Abstract: A new approach is proposed that contemplates systems and methods to enable an individual to complete a financial transaction by swiping a magnetic stripe card through a card reader connected to a mobile device. The size of the card reader is miniaturized to be portable for connection with the mobile device. The card reader is configured to reliably read data encoded in a magnetic strip of the card with minimum error in a single swipe and provide a signal that corresponds to the data read to the mobile device, which then decodes the incoming signal from the card reader and acts as a point-of-sale device to complete the financial transaction. Such an approach enables a person to become either a micro-merchant (payee) or a buyer/customer (payer) without having to purchase expensive card reader devices or software.

Abstract: A method of recovering a waveform representing a linear bar code, the method including the steps of: moving a sensing device relative to the barcode, said sensing device having a two-dimensional image sensor; capturing, using the image sensor, a plurality of two-dimensional partial images of said bar code during said movement; determining, from at least one of the images, a direction substantially perpendicular to the bars of the bar code; determining, substantially along the direction, a waveform fragment corresponding to each captured image; determining an alignment between each pair of successive waveform fragments; and recovering, from the aligned waveform fragments, the waveform. The method is performed only in the absence of a location-indicating tag in a field of view of the image sensor.

Abstract: A processing method of detecting a barcode from an original image includes: an edge processing process, a barcode positioning process and a projection modification process. The edge processing process is for converting an original image into a binarized input image. The barcode positioning process is for deriving position information of the barcode, and includes: deriving a plurality of luminance groups according to luminance values of all pixels of the input image; utilizing a determining circuit to determine whether each luminance group complies with an identification bar and to derive position information of the identification bars; and deriving position information of the barcode according to the position information of the identification bars. The projection modification process converts the original image into a modified image according to the position information of the barcode.

Abstract: A multiwavelength barcode reader is used for reading a barcode, and transmitting the read barcode to a system composed of a pair of connected information devices. In the barcode reader, several sets of light sources having different wavelengths are disposed so as to enable the barcode reader to provide a light source having a suitable wavelength in accordance with a color of the barcode when reading or scanning the barcode, thereby improving the resolution of the read or scanned barcode.

Abstract: Improved secure card packaging is provided which includes a concealed region within which an activation data field corresponding with a transaction card is located. The corresponding transaction card may be retainably disposed so that a proprietary account data field thereupon is not readable when the concealed region is selectively accessed. Upon accessing the concealed region, the activation data field may be read to activate the transaction card, e.g. at a point-of-sale location. Locating the activation data field within a concealed region reduces tampering risks. Tampering is further reduced by retained disposition of the transaction card so that the proprietary account data field is not readable prior to a purchase and card activation transaction.

Abstract: A method for realizing a dual interface IC card includes arranging a plastic support having a hole or a recess for housing a micro module, and housing in the IC card an antenna having at least one first and one second terminal or pad for connection to the micro module arranged in the recess. The method also includes distributing a soldering paste on the at least one first and one second pad, so as to form a first and a second contact conductive bump with electric connection contacts of the micro module, and distributing, along the whole perimeter of the micro module or of the recess, a layer of non conductive glue. The method further includes positioning the micro module in the recess with the contacts axially aligned to the terminal of the antenna, and executing a reflow of the soldering paste to form the first and second conductive bump.

Abstract: A contactless IC card which ensures the reliability of an IC chip mounted therein. Even if the distance between the contactless IC card and a reader/writer is too short, the card prevents an excessive voltage from being applied to the IC chip so that breakdown or reliability deterioration of the circuitry of the IC chip does not occur. The body of the contactless IC card has two interconnection substrates stacked between two external sheets. A first antenna coil formed on one interconnection substrate and a second antenna coil formed on the other interconnection substrate are opposite in winding direction. The number of turns of the second antenna coil is larger than that of the first antenna coil. Therefore, when the IC card comes close to the reader/writer, the voltage between two terminals of the IC chip is always smaller than the voltage induced in the second antenna coil.

