Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for correlating requirements of educators, guiding documents, and educational resource providers is described. The apparatus includes a central correlator accessed by each of the external entities using keys established according to a uniform protocol. The correlator includes a central database including a range of elements describing in varying levels of detail a field of study. Each of the external users correlates a set of components, such as the components of a teaching plan, to the elements in the central database. The apparatus correlates the several sets of components to the external user's set of components and provides the various correlations through a variety of outputs.

Abstract: This invention provides an interactive educational apparatus and method. The apparatus includes a memory which has a reference database having plural topics, an objective rating for each topic relative to the other topics, and at least one question for selected topics. The memory also includes an educational module configured for interface between the user and the reference database. The apparatus also has a processor for executing the module, a display for displaying the questions for selected topics, and an input device for communicating to the processor user responses to questions. This invention also provides an interactive educational method for creating and using the apparatus.

Abstract: An input device and method for interacting with motion pictures incorporating content-based haptic response is provided. Content data relating to the motion picture is stored in a content data storage device while motion picture data is stored in a prerecorded image data storage device. A viewer input device is provided so that a viewer (end-user) can move forwards and backwards through the frames on a display screen while substantially simultaneously, the content data is accessed and braking commands are sent to the viewer input device. The result is that the viewer is provided with haptic responses to the viewer's input through the viewer input device.

Abstract: The apparatus for teaching science and engineering is an interactive multimedia computer system which is used to simulate the performance of scientific experiments on the computer screen. An experiment is a method for determining the value of one experimental parameter by measuring the value of another using an experimental configuration of devices and apparatus. The interactions of the devices and apparatus in the experimental configuration are governed by a relationship among the experimental parameters that define the configuration. The user of the teaching apparatus assembles a pictorial representation of the experimental configuration on the computer screen and interacts with the pictured experimental configuration to simulate the performance of an experiment. The pictured experimental configuration is governed by the same relationship among experimental parameters as the real configuration and thus, the results of the simulated experiment match the results of the experiment performed in the laboratory.

Abstract: A system for simulating the forces associated with touching objects in a virtual reality simulator system includes a panel that contains an example of the various types of switches, knobs and any other item or object being simulated that is to be touched by a user of the system. The panel is attached as the payload of a robotic positioning device controlled by a computer. The computer is connected to a tracker and a flexible lightweight data glove worn by the user. The computer maintains a database that includes the positions of all of the controls being simulated by the system. The computer uses the trajectory data to determine the position of the robotic device.

Abstract: A karaoke apparatus has an information source for providing a performance data containing musical tone designation information, lyric indication information and fading control information according to progression of a karaoke song in response to a request. A tone generator operates according to the musical tone designation information for generating musical tones of the karaoke song. A first signal generator operates according to the lyric indication information for generating a lyric image signal indicative of lyric words of the karaoke song. A second signal generator generates a background image signal representative of a background scene of the karaoke song.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for visually depicting a health care treatment regimen for a given medical diagnosis including a substantially flat planar platform and a plurality of groupings of geometric members which are representative of various events which go to make up the treatment regimen. The geometric members of a particular grouping preferably are equally sized and of a coloring that is unique to the grouping. All geometric members are releasably securable to the platform and/or one another to permit their securement to the platform and/or to one another in positions denoting the existence of, position of and order of occurrence of their represented events within the treatment regimen.

Abstract: A surgical simulator provides both visual and tactile feedback in order to realistically portray an actual surgical procedure. The visual feedback is provided through an SGI graphics computer which drives a monitor to display two images of an eye at slightly different perspectives. A set of optics, which preferably mimics an actual surgical microscope, combines the two images to form a stereo image of the eye. An instrument for simulating a surgical tool is connected through three sets of levers and hinges to three servo-motors which collectively generate a resistive force along any direction. The forces provided to the instrument are modeled after forces measured during an actual procedure and therefore accurately simulate the feel of a surgical procedure. The position and orientation of the instrument is transmitted to the SGI graphics computer which manipulates the eye based upon the position and motion of the instrument and updates the image of the eye to display a manipulated eye.

