Abstract: An electronic drawing assist toy comprising a drawing control mechanism operative to selecting a pattern to be displayed. A display screen is arranged in a two dimensional memory array and is selectively energized to sequentially display a selected pattern in response to operation of said control mechanism to assist the user in creating a corresponding drawing.

Abstract: A leg model, designed to teach endoscopic saphenous vein harvesting, is provided that accurately models the anatomy of the saphenous vein in the human thigh, and closely approximates the subcutaneous tissues in a human. The subcutaneous tissue is formulated and manufactured such that the saphenous vein adheres to the subcutaneous tissue to simulate the adhesion in a human leg. The model includes a reusable base and a replaceable single use insert. The base is size and configured to receive the insert. The tray can include a slit located at a point along its length that permits the ends of the tray to rotate about the slit so that the ends can be bent with respect to one another.

Abstract: A website provides a weight and nutritional program over a network. The website allows users to input an assessment of a subject, which can be used to generate a weight plan for the subject. The weight plan can include minimum weights for the subject, each of the minimum weights being associated with a time. The website can also be used to generate a nutrition plan based on the subject data entered. A subject can build the nutrition plan by responding to a series of food exchange item prompts.

Abstract: A system and method for applying standards to adapt generic educational materials for use in different states and regions is provided. The system includes the use of an interactive player that includes storage for a series of video, audio and text assets. This storage typically takes the form of a DVD disk. The assets stored on the DVD disk are generic, meaning that they are broadly applicable to a range of different locales. The interactive player determines its operating location by querying its user (typically a teacher). The interactive player uses that location to perform a web search. The web search returns a list of URLs, each corresponding to a web page containing an educational standard relevant to the operating location. The teacher uses these web pages to adapt lesson plans to the particular operating location. The teacher can then use the interactive player to present interactive multimedia and region specific lessons.

Abstract: A collaborative learning system, method and computer program product permits live, real time interaction between the audience and a presenter in a controlled learning environment. The collaborative learning system, method and computer program product provides a learning process that facilitates the transfer of expertise and knowledge using “push” technology. The system includes a presenter subsystem, a backbone subsystem and an audience subsystem. The process includes pre-event, event and post-event stages. During the pre-event stage, content is created and optimized, and the producer “coaches” the presenter. During the event stage, the presenter and the producer, using the presenter subsystem, push the event material to the audience located remotely at the audience subsystem via the backbone subsystem. The event materials may comprise slides, streaming audio/video and interactive answers to questions and responses to audience feedback.

Abstract: The invention provides methods, systems, and devices for delivering a subliminal message. In one embodiment, a subliminal message machine (the machine) communicates with a message playback system that is includes a timer, a memory storage device adapted to receive recorded messages, and an input/output system. The machine provides for the timed, targeted, automatic playing of a subliminal message.

Abstract: A teaching aid is disclosed herein that includes at least one gallon model, four quart models, two pint models, and two cup models. The appropriate measurement is attached to each model, thus showing a student how many of each measurement are in each model. A method for teaching students is also disclosed herein, using the teaching aid and the associated models.

Abstract: A method and system of planning for and analyzing results of lessons incorporating standardized student learning objectives which assists instructors and students in process of preparing for standardized tests while learning lessons. The present invention analyzes effectiveness of lessons covered as they are scored. The analysis feature of this invention allows a user to quickly and easily modify future lesson plans to assist students in learning required materials which will be tested during standardized testing. An instructor using the present invention can use personal teaching style and monitor effectiveness at any time during teaching period without relying solely on test-oriented lessons and practice tests. The present invention allows students and instructors increased confidence and reduced stress regarding whether all lessons will be adequately covered and incorporate requirements of standardized tests.