Abstract: A new approach is proposed that contemplates systems and methods to enable an individual to complete a financial transaction by swiping a magnetic stripe card through a card reader connected to a mobile device. The size of the card reader is miniaturized to be portable for connection with the mobile device. The card reader is configured to reliably read data encoded in a magnetic strip of the card with minimum error in a single swipe and provide a signal that corresponds to the data read to the mobile device, which then decodes the incoming signal from the card reader and acts as a point-of-sale device to complete the financial transaction. Such an approach enables a person to become either a micro-merchant (payee) or a buyer/customer (payer) without having to purchase expensive card reader devices or software.

Abstract: A plastic card, such as a credit card or gift card, manufactured from recycled polyethylene or recycled polypropylene, and methods of manufacturing the same. The plastic card is made from an unfilled or filled recycled polymeric material, such as a blend of virgin and recycled polyethylene or polypropylene, that can be readily printed, embossed, thermally imaged, surface printed with a variety of inks and printing methodologies, laminated, and/or polished, such that the card will perform acceptably in a retail point of sale machine readable activation system. The plastic card performs similarly to a traditional PVC card in retail point of sale systems or environments.

Abstract: A card or token used in financial transactions has an onboard energy storage device that enables onboard electronics to operate when the card is not in the proximity of a merchant Point-Of-Service (POS) terminal In one implementation, the onboard energy storage device includes a capacitor such as a thin-film capacitor that stores sufficient energy to power onboard electronics without the need for an onboard battery. The card or token may be incorporated within various conventional apparatus such as a see-through and/or protective substrate, an item of clothing, an item of jewelry, a cell phone, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a credit card, an identification card, a money holder, a wallet, a personal organizer, a keychain payment tag, and like personality.

Abstract: An apparatus for mixing a first material with a second material and then spraying the resultant material onto a surface. The second material is mixed with a gas before the being introduced to the first material. A static charge is created and deposited onto the resultant material to help align the resultant material particles.

Abstract: A sprinkler includes a riser having an inlet end and an outlet end and a nozzle rotatably supported at the outlet end of the riser. The nozzle has a plurality of circumferentially spaced, radially extending stream forming channels. A gear drive is coupled for rotating the nozzle. A stationary arc plate has an upper surface adjacent a lower surface of the nozzle and includes a first aperture that directs water into terminal ends of the stream forming channels. A manually adjustable orifice plate is mounted in overlapping relationship with the stationary orifice plate. The adjustable orifice plate has a second aperture shaped and aligned with the first aperture so that manual rotation of the adjustable orifice plate increases or decreases an arc of an arc shaped water distribution pattern. A ratchet mechanism including radially deflectable tabs releasably locks the position of the adjustable orifice plate.

Abstract: A blow off cap and nozzle apparatus includes a nozzle having a tip with an aperture covered with a sealing membrane held in position over the nozzle aperture by a retaining device, so that a seal is provided for preventing ingress of contaminants into the nozzle when not in use, and the sealing membrane becomes dislodged from the nozzle when use of the nozzle commences.

Abstract: A multi-function shower head provides three water flower levels in response to three watering modes and comprises a low-flow controlling valve and a water flower generator such that the water flow passes through water flower generator to result in a centrifugal force, and then passes through a plurality of tunnels and a path to spray water, obtaining low-flow and strong water flower. Thereby, a water saving and strong flowing purpose of the shower head is achieved.

Abstract: A screen and grinder assembly including a frame, a grinder unit removably coupled to the frame, and a screen unit coupled to the frame. The screen unit is configured to divert solids suspended in a liquid stream to the grinder unit for grinding thereby.

Abstract: The present invention is a processing device, such as a macerator for use in processing various types of food products, that includes an automatic adjustment mechanism for adjusting the position of a roller disposed within the macerator. The mechanism includes a controller operably connected to a motor that can move the roller within the macerator to vary the position of the roller with respect to another roller located in the macerator. Inputs to the controller are used to control the operation of the motor to move the roll into a desired configuration associated in a storage medium in the controller with a particular food product to be processed. The input to the controller can also be used to simultaneously adjust the position of other components of other processing devices in a food processing system, such as an injector to remove the need for individually adjust each device in the system.