Abstract: A system for generating and processing synthetic and absolute real time remote environments for interaction with a user and her biological senses is comprised of seven modules. These modules store, retrieve and process data to generate an output which interfaces with the system user's biological senses. These modules also track user data to accurately place the user in the generated and processed model. Various embodiments of the system user sensory interface are provided including visual and aural input devices, a three dimensional chamber having interactive tactile output via matrix-addressed, electromechanically operated rods driving a flexible skin and a head mounted sensory interface having a selectable a see through mode and multidimensional sonic arrays.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for animating and coloring hydraulic, electrical, electromechanical and similar schematic systems, components and designations to anble repeatable visual review and study. The invention provides, inter alia, a training aid for study, evaluation, design and maintenance of a system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for correlating requirements of educators, guiding documents, and educational resource providers is described. The apparatus includes a central correlator accessed by each of the external entities using keys established according to a uniform protocol. The correlator includes a central database including a range of elements describing in varying levels of detail a field of study. Each of the external users correlates a set of components, such as the components of a teaching plan, to the elements in the central database. The apparatus correlates the several sets of components to the external user's set of components and provides the various correlations through a variety of outputs.

Abstract: One embodiment of an autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral, searches for a file of a predetermined name in the storage media and automatically starts an application listed in instructions in the file. Another embodiment of the autostart driver looks for a file of the predetermined name in the host devices' permanently installed storage media prior to searching in the inserted storage media. When a previously inserted removable storage media is removed from the peripheral, the autostart driver ends the started application, restores the operator interface screens to a state existing prior to insertion and releases portions of random access memory that were used by the ended application. In one embodiment the autostart driver can automatically copy a new version of autostart driver software or other new software, such as word processors into the permanently installed storage media.

Abstract: The invention is a viewer for slides having three-dimensional and/or animation type lenticular images recorded thereon in image line sets. In detail, the invention includes a frame. The frame includes a slot for receiving the slide therein having an open end at the top or side of the frame and a closed off opposite end, the slot in a planer relationship with the front and rear walls. The front wall includes a lenticular lens mounted in a planner relation therein, the lens having an internal side forming a portion of the wall of the slot; the lens having a plurality of lenticules therein. The end opposite the open end of the slot is aligned with the lenticules of the lens and positioned within the frame such that a slide positioned in the slot in contact with the opposite end of the slot will have the center of the image line sets in substantial alignment with the center of the lenticules of the lenticular lens.

Abstract: An algorithm training system for training a learner in the computer algorithm is provided. The system has a display device for selectively displaying information including flow-chart symbols and flow-lines. Instruction for an algorithm are entered into the computer from the keyboard or by the mouse operation. The system creates a desired flow-chart using the flow-chart symbols and flow-lines being shown on the display device in accordance with the instructions entered. The algorithm expressed by the resulting flow-chart is verified and its result is also shown on the display device.

Abstract: An efficient economical process is provided to produce an impressive display with outstanding marketing and advertising appeal. In the process, multiple images are formed, such as on a central processing unit, the images are striped or manipulated, eliminating rows of pixels and replacing them with pixels from other images, and portions thereof are superimposed. The superimposed images can be printed on a viewable surface of the display. A lenticular lens, fresnel lenticular lens plate, lens with a textured surface, plate lens, ultraviolet cured resinous lens, lens with an undercut, cluster of anamorphic lenses, transparent rods, or grid, can be placed in front of the images to provide a special display which has the illusion of animation, morphing or movement as the angle of sight changes. The images can also be printed directly on the back surface of the lens to provide self-contained lenticular graphics.

Abstract: A method for providing a haptic interface between a user held physical device and a computer generated parametric surface determines if a collision has occurred therebetween. If a collision has occurred, a force to apply to the physical device is determined and a force actuation mechanism is activated so as to produce the force at the physical device. If a collision has not occurred, the force actuation mechanism is deactivated. The method is repeated as the physical device is moved through a virtual space in which the parametric surface is modeled. The physical device is capable of transmitting forces in at least three degrees-of-freedom via the force actuation mechanism which is connected thereto. A human operator holding the physical device can thus interact with the surface, which may be a CAD generated surface.

Abstract: A sound generator consists of a housing defining open first and second ends and an internal passage extending therebetween. A speaker is positioned within the housing, and a control arrangement including a circuit board is interconnected with the speaker. The circuit board is preferably located within the internal cavity, and a manually actuable switching arrangement is accessible from the exterior of the housing and interconnected with the circuit board for controlling the output therefrom to the speaker to control the sound generated by the speaker. In one form, the switches are accessible via a control portion formed on a wall of the housing, and in another form the switches are accessible through a movable shield member or sleeve mounted to the housing having an opening providing access to certain of the switches.

Abstract: Tool for enhancing interest in and memory retention of visual alphanumeric text message presentations comprising arrays of a multiplicity of immediately visible and comprehensible text messages that are readable both as conventional two-dimensional printed text messages and as perceived three-dimensional text messages with component words floating in space at various distances from the viewer, through stereoscopic parallax. Methods for preparing such a tool and its constituent text-forms, and arrays.

