Abstract: A device for providing a positive indication that the door of a rural-type mailbox has been opened includes an elongate indicator strip with a first end and a second end, formed of a flexible, shape-retentive material with a spring bias toward a curved rest configuration. The indicator strip is connected at its first end to a mailbox such that the curved strip extends outward from the mailbox when in rest configuration, and may be flattened against the mailbox with the second end of the indicator confined between the sidewall of the mailbox and the lip of the closure door to hold the indicator against the mailbox in a cocked position. When the mailbox door is opened the second end of the indicator is released to assume its outwardly extending rest position and provide a visual indication that the mailbox has been opened.

Abstract: A talking card device includes a support member comprising a printed portion viewable by the consumer, an electronic storage element operatively engaged to the support member, wherein the electronic storage element is adapted to store an audio communication relating to the article of manufacture in an electronic form, and an audio assembly component electronically connected to the storage element, and configured to receive the electronic form of the audio communication upon actuation of a consumer operable switch, wherein electronic form of the audio communication is converted into an audio form for the consumer to hear. The printed information and audio communication may be coordinated to provide comprehensive information to the consumer about the article of manufacturer.

Abstract: A financial services and transaction network including multiple networked validation stations and remote terminals allows users to access a number of financial services and transactions. A user visiting a remote terminal indicates a desired service or transaction. The user provides any currency or funding information needed for the selected service, after which the remote terminal issues the user a transaction voucher. The user can take this transaction voucher to any of the validation stations in order to authenticate the user's identity and activate the voucher. Once the voucher is activated, the user or a recipient of the voucher can present the voucher at any remote terminal to receive funding or otherwise complete the transaction or service, subject to recipient authentication. The user provides necessary information using the remote terminal or validation station, or supplies the information using the voucher, which is collected upon performance of the requested service or transaction.

Abstract: A cash deposit apparatus has a first cash processing unit capable of performing a first cash deposit transaction involving receiving first cash from a user and processing the first cash so as to determine a value of the first cash, and a second cash processing unit capable of performing a second cash deposit transaction involving receiving second cash from the same user and processing the second cash so as to determine a value of the second cash. The apparatus also has a user interface unit and a controller, which is operatively coupled to the first and second cash processing units and to the user interface unit. The controller will detect a first input from the user, control the first cash processing unit, detect a second input from the user, and control the second cash processing unit.

Abstract: A system for processing credit card payments is provided. According to one aspect of the system, a client is able to submit payment transactions in different formats for processing. Depending on the submission format, the payment transaction can be processed by either a batch process or a right-time process. The right-time process processes the payment transaction in real-time upon submission thereby allowing the corresponding credit account to be updated in a more timely manner. In particular, the right-time process adjusts the available credit relative to the corresponding credit account in a real-time manner so that the available credit closely tracks or reflects payments made to the credit account.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for using a point of sale device to obtain authorization from a customer to convert the customer's promissory transaction to a direct debit transaction. In an embodiment, the point-of-sale device prints an authorization form for the customer's signature.

Abstract: In a system that utilizes a stored value or gift card (SVGC), additional value is linked to the SVGC. This additional value may provide an added incentive for purchasing the SVGC. The additional value may be a product or service, for example. The additional value may be linked to certain actions associated with the SVGC. For example, a customer may be given access to the additional value upon activation of the SVGC, upon the purchase of a particular product, upon the purchase of a product from a particular group of products, upon using the SVGC to purchase during a particular time period, upon adding value to the SVGC, etc.

Abstract: A vending machine handles a purchase transaction by receiving a payment, receiving a product selection from the customer, and dispensing the product indicated by the product selection. As part of the same transaction, the vending machine offers an information item such as an audio recording or a video recording. The vending machine also receives from the customer a destination address, which may be an e-mail address. The vending machine or a system of which it is part transmits the information item to the received destination address.