Abstract: A gyratory crusher is provided that has a crusher head, an eccentric assembly connected to the crusher head, a bushing positioned between the eccentric assembly and the crusher head, a retaining member, and a plurality of fasteners. The retaining member has an opening and a plurality of holes. The retaining member is positioned adjacent to the eccentric assembly such that a portion of the eccentric assembly is within the opening. Each fastener extends through a respective hole to the crusher head. The retaining member is positioned adjacent to the crusher head and the eccentric assembly such that the retaining member is decoupled from the bushing. The cone crusher is preferably configured to crush rock, stone, ore or minerals. A method of making or retrofitting a crushing device such as, for example, a cone crusher or other gyratory crusher, is also provided.

Abstract: A self-retracting lifeline includes a reserve lifeline portion and comprises a housing, a drum rotatably operatively connected to the housing, and a lifeline. A stop member is operatively connected to an intermediate portion a distance from a first end of the lifeline. A bumper portion is operatively connected to the housing and includes a bore through which the lifeline extends, the bore being smaller than the stop member to prevent passage of the stop member through the bore and out of the housing. At least a portion of the bumper portion disconnects from the housing when a predetermined force is exerted on the bumper portion to allow the stop member to exit the housing.

Abstract: A self-retracting lifeline includes a replaceable lifeline and comprises a housing, a drum rotatably operatively connected to the housing, a lifeline, and a locking member operatively connected to the drum and moveable from an unlocked position to a locked position for locking the drum relative to the housing to assist in replacing the lifeline.

Abstract: A reel structure for a marine fabric tape includes a reel device pivoted to an engaging seat. A straight torsion spring is mounted on a lower portion of a stop plate for a stop portion of the stop plate to engage with teeth of a gear shaft so as to prevent disengagement due to a reverse rotation. An axle bolt is inserted through a central pivotal hole of a gear tray and a pair of axle hole so that the gear tray is positioned between the pair of axle holes. An axle shaft is formed with a slot interconnected with the pivotal hole. A gear disc is disposed on the gear tray to mesh with the teeth of the gear shaft. The gear shaft has two ends provided with left and right sleeves. A pad ring is provided on the gear shaft between a pair of rotation hole. The gear shaft is provided with a flat rod extending from one end thereof. The flat rod is adapted to engage with a handle of a windlass.

Abstract: A multi-pack packaging for fishing line houses multiple spools of fishing line. In a preferred embodiment, each spool holds a length of fishing line having a different diameter. A friction reducing disk is located between and adjacent to each of the spools for permitting each of the spools to rotate substantially independently of the other spools. Clips may be provided for surrounding fishing line on each of the spools between the upper flange and the lower flange of each spool. Each clip defines a clip orifice through which an end of the fishing line can protrude. Each spool is located adjacent to an orifice defined by the side wall of the cylindrical housing so that the lengths of the fishing line can extend through an adjacent orifice to allow easy access by a user.

Abstract: In a CLOS missile guidance system, target and missile tracking data e.g. video image data are acquired on a UAV and transmitted to the missile where they are processed to provide guidance control data to the missile. Alternatively the video image data may be transmitted to a command station where the guidance control data is generated and transmitted to the missile, preferably via the UAV.

Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for making partial deliveries of cargo provisions includes a UAV having one or more ducted fans and a structural interconnect connecting the one or more fans to a cargo pod. The cargo pod has an outer aerodynamic shell and one or more internal drive systems for modifying a relative position of one or more cargo provisions contained within the cargo pod. Control logic is configured to, after delivery of a partial portion of the cargo provisions contained within the cargo pod, vary a position of at least a portion of the remaining cargo provisions to maintain a substantially same center of gravity of the UAV relative to a center of gravity prior to delivery of the partial portion. Other center of gravity compensation mechanisms may also be controlled by the control logic to aid in maintaining the center of gravity of the UAV.

