Abstract: Accessories that can add new functionality to an electronic device. These accessories can provide additional functionality that allow for the replacement of a physical object that would otherwise be carried in addition to and separate from the electronic device. These accessories can further provide improvements, such as a reduction in size or improvement in functionality over the physical object to be replaced.

Abstract: A building framework is disclosed herein comprising a first structural member, a second structural member, and a third structural member disposed between the first and second structural members, a first web member connecting the first and third structural members in a spaced apart relationship, and a second web member connecting the second and third structural members in a spaced apart relationship. The first web member is positioned relative to the second web member such that the shortest distance between the first web member and second web member is greater than or equal to 5 times the thickness of the third structural member. Additional products, systems, and methods also are disclosed.

Abstract: A table game management system according to the present invention includes: a camera that images a game token placed on a game table; and a management control device that grasps a type (10 points, 20 points, 100 points, 1,000 points, or the like) of the game token placed on the game table based on a color of a side face of the game token imaged by the camera.

Abstract: A copper alloy disclosed in the present description has a basic alloy composition represented by Cu100?(x+y)SnxAly (where 8?x?12 and 8?y?9 are satisfied), in which a main phase is a ?CuSn phase with Al dissolved therein, and the ?CuSn phase undergoes martensitic transformation when heat-treated or worked. A method for producing a copper alloy disclosed in the present description is a casting step of melting and casting a raw material containing Cu, Sn, and Al and having a basic alloy composition represented by Cu100?(x+y)SnxAly (where 8?x?12 and 8?y?9 are satisfied) so as to obtain a cast material, and a homogenization step of homogenizing the cast material in a temperature range of a ?CuSn phase so as to obtain a homogenized material, the method includes at least the casting step.

Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a management system that prevents misuse of many game tokens during the operation of casino using card game tables in casino and other card game facilities using card game tables. The management system has a function that previously registers IDs of contemplated game tokens on database, manages IDs of game tokens present on a game table chip tray and a storage together with information on location on database, specifies the game token in the game table chip tray and the storage at predetermined timing, and generates an error signal when the following statuses is noticed: 1) a fact that ID absent on database is newly present and 2) a fact that two or more identical IDs are present.

Abstract: A sand based jewelry and methods of making sand based jewelry is provided. The jewelry having a quantity of sand mixed with a quantity of binding medium. The binding medium and sand mixture are capable of being solidified and mounted to a jewelry setting. The jewelry setting attached to a jewelry item.

Abstract: Since a game token (chip) on a game table has a complicated design, it is difficult for an image analysis technology to judge whether a dealer correctly redeems chips corresponding to betted chips at the time of redemption and there has been a problem that mistake prevention is not sufficient. A table game management system according to the present invention includes: a camera (4) that images a game token (100) placed on a game table (1); and a management control device (9) that grasps a type (10 points, 20 points, 100 points, 1,000 points, or the like) of the game token (100) placed on the game table (1) based on a color of a side face of the game token (100) imaged by the camera (4).

Abstract: A metallic fastener member has a specific color of light gold and also has high strength, discoloration resistance and high workability to withstand practical use. A metallic fastener member including a base material of a copper alloy having composition containing 1 to 30% by mass of Zn and 1 to 11% by mass of Ni, the balance being Cu and inevitable impurities, wherein the metallic fastener member has a Vickers hardness of Hv 120 or more and less than Hv 220.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a bottle (1) made of, for example, glass, more particularly a beverage bottle, wherein an object (2) is attached to the bottle (1). According to the invention, production of a bottle (1) with permanent added value is simplified in that the bottle (1) is designed with a recess (3) and the object (2) is detachably attached in the recess (3). The invention also relates to a bottle (1) thus produced.

Abstract: A sand based jewelry and methods of making sand based jewelry is provided. The jewelry having a quantity of sand mixed with a quantity of binding medium. The binding medium and sand mixture are capable of being solidified and mounted to a jewelry setting. The jewelry setting attached to a jewelry item.

Abstract: A subscriber identity module card for wireless devices, having a top surface, a bottom surface, a first cut-out space, a first material layer arranged on the bottom surface, a second memory card secured within said first cut-out space, said second memory card having said first material layer arranged on a bottom surface of said second memory card and having a second cut-out space, and a third memory card secured within said second cut-out space, said third memory card having a second material layer arranged on a bottom surface of said third memory card.

Abstract: A bar of noble metal or an alloy containing noble metal having a mass mB is subdivided into n×m miniature bars 2, 3 each having a specified mass mk, wherein n and m each denote an integer ?2, there being an interconnection of solid material (8) between directly adjacent miniature bars (2, 3). Another bar is affixed to a backing (13), to which the miniature bars are releasably attached. A method for the production of the bar consists in dividing up the same while leaving an interconnection of solid material or producing an arrangement thereof on a backing.