Abstract: A method and system for assessment and training of sensory/perceptual deficiencies is disclosed. The present invention includes: (i) an assessment module or system, (ii) training modules, (iii) a centralized database for storing assessment, training, and other data, and (iv) a feedback mechanism for parents, teachers and doctors that allows immediate input regarding either a particular person's data or a group (e.g., class) analysis. The training modules and database can be accessed via the internet or other network, thereby allowing training to occur at times and places that are convenient for the subject. Clinicians, researchers, and educators can conveniently access the database through the internet or another network connection.

Abstract: A method of training brokers in a multi-level marketing business to make sales of a product and to recruit new brokers includes the steps of presenting materials to train brokers on order form procedures. The order form procedures include collecting identification information and payment information. The method also includes presenting materials to train brokers on recruiting form procedures. The recruiting form procedures include collecting identification information, payment information, and the selection of sales packages. The method also includes presenting materials to train brokers on sales procedures. The sales procedures include the steps of listing prospects, approach prospects, provide a sales presentation, enroll members and brokers, and continually repeat the sales procedure.

Abstract: An figure data input device is provided, by which prompt and accurate simulation learning is realized by automatically reading out type identifying data and location data of a figure piece when the piece figure is placed on a mounting board. The educational figure data input device includes a figure piece composed of a figure portion replicating the outward appearance of an object and a storage unit for storing the type of the figure portion, which are combined into one body; a mounting board provided with a plurality of sectional mounting planes in such a manner that one figure piece is placed on only one of the plurality of sectional mounting planes; and a reading device, incorporated in the mounting board, for reading out type identifying data stored in the storage unit of the figure piece placed on the mounting board.

Abstract: A hand assembly for a dummy is provided which comprises a housing, a finger assembly operatively mounted to the housing, and a biasing member configured to bias the finger assembly such that the finger assembly generates a grasping force. The biasing member being mounted to the housing, and a connecting member rotatably mounted to the housing where the connecting member is connected to a forearm of the dummy.

Abstract: A manual for teaching and/or demonstrating the assembly and/or operation of a transmittable energy circuit, wherein the manual has a base hinged to a plurality of pages for folding the pages over or away from the base, wherein at least one of the pages has conductor portions of an energy circuit thereon, and wherein the portions are provided with electrical connectors for receiving one or more electrical components adapted for completing the circuit, and wherein at least one of the pages has instructions thereon for so completing said circuit.

Abstract: A system and method for permitting an administrator or faculty member in an online education course to monitor and manage faculty and student activity is provided. The system includes a computer network having an administrator and instructor course management application tool for generating administrator and instructor interfaces displaying student or faculty information and facilitating an instructor's ability to manage student activities, as well as facilitating administrator management and review of both students and faculty. The method includes automatically recording student and faculty access to online educational course resources and tasks, and presenting a plurality of interactive student and faculty management selections to administrators and faculty in response to queries for student and faculty information.

Abstract: A remote control includes a base and an insert that is attached in a detachable manner to the base. The base includes a remote control circuit, a button coupled to operate the remote control circuit and a fastener capable of holding the insert. The insert includes a printed publication (such as a card, a sheet of paper or a booklet) containing at least one leaf having human-understandable content (such as text and/or graphics). To assemble the remote control, a user attaches the insert to the fastener, so that the human-understandable content is laid over the button. Thereafter, when the user operates the button (e.g. by touching the leaf), the base transmits a remote control signal that causes a host device to visually display information related to the human-understandable content at the touched location. A base in the form of a three ring binder gives the user an intuitive feel of simply touching human-understandable content on a leaf in the binder to view a display of information related to the content.

Abstract: A program for self-evaluating and training a user's visual skills. The program including a plurality of evaluation and training exercises. The program being designed to run on a computer having a color monitor.

Abstract: A device for retaining a three-dimensional image includes a retainer capable of arresting displacement of pins in a position corresponding to a contour of a load applied to the pins.