Abstract: An aircraft gear caddy being removably securely fixable to the bulkhead or other part of a desired aircraft allowing for storage and retrieval during flight of required materials without the need to remove securing devices from the gear caddy.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a system that provides a cohesive, harmonized look to aircraft galleys and other aircraft areas. The system allows airlines to easily change the decorative front fascia of galley (and other) airline components, even while the components are installed on the aircraft. The replacement is accomplished without the use of tools or extensive manual effort by providing replaceable and interchangeable panels for use on aircraft or other passenger transport vehicles or vessels.

Abstract: Aircraft that are used for intercontinental flights require individual compartments or rest areas (crew rest compartments) for pilots and flight attendants that are also referred to as room elements. It is known to arrange these room elements a certain distance above a seating area for the passengers, wherein these room elements can be reached from a floor structure via a room element in the form of a stair assembly (stairhouse). The room element is connected to the room element by means of locking elements in order to achieve an acoustic decoupling.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for dividing a space into a plurality of areas, said arrangement comprising at least one frame with at least one fixing means for holding the frame in corresponding frame receiving elements, and at least one foldable defining means. The frame is formed in such a way that the arrangement essentially fits onto at least one wall of the space when it is fixed, the foldable defining means being able to be held on the frame and preventing an air flow between adjacent areas of the space separated by the arrangement. The arrangement according to the invention enables a thermal separation of two adjacent areas of a space, that can each be air-conditioned differently, without forming an area containing air which is a mixture from two regions at different temperatures.

Abstract: An ejection seat includes a headrest that, upon initiation of the ejection seat, moves forward to support the pilot's head in a tilted-forward position. By holding the crewmember's head in a tilted-forward position, windblast forces are controlled to prevent the helmet from pulling upward and backward on the crewmember's head. The headrest may include a pair of struts that extend forward around the sides of the crewmember's helmet to support the crewmember's head against flailing from the windblast. A flexible panel extending between the struts and the headrest panel may also be included to further support the crewmember's head against windblast flailing.

Abstract: An aircraft seat that includes a seat bottom frame having a back, a seat back frame pivotally connected to the back of the seat bottom frame, and a seat back shell. The seat back shell has at least a front panel, a back panel opposite the front panel, and at least two side panels disposed between the front and back panels which connects the front panel to the back panel. The combination of the front, back, and side panels form a gap to receive the entire seat back frame.

Abstract: A system and method for mounting engine control units. The engine control unit (ECU) mounting system is placed within a compartment of the light aircraft, aft of the firewall. The ECU mounting system uses a bracket that holds the electrical control units. The electrical control units are mounted through a firewall and are accessible via the adjacent compartment.

Abstract: An aircraft tail section has a first tail component and a second tail component, the first tail component being positioned further forward than the second tail component with respect to a nose of the aircraft. Each tail component has two surfaces, each of the two surfaces of at least one of the first and second tail components comprises a solar panel configured to collect solar energy. Each tail component is rotatable with respect to a centerline of the aircraft such that an offset angle of between zero degrees and 180 degrees is formed between corresponding surfaces of the first and second tail components. Preferably, the tail components are rotated into (i) a takeoff and landing configuration that is substantially horizontal, and (ii) a crosswise configuration during flight such that collection of solar energy is maximized.

Abstract: An aircraft fuel system including a fuel line for carrying liquid fuel, and a microwave energy transmitter for energizing water carried in the fuel line. Also, a method of suppressing ice formation in an aircraft fuel system, the fuel system including a fuel line carrying liquid fuel, and a microwave energy transmitter, the method comprising transmitting microwaves along the fuel line to energize water carried with the fuel in the fuel line.

Abstract: An aircraft elevator system includes a fixed frame, a floating frame coupled to the fixed frame, and a cabin coupled to the floating frame. The floating frame can move with respect to the fixed frame and the cabin can move with respect to the floating frame. The system can include an actuating system operating at least one pulley system to move the cabin between upper and lower positions, which respectively can be inside and outside the aircraft. In some embodiments, the system includes a support assembly that moderates or eliminates load transfer between the system and an aircraft upper deck floor structure. In some embodiments, the cabin includes a ramp configured to deploy when approaching the lower position and to retract to a stowed position when the cabin moves from the lower position toward the upper position. The ramp can include a sensor to control cabin movement.