Abstract: Gaming chips 30 have an IC tag 34 which is embedded therein, and a special bar code 101 invisible to the naked eye, which is printed thereon. A server calculates the number of gaming chips 30 based on individual information of the IC tag 34 that was read out by a reader 38, based on individual information of the special bar codes 101 read out by a bar code scanner 102, based on weight data acquired at a weighing device 40 and based on image data processed in a camera 103. Further, the server checks a partial number or the total number of gaming chips 30 thus calculated, and outputs the check results from a display or speaker.

Abstract: The present invention provides value tokens having improved security while achieving enhanced decorative effects, contrasting edge “spots”, increased physical weight, and flexibility of construction and design. Stacked structures formed from pluralities of layers are featured.

Abstract: Coins, medals or casino tokens have a first side, a second side, at least one first layer made of a first material and at least one second layer made of a second material, wherein the first layer is between 10 ?m and 90 ?m, preferably 20 ?m thick. A method produces the coin wherein the coin is produced, more particularly punched, from a clad sheet-shaped composite material. A further method produces the coin wherein the coin is formed from a ring and a core arranged inside the ring. The core and the ring are punched from a clad sheet-shaped composite material and subsequently the core is inserted rotated into the ring and is fixed therein.

Abstract: A novelty currency device for promoting the concept of worthlessness is provided. The novelty currency device comprises a piece of currency and an alteration impression for altering the currency. The alteration impression provides an implied message of a reduced inherent value.

Abstract: A gaming accessory, gaming currency or gaming table comprising a surface and a magnetic pigment incorporated into the body or surface thereof is disclosed. The pigment is configured to be affected by the introduction of a magnetic field from a source such that the pigment appears to change from the first appearance to a second appearance when the accessory is placed in the vicinity of the magnetic field. The first appearance may be a color, opacity, color effect, pattern or shape and the second appearance may be one or more of a different color, opacity, color effect, pattern or shape.

Abstract: A chip member and method of constructing a chip member including an outer portion surrounding an inner portion. The outer portion has a first outer side. The inner portion forms a first cavity opening to the first outer side. The first outer side has a first lip overlying the first cavity. A first flexible tab is secured within the first cavity by the first lip.

Abstract: A poker or game chip has an outer ring and an inner disk. The inner disk is typically engaged with the outer ring, but may be disengaged by pushing on the inner disk. When the chips are in a stack, pushing on an inner disk causes it to disengage with the outer ring, and engage in the outer ring of an adjacent chip. In a stack of chips, all of the chips may have a moveable inner disk and, upon application of pressure, may be shifted to engage with the outer rim of an adjacent chip, thereby causing the stack of chips to lock. A stack of chips is thereby secured together, so that the chips will not easily disengage and spread along the top of the table.

Abstract: A body comprising a ring and a diametric bridging member is adapted to receive and retain dissimilar markers or indicia on the opposing sides of the body. The bridge member diametrically spans the void within the ring member. The bridge member preferably includes a hole to receive a permanent magnet. The ring member is adapted to receive first and second indicia, each of which is formed of iron or an iron alloy. The first and second indicia are held within the ring member by the magnet, and lie flush with the outer top and bottom surfaces of the ring member to present the appearance of a single article of manufacture. If desired, the first and second markers may be replaced with other markers, thereby altering the appearance of the coin flip token.

Abstract: A body comprising a ring and a diametric bridging member is adapted to receive and retain dissimilar markers or indicia on the opposing sides of the body. The bridge member diametrically spans the void within the ring member. The bridge member preferably includes a hole to receive a permanent magnet. The ring member is adapted to receive first and second indicia, each of which is formed of iron or an iron alloy. The first and second indicia are held within the ring member by the magnet, and lie flush with the outer top and bottom surfaces of the ring member to present the appearance of a single article of manufacture. If desired, the first and second markers may be replaced with other markers, thereby altering the appearance of the coin flip token.

Abstract: A method of printing on a metal surface includes steps of forming a plurality of macropores on at least a portion of a metal surface. A plurality of micropores are formed within and adjacent to the macropores. The metal surface is cleaned, and a first ink having a first color is applied to the macropores and micropores to form at least one image on the metal surface. Preferably, the ink is applied using an inkjet printer. The ink is dried. A second ink having a second color may also be applied to the metal surface and then dried. Additional inks may also be applied. A lacquer top coat may be applied to the metal surface on top of the first ink (and additional inks, if provided). Preferably, the metal surface is part of a coin.

