible portion (and panels) defines a bag construction configured to contain a popcorn charge and to be expandable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration when the popcorn charge is subjected to a popping operation. The microwave cooking package may include a vent assembly configured to at least partially open when the bag configuration is in an expanded configuration to vent the bag construction. The vent assembly includes a first portion a second portion of the bag construction that is configured to be folded against the first portion.

Abstract: A system and method for collecting and validating inventory data is disclosed. In one embodiment, a processor-based inventory data collection system, with an internal integrated scanner, for efficiently collecting and validating inventory data includes a central processor coupled to a memory bus. The internal integrated scanner allows an operator to use one hand to scan and count merchandise, leaving the other hand free to adjust and move merchandise as needed. Since the operator can use the system to scan and count merchandise with only one hand, the operator is able to efficiently take the inventory without frequently pausing to adjust or move the merchandise. The central processor is adapted to receive the inventory data and is operable to validate the inventory data using a plurality of program codes. At least one flash memory device is coupled to the memory bus. The flash memory is adapted to store inventory data as the data is entered into the device and also adapted to store the program codes.

Abstract: A writing instrument including an integrated display module. The display module is used to provide a presentation to a user or consumer. The presentation can be in the form of scrolling text, a still image, a flashing image, an image that fades in and out of view or a movie. The presentation can be an advertisement, for entertainment or informative in nature. The presentation may be downloaded to the writing instrument using one or more of a variety of data transfer means including USB, IEEE 1394, microwave, infrared, and laser. The writing instrument may also include a radio receiver for receiving message signals containing messaging information. The display module is used to display the message information.