Abstract: A method and a device for providing automatic load alleviation to a high lift surface system, in particular to a landing flap system, of an aircraft when a blockage occurs, wherein in response to a control signal emitted by a control device at least one high lift surface, which is actuated by means of a local mechanical final control element, is brought to a predetermined position by a central drive unit that is connected by way of a rotary shaft arrangement to the local final control element by generating a torque transmitted by the central drive unit to the rotary shaft arrangement. If a signal is registered that indicates that there is a blockage within the high lift surface system, the torque transmitted by the central drive unit to the rotary shaft arrangement is automatically reduced to a predetermined low torque value, and the position of the high lift surface system is fixed.

Abstract: Morphing an aerodynamic body's geometry in situ can optimize its aerodynamic properties, increasing range, reducing fuel consumption, and improving many performance parameters. The aerodynamic load exerted on the body by the flow is one such parameter, typically characterized as lift or drag. It is the aim of the present disclosure to teach the use of passive adaptive morphing structures to manage these aerodynamic loads.

Abstract: A switch or rail box for railway rails that include a system for sealing a portion of a location where the rail enters or exits the box. The sealing system includes a pair of seal plates that can be connected to an inner surface and an outer surface of the switch box, wherein the sealing plates each include a groove that conforms to and accepts a portion of a rail and in some embodiments, a rail jacket. The channel formed between the adjacent seal plates is filled with an insulating material that extends around a lower portion of the rail, thereby aiding in stray current control. Methods for sealing the switch box utilizing the sealing system are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating a railway crossing including the steps of receiving a signal from a locomotive; and activating crossing warning devices and/or downroad warning and in-vehicle alert devices.

Abstract: A knife locking system is disclosed herein comprising a housing containing a plurality of cavities, a plurality of lockable cases, and a plurality of pivoting means. The lockable case and pivoting means are coupled together and are located within the cavity of housing for lockably storing a knife or set of knives. The pivoting means comprises a compressible spring, a pin, and extensions. The pivoting means and compressible spring work simultaneously when a knife is inserted or withdrawn from the lockable sheath. The lockable case further comprises a peg and extensions. The peg restricts the sheath from moving while in the locked position. The extensions work with the pivoting means and permit the lockable case to pivot through an angle less than about 45 degrees. The lockable sheath(s) are capable of being positioned within the enclosure in a diagonal or parallel relation to one another or in various combinations of diagonal and parallel orientations.

Abstract: A conduit hanging device is disclosed. The device has a first clevis element which has a connection section and two branches separate from each other and a connection device for a hanging element. The device further includes a second clevis element which has a holder section for the conduit and two branches separate from each other. On each free end of a branch of the second clevis element a suspension section is provided, and on each branch of the first clevis element a holder opening as well as a suspension slot connecting to it are provided for the corresponding suspension section. Each of the suspension sections extends in a plane spanned by the corresponding branch of the second clevis element.

Abstract: A line fastening device for fastening a line on a rail body which has a mounting opening is disclosed. The device includes a bracket element that has two spaced-apart legs, each with two rear engagement sections for engaging behind opposing edges of the mounting opening, which are provided on a free end region of the corresponding leg, and with a tensioning device for bracing the line fastening device on the rail body. Each leg has a first leg part and a second leg part that is spaced apart from the first leg part by a gap. The gap extends partially along the leg starting from the free end region of the leg. The leg parts of the leg are spring elastic.

Abstract: An interchangeable, self-locking, cable gripping and adaptive anchoring apparatus comprising a gripping component and adaptor component. The adaptor component comprises a receiving side for a fitting or anchoring device, and connector side to engage with cable or the like. The gripping component comprises a housing having a cable receiving end and dispatching end. The housing holds cable gripping elements comprising a spring, spacer and two jaws, within a tapering bore of the housing. At the dispatching end, the housing comprises an internal bore for engaging around the connector side of the adaptor component. The gripping component is spring-loaded and self-locking for securing a cable. The pressure of the adaptor component connector side against the spring, spacer and jaws, lock the inserted cable in place to only allow the cable to move in one direction. The adaptor component engages flush against the housing and securely to contain the housing components.