Abstract: Token including a token body obtained by at least one injection of material around an insert including a contactless identification device attached to a rigid plate sandwiched between two layers of injected material, the rigid plate including at least one through-hole. The invention also concerns the method of manufacturing such a token, including placing the insert in a mold, injecting a plastic material around the insert to form at least a portion of the core of the token, and at least one injection of plastic material around the assembly formed by the insert and the portion of the core obtained after the first injection of plastic material.

Abstract: Gaming chips are provided with embedded radio frequency identification (“RFID”) tags incorporated into a gaming chip for identifying and tracking the gaming chips within a casino, and even upon a gaming table. The gaming chips have a body in the shape of a disc which has a loss tangent of 0.0078 or less, and more preferably of 0.007 or less. For chips operating at 900 MHz, the body has a dielectric constant of 5 or less, and preferably 3-5. For chips operating at 2.45 GHz, the body has a dielectric constant of 5-8. Preferably, the body is made of a blend of plastic, such as PVC, and a dielectric ceramic. The RFID is preferably sandwiched between layers of a high frequency circuit material including top and bottom layers and a center layer have a hole for receiving the RFID. Preferably, the layers of high frequency circuit material have a dielectric constant of 2.5-4 and a loss tangent of 0.002-0.006.

Abstract: A dimensionally stabilized token includes a rigid internal web structure for supporting molded external structures. The web may comprise material, such as metallic substances, selected to augment the overall weight of the token. The token further includes interlocking means, such as projections from a first molded portion, to dimensionally stabilize a second molded portion.

Abstract: The Invention is a memorabilia apparatus. Indicia are imprinted on a medallion using convention minting technology. An ice hockey puck or a model of a tire has a cavity adapted to receive and to support the medallion for display. The cavity of the puck or model of a tire exerts a pre-selected force upon the medallion over a pre-selected area, holding the medallion in place during handling while allowing a collector to release the medallion from the puck or model of the tire. Alternatively, resilient or spring retaining members releasably engage the puck or model of the tire and the medallion.

Abstract: A commemorative coin assembly includes a coin, a decorative component, and a holder that couples the component to the coin. The decorative component may be extended substantially perpendicularly from the coin's surface in a first position or alternatively inset into an outlined negative space on the coin's surface in a second position. The commemorative coin assembly depicts a central theme through the incorporation of engravings, etchings, letterings, motifs, numerals, or artistic depictions used on the decorative component or on the faces of the coin itself.

Abstract: Metals having a silvery-white appearance and methods of producing the same. In one embodiment, the composite material of the present invention comprises a metallic core, a first layer, and a second layer. The first layer encases the external surfaces of the metallic core and is produced by electroplating copper or copper alloy from a first bath containing copper ions. The second layer encases the first layer and is produced by electroplating white bronze from a second bath containing copper and tin ions. According to one embodiment of the method of the present invention, the first layer is electroplated on the metallic core and the second layer is electroplated on the first layer. In another embodiment of the composite material and method of the present invention, the material comprises only the metallic core and a first layer of white bronze. The resulting composite has a silvery-white appearance and does not include exposed nickel so that persons allergic to nickel metals are not affected by the composite.

Abstract: The Invention is an item of sports memorabilia. Indicia are imprinted on a medallion using convention minting technology. An ice hockey puck has a cavity adapted to receive and to support the medallion for display. The cavity of the puck exerts a pre-selected force upon the medallion over a pre-selected area, holding the medallion in place during handling while allowing a collector to release the medallion from the puck. Alternatively, resilient or spring retaining members releasably engage the puck and the medallion.

Abstract: Method and device for biostimulating living organisms and/or for neutralizing harmful effects of appliances that use electric power. The device includes a flat small plate that has at least two metallic components. One of the at least two metallic components includes a peripheral portion. Another of the at least two metallic components includes a central portion that is nested in the peripheral portion. Each of the central and peripheral portions include a metal or metal alloy. The device is adapted to at least one of treat various parts of a living organism and neutralizing the harmful effects of appliances that operate with electric power.

Abstract: The invention deals with a technology for minting coins and medals. The technology is based on the utilization of metal blanks with similar diameters, one being very thin (hereafter named as the foil), joined together by mechanical means during the impartion of the surface details by the minting dies. The technology requires the design and manufacture of a special geometry in the edge of the thicker disk in order to make possible assembly of the metal blanks. The proposed technology is based on a multi-stage manufacturing process consisting of three cold metal forming operations (preforming, rimming and coining) and one intermediate annealing treatment. The first metal forming operation ensures the preforming of the thicker disk blank, hereafter named as the disk. The second metal forming stage is the rimming operation in which the preformed disk is bent along its diameter in order to generate a suitable profile for subsequent assembly with the foil.