Abstract: A system for accounting an item sold by weight according to the present invention detects the weight of the item sold by weight taken in a package, calculates the sales price for the item sold by weight taken in the package based on the detected weight, and writes information on the detected weight and information on the calculated sales price in a recording unit provided on a tray for holding the package and from which data can be read and in which data can be written. Then, the system checks whether an unjust purchase is done for the item sold by weight before the system makes accounts square for the item sold by weight or before the system starts selling the item sold by weight by measuring the weight of the tray and checking whether the weight of the tray identified by the recorded information of the recording unit and the measured weight match or not.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a consumer interactive shopping and marketing system. The system includes a portable data terminal for communicating information over a communication network. The present system has aspects that may be used within a shopping establishment or at a user's home.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method that helps a freight carrier to more efficiently determine if a shipment of freight has been classified with the correct freight classification. In one embodiment, the method includes the use of a handheld communication device that allows an operator of a freight carrier's vehicle to display a description of a freight classification that has been provided by the shipper at the point of origin. The operator can then compare the displayed description to the appearance of the shipment of freight to determine if they match. If they do not match, the operator can flag the shipment of freight for reexamination at the carrier's terminal facility.

Abstract: An infusion pump including an optical imaging and an RFID reading module connected thereto through a host interface. The optical imaging and RFID module comprises a system microcontroller that interconnects an optical image capture subsystem and an RFID subsystem preferably routed through a single interface to the infusion pump. This infusion pump controls operation of the optical imaging and RFID module through commands provided through the interface and, as a result, capable of obtaining data encoded on barcodes and RFID tags. The infusion pump, through the optical imaging and RFID module, may thus automatically retrieve patient data, pharmacological information, dosage amounts, etc. from barcodes or RFID tags applied to the patient, intravenous medication, and even medical staff.

Abstract: An optical imager, a RFID reader, and a single host interface combined into a single module for use as a stand alone device or OEM product. The module includes a system microcontroller that interconnects an optical image microcontroller and a RFID microcontroller through the single interface to a host device, such as a computer. The system microprocessor is configurable via the host interface to selectively provide RFID reading, optical imaging, or a variety of combinations of both techniques. The module is programmable to allow the host computer trigger the RFID reader and optical imager. In addition, the system microcontroller is programmable via the host computer to provide image analysis, such as shape determination or recognition, prior to relaying data to the host computer through the single interface.

Abstract: A medical device, such as an electrosurgical scalpel, having a base unit and one or more attachable implements for performing medical procedures. The device include a host controllable module for capturing images of the attachable implement, decoding information contained in the image, and reporting the results of the decoding to the medical device. The host controllable module includes a system microcontroller that interconnects an optical imager and/or an RFID transceiver through the single interface to the host medical device. As a result, the module may be easily retrofit into existing medical devices and programmed to perform operations on legacy instruments as well as additional functions not previously available to the medical device.

Abstract: A printed interface for user interaction with a computer system via a sensing device is provided. The interface comprises visible graphical information and coded data readable by the sensing device. The coded data comprises a plurality of substantially undifferentiated marks positioned relative to a predetermined pattern, with an orientation target structure for allowing relative rotation of the predetermined pattern to be determined. The visible graphical information indicates an operation that the user can select and transmit to the computer system by reading the coded data with the sensing device.

Abstract: The present invention is a card reader that can read cards wherein the information contained on the cards is in different formats. This eliminates the need for different card readers for each card having a different format for information storage thereon. The card reader also has a biometric identification input and a keypad for input of additional information by a user of the device. The card reader further includes a data module connectable to the card reader.

Abstract: A data storage device communicates wirelessly with a reader. The data storage device has a data store for storing data and a hidden PIN data store for storing identification data. A controller of the data store has the ability to write identification data to the hidden PIN data store. The controller controls operation of the data storage device in accordance with the outcome of a comparison between identification data stored in the hidden data store and identification communicated to it by a reader. The controller may enable the identification data stored in the hidden PIN store to be replaced or supplemented, in the event that a reader communicating with the data storage device provides to the data storage device identification data that has a predetermined relationship with, for example matches, the identification data stored in the hidden PIN data store.