Abstract: A teaching tool for teaching consumers and, in particular, children the benefits of recycling. In one embodiment, a teaching tool in accordance with the present invention comprises an object (for example, a toy) and a package for the object, wherein the package comprises a source material which may be recycled, and the object is manufactured at least in part from recycled source material.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: A compensatory assistive device for students with cognitive impairment (including but not limited to traumatic brain injury, stroke, electrocution, anoxia, mental retardation, dementia, amnesia, and learning disabilities) and/or physical disabilities (such as cerebral palsy) is provided via an interactive computer system that provides an easy-to-use, multi-subject, school planner using a graphical user interface configured with particular color associations, pointer travel limitations, simplified option selections and active view-screen limitations.

Abstract: An electronic health monitoring system. A multimedia processor is a modified CD-ROM multimedia interactive television video game console which comprises a microprocessor, hardware, and software. One or more physiological data monitors are coupled to provide a signal representative of a user's physiological parameter to the multimedia processor through an isolated interface circuit. A hand-held program controller with directional buttons is operated by the user to control the various functions of the multimedia processor. A television is coupled to the multimedia processor to provide sound and a video display based upon output signals from the multimedia processor.Interchangeable compact disks (CD-ROM) comprise additional software. The software contained in the interchangeable compact disks enables the system to execute a variety of health related functions, to display high quality moving or still video images and to produce high quality sound accompaniment.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of gait problems associated with Parkinson's Disease in a subject involves the use of virtual cues which are delivered to the subject in a spatial orientation and at rate which enable the initiation and sustainment of ambulation, as well as the suppression of dyskinesia associated with medication. In one embodiment, a mulfiplexed head up display is used to provide the cues to the subject's field of vision without obscuring the real world. In another embodiment, light emitting diodes fastened to eye glasses are used to deliver the virtual cues to the subject's field of view.

Abstract: When images of the image genre most suitable for the selected song are being reproduced (Yes in S14), the karaoke terminal picks up those image data from a channel over which they are transmitted. If images of that image genre are not being reproduced (No in S14), when the number of players presently playing is less than four (No in S19), a player that is not presently playing starts playing a video disk to reproduce images of that image genre in S20. When the number of players presently playing is equal to or greater than four, according to the image genre D and/or H reproducing status, a player that is not presently playing starts playing a video disk to reproduce images of image genre D or H that includes or is common to the most suitable image genre.

Abstract: In a karaoke system capable of scoring a singing of singer on an accompaniment thereof, when a voice signal of the singer is inputted, an energy detector generates a first basic frequency signal with respect to a voice signal section and inputs the first basic frequency signal to a comparator. And then, an audio signal in the voice signal section is inputted to the comparator as a second basic frequency signal. The comparator compares the first and second basic frequency signals with each other and calculates a difference value therebetween, and then inputs it to a microprocessor. The microprocessor outputs a signal for scoring the singing of the singer on the basis of the difference value.

Abstract: A three-dimensional display device for commercial advertisement and science museum displays is disclosed. Three-dimensional elements are stacked horizontally or vertically along a stationary shaft around which they rotate, and are coupled together in such a way that they perform as a torsional wave medium and chaotic system. Display surfaces can be attached to the three-dimensional rotatable elements such that mirrors, text, imagery, and products can be viewed as the elements rotate. The rotatable elements can be spun by hand. Alternatively, servo motors and computer control permit the device to be choreographed and synchronized to an accompanying audio track.

Abstract: A modular sign comprises a perforated base having a multiplicity of apertures spaced a predetermined distance apart in both horizontal and vertical directions and a plurality of sign modules--positioned on the base. Each sign module has at least two registration projections on its rear surface for engaging two of the apertures in the base. The projections are located with respect to the edges of the sign module such that the edges of adjacent modules are separated by a predetermined distance to create a reveal between adjacent modules when the registration projections are placed within appropriate ones of the apertures. The sign modules are held in place on the base by one or more of an adhesive, a magnet, or a mechanical lock.

Abstract: First and second switches, which are to be operated by a user, are provided on a pen-shaped housing. A first heat generating head for writing an image on a rewritable heat sensitive sheet is arranged at an end of a tapered end portion of the pen-shaped housing, and a second heat generating head, for generating heat at a temperature which is different from a temperature of heat generated from the writing head, is arranged at flat another end of the pen-shaped housing. The writing head generates heat only when the first switch is turned on, and the erasing head generates heat only when the second switch is turned on, so that the erasing head erases the image which have been written on the heat sensitive sheet from the sheet.