Abstract: A device for the display and preservation of a coin is described, the device comprises a coin housing and a display board. The coin housing comprises at least two, substantially transparent interconnecting members formed to house a coin therein with a substantially air-tight encapsulation. The coin housing further has a periphery formed with at least a portion thereof having a flange. The periphery has predetermined outer dimensions. The display board has a cavity formed therein and the cavity is formed through the display board having a periphery formed to accommodate the periphery of the coin housing to receive and secure the coin housing therein. The flange is further formed so as to prevent the coin housing from being pushed fully through the cavity of the display board.

Abstract: The invention provides a pretreatment process for electroplating aluminum parts or strip, in which the zincating solution is modified to improve the adhesion of the subsequent electroplate to the substrate. The aluminum part or strip, such as an aluminum coin blank or strip for coin blanks, is pretreated with an improved zincate solution which provides hydroxide ions in an amount in the range of 75-175 gpl, zinc ions in an amount in the range of 15-40 gpl, nickel ions in an amount in the range of 2-10 gpl and copper ions in an amount in the range of 1.5-5 gpl. The pretreatment process preferably includes a copper strike applied from a copper cyanide strike bath at a pH in the range of 8.5-9.5, using a current density in the range of 0.1-10 A/dm2. The pretreatment and electroplating steps are preferably conducted by barrel plating, in accordance with another aspect of the invention.

Abstract: An inventory control device and method for dispensing merchandise units. The device includes a structure defining one or more storage compartments, and actuating mechanism, and a metering mechanism. The storage compartment stores a plurality of the merchandise units. The actuating mechanism defines an opening dimensioned and configured to receive a noncurrency token and can be operated only when a token is present in the opening. The metering mechanism releases one merchandise unit when the actuating mechanism is operated. The method includes receiving a request for one of the merchandise units from a person; placing the token in the actuating mechanism opening; operating the actuating mechanism with the token present therein, the metering mechanism releasing the merchandise unit in response to operating the actuating mechanism, and providing the released merchandise unit to the person.

Abstract: A token is manufactured using a combination of minting or casting operations and printing operations. The token comprises a metal base material that is minted or cast to the size and shape desired including embossed or debossed areas at selected locations on the token. In selected recessed or countersunk portions of the token, there are provided thin disks of material capable of carrying printed material such as single-colored or multi-colored pictures or indicia. The imprinted disk portions of the token are covered with a first protective coating and, optionally a second protective coating, that eliminates wear and tear on the printed areas of the token. Additionally or alternatively, the entire token can be covered with an outer coating to minimize wear and tear and preserve the unique designs carried by the token.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a token with a complimentary coupon for distribution to patrons of different entities and events. A small and relatively inexpensive complimentary item may be mass produced for mass distribution to patrons or prospective patrons of different entities or events. The comp items may serve as an advertising or promotional tool as well. Each comp item, however, will include a removable comp coupon which will indicate a more valuable gift than the comp item itself. Furthermore, the comp item includes identifying marks and logos so that the patron or prospective patron will have an immediate remembrance or indication of the provider of the comp item. Additionally, the comp coupon is provided on the comp item in a tamper or pilfer resistant manner so that it is not easily removed yet removable by a patron who receives the comp item.

Abstract: An improved decorated metal slot machine token produced by coating a metal base with a sublimative dye receptive coating, then infusing sublimative decorative dye into the coating under heat and pressure.

Abstract: A token is manufactured using a combination of minting or casting operations and printing operations. The token comprises a metal base material that is minted or cast to the size and shape desired including embossed or debossed areas at selected locations on the token. In selected recessed or countersunk portions of the token, there are provided thin disks of material capable of carrying printed material such as single-colored or multi-colored pictures or indicia. The imprinted disk portions of the token are covered with a first protective coating and, optionally a second protective coating, that eliminates wear and tear on the printed areas of the token. Additionally or alternatively, the entire token can be covered with an outer coating to minimize wear and tear and preserve the unique designs carried by the token.

Abstract: A token is manufactured using a combination of minting or casting operations and printing operations. The token comprises a metal base material that is minted or cast to the size and shape desired including embossed or debossed areas at selected locations on the token. In selected recessed or countersunk portions of the token, there are provided thin disks of material capable of carrying printed material such as single-colored or multi-colored pictures or indicia. The imprinted disk portions of the token are covered with a first protective coating and, optionally a second protective coating, that eliminates wear and tear on the printed areas of the token. Additionally or alternatively, the entire token can be covered with an outer coating to minimize wear and tear and preserve the unique designs carried by the token.