Abstract: A touch sensor device includes a light guide plate for guiding light for backlighting; a touch sensor positioned on or underneath the light guide plate and formed with at least one electrode pattern on a surface thereof which faces the light guide plate; and at least one light source positioned on a side surface of the light guide plate for generating light to be directed by the light guide plate. The touch sensor device is thereby significantly thinner and requires much less energy than conventional sensors.

Abstract: An item contents verification system, and associated method, for use in an assembly line of carrier-totes (if used) each containing at least one of a plurality of items having a labeling. Also, a labeling for use with a computerized inspection apparatus for verification of items, and associated method.

Abstract: A digital image capturing and processing system comprising a plurality of coplanar illumination and imaging stations for producing a plurality of coplanar linear illumination and imaging planes which intersect within a 3D imaging volume defined relative to an imaging window. Each station includes an array of planar illumination modules (PLIMs) for producing at least one substantially planar illumination beam (PLIB), and a linear image detection array having a field of view (FOV) on the linear image detection array and extending in substantially the same plane as the PLIB, to provide a coplanar illumination and imaging plane (PLIB/FOV). The PLIB/FOV is projected through the 3D imaging volume, for capturing linear (1D) digital images of an object passing therethrough, for subsequent processing and recognition of information graphically represented in the linear digital images.

Abstract: An omni-directional digital image capturing and processing system comprising a plurality of coplanar illumination and imaging stations for producing a plurality of coplanar linear illumination and imaging planes which intersect within a 3D imaging volume. Each coplanar illumination and imaging station includes a linear image detection array, a linear illumination array, and an object motion and velocity detection subsystem for automatically detecting the motion and velocity of an object that passes through at least a portion of one coplanar linear illumination and imaging plane, and automatically adjusting one or more parameters relating to the exposure and/or illumination control within the coplanar illumination and imaging station. By virtue of the present invention, it is possible to capture and process high quality digital images of objects passed through 3D imaging volumes, at point-of-sale (POS) retail stations and like environments.

Abstract: A digital image capturing and processing system comprising a system housing having an imaging window, a plurality of coplanar illumination and imaging subsystems disposed in the system housing. Each coplanar illuminating and linear imaging station includes a dual-type coplanar linear illumination and imaging engine that supports automatic image formation and detection along each pair of coplanar illumination and imaging planes generated by the coplanar illuminating and linear imaging station. Each pair of coplanar illumination and imaging planes are projected into the 3D imaging volume, for capturing of linear digital images of objects moved therewithin, and subsequent processing thereof for recognizing information graphically represented in the captured linear digital images, and automatic imaging-processing based object motion and velocity detection within the 3D imaging volume.

Abstract: An omni-directional digital image capturing and processing system for use in a POS environment, comprising a system housing having a horizontal housing section and a vertical housing section. The horizontal housing section has a horizontal imaging window, and contains a first plurality of coplanar illumination and imaging stations, for generating and projecting a first group of coplanar illumination and imaging planes through the horizontal imaging window. The vertical housing section has a vertical imaging window, and contains a second plurality of coplanar illumination and imaging stations for generating and projecting second group of coplanar illumination and imaging planes through the vertical imaging window, which intersect and cooperate with the first complex of coplanar illumination and imaging planes within a 3D imaging volume definable relative to the horizontal and vertical imaging windows.

Abstract: Described is an optical imaging system which a plurality of optical imaging devices coupled to one another via a communication network. Each of the optical imaging devices may include an apparatus for optically reading encoded data and storing the data in a data file, a voice recording apparatus for recording a voice message and storing the message in a message file and a voice reproducing apparatus. In addition, the device may include a file handling apparatus for assembling a transmission file and addressing the transmission file to an intended recipient one of the plurality of devices. The transmission file may include the data and message files. The transmission file is configured so that, upon receipt by the recipient device, the message file is automatically executed and played. Furthermore, the device may include a communication apparatus for communicating with other devices via the network, wherein the communication apparatus forwards the transmission file to the recipient device via the network.