Abstract: An improved home automation system that permits the user of the system to remotely control the operation of various devices. The system is packaged in a manner that “walks” the user through the initialization process to thereby reduce or eliminate errors associated with the initialization and set-up of the system. Furthermore, the configuration permits the user to initialize the system without the use of tools, such as screwdrivers. The system is configured with improved functionality that permits the user to readily control individual devices and/or selected groups of devices with a powerful hand-held remote transmitter.

Abstract: Disclosed are hazardous chemical simulant compositions that can be used to simulate hazardous chemicals and methods for using hazardous chemical simulants. The compositions can include a phosphor, which emits visible light in the presence of ultraviolet light. The methods of using hazardous chemical simulants includes exposing a hazardous chemical simulant to special lighting conditions so that its location can be easily detected.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-degree of freedom telerobotic system. More particularly, the invention relates to a telerobotic system for micro assembly operation through remote control that teaches the movement of a robot by extracting the multi-degree movement information of a human operator and transferring the information to the multi-degree of freedom telerobot through a network.

Abstract: The present invention recognizes and takes advantage of the fact that there is a correlation between a consumer's overall like or dislike of two particular products (hedonic test results), each evaluated individually, and the likelihood that the consumer will choose one product over the other (forced choice test results) in a forced choice comparison. Taking advantage of this correlation, it is possible to determine the likelihood that a consumer will choose one product over another product of the same type simply by conducting hedonic testing and without specifically conducting forced choice testing.

Abstract: A learning system, method, and data structure provides collaborative activities between learners. The system includes an interface to receive a learning strategy selected by a learner. A content management system stores one or more structural elements associated with a course. A learning management system determines the learning content and the one or more structural elements to present to the learner based on the selected learning strategy.

Abstract: The present invention features a system for educating individuals about a particular health care service or procedure, and particularly to a patient-oriented medical procedure educational program comprising one or more learning tools in a viewable media, wherein the learning tool comprises informational content thereon that pertains to one or more specific health-related issues associated with a medical procedure to be provided to a patient. The informational content itself comprises procedure-specific information and ancillary information associated with the procedure-specific information and the medical procedure itself. The program also comprises means for administering or providing the learning tool to an individual. The program is designed to be sold directly to patients or physicians, or the program may be implemented through a participating provider service offered through an insurance company.

Abstract: A method for developing an electronic course may include describing an illustrative scenario that presents a problem for a student of an electronically deliverable course. At least one possible role assignment for a corresponding student of the course may be defined based on the illustrative scenario. A task may be provided for the student based on the role assignment and the scenario. A guidance system may be established which is accessible to the students over the electronic communications network. The guidance system provides guidance for solving the task or problem associated with the scenario.

Abstract: A method using a spatial-temporal software game for both teaching math concepts to a child and for scoring the child's proficiency in these math concepts. These scores are compared with the child's performance on a language-based test of the math concepts. If the child's score on the language-based test is lower than what is reflected by the child's game scores, instruction is given the child using stories and flashcards related to the spatial-temporal software games so that the child will relate vocabulary terms with the math concepts and characters in the temporal-spatial software game.

Abstract: A method for displaying toilet training materials which includes the steps of providing a supply of at least two different types of toilet training materials, each type of toilet training material associated with at least one of a plurality of toilet training steps; providing a display having at least two regions, each of the regions associated with one of the toilet training steps; and housing the toilet training materials within the region having an equivalent toilet training step. Various embodiments of the display in the form of an in-store kiosk are illustrated.

Abstract: An educational tool having a substrate with a first side and a second side having thereon at least two pictures of creatures on the first side of the substrate spaced at a defined distance from each other, and a description of the creatures on the second side in approximate registration to the picture on the first side; and a facsimile of a license on said first side of the substrate.

Abstract: This invention combines God's gift of reincarnation with love resulting in immortality.