Abstract: A gaming chip is provided that includes a rigid core element having an outer peripheral edge, and top and bottom surfaces. The core element is formed with at least one ventilating aperture extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. The ventilating aperture relieves any vacuum formed between the chip and an adjacent chip, allowing the chip to be more easily handled. In another embodiment, a method for making a gaming chip is provided. The method includes molding a rigid disk element having an outer peripheral edge, and top and bottom surfaces. At least one ventilating aperture is molded into the disk that extends from the top surface to the bottom surface. The molded ventilating aperture relieves any vacuum formed between the chip and an adjacent chip, allowing the chip to be more easily handled.

Abstract: There is provided a copper-base alloy useful for coinage that has a golden visual appearance. The material has a transverse electrical conductivity substantially similar to that of copper alloy C713 and when clad to a copper alloy C110 core, a transverse electrical conductivity substantially similar to both sides of a Susan B. Anthony United States dollar coin. The copper-base alloy is a copper-manganese-zinc-nickel alloy.

Abstract: An article of jewelry includes a precious metal substrate carrying an image, especially a laser-engraved relief, consisting of a plurality of pits. An ash residue at least partially fills the pits. A sealing element secures the residue in the pits. The residue has a darker color than that of the substrate to improve the clarity and contrast of the image visible through the element. The substrate is mounted on an annular support element constructed as a split ring having a gap, and there is provided a mechanism for controlling the size of such gap to tighten the support element around the substrate.

Abstract: A composite metal laminate coin planchet comprises commercially pure aluminum cladding layers metallurgically bonded to a zinc alloy core. The zinc alloy core may contain a hardening agent, such as copper or titanium, used to increase the hardness of the alloy above that of pure zinc. Trace amounts of other elements may also be present in the zinc alloy core or in the commercially pure aluminum cladding layers which do not affect their pertinent properties. The coin planchet is produced by a process comprising providing a strip or sheet of a zinc alloy core and creating a strip or sheet of composite material by metallurgically bonding commercially pure aluminum cladding layers to the zinc alloy. The coin planchets are then removed from the strip or sheet of composite material, and the remaining composite material is heated above its melting point to produce a zinc-aluminum alloy useful in die-casting.

Abstract: The invention concerns a disc-like plastic body with inlay portion, essentially consisting of at least one composite filler body holding the inlay portion between itself. A visually pleasing plastic body which is easy and cheap to make is provided according to the invention by the fact that the filler body is encompassed by two lid-like films, one film after the fashion of a cup surrounding the filler body on one side and the other, opposite film after the fashion of a lid being applied to the opposite side of the filler body.

Abstract: A casino chip of a stated value having a central transparent portion with at least one discrete particle therein, such as a precious or semi-precious metallic element. When shaken, the chip simulates the rattling of a pair of dice to a player.

Abstract: Token including a plastic cover having an external surface and a base engaging surface. A plastic base has an external surface and a cover engaging surface, the base being attached to the cover. An axial spacing projection maintains a space between the base and the cover, the axial spacing projection being disposed on the cover engaging surface of the base and including a first height. The axial spacing projection further includes one of a continuous ring and a discontinuous ring. A closure ring disposed on the base engaging surface of the cover comprises one of a continuous ring and a discontinuous ring. A peripheral annular region includes a space having a second height and is disposed adjacent an edge of the token, the peripheral annular region being defined by the axial spacing projection. The first height is approximately equal to the second height.

Abstract: A twin-heart commemorative coin comprising a coin body with a twin-heart shaped opening at the center, a connecting element with two fixing holes extended from the coin body to the opening. Two heart-shaped components of the same shape and structure, having a recess with a column and a hole at the recess. The two heart-shaped components can be overlapped at the twin-heart opening in a manner that the recesses are aligned with the connecting element so that the respective columns pass through the fixing holes at the connecting element for fitting to the respective holes of the other component to form a twin-heart commemorative coin.

Abstract: Bimetallic coin or a medal and a method for producing the same, which is easy to form a ring and an insert composing the coin or the medal, yet costs low, and can assure a higher joining force between the ring and the insert. The method includes processes for forming a ring by subjecting a first metal to blanking, annealing, and pickling, forming an insert thicker than the ring by subjecting a second metal to blanking and annealing, forming a thickened rim on each side, and an annular ridge around the circumferential surface of the insert, and pickling the insert, and joining the ring and the insert by causing plastic metal flow of the ridge of the insert into the inner circumferential surface of the ring through pressing the insert inserted in the center of the ring; and a bimetallic coin formed with the method.