Abstract: A digital image capturing and processing system comprising a plurality of coplanar illumination and imaging subsystem for producing a plurality of coplanar linear illumination and imaging planes which intersect within a 3D imaging volume defined relative to an imaging window. The system further includes a global object motion detection subsystem for detecting the motion of objects moving through the 3D imaging volume, and a global control subsystem for controlling the state of operations within each coplanar illumination and imaging station during system operation.

Abstract: A privacy purchase sack adapted for permitting users to confidentially purchase items bearing a product identification code such as a UPC code. The privacy purchase sack includes a main body portion having a sack with a wall and at least one open end, the wall having at least one window formed therethrough; and a section of adhesive for aligning the at least one window with a UPC or other product identification code on an item to be purchased, wherein the item is placed within the walls the main body portion to conceal the identity of the item to be purchased except for the UPC or other product identification code showing through the window.

Abstract: Provided is a portable cradle for a portable terminal which includes a housing; a first cradle body rotatably connected to the housing by means of a first hinge so as to be received in the housing, or of which a portion is apart from the housing and inclined; and a second cradle body rotatably connected to the housing by means of a second hinge which is spaced from the first hinge so as to be received in the housing, the second cradle body supporting the first cradle body which is inclined and adjusting an inclination angle of the first cradle body, on which the first cradle body can slide.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose an efficient and inexpensive method for detecting tampered products utilizing current off the shelf components. Features of some embodiments provide for a RFID labeling system that uses multiple RFID components attached to a single product unit being embedded in the product's label and one or more tamper labels. Such RFID labels usually comprise an adhesive label containing an RFID component, a destructible conducting path that acts as an antenna and a unique encryption. The RFID labels transmit the encryption when irradiated by an RF scanner. A complete inventory of multiple associated encryptions reported during an RFID scan of a product package provide positive indication that product has not been tampered with. A missing encryption indicates a faulty product seal or an event of tampering.

Abstract: The present invention provides a solution for supporting both the MMC and USB protocol modes to provide enhanced services and applications in a UICC. The UICC, methods and the terminal for dynamically selecting a protocol on the UICC card are disclosed. The invention provides that at least MMC and USB can be operated in the UICC without multiplexing or implementing a heavy procedure in the terminal. With the present invention, the UICC can be used in any host implementing either USB or MMC without having to add any new negotiation phase.

Abstract: A semiconductor memory card that is connected to an external device for use, has a circuit board that has an input/output terminal to be connected to said external device for signal input/output, an internal terminal and a substrate wiring formed on the upper surface thereof and has a resin member for insulation protection of said substrate wiring; a semiconductor memory chip for storing data that is mounted on the lower surface of said circuit board and electrically connected to said internal terminal; and an insulating seal for insulating said internal terminal from the outside that is disposed on said circuit board to cover at least said internal terminal, wherein the peripheral part of said insulating seal is bonded to a position lower than the height of the upper surface of said resin member.

Abstract: A method of generating an interface surface is provided, in which machine-readable coded data is generated in a computer system in accordance with a layout and is printed onto a surface with a printer in communication with the computer system. The layout has at least order n rotational symmetry, where n is at least two, and encodes a fault tolerant orientation codeword comprising a sequence of an integer multiple m of n symbols, where m is one or more. Each encoded symbol is distributed at n locations about a center of rotational symmetry of the layout such that decoding the symbols at each of the n orientations of the layout produces n representations of the orientation codeword. Each representation has a different cyclic shift of the orientation codeword and is indicative of the degree of rotation of the layout.

Abstract: A system and method for programming a thermostat is described. One embodiment includes a method for communicating a thermostat operation schedule to a media device that then communicates the thermostat operation schedule to a thermostat. An additional embodiment includes a computer readable medium encoded with executable instructions for establishing computer-readable code that effects operation of a thermostat. In yet another embodiment, a thermostat is included that operates upon computer-readable code to execute an operation schedule.

