Abstract: A system and method for engaging a customer in an enhanced shopping experience. The customer provides customer information which is stored on a database. An identifying token (e.g. a card) is issued to the customer. This identifying token is detected (e.g. by an RFID sensor) when carried by the customer into a retailer's space. This causes at least a portion of the customer information to be accessible from the database to retail personnel while the customer is physically present in the retailer's space, thereby facilitating personal engagement by the retail personnel with the customer.

Abstract: An optical receiver of a bidirectional optical communication module is fabricated through an assembling process in which multiple modules are assembled concurrently. The module includes a first substrate formed with a groove, an optical fiber located in the groove and having a flat surface, a reflective filter inserted between the first substrate and the fiber with a predetermined inclination angle in order to reflect an incident optical signal, a second substrate supporting the fiber and mounted on the first substrate such that the flat surface.

Abstract: A bridge joint for use with a railroad track having standard rail sections with flanges. The bridge joint includes a fixed point section having an integral accepting portion with a point and laterally spaced side walls, and a standard rail abutting portion. The joint also has a moveable point section having a yoke portion with a point and laterally spaced side walls, and a standard rail abutting portion. A rocker arm has a moveable interface portion adapted to be pivotally attached to said yoke portion and a fixed interface portion adapted to be received in said accepting portion. Clamping lugs are positioned on the side walls of the accepting portion and the yoke portion. The fixed point section and the moveable point section are clamped to base plates with clamping members that engage the clamping lugs.