Abstract: Optical and mechanical apparatus and methods for improved virtual interface projection and detection, by combining this function with still or video imaging functions. The apparatus comprises optics for imaging multiple imaged fields onto a single electronic imaging sensor. One of these imaged fields can be an infra red data entry sensing functionality, and the other can be any one or more of still picture imaging, video imaging or close-up photography. The apparatus is sufficiently compact to be installable within a cellular telephone or personal digital assistant. Opto-mechanical arrangements are provided for capturing these different fields of view from different directions. Methods and apparatus are provided for efficient projection of image templates using diffractive optical elements. Methods and apparatus are provided for using diffractive optical elements to provide efficient scanning methods, in one or two dimensions.

Abstract: Optical and mechanical apparatus and methods for improved virtual interface projection and detection, by combining this function with still or video imaging functions. The apparatus comprises optics for imaging multiple imaged fields onto a single electronic imaging sensor. One of these imaged fields can be an infra red data entry sensing functionality, and the other can be any one or more of still picture imaging, video imaging or close-up photography. The apparatus is sufficiently compact to be installable within a cellular telephone or personal digital assistant. Opto-mechanical arrangements are provided for capturing these different fields of view from different directions. Methods and apparatus are provided for efficient projection of image templates using diffractive optical elements. Methods and apparatus are provided for using diffractive optical elements to provide efficient scanning methods, in one or two dimensions.

Abstract: A data input device including an optically generated image of a data input device, the image including at least one input zone actuable by an action performed thereon by a user, a sensor operative to sense the action performed on the at least one input zone, and to generate signals in response to the action, and a processor in communication with the sensor operative to process the signals for performing an operation associated with the at least one input zone.

Abstract: A data input device including an optically generated image of a data input device, the image including at least one input zone actuable by an action performed thereon by a user, a sensor operative to sense the action performed on the at least one input zone, and to generate signals in response to the action, and a processor in communication with the sensor operative to process the signals for performing an operation associated with the at least one input zone.

Abstract: An electronic camera including an electronic imaging sensor providing an output representing an imaged field, a first imaging functionality employing the electronic imaging sensor for taking a picture of a scene in the imaged field, a second imaging functionality employing the electronic imaging sensor for data entry responsive to user hand activity and a user-operated imaging functionality selection switch operative to enable a user to select operation in one of the first and second imaging functionalities.

Abstract: An electronic camera including an electronic imaging sensor providing an output representing an imaged field, a first imaging functionality employing the electronic imaging sensor for taking a picture of a scene in the imaged field, a second imaging functionality employing the electronic imaging sensor for data entry responsive to user hand activity and a user-operated imaging functionality selection switch operative to enable a user to select operation in one of the first and second imaging functionalities.

Abstract: A data input device and method including an illuminator (106) operative to illuminate at least one engagement plane (102) by directing light along the at least one engagement plane, a two-dimensional imaging sensor (112) viewing the at least one engagement plane from a location outside the at least one engagement plane for sensing light from the illuminator (106) scattered by engagement of a data entry object (110) with the at least one engagement plane and a data entry processor receiving an output from the two-dimensional imaging sensor (112) and providing a data input to utilization circuitry.

Abstract: A data input device including an optically generated image of a data input device, the image including at least one input zone actuable by an action performed thereon by a user, a sensor operative to sense the action performed on the at least one input zone, and to generate signals in response to the action, and a processor in communication with the sensor operative to process the signals for performing an operation associated with the at least one input zone.

Abstract: A method for maximizing the effective life and utilization of CO.sub.2 -absorbent material in a scrubber system for removing carbon dioxide from an air inflow to a metal-air battery or fuel cell comprises providing, in such a battery, a housing including a gas inlet, a gas outlet, and at least one removable, gas-permeable container containing a CO.sub.2 -absorbent material, the container being positioned across the flow path of gas entering said inlet and exiting said outlet. After a predetermined utilization of the system, the at least one removable, gas-permeable container is removed therefrom and spent CO.sub.2 -absorbent material from the container is regenerated for reuse in the scrubber system, the regeneration including at least periodically removing accumulated Group 1a metal carbonate deposits.