Abstract: A rail pad assembly includes a rail pad for engagement with a rail and a protective member extending between the pad and a tie. Each of two notches formed at opposed ends of the rail pad conforms to a retainer shoulder component on the tie such the rail pad assembly is received onto and constrained on the tie. Flexible projections extend out away from the body of the rail pad in lateral directions and are located adjacent to one of the notches on the rail pad such that each flexible projection engages a laterally-outwardly sloped face surface on the shoulder component. The flexible projections are resiliently deflected relatively upward and wedge the rail pad between shoulder components so that the rail pad assembly is retained on the tie.

Abstract: Improved rail clip support shoulders are less expensive than conventional shoulders.

Abstract: An irrigation system for supplying aerated water to plants includes a diffuser. Oxygen is diffused into water by the diffuser to generate aerated water. The aerated water is supplied to an irrigation device which supplies the aerated water to the plants.

Abstract: Sink spray head with supply jet variation and flow rate regulation, comprising a body defining at least two distinct water supply areas in communication with a distribution chamber controlled by a diverting cut-off driven by means of two distinct selection keys accessible outside the body, a cut-off being also provided for the regulation of the water flow rate. The keys are operatively connected to the regulation cut-off.

Abstract: A spraying device that sprays of a mixture of fluids is monitored to determine whether it is functioning properly. The spraying device has inlets for at least two fluids, such as water and air, and a mixing chamber in which the fluids are mixed. A mixture pressure sensor is mounted on the spraying device to detect the pressure of the mixture. The input pressures of the fluids entering the spraying device are also measured. A formula having left- and right-hand sides is provided for describing a relationship between the actual mixture pressure and the actual pressures of the first and second fluids. Based on the relationship provided by the formula, a comparison process is used to determine whether the spraying device is functioning properly.

Abstract: An environmental system includes a micromechanical dispensing device. The environmental system comprises an environmental system controller arranged to communicate with one or more included environmental air units. The one or more environmental air units are arranged to alter or control one or more physical properties of an atmosphere. The environmental system controller is further arranged to communicate with an included micromechanical dispensing device. The micromechanical dispensing device is arranged to dispense at least one fluid into the atmosphere.

Abstract: An automated spraygun includes a spray/atomization body mounted on a feed foundation. The spraygun includes tensile locking elements between the spray body and the foundation.

Abstract: A plumbing fixture including, but not limited to, an aspirating type shower head operates to add a selected scent to the spray water. The showerhead utilizes a venturi assembly where the water supply passes through a venturi. A negative pressure is created at the high velocity water jet stream point, near the narrow area of the venturi. A number of small openings in the venturi, to a surrounding air chamber, allow air from the chamber, to be drawn into the venturi. The air chamber has inlet openings for the aspiration of room air. At a portion of these inlet openings is a quick connect port to receive a scented cartridge. When not in use this opening may plugged. When one is about to take a shower and a pleasant scent is desired, a small scent cartridge is selected, bent to break the seal, thereby activating the scent material to migrate on the surrounding wick. The scent cartridge is then inserted into the quick connect port of the showerhead.

Abstract: Apparatus for generating a mist comprising a conduit having a mixing chamber and an exit; a transport nozzle in fluid communication with the said conduit, the transport nozzle being adapted to introduce a transport fluid into the mixing chamber; a working nozzle positioned adjacent the transport nozzle intermediate the transport nozzle and the exit, the working nozzle being adapted to introduce a working fluid into the mixing chamber; the transport and working nozzles having an angular orientation and internal geometry such that in use interaction of the transport fluid and working fluid in the mixing chamber causes the working fluid to atomise and form a dispersed vapour/droplet flow regime, which is discharged as a mist from the exit, the mist comprising working fluid droplets having a substantially uniform size.

Abstract: A nozzle for the discharge of a flowable substances, for example adhesive or sealing compositions, having a discharge orifice with a variable geometry. The adjustable nozzle permits the user to select the optimal discharge profile suited to a particular application of the composition being discharged.