Abstract: A system for simulating effects of cleaning and maintenance on the appearance of a product such as carpet tile is disclosed. Short- and long-term effects of wear and soiling can be simulated as well, providing a relatively complete and rapid indicator of product appearance changes over time.

Abstract: An image generating apparatus for preparing a drawing using an image display apparatus. The image generating apparatus has a power source turn-on detection unit for instructing starting of an image forming program for forming a series of consecutive images previously stored in a ROM. When the power turn-on detection unit detects power source turn-on, a power turn-on detection signal is transmitted via an I/O interface to a central processing unit, which then reads a demonstration program from the ROM to start displaying the demonstration image on a display. When the coordinate detection unit and the key switch pressing detecting unit detect the pressure information on buttons on a tablet and key switches, the pressure information is transmitted via the I/O interface to the central processing unit.

Abstract: An interactive neonatal resuscitation training simulator and method employing an infant android of life-like appearance and response. The android has an intelligent, interactive control mechanism which: simulates a condition within the android corresponding to a human condition requiring resuscitation; detects and evaluates resuscitation activity on the android by a trainee employing the simulator; and adjusts the android's simulated condition in response to the trainee's resuscitation effort. The adjustment made by the intelligent, interactive control mechanism mimics a predetermined human reaction to a resuscitation effort such as that made by the trainee. The simulator also includes a neonatal workstation and a virtual reality environment enclosure. In appearance, the workstation is an approximate replication of an actual resuscitation workstation typically found in a hospital delivery room.

Abstract: A data communication receiver (100) for operating in a demonstration mode comprises a receiving circuit (110) for receiving and decoding radio frequency signals, a battery (140) for powering the receiving circuit (110), and a display (150) for displaying information. A switch (142) coupled between the battery (140) and the receiving circuit (110) disconnects the receiving circuit (110) from the battery (140) to disable the receiving circuit (110) when a signal has been received indicating that the data communication receiver (100) is to operate in the demonstration mode. A demonstration element (165, 170) coupled to the display (150) provides at least one demonstration screen to the display (150) in response to the disabling of the receiving circuit (110).

Abstract: An efficient economical process is provided to produce an intricate impressive display with outstanding marketing and advertising appeal. In the process, multiple images are formed, such as on a central processing unit, the images are masked and striped, and portions thereof are superimposed. The superimposed masked images can be printed on an underlying back rearward web. Transparent rods, a plate lens, lenticular lens, a cluster of anamorphic lenses, or a grid, can be placed front of the back web to provide a special display which has the illusion of animation as the angle of sight changes.

Abstract: A motion simulating device which is capable of creating motion with up to six degrees of freedom; three rotational degrees of freedom and three linear-translational degrees of freedom. The motion simulating device includes a generally spherical capsule abuttively supported on a plurality of rollers that are connected to a translatable frame. At least one of the rollers is a multi-directional active roller that frictionally engages the capsule to impart rotational motion to the capsule in any direction. The frame is optionally attached to a number of actuator legs which are capable of translating the frame along three orthogonal axes. Optimally, sights, sounds and physical sensations may be electronically coordinated and reproduced in the capsule so that a user may interactively control and respond to a variety of environments while simultaneously experiencing the corresponding motion and physical sensations associated with the interactive environment.

Abstract: A three-dimensional apparatus is disclosed that provides a view of the electrical pathway of the heart as it pertains to a corresponding electrocardiogram tracing on an external heart monitoring device. Also provided is a method of simulating propagation of electrical signals in the heart. The heart model interfaces with an arrhythmia generator or electrocardial simulator. The signals generated by the simulator are indicated visually within the heart model through light emitters (such as light emitting diodes, or other light sources) located in such a fashion as to correspond to the electrical pathways found in a living heart. An external monitor, such as an oscilloscope trace unit, also interfaces with the simulator to simultaneously show the electrocardiogram trace that corresponds to the light display in the heart model.

Abstract: An electronic toy for teaching a child language and arithmetic skills utilizing a keyboard which is associated with the toy. Various illustrated cards intended to assist the child in learning language and mathematical skills are inserted into a slot associated with the keyboard. The portion of the card would include some sort of indicia which would prompt a child to utilize one or more keys in a particular order of the keyboard to spell a word or solve a mathematical problem. The portion of the card inserted into the slot has machine readable information included thereon which, a computer contained in the toy, would compare to the keys depressed by the child. Proper depression of the keys would be vocalized by the toy as well as appear on a display. Furthermore, various portions of the toy would move based upon the correct depression of the keys.