Abstract: A tutorial or diagnostic aid based on the representation and iterative interpretation of visual images is taught. A teaching or diagnostic session is created by overlaying an interpretation layer via a software application onto the visual image layer and synchronizing the two with the time code of the visual image. The interpretation layer allows the reviewer to identify image areas of interest by gesture and append comments thereto in real time; i.e. images or portions of images within the visual representation playback may be identified and labeled and have the concurrent commentary associated therewith. The comments are indexed and linked to a database of similar topics. The flow of the session is recorded to show the images, deictic gestures associated therewith, and commentary associated with the gestures, to enable subsequent users to playback a session and follow the flow of thought (i.e. image identification and commentary within the original session).

Abstract: A demonstration model assembly having an anatomical model structure that is stabilized by a support in a relatively compact area on a stable surface is provided. The anatomical model structure is a reproduction of a patient's anatomy, preferably the vertebral column, that is at least partially and removably embedded in a support. Also provided is a demonstration platform adapted to simulate surgical operating room conditions, such as an operating table with side rails and the like. The simulated operating room conditions facilitate the demonstration of various surgical techniques. The demonstration platform may also act as a container and a transporting device for the instruments and other materials used in the demonstration with the side rails acting as handles for the demonstration platform.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for determining the identification of selected objects for use in connection with an electronic children's toy, which apparatus includes a plurality of objects, each of the objects including several object contact elements, and an identification member, including several member contact elements. The identification member is configured such that at least two of the member contact elements come into electrical contact with at least two of the object contact elements when the identification member is engaged with one of the objects, forming a complete electrical circuit. A processing unit associated with the identification member then is able to uniquely identify the particular object which is engaged with the identification member by means of an electrical signal generated by the processing unit. The processing unit then provides feedback to the user by audio, visual and/or tactile means corresponding to the particular object selected by the user.

Abstract: The learning chair helps to teach a child important tools for life, such as how to tell time and days of the week, how to organize a daily wardrobe, and develop communication and organizational skills. The chair is shaped in the form of a fictional character or likable “buddy” to a child, such as a robot, doll, action figure, or cartoon character. A child learns how to prepare a daily wardrobe and vocabulary for placement of pants, dresses, shirts, hats, and shoes. The learning chair is a fun communication tool between a parent and child. The chair has the ability to play pre-recorded messages as alarms on a clock. Messages may be pre-recorded according to the voice of a fictional character portrayed by the chair, or pre-recorded by a parent or adult. Messages may include personal announcement using the child's name such as time to wake up, get dressed, go to bed, take a bath, etc. The chair has a chalkboard for leaving written messages between the parent and child.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing textual, audio and/or video information regarding a pet to a user comprising supplying an electronic database which database has stored textual, audio and/or video information data files representative of animal/pet behavior, animal/pet identification, animal/pet selection, animal/pet characteristics, animal/pet training, and animal/pet care, and combinations thereof, selecting one of the stored textual, audio and/or video information data files and outputting the information regarding an animal/pet to said user either in either a textual, audio or video form.

Abstract: A demonstration system of an electronic equipment. The electronic equipment includes first and second operation units which are arranged on a front panel of the electronic equipment. In the first operation unit, there are provided display device, various operation keys, demonstration key, light receiving part, and opening/closing key. In the second operation unit, there are provided an operation key and a display device. The demonstration key is an input key for giving a command to start a demonstration of the electronic equipment. A display demonstration, in which the display devices are used, and a movable section demonstration, in which the first and the second operation unit are operated, are continuously conducted.

Abstract: An assembly includes a track having a length; a goalie structure; and a base that supports the goalie structure on top of the track. The base has wheels and a motor cooperating with at least one of the wheels for moving the goalie structure along the length of the track. A player, for example, a hockey player or a soccer player, can practice scoring goals against the goalie structure. The goalie structure is preferably inflatable, and the track is preferably constructed from a plurality of track sections. The track preferably has grooves and the base preferably has flanges that cooperate with the grooves to keep the base secured in the track when the player bumps into the goalie structure. All of the components of the assembly can be provided as a kit that can be assembled and disassembled as desired.