Abstract: A sprinkler having an adjustable spray pattern is disclosed. The sprinkler may include a housing. The housing may include an inlet portion disposed to receive water and an outlet portion. The outlet portion may include a first outlet aperture and a second outlet aperture. The housing may include a cam disposed upstream of the first and second water outlet apertures. The cam may be rotated to a first position and a second position. The cam may include a first open portion that is rotatable about a cam axis. The cam may include a second open portion that is rotatable about the cam axis. The cam may further include a third open portion that is rotatable about the cam axis.

Abstract: An injection valve has an injector housing (1) and an actuator and also a nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly has a nozzle body (6) with a recess (8) into which a nozzle needle (10) is introduced and at one axial end of which an injection nozzle (12) is embodied. The recess (8) has, axially adjacent to the injection nozzle (12), a first guide region (14) for the nozzle needle (10). The recess (8) also has at least one cross-sectional extension which extends toward the other axial end. The recess (8) is embodied for the purpose of delivering fluid to the injection nozzle (12). A guide bushing (20) is introduced into the recess (8) in a subsection of the cross-sectional extension, the guide bushing (20) forming a second guide region (22) for the nozzle needle (10) and being embodied for conducting fuel radially outside of the second guide region (22).

Abstract: The present invention provides a nozzle device comprising a substantially cylindrical nozzle body and a cup member which is arranged within the cylinder of the nozzle body and jets out fluid droplets from the tip thereof while being driven to turn, wherein two or more fluids including a detergent and a gas are mixed and jetted out of the tip of the nozzle in order to achieve sufficient cleaning of a single wafer without a re-adhesion of contamination or destruction of the pattern of the wafer. Therefore, the fluid droplets can be controlled to a smaller size than the conventional double-fluid cleaning system or high pressure jet system.

Abstract: An electrostatic rotary atomizer apparatus includes a housing encasing a turbine assembly, a shaping air assembly disposed radially outwardly from the turbine assembly for fluid communication with a shaping air supply, and a charge ring mounted to the housing and adapted to be connected to an electrical power supply. The charge ring has a plurality of electrodes within the housing. Ions emitted by the charge ring are directed through shaping air passages to intersect paint droplets leaving a rotating bell cup.

Abstract: A fire fighting apparatus for road and railway tunnels consisting of a remote controlled vehicle which is provided with a thermal water-cooled shield and is allowed to run along a monorail secured to the tunnel and acting also as water pipe to extinguish fire. The vehicle carries also a telescopically extensible hose that can be connected to the monorail in case of fire to draw water off. This hose is able to direct the waterjet to the positions of the fire centres located by a suitable camera.

Abstract: A fruit and vegetable juice extractor for extracting juice includes a grating disc rotatable about a substantially vertical axis. A frustoconically shaped filter is attached to the outer periphery of the grating disc and projects upwardly and outwardly thereof. A food chute is arranged above the grating disc and the filter. The food chute includes a rib extending at least partially in the axial direction and projecting radially inwardly. A food pusher is insertable into the food chute.

Abstract: A food processing appliance for processing food stuff including a housing and an electric motor mounted within the housing. A bowl lid is removably mountable over the bowl. The bowl is mounted to the housing and the bowl lid is mounted over the bowl in a working position. A control mechanism is mounted to the housing and is operatively connected to the motor. A sensor is positioned on the housing and transmits a signal when the bowl and bowl lid are in the working position. An indicator includes a transparent plate mounted around a periphery of the control mechanism. The indicator visually indicates that the bowl and bowl lid are in the working position upon receiving the signal from the sensor such that power can be provided to the electric motor.

Abstract: The present invention is a handheld grinding mill. The handheld grinding mill of the present invention is operated by first removing the grinder knob and screw off cap to expose the interior chamber of the body, where the desired spice would be place for grinding. Once the body is loaded with the desired spice, the cap and knob are attached. To open and close the aperture, the shutter-actuating ring is rotated either clockwise or counter clockwise, placing the doors in either a closed or open position, as desired. To grind and dispense spices loaded in the body of the mill, the actuating ring is rotated to retract the doors and open the aperture and the knob is rotated, which results in a rotation of the grinder and dispensing of the spice through the aperture.