Abstract: An automatic demonstration system for showing the effectiveness and advantage of a particular eye protection screen to be promoted includes an actuation device for moving the eye protection screen between a position for shielding a cathode ray tube (CRT) display and a position for exposing the CRT display under the control of a control device. An oscilloscope having a probe is provided to detect the intensity of electromagnetic radiation from the CRT display for the demonstration of the effectiveness of reducing the intensity of the radiation. An external light source is provided to project light onto the CRT display and/or the eye protection screen for the demonstration of the effectiveness of eliminating light reflection from the CRT display screen.

Abstract: To educate children how to use the emergency 911 telephone number, a talking doll displays the twelve keys of a conventional telephone instrument. Within the chest of the doll or mounted externally is a tape player having a pre-recorded tape of the words likely to be used by an emergency dispatcher at a "911 number". These include reassuring instructions, inquiries as to the name and address of the child and the nature of the emergency. Hence the user pushes the sequence of buttons "9", "1" and "1". This activates playing the recorded tape. At the end of the tape message, the tape automatically rewinds. A telephone instrument may be suspended on the doll in such manner that a switch is closed when the instrument is lifted from the hook before depressing the "9", "1", "1" buttons.

Abstract: The present invention is a global positioning system that helps a blind pedestrian navigate through a city. This system uses the Department of Defense Global Positioning System (GPS) and a Differential GPS receiver to determine a pedestrian's longitude and latitude. Once these coordinates have been determined, they are correlated with a computerized map database. The map database holds the names and coordinates of specific locations, such as intersections, in a particular region. The system of the present invention retrieves the names of locations from the map database that are near the pedestrian. These names are then output to a voice synthesizer.

Abstract: A target simulator device for the simulation of infrared targets as input to entrance optics. A voice coil of an audio loud speaker including a cone portion and two electrical input connections has a physical projection one end of which is coupled to the cone portion and the other end approximate to and in front of a shield aperture. A black body radiation source is placed behind the aperture and a frequency compensated amplifier electrically coupled to the input connections such that collimated signal-modulated black body energy that is proportional to the total range of frequencies input is observed by an infrared sensitive detector aligned with the radiation emanating from the aperture.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling model vehicles in a manner which accurately simulates the operation of real vehicles. Parameters relating to operational characteristics of a vehicle, environmental conditions, loading conditions, operator control settings, and physical characteristics of a controllable model are processed by a computer to determine appropriate control functions to a model allowing it to accurately replicate the operation of a real vehicle operating under the same set of conditions.

Abstract: An audio-visual dummy including a rigid anthropomorphic structure with, instead of a head, a monitor for delivering an audiovisual message. The monitor is connected to a message reader system. The rigid structures can be placed on a base. The base includes a storage space. The power cords to the monitor are positioned in the lower part of the monitor so as to be concealed from observers. The rigid structure is made of a plastic or resinous material.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for simulating a desired response in accordance with an external applied force. The apparatus includes a member which is responsive to the applied force, an actuator coupled to the member for exerting a torque on the member, a force sensor for detecting the applied force, and a torque sensor for detecting the torque exerted by the actuator. Signals from the force sensor are used to determine the system response based upon a desired relation. The force sensor signals also are used to determine the actual system response based upon the physical characteristics of the apparatus. The detected torque is compared with the desired and the actual system response, and as a result of the comparison the torque exerted by the actuator onto the member is adjusted accordingly so that the member performs the desired system response. The actuator is preferably an electric motor so that the apparatus can simulate any desired response, notwithstanding the physical characteristics of the system.

Abstract: A modular sign comprises a perforated base having a multiplicity of apertures spaced a predetermined distance apart in both horizontal and vertical directions and a plurality of sign modules positioned on the base. Each sign module has at least two registration projections on its rear surface for engaging two of the apertures in the base. The projections are located with respect to the edges of the sign module such that the edges of adjacent modules are separated by a predetermined distance to create a reveal between adjacent modules when the registration projections are placed within appropriate ones of said apertures. An adhesive or magnetic tape holds the sign module in place on the perforated base.

Abstract: A switchboard unit circuit having functional components, such as relays and switches is formed using a wiring board device including a board, a wiring, e.g., a printed wiring, on the board, and board connectors connected to the wiring and provided to permit selective connection of the functional components to selectively form any one of a plurality of designs of unit circuits. The functional components and the wiring board device are disposed in or on a unit housing, and the board connectors are selectively connected to the functional components to selectively form a desired one of said plurality of designs of unit circuits.