Abstract: A book, mainly used by children and students, consists of a book and a speech circuit. A printed circuit board containing press triggers is placed inside the cover of the book. A number of speech switches in the book correspond to the positions of pictures in the book. In the book, the speech circuit includes circuit for storage and sound emission, a speaker and a battery, all of which are in a box-like container linked with the book. When reading the book, press a picture in a page, the speech switch would be switched on. Based on preset programs and storage, the circuit for storage and sound emission enables the speaker to read aloud the language of the page, which may be Chinese or foreign languages, etc. Corresponding to the content of the book, the sound can be dialogue between animals. This makes learning a language easy and interesting.

Abstract: An electronic drawing assist toy comprising a drawing control mechanism operative to selecting a pattern to be displayed. A display screen is arranged in a two dimensional memory array and is selectively energized to sequentially display a selected pattern in response to operation of said control mechanism to assist the user in creating a corresponding drawing.

Abstract: An exercise device allowing a free range of human motion coupled with an interactive computer system to provide visual feedback based on head and body motion. The operator of the device rests on a central support frame that rotates about a vertical axis. Each of the operator's feet is placed in a multi-jointed leg apparatus that provides a full range of motion and rotation about all three axes. Each leg apparatus contains a contact braking mechanism that provides resistance sufficient to enable the central frame to pivot about its axis. Arm mechanisms with hand grips are grasped by the operator's hands and provide a full range of arm movement and rotation. The operator wears a head-mounted display unit on his head capable of tracking the position and rotation of his head and providing an interactive video image. Electronic sensors are operatively placed to measure the position and rotation of the operator's hands, feet, and head as well as the rotation of the central frame.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching a child about basic fluid piping systems comprises a kit having a plurality of pipes and pipe fittings, and a media embodying element, all of which are packaged together for sale. The pipes and pipe fittings come in a variety of shapes, sizes and types and are adapted to be interconnected with one another to form a variety of operable fluid piping systems. The media embodying element includes media that conveys information in a form that can be comprehended by children about the manner in which the pipes and pipe fittings may be interconnected with one another to form various fluid piping systems, which are adapted for connection to a water source for operating the fluid piping systems.

Abstract: A method of generating a correlation between a plurality of sets of educational requirements and learning activities, and identifying the educational requirements to which a learning component of the learning activities is correlated. Teachers and authors accessing the correlating system are able to author and select learning components to be correlated to the plurality of educational requirements sets. An educational requirements set can be a set of state educational standards, a set of school district educational standards or a set of corporate training or certification requirements. The correlation of educational components to the grouping of educational requirements and of learning components to a set of educational components are generated and stored by a server, preferably accessible over the internet through the public switched telephone network.

Abstract: An electronic instructional device (10) operable to teach, through point-of-performance demonstration, proper technique for accomplishing a process, such as performing dental hygiene or preparing a recipe, wherein the device (10) is customized and adaptable to conditions surrounding performance of the particular process. The device (10) broadly comprises a base (12), a display screen (14), a speaker (16), and an input device (18). The device (10) may store instructional information for subsequent recall and communication, or download such information from a network as needed for immediate communication. Furthermore, the device may include a compliance encouraging mechanism 48, such as a telltale or reward mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention includes an apparatus and a method for teaching relationships between numbers and how to perform certain types of mathematical operations. The system includes a television channel selection device, such as a remote control device with a visual display. The user selects a channel to view, and is presented with a mathematical problem involving the channel number. When the problem is correctly solved, the television switches to the selected channel. If an incorrect solution is entered, the user is given further opportunities to solve the problem before being prompted to a solution. The degree of difficulty of the problems can be adaptively adjusted, depending upon the accuracy of the user's answers.