Abstract: This Pole Universal Drainage Bag Holder (U.D.B.H.) is formed from two molded unitary suitable polymeric materials (2) pivoting at its midpoint (Fig. H). It works as a collaboration of the following parts: The Clamp Front Opening (Fig. J.), the Middle Holding Section (Fig. I) and the Clamp Handles (Fig. H). The clamp front opening (1) and (2a) (Fig-J), is used to hold a catheter or I.V. bag or a drainage bag any general size. The Middle Holding Section (Fig. I) of the (U.D.B.H.) has an interior diameter coated with suitable synthetic polymeric material (2a) allowing the (U.D.B.H.) to clasp and hold firmly onto I.V. pole or object similar (i.e. Bedside pole) and is designed to hold both the weight of (U.D.B.H.) and the drainage bag and itself. The Clamp Handles (Fig. H) used to open and close the device and is held in place by a pivoting spiral coil (4).

Abstract: Some embodiments teach a computing device accessory for a computing device. The computing device accessory can include: (a) a base having: (1) a base plate configured to rest on a surface; and (2) a base rear support coupled to the base plate at a first angle; (b) a top support having: (1) a top plate; and (2) a top rear support coupled to the top plate at a second angle; and (c) a connector collar configured to removably couple to the base rear support of the base and the top rear support of the top support. The top support can be configured to support the computing device such that the computing device is operable by a user when the base plate rests on the surface, the base rear support of the base and the top rear support of the top support are coupled to the connector collar. Other embodiments and methods are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: A card holder has at least one slot into which cards and/or photos may be inserted. The card holder may include two curved slots that may provide vertical stability to a card inserted in one of the curved slots. The card holder may include a straight slot that may be used to accommodate thicker card stock paper. The slots in the card holder may have teeth to help grip the card/photo more securely to keep them in place. When not in use, the card holders may conveniently and securely stack on top of each other for storage.

Abstract: A threaded connection incremental height adjustment system for furniture having wooden legs that allows vertical alignment of extensions after tightening for leg extensions that are not circular in cross-section or are circular in cross-section but have patterns or designs that are desired to be aligned vertically.

Abstract: A protective device and its method of manufacture is disclosed where the device includes a spherical portion that has an incision in its upper surface and a sleeve portion that fits snugly over the spherical portion in such a manner so that the device can be placed on a furniture leg to protect the furniture and reduce noise associated therewith.

Abstract: A system for attaching a columnar building member to a structural support member, uses one or more connecting brackets comprising a flat base plate having an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter, with a plurality of apertures disposed along the base plate. A socket extends from the inner perimeter of the base plate, with the perimeter of the socket conforming to the inner perimeter of the base plate, and with a plurality of apertures disposed along the socket. The columnar building member is attached to the connecting bracket via a plurality of fastening means through the apertures disposed along the socket. The columnar building member and connecting bracket are attached to the structural support member(s) via a plurality of fastening means through the apertures disposed along the base plate.

Abstract: A mounting system for adjustably mounting a flat panel display to a support medium. The system consists of a frame assembly that can be attached to a support medium. One or more adjustable mounts are attached to the frame assembly, and a flat panel display is attached to the adjustable mounts. Each adjustable mount can extend from a retracted position to an extended position in order to tilt the flat panel display and provide an optimum viewing angle to a viewer. As the adjustable mount extends, the center of gravity of the attached flat panel display moves in approximately a horizontal plane, enabling the display to be tilted by a user with a minimum amount of applied force. In some embodiments, a friction assembly is provided to maintain the selected position of each adjustable mount.

Abstract: A tilter assembly is disclosed which comprises a pair of springs, each of which is coupled to the tilter body and the center tilt mount, that provide a counterbalance force to support the weight of a user device which is attached to the tilter. A bushing, which is capable of providing force to a friction cylinder which permits rotation of the tilter about an axis, is adjustable vis-à-vis the friction cylinder via a set screw to provide additional counterbalance force to the tilter to support the weight of the user device.

Abstract: A drink holder which is readily attached to a vertical wall or the like surface.