Abstract: An educational device (11) for visually modeling words or numerals. The device including a plurality of inverted U-shaped rods (15) and a plurality of balls (17), each ball (17) being movable between a non display position and a display position. When the device is used to represent a word, the number of rods (15) having a ball in the display position corresponds to the number of phonemes in the word and the number of balls (17) or a respective rod (15) represents the number of letters in a respective phoneme. When the device visually represents a number, each rod having a ball in the display position represents a unit from which the number is formed, and the number of balls in a respective display position can represent the relative size of a respective unit.

Abstract: A system and method for applying standards to adapt generic educational materials for use in different states and regions is provided. The system includes the use of an interactive player that includes storage for a series of video, audio and text assets. This storage typically takes the form of a DVD disk. The assets stored on the DVD disk are generic, meaning that they are broadly applicable to a range of different locales. The interactive player determines its operating location by querying its user (typically a teacher). The interactive player uses that location to perform a web search. The web search returns a list of URLs, each corresponding to a web page containing an educational standard relevant to the operating location. The teacher uses these web pages to adapt lesson plans to the particular operating location. The teacher can then use the interactive player to present interactive multimedia and region specific lessons.

Abstract: A modular educational implement structure comprises a plurality of component units of the standardized size, design, shape, etc. the component units can be arranged or fitted together in a variety of ways so as to make the implement structure adaptable to various uses and functions.

Abstract: Image sequences, video clips, or other sensorily perceptible representations of experiments, are combined with software and hardware for teaching science, critical thinking, and other subjects, to provide a learning process centered on Scientific Method. Experiments are run (or simulated) with various experimental parameters and are recorded on a storage device such as a network server. The reproduced experiment is combined with introductory material, hypotheses, vocabulary words and definitions, and other information to create course modules consisting of one or more segments. Small groups of students run software on separate computers to pick and view experiments, to collect data by interacting with the experiments, to analyze the collected data, and to prove hypotheses. Following each course segment the student groups present their findings to other class members and the teacher facilitates identification and understanding of the principles involved.

Abstract: An on-line system enrolls students and prospective students into an electronic community. Members can contact other members on-line, so that prospective students, for example, can obtain information about particular colleges or universities from other students. Students can obtain information about specific courses from others who have taken the courses. The system includes a repository of papers and assignments, donated by students, which can be used as a reference tool by other students. The system also provides social assistance, enabling students to find other students sharing similar interests and backgrounds. The system also facilitates the buying and selling of used merchandise by students, and provides a method by which each student can conveniently maintain a scrapbook pertaining to his or her college experience. The system also provides a personalized set of discount coupons, tailored to the needs of a particular student.

Abstract: A process for controlling the temperature of a substrate in a plasma processing reactor chamber comprising flowing a cooling gas to a substrate at a flow pressure; and determining a temperature of the substrate. The difference between the temperature of the substrate and a desired temperature of the substrate is determined; and a pressure by which the flow pressure of the cooling gas is to be adjusted is determined. The flow pressure of the cooling gas to the substrate is adjusted in accordance with the determined pressure.

Abstract: An apparatus demonstrating costs associated with a delay in obtaining insurance comprising an envelope containing a plurality of openings disposed therein, and an information card that slides into the envelope. The information card comprises a plurality of entries printed thereon wherein at least one of the entries is aligned with an opening in the envelope so as to demonstrate costs associated with the delay in obtaining insurance.

Abstract: An interactive karaoke system includes a microphone developing an audio input from at least one karaoke performer; a camera producing a series of video frames including the at least one performer; and a karaoke processor system including a video environment and a related audio environment for the karaoke performer. The karaoke processor system is coupled to the camera to create extracted images of the at least one karaoke performer from the series of video frames and to composite the extracted images with a background derived from the video environment. The video environment is affected by at least one of a position and a movement of the at least one karaoke performer. A karaoke network includes a local area network, a local karaoke server coupled to the local area network and storing local karaoke content; and a number of karaoke systems coupled to the local area network, each of which can request karaoke content from the local